A new House of Commons Treasury Committee report has highlighted the importance of protecting the role of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) as the UK faces tight public finances and rising government debt.

Published on 22 September 2026, the report said policymakers should avoid blaming the independent fiscal watchdog when difficult decisions are required because of the UK's financial position.

The committee also called for greater emphasis on long-term economic thinking, putting attention on how government decisions affect public finances beyond the immediate budget cycle.

The OBR provides independent analysis and forecasts that are used when assessing the government's fiscal position. Its work has become an important part of the UK's budget and economic-policy framework.

The debate comes as the latest ONS public-sector finance statistics continue to provide updated information on government borrowing, debt and receipts. The August 2026 figures were released on 22 September.

The committee's report adds to the wider discussion about fiscal transparency, economic forecasting and sustainable public finances as the government prepares for future financial decisions.