UK public borrowing in Apr–Sep widened to £97.8 billion (~$130bn), about £6 billion above the OBR's March forecast. September borrowing was £24.5 billion, above OBR projections and last year's level. Total public debt has topped £3 trillion for the first time. The figures are the latest fiscal snapshot ahead of Chancellor Healey's first budget on Oct. 28; Healey must set policy for Prime Minister Burnham's new government while avoiding a bond-market shock as markets express concern over the size

UK public borrowing in Apr–Sep widened to £97.8 billion (~$130bn), about £6 billion above the OBR's March forecast. September borrowing was £24.5 billion, above OBR projections and last year's level. Total public debt has topped £3 trillion for the first time. The figures are the latest fiscal snapshot ahead of Chancellor Healey's first budget on Oct. 28; Healey must set policy for Prime Minister Burnham's new government while avoiding a bond-market shock as markets express concern over the size of UK debt. Tax receipts have beaten OBR forecasts, but FY2025–26 year-to-date borrowing remains higher than expected.