MP hails Government's investment boost for Hull's public services

Hull North MP Diana Johnson today welcomed the public spending and tax plans set out by Alistair Darling, Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Diana Johnson MP said: "These plans show that Labour understands the needs and aspirations of Hull people."

"It's vital that we continue to invest in modernising our public services in Hull. That's why I'm pleased these plans give more money to local schools so that all of our kids can get a decent start in life. The extra investment in the NHS will mean that waiting times can be reduced further to 18 weeks, as Labour promised, and we can have cleaner hospitals and better access to GP services.

"There's also guaranteed neighbourhood policing for every community in Hull and more funding for the fight against terrorism.

"People in Hull need more and better housing. Labour's plans will deliver them and the better transport links to support them. The Government can set out these ambitious plans only because Labour has built a strong and stable economy over the past ten years, with firm control over inflation and growing job opportunities.

"What a difference from when the Tories were in power. Inflation was nearly ten per cent, mortgages soared to 15 per cent and unemployment topped three million."

Turning to tax, Diana Johnson MP said: "We have to pay taxes to pay for essential public services, but it's important that people feel that the tax system is fair.

"I know that many people in Hull have been worried that the rising house prices that have resulted from our economic success would mean that they would not be able to pass on what they had hoped to their children. The Government's plans to change the way Inheritance Tax works means that a couple will now be able to leave twice as much to their children - £600,000 - before they pay tax. From April 2009, it will go up to £700,000. This will help bring peace of mind to many of Hull home-owners.

"We also need to do more to help less well off families in Hull. The Government's commitment to raise Child Tax Credits well above inflation next April will give them a more secure future. Labour's commitment to raising the Pension Credit minimum guarantee to £124 for single pensioners and £189 for pensioner couples from next April will help them too."

Diana Johnson MP concluded: "I believe that the people of Hull want not only a more prosperous future, but a fairer one too. Labour's plans deliver on all counts and will make a real difference to the lives of local families and pensioners."