Changes are coming in March, from increased tube fares in London to the upcoming Spring Statement. Several key energy support programs, including Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, are ending this winter. The Household Support Fund scheme is also expiring soon. Additionally, the next Bank of England interest rates and inflation announcements are scheduled for March.
London tube passengers will face higher fares starting March 1, with peak pay-as-you-go fares in Zone 1 increasing from £2.90 to £3.10. Piccadilly line fares from Zone 1 to Heathrow will rise from £5.80 to £5.90, and DLR and London Overground fares will also go up. On the other hand, bus and tram fares in London will remain frozen until July 5, 2026, along with pay-as-you-go caps and Travelcard prices until 2027.
On March 3, Rachel Reeves will deliver the Spring Statement to Parliament. This event is expected to be more subdued than the Budget, with no major tax or policy changes anticipated. The Bank of England will announce its next interest rates on March 19, keeping the base rate at 3.75%. The latest inflation data from the Office for National Statistics is set to be released on March 25, with inflation currently at 3%.
The Household Support Fund will conclude on March 31, to be replaced by the Crisis and Resilience Fund in April. The deadline to claim Winter Fuel Payments is also March 31, with payments worth up to £300 available for those over state pension age. The Warm Home Discount scheme and Cold Weather Payment scheme will also end on March 31.
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