NOW THE OECD QUESTION BROWN'S BUDGET PREDICTIONS

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 25th Apr 2003

Matthew Taylor MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor

Gordon Brown's over-optimistic budget forecasts are under fire again. This time from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) who have predicted UK growth rates of 2.6% next year compared with the Chancellor's prediction of 3-3.5%.

Matthew Taylor MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor, said: "Gordon Brown's budget plans are coming unstuck after only two weeks."

"The Chancellor's flat denial of the economic difficulties facing Britain risks leaving his long-term public service investment plans in real danger.

"The Chancellor's reputation for prudence is no longer a sufficient basis for belief in his budget."

"Gordon Brown should allow his Budget to be independently audited so that business and the public can be assured that the Chancellor is not just crossing his fingers and hoping for the best."