Election candidates’ views on the budget

CANDIDATES in the key Warrington South constituency were quick off the mark to study George Osborne’s Budget – with Conservative MP David Mowat (pictured) flagging up a local issue which would benefit.
He said 220 homes in Penketh would be protected from flooding, thanks to new funding announced in the Budget.
He said: “A new flood defence scheme has been approved for Penketh Brook which will manage water flows and prevent flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
“The scheme has been added as part of the £16.1million extra funding set aside for flood defences in the North West.”
Mr Osborne said: “David Mowat has consistently made the case for investment for Warrington South against the risk of flooding.
“I am delighted to announce that this new scheme will receive £3.8 million funding from the Government’s six year investment programme – it will mean 220 homes are better protected from flooding, and is great news for the families and businesses affected.
“This investment is all part of our long-term economic plan that is securing a stronger economy, and building a brighter, more secure future.”
Mr Mowat added: “I’m delighted that the Chancellor has been able to find funding for this important project. Changing climates and increased development could put Warrington at risk of flooding in years to come. We are taking the difficult decisions to secure a better future for Warrington.”
Liberal Democrats in Warrington welcomed the Budget, which they said was “packed with Lib Dem policies.”
They support the Chancellor’s economic plans for next year but differ significantly over the direction of travel for 2016 to 2020.
Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Warrington South, Cllr Bob Barr said, “We want more money to tackle the deficit to come from higher taxes on the wealthy and we strongly oppose deep reductions in the welfare budget.
“The Chancellor has given us no clues on where these welfare savings would come from? Our economy is growing because of the hard work of people and businesses throughout Britain but it wouldn’t be happening without the Liberal Democrats in government.”
Labour Parliamentary candidate for Warrington South Nick Bent said:
“People here need a change to a Labour government not another Tory budget that nobody can trust. Only Labour will rescue the NHS, rebalance Britain’s economy and support the aspirations of families in Warrington and help people to get on in life. This was a fantasy Budget from a failed Tory Chancellor who hasn’t got a clue about the real concerns and aspirations of families and businesses in Warrington.”
Cllr Kevin Bennett, the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition candidate for Warrington South said: “Hoping to gain a few extra votes, the Chancellor has tried to sell this budget as a little relief from the endless austerity he has offered up for the last five years. It is nothing of the sort.
“The coalition once again banged the austerity drum, promising £30 billion worth of cuts, including £12 billion from welfare. George Osborne says austerity is working but the queues at food banks and pay day lenders tell a different story.
“This government of millionaires might think things are improving, but most ordinary workers are facing a Dickensian future rather than a bright recovery.”