"Assume accounts are funded at the 2006 level specified in the 2005 Budget database, " the memo tells federal program associate directors and their deputies.

CNN: White House budget memo riles Democrats

For example, the Army put out a memo this week bemoaning the fact that budget cuts at the level called for under the sequester would cost up to 300, 000 jobs nationwide.

CNN: There's plenty to cut at the Pentagon

Asked about the memo Thursday by reporters, White House spokesman Scott McClellan said no decisions on spending cuts have been made, and stressed that the memo marks the start of a long budget process.

CNN: White House budget memo riles Democrats

In a confidential memo to Executive colleagues, seen by the BBC, Mr Wilson highlighted several budget pressures.

BBC: ?370m funding cuts 'by Christmas'

The White House dismissed the Democratic furor over the memo, saying talk of cuts was "speculation" and stressing that no budget decisions for 2006 have been made.

CNN: White House budget memo riles Democrats