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.
