Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser says Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Budget is “great news” for hard-pressed individuals and families in Mid Scotland and Fife.
He said the Budget managed to outline a range of measures to support vulnerable people and communities in the region as well as encouraging economic growth. Mr Fraser has also urged the SNP/Green government to match the Chancellor’s commitment to roll-out 30 hours of free childcare to all parents of one and two-year-olds, which is set to be delivered south of the border.
The politician highlighted that the UK Budget delivers an extra £320 million in Barnett Consequentials over the next two years for the SNP-Green government and he urged that money be passed on in full so that commitments made by the UK Government are fully matched in Scotland.
However, Mr Fraser says that people in Mid Scotland and Fife will benefit from a range of measures, even before additional Barnett Consequentials.
These include:
- An extension to the Energy Price Cap for three months, which will save the typical household £160 this year.
- An end to the premium paid by those on pre-payment meters by adjusting the energy price guarantee.
- A freeze in fuel duty for the 13th year in a row, which will save the average driver £100 this year.
- An increase in Universal Credit childcare payments for parents.
Commenting, Mr Fraser, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, said: “Jeremy Hunt’s Budget is one that encourages growth and delivers economic stability during these challenging times for people in Mid Scotland and Fife.
“Measures such as extending the energy price cap guarantee for another three months and continuing the fuel duty freeze are particularly welcome as people in the region grapple with the cost-of-living crisis. Further to that, the increase in Universal Childcare payments to parents and the end of premium payments on pre-payment meters will be a real boost to those most feeling the squeeze in Mid Scotland and Fife.”
Mr Fraser continued: “I also welcome the UK Government’s plans to deliver 30 hours of free childcare for one and two-year-olds, which must be matched by the SNP-Green government so that parents in Mid Scotland and Fife can benefit from a similar policy.
“All in all, this is a welcome package for people and communities across the region. The onus is now on the SNP-Green government to pass on these consequentials in full so everyone in Scotland benefits from the investment from the UK Government and the Treasury.”
