The UK's economy grew slightly in August, according to the last set of official figures before John Healey's Budget.
With the chancellor planning to set out his tax and spending plans later this month, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the economy expanded by 0.1%, which was better than analysts had expected.
The small increase follows growth of 0.4% in July, as well as positive upgrades to the outlook for Britain's economy from global watchdog the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
But Healey still faces a challenge to to deliver a balanced Budget without turning to more borrowing.
Britain's economy was boosted in August by an increase in production, which includes manufacturing, oil and gas extraction and energy supply.