“I WATCHE eagerly from the front bench as the Chancellor unveiled an extensive set of measures in our Autumn Statement for Growth.
“Among our package of more than 110 measures featured the biggest business tax cut in modern British history, a raise in the National Living Wage, permanent full expensing for businesses, an extension of business rate reductions, the establishment of a West Midlands Investment Zone, strategic reforms aimed at enhancing employment opportunities, as well as increases in pensions, welfare payments, and housing allowances.
“In my role as Financial Secretary to the Treasury, I took on the responsibility of introducing the Finance Bill in the House of Commons.
“This legislation encompasses the measures outlined in the Autumn Statement that are designed to bolster British businesses by simplifying and cutting taxes.
“Notably, it includes provisions to make a tax deduction for businesses—known as ‘full expensing’—permanent, which will encourage more investment in plant and machinery, helping to improve business productivity.
“The Bill also seeks to simplify research and development (R&D) processes and extend the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Venture Capital Trust schemes by an extra decade each to 2035, ensuring that burgeoning companies can secure funding to evolve into the unicorns of tomorrow.
“Additionally, I led the National Insurance Bill through the House of Commons.
“This significant piece of legislation heralds the largest ever tax cut to National Insurance for 27 million employees from 6 January 2024.
“This measure will provide the average employee and self-employed individual an extra £450 and £350 per year, respectively.
“On Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday, I took the time to reflect on the sacrifices made by our armed forces.
“I planted a cross in the Garden of Remembrance at Parliament on behalf of my constituents and I presented a Remembrance Wreath as part of Great Western Rail’s ‘Poppies to Paddington’ campaign.
“I attended the Armistice Day ceremony in Broadway, participated in the Remembrance Sunday ceremony in Droitwich, and paid my respects at the War Memorial in Evesham.
“Sadly, armed conflict is still happening today, and I continue to monitor developments overseas and especially in the Middle East.
“The recent temporary ceasefire in Gaza facilitated the release of some hostages and enabled more humanitarian aid to get into Gaza.
“I know my ministerial colleagues at the Foreign Office are working tirelessly alongside our international partners to ease tensions and restore stability in the region.
“As the festive season is in full swing, I want to express my thanks to the unsung heroes working in health and social care, the emergency services, and the armed forces for their commitment to our health, safety, and the smooth running of our country.
“This year, I have met so many remarkable individuals throughout Mid Worcestershire, and the kindness and warmth I have experienced at schools, charities, businesses, events, and healthcare centres have left a lasting impression.
“To everyone in the constituency, I extend my warm wishes for a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
“As always, if you have specific concerns then please do contact my office at [email protected].
Evesham’s MP Nigel Huddleston writes for the Observer….
