‘Untouchables’ that should have been hit

While huge numbers struggle to pay mortgages, rent, food bills, and for healthcare and education, a few budget blind spots are repeatedly held up by opponents of austerity.

Big business

The relatively low corporation tax rate of 12.5% was again defended. Ministers insist it cannot be touched for risk of putting off foreign direct investment, especially from the US, and the likes of Facebook, Google, and Microsoft.