The announcement of the spring statement brought the news that VAT on energy saving materials is set to be scrapped. Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the move was partly due to rising energy costs as homeowners look to use as little energy as possible in order to save on their bills. The move will see materials such as solar panels, heat pumps and insulation be entirely exempt from VAT for the next 5 years.

New research conducted by Royal London has revealed that smokers can save up to £16,000 on life insurance premiums by quitting. According to the insurer, non-smokers could be entitled to lower rate premiums if they have avoided tobacco, or nicotine replacement products such as e-cigarettes, for at least a year. So, how much of an impact on your life insurance can stopping smoking have?

You have more than likely heard the term ‘base rate’ banded around in the news over the last few months, but what does it actually mean? Why does one rate have such an impact on so many mortgage products nationwide and why has the base rate risen? We take a look at all you need to know about the base rate and how it can affect you.