The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants has submitted a six-point policy wishlist to UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves ahead of the Spring Forecast on 3 March 2026.
The letter, dated 12 February, calls for policy certainty, tax relief support, personal tax simplification, SME assistance, skills gap closure, and a coordinated productivity strategy. This follows CIMA's Autumn Budget submission, which included 27 recommendations.
Andrew Harding, chief executive of Management Accounting at the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, framed the forecast as "a vital opportunity for the government to rebuild confidence and commit to a long-term, pro-growth strategy".
The priorities target known pressure points. Writing Down Allowances are scheduled to reduce from 2026. Business rates continue to disproportionately burden property-heavy sectors. Tax thresholds remain frozen, creating fiscal drag.
"We consistently hear from businesses that they need stability, clarity, and policy certainty to plan ahead and invest for growth," Harding said.
On SME support, CIMA is pushing for the Growth Accelerator Scheme to be reinstated and modernised. The programme would give small businesses subsidised access to coaching, strategic advice, finance expertise, digital adoption, and scaleup planning.
The submission also proposes a 'Whole Economy Tax Roadmap' covering tax, skills, and regulation. CIMA previously advocated for capital expensing extensions and lower Employer National Insurance Contributions for smaller firms.
The Spring Forecast arrives after economic stagnation following the 2024 election. Government sources have characterised it as a fiscal update, with no confirmed policy shifts. Treasury constraints from inflation and public finances may limit the Chancellor's room to manoeuvre.
Whether Reeves adopts CIMA's recommendations, or opts for deficit reduction over growth incentives, will be clear in three weeks. CFOs planning capital allocation will be watching closely.