Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Truro and Falmouth today welcomed the Chancellor’s pre-budget report as “great news for people in Cornwall”.

Speaking after the Chancellor’s announcements, Charlotte MacKenzie said: “This statement is great news for people in Cornwall. Reducing VAT will help everyone shop more cheaply – it is good news for local retailers and small businesses, and will encourage UK holiday-makers. I’m delighted that the Chancellor is providing more help for over-60s through the decision to increase pensions, pension credit, and the winter fuel allowance. It is good news for families that child benefit and tax credits are increasing, and there will be additional support for people facing job losses or mortgage arrears. With 3000 families on the local housing register, I particularly welcome the fact that investment in social and low cost housing is being brought forward. We cannot put tackling climate change on hold and I am also pleased that £535 Million investment in low carbon developments is being brought forward and an additional £100 Million is being allocated to support home insulation and energy efficiency.

“We are facing a difficult period economically and Labour will do all that we can for jobs and to support those on lower incomes. The Chancellor demonstrated that Labour is providing the economic leadership the country needs to weather the international downturn and turbulence in financial markets. The Tories are divided on how to respond – their candidate here supports tax cuts while their leadership wants Labour to slow down our efforts to stimulate the economy – everybody can see the Tories just lack the experience or capability to form a government.”