Budget 2026 Q&A: How John Healey’s Bank Windfall Tax and Energy Bill Cuts Affect You

Chancellor John Healey delivered his first budget under Andy Burnham’s leadership, unveiling a plan to reduce energy bills funded by a windfall tax on banks. Healey framed the budget as one of “fiscal discipline” designed to confront “global economic storms” that are pushing energy prices higher. However, questions remain over whether the lower-than-expected bank levy represents a genuine break from past policy or simply more tinkering within self-imposed fiscal rules. Our money and economics editors Hilary Osborne and Heather Stewart are answering reader questions from 3pm GMT today. Join the discussion to understand how the budget will affect your household, the wider economy, and the country’s readiness for future challenges. Post your questions in the comments below and get expert analysis on what Healey’s decisions mean for you.