to rise to the levels of the 1970s. rishi sunak explained he was setting the foundations for a vibrant economy emerging from the pandemic in what he called an age of optimism. on the big forecasts, inflation is likely to rise above 4% next year, but the government s own budget watchdog suggests it could be higher. economic growith is forecast to be 6.5% this year, but could then fall as low as 1.3% after 2023. 0n benefits, following the removal of the extra £20 universal credit, the chancellor has cut what s called the taper rate, which he says will help two million families, but critics say it doesn t make up for the loss. for some of the businesses hit hardest by the pandemic hospitality, retail and leisure business rates in england will be cut by 50% for a year, and taxes on some beers and sparkling wines will be cut. and just days before