THE Budget will be held on March 24, the Treasury has confirmed.

The Chancellor's statement comes at a critical time for the economy and ahead of the general election, which commentators believe will be on May 6.

With the state of public finances prompting intense debate  - the deficit is set to peak at £178bn this year - all eyes will be on Alistair Darling to outline his plans for the recovery.

While public spending is under the keenest focus other measures include more green-related taxes.