UK borrowing in Nov 2024 rose due to kept winter fuel payments after backlash, widening the deficit.

UK government borrowing in November 2024 exceeded forecasts due to a reversal of plans to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners. The decision to maintain the payments, made after public and political backlash, increased spending and widened the budget deficit. The move highlights the difficulty of balancing fiscal discipline with public support for vulnerable groups during winter.