‘Twas the night before Budget, all through the nation,
Accountants were tired, of fiscal misinformation
Will CGT hold, or will it rise with a shock?
Will investors regret hastily selling stock?

Keir in his red tie, and Rachel on cue,
Hinted at changes to come into view.
Will they rise to the challenge? Or will they be overawed?
As entrepreneurs insist that “these shoulders ain’t broad!”

As transactions complete, and as cash changes hands,
High earners cling to their income tax bands.
When the announcement is made, from the Westminster steeple,
Will we understand, then, who is deemed “working people”?

As the hours tick down, on the High Net Worth clocks,
We soon will find out, what is in the Red Box.
A restless night beckons, on this: Budget Eve,
So please do be gentle, Messrs Starmer and Reeves.