Moray MP Douglas Ross says Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Budget delivers on “local people’s priorities” and provides “stability for the economy” during these challenging times.
Douglas welcomed many measures outlined by the Chancellor including the continuation of the freeze on fuel duty, which is coupled currently with a five pence cut in the price of petrol, as well as the extension of the support in relation to energy bills for another three months.
He also praised Jeremy Hunt for delivering £1.8 million worth of direct funding to two significant projects in Moray - with £1.5m given to help re-open the Cloddach Bridge- and £300,000 going towards the regeneration of Forres Town Hall.
Douglas also welcomed additional funding of £320 million being given in Barnett Consequentials to the Scottish Government and urged SNP-Green ministers to ensure that this money is spent on the issues that really matter to people in Moray.
While Douglas says that the Budget was further evidence of the benefits of engaging positively and constructively with the Chancellor on the priorities of Moray, he also expressed his “disappointment” that Jeremy Hunt decided to increase duty on Scotch Whisky – and other alcohols - which he described as a “blow” to the industry.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “The Budget from the UK Government and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is one that delivers on local people’s priorities in Moray.
“There a whole host of measures within it that provide stability for the economy going forward and support individuals and communities across the area during these challenging times.
“The continuation of the fuel duty cut as well the ongoing freeze is hugely welcome for motorists in Moray, where using a car in our rural and remote communities is not only essential, but an absolute necessity.
“Constituents who are struggling with rising bills and the cost-of-living crisis had contacted me to urge for an extension of the support provided to help them with energy bills so I welcome the Chancellor confirming this will be in place for another three months.
“Coupled with further cost-of-living payments, the UK Government have shown that they are on the side of the most vulnerable people and hard-pressed families in Moray.
“I’m also delighted that £1.8 million worth of funding has been delivered to support two major projects in Moray, which will help to accelerate the re-opening of the Cloddach Bridge and support plans to regenerate Forres Town Hall. That is evidence of the UK Government’s levelling up agenda happening right here in the local area.
“While I believe this Budget highlights the benefits of engaging constructively with the Treasury ahead of the Budget, I was left very disappointed by the Chancellor’s decision to hike the duty on Scotch Whisky.
“That is a blow to the industry which is so vital for jobs and the local economy in Moray and I share their concerns over the impact it will have on them during the current climate.
“I made the case to continue with the freeze directly to the Chancellor and other Treasury Ministers, but unfortunately the huge financial support the UK Government is providing during the cost-of-living crisis comes at a price, and they have been forced to raise some taxes.
“This budget sees alcohol duties largely going up across the board, not just whisky but I know the announcement is disappointing, particularly here in Moray where we are home to so many outstanding Scotch distilleries.
“Overall though the Chancellor has listened to the concerns of people in Moray and I welcome what his Budget has delivered for the area.”