A high-ranking cybersecurity official is set to investigate the recent Budget leak following indications that an external individual may be responsible for the breach.
The Office for Budget Responsibility, typically held in high regard, is facing criticism after the complete details of Rachel Reeves’ annual tax and spending proposals were prematurely disclosed online earlier this week.
Expressing deep regret over the incident, Richard Hughes, the OBR’s chair, issued an apology to the Chancellor. During an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today program, Hughes disclosed that the leaked documents were not directly published on their website but were accessed through an external link. He emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive inquiry to uncover the specifics of the breach.
Hughes confirmed that the investigation would incorporate expertise from Professor Ciaran Martin, the former head of the National Cyber Security Centre.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Resolution Foundation think tank, Hughes affirmed his willingness to resign if both the Chancellor and the Commons committee lose faith in him in light of the breach. He stressed the seriousness with which the OBR regards Budget security, assuring a prompt investigation expected to conclude by early next week.
Acknowledging that a “technical error” within the organization led to the premature release, the OBR had issued an earlier apology for the incident.
Despite the leak, Rachel Reeves expressed her continued confidence in Hughes, underscoring the imperative of preventing such occurrences in the future. The Chancellor, while acknowledging the gravity of the error, conveyed his support for Hughes and the OBR, emphasizing the importance of their work and the need to ensure such mishaps are not repeated.
Reeves revealed that she was informed of the premature release while in the House of Commons preparing to deliver the Budget.
