The BBC's political editor says the chancellor wants his budget to be seen as outlining a 'balanced approach' to the economy but with little mention of tackling the UK's deficit. Darling seeking 'balanced' budget.

Nick Robinson told the Today programme that Mr Darling will unveil what he will promote a 'growth package' to help small businesses, promote innovation, invest in national infrastructure and key skills.

And there is speculation that the chancellor may scrap stamp duty on properties under £250,000 and postpone the increase in fuel duty until later in the year.

But, he added, there is not expected to be any mention of making any of the £31bn in unspecified spending cuts which the government has identified.

And the BBC's economics editor, Stephanie Flanders, told the programme that this would not be a "give-away budget", either in terms of handing anything back to individuals or providing any idea as to how the government will attempt to cut the deficit following the election.