Farron welcomes important wins for South Lakes in Chancellor's autumn statement

Local MP, Tim Farron, has welcomed provisions within today's Autumn Statement that will help benefit residents across the South Lakes and support those who are worst off while continuing to promote a stable economic recovery.

During his statement this afternoon the Chancellor acknowledged the difficulties faced by those living in rural areas and announced that the planned 3p rise in fuel duty will not go ahead at this stage, which is a welcome relief for many across the South Lakes who rely on their cars to enable them to get about in their day to day lives.

Also included in the statement this afternoon were:

- An additional £1billion for the Regional Growth Fund;

- £30 billion extra investment into the UK's infrastructure, including the electrification of railway lines across the Pennines;

- An extension of free childcare up until the age of 2 for the poorest 20% of families in Britain; and

- An additional 15% bank tax which will bring in an additional £300million for the economy.

Speaking after the statement Tim said: "I'm hugely relieved that the Government has recognised the impact a rise in fuel duty would have for all of us who live in rural areas and rely on our cars in order to do our day to day business. I was one of those who proposed the motion this month to keep down fuel costs, and I'm delighted that we have won a small victory.

"Amidst the uncertainty and instability that is plaguing economies across the developed world, today's statement is helping to ensure that Britain remains a haven of economic stability. Things are not easy at the moment and thousands of local people are feeling the pinch and fear for their families' future, but it is clear that the Lib Dems are making their mark in Government by protecting those who need our support the most while ensuring that everything is being done to keep bring our borrowing down, keep cutting the deficit and keep the stability our economy needs at this time."