Things you didn't know about the Budget
Here are some interesting facts about the Budget:
- The longest Budget speech is believed to have been by William Gladstone on 18 April 1853, lasting four hours and forty five minutes.
- Benjamin Disraeli is said to hold the record for brevity, at forty-five minutes on 4 April 1867.
- Gladstone not only holds the record for the longest Budget speech, but he was also the longest-serving chancellor - serving for 12 years and four months.
- Gordon Brown's speech in 2005 lasted approximately 45 minutes.
- The Chancellor is traditionally allowed an alcoholic drink while delivering his speech – this is the only time that alcohol is allowed in the Chamber, though not all chancellors choose to take advantage.