“In January, the Prime Minister set out his key pledges to halve inflation, reduce our debt and grow the economy; today’s Budget does just that. 

“By taking difficult decisions to stabilise the economy, meaning that official forecasts now predict inflation will fall by more than half to 2.9%, the announcements made today will mark the next phase of our plan – growth. 

“Harlow residents know that I have always campaigned to cut the cost of living, deliver stronger public services and champion education and skills. This is why I am proud to support the Chancellor and this Conservative Government who are delivering on Harlow people’s priorities:

1. Cutting the cost of living 

The energy bill support package which caps energy bills at £2,500 will be extended for a further three months. This will save the average Harlow household a further £160 over the next three months on top of the £3,300 savings made by households from previous Government support.

2. Building an even better Harlow

An additional £200 million has been allocated to support Local Authorities to fill potholes and fix our roads. This equals over £5 million more for Essex as well as the £9 million extra which has already been invested by Essex County Council. 

3. Maintaining the 5p Fuel Duty Cut

Harlow drivers will save another £100 this year through the Government’s actions to keep the 5p fuel duty cut in place for another twelve months. This comes alongside the £200 they have already saved since the 5p cut was introduced last year.

4. Expanding free childcare

The Government will provide 30 hours of free childcare for 1 and 2 year olds which will reduce costs by 60% and allow families to save around £6,500 every year. Childcare costs for Universal Credit claimants will also be paid upfront, helping with household budgets and encouraging more people back into work. 

5. Boosting education, skills and apprenticeships

The introduction of new ‘Returnships’ and mid-life MOTs will help experienced workers who are over-fifty to stay in or return to work. These will be supported with Skills Bootcamps and our new Lifelong Learning Entitlement to help people access new skills and training opportunities. 

“The measures announced today will go a long way to support Harlow residents in their daily lives. Coupled with the hundreds of millions of pounds worth of investment into the town, the £45 million I have worked hard to secure will regenerate our Town Centre, making it the best place to live, work and grow up. 

“Today’s Budget is a growth plan that supports Harlow’s families, businesses and households to truly deliver a better future for the next generation and help achieve my pledge to every Harlow resident to build an even better Harlow.”