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Real Help Now (22 April 2009)

These are tough times right across the world including here in Birmingham. As the global recession bites, people are understandably concerned about their jobs, their homes and what the future holds. That is why it is so important that the Labour government is doing all it can to get the economy moving again and make sure people get the support they need.

I know that many local people are worried about their personal situation right now. That’s why I am campaigning to make sure that everyone here in Northfield gets the real help they need now – to make sure that everyone gets a fair deal.

And that is why I am pleased that this week’s Budget offers more real help now...

... real help for families

  • increased child tax credit of £20 a year
  • at least an extra £100 a year for children with disbailities
  • support for homeowners – helping people to keep their homes if they lose their job – and for first time buyers

... real help for pensioners

  • an increase in the state pension of at least 2.5%
  • the Winter Fuel Allowance kept at higher rate – £250 for over 60s & £400 for over 80s – for another year
  • pension credit allowance increased and tax free saving limit up to over £10,000

... real help for jobs

  • an extra £1.7 billion to help people back into work
  • a guaranteed job, training or work placement for 18-24 year olds
  • support for business and manufacturing – which is so important to our economy in the West Midlands

Labour are taking action now - both to help people in these tough times and to build for Britain’s future. As far as I’m concerned, doing nothing is just not an option. That’s why I’m campaigning to make sure everyone gets a fair deal.

Budget 2009

The 2009 Budget was annouced by the Chancellor, Alistair Darling, on Wednesday 22 April. Speaking in the House of Commons he said:

The measures I have announced underline our vision for Britain.

They offer support for people when they need it but also hope for the future.

They put in place the vital building blocks for recovery and economic long-term success.

And everything we have done – whether supporting families now, maintaining investment in our public services and putting the nation’s finances on a sustainable path – is based on our values of fairness and opportunity.

Even in this time of global economic difficulty, we are determined to continue building a fairer society.

Want to read more about the Budget or the Chancellor's speech?
>>> More online here