Ashley Dalton

I welcome the measures taken by the Chancellor in this Budget, which is clear-eyed about the pressures that people and businesses continue to face, but equally clear about our plan of action to support households so that they keep more of their money; to reduce costs for businesses; and to create the conditions for economic growth. People across West Lancashire are working hard to make ends meet. There is no dearth of ambition and talent in our local communities, but when conflict in the middle east drives up global energy prices, my constituents feel the effects in their household budget. The extension of the 0% VAT rate on electricity until July 2027, the removal of standing charges from household gas bills and the £2.6 billion on the energy bills breathing space scheme are all welcome steps. In West Lancashire, 37,000-plus households will benefit from the £100 payment this winter. The costs of global volatility are not only felt in the home, however. The conflict in the middle east has once again demonstrated how vulnerable motorists are to fluctuations in global fuel prices. I therefore welcome the extension of fuel duty tax cuts until July next year. I have spoken repeatedly about the need to improve public transport and rail connectivity in Skelmersdale in my constituency. We need to ensure that our communities are better connected to neighbouring towns, cities and economic opportunities. While I continue to encourage Reform-led Lancashire county council to work constructively with me to improve local transport for my constituents, I also recognise that in many parts of a rural constituency like mine, owning a car is currently a necessity. Measures to ease the pressure on motorists are particularly welcome in such rural constituencies, where the price at the pump is piling additional pressure on already overstretched families. This Budget is not only for families. Our high streets are at the heart of our communities. They bring employment opportunities, economic growth and a sense of community, character and identity. As co-chair of the all-party parliamentary group on theatre, I am particularly conscious of the important role that our cultural venues, and particularly touring productions, play in supporting our local economy. The economic contribution of touring theatre extends well beyond the theatre itself; every pound spent on the theatre ticket generates a further £1.40 in local spending. I look forward to seeing how the Government can further support the touring sector and creative industries, and can ensure that theatres reach audiences across the country. I welcome this Budget, which recognises the importance of our high streets and the contribution of small businesses. This is how we create jobs, strengthen our communities and deliver growth that people feel in every postcode, every day of their life.