The Chancellor

Brown Budget Expected July 2

MPs are likely to be told in a Commons written answer on Monday of the date, which would break with the long tradition of having the Budget on a Tuesday.

The Observer said Mr Brown, who has already displayed a desire not to be tied to tradition by announcing he will wear an ordinary suit, not black tie, for his Mansion House speech in the City, was considering dispensing with the traditional Budget Day red box.

The heavy box dates back to about 1860, but is only big enough for a few papers.

A Treasury spokesman said the Chancellor wanted to ensure the Budget reflected the welfare-to-work theme of the Budget and the determination to equip Britain for the future.

It is also possible Mr Brown will decide not to take advantage of the Chancellor's "perk" of having an alcoholic tipple to hand when he delivers his Budget in the Commons. For the past four years, Kenneth Clarke enjoyed a glass of Glen Farclas malt whisky.

The hallowed Budget Day photocall, which has traditionally featured the Chancellor, his red box and his wife outside Number 11 Downing Street, is also likely to be different, as Mr Brown is unmarried.