The government has finally signalled who it stands for, protecting working people from the cost of living, says IPPR North

Zoë Billingham, Director of IPPR North said:

“The Chancellor has today shown who she stands for by focusing on the cost of living and lifting almost half a million children out of poverty at today’s Budget. By asking those with the broadest shoulders to contribute, she has protected working people from the worst of a difficult economic environment.  

“Today also marks a big step forward in the devolution of real resources to local leaders. The new levy on overnight stays will allow mayors to raise tens of millions of pounds to reinvest in local priorities and our high streets, as mayors, IPPR North and others have called for. The new mansion tax on the most valuable properties should be the beginning of wider council tax reform which will help regionally rebalance our economy.

“People must feel the benefit of government decisions across the country. Government must o further to invest in our regional economies, including by supporting Northern Powerhouse Rail in full.”

ENDS

Contact: Maeve Schaffer, media and communications officer for IPPR North, on 07585772633 or m.schaffer@ippr.org  

Notes:

IPPR North spokespeople are available for interview.

IPPR North is the leading think-tank for the north of England, developing bold ideas for a stronger economy and prosperous places and people. For more information, visit ippr.org/north.