Import taxes on marmalade, gherkins and more than 100 products are being removed ahead of the Budget by Chancellor John Healey in a move aimed at giving families "breathing space" with the cost of living.

The government is also bringing in measures to end the so-called cliff-edge for those receiving carer's allowance payments and will also make higher tax-free mileage rates permanent.

The Conservatives said the offer of "cheaper gherkins" was "an insult to families hammered by Labour's tax rises".

The BBC understands the government will also freeze fuel duty again in the Budget, while the Times reports , external it may also slow the pace of pay increases for younger workers on the minimum wage.

Marmalade, one of the products listed by the government, will have a 20% tariff, plus additional £19 charge per 100kg imported, suspended.

The government said getting rid of the tariffs could save households up to £21 per year when combined with existing tariff suspensions that were introduced in June and…