Derbyshire MP hails autumn budget as ‘hugely positive’
High Peak MP Jon Pearce says measures to cut household bills, support businesses and invest in housing will give families ‘breathing space
High Peak Labour MP Jon Pearce has welcomed the autumn budget, describing it as ‘hugely positive’ and saying it offers much-needed support for families and businesses.
Chancellor John Healey’s October 28 budget included a £100 energy payment for eligible households, changes to business rates, increased wages and £1.5 billion for social and affordable housing.
Around 36,000 homes in High Peak are expected to benefit from the £100 Household Energy Payment, with approximately 83 per cent of properties in council tax bands A to D eligible.
Mr Pearce said: “It was hugely positive. The foundation of the economy is good but we need to protect people and give them breathing space.”
He also welcomed plans to scrap gas standing charges, extend temporary VAT relief on electricity bills until June 2027 and increase the National Living Wage to £13.21 an hour from April 2027.
Small businesses could also benefit from an increase in the business rates threshold from £12,000 to £18,000, potentially taking thousands of high street businesses out of business rates.
Mr Pearce praised additional funding and powers for regional mayors, including the East Midlands Combined County Authority, allowing more money to be reinvested in local communities.
He also welcomed £1.5 billion for social and affordable housing, arguing that a lack of council housebuilding had contributed to rising rents and housing costs.
The MP said the budget recognised the pressures facing self-employed workers, with new parental leave payments also included.
However, the plans attracted criticism from opposition politicians. Reform UK-led Derbyshire County Council's finance lead, Cllr John Lawson, said the budget would do little to reverse economic damage or tackle unemployment and inflation.
Liberal Democrat group leader Cllr Tom Snowdon criticised the lack of major measures to address economic challenges, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch raised concerns about welfare spending, national debt and defence funding.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski also expressed concern about the lack of focus on climate issues.
Despite the criticism, Mr Pearce said the budget would help put money back into people's pockets while supporting businesses and local investment.
He added: “The Budget is about giving people breathing space for today and hope for the future, with measures to help ease the pressure on household finances and support working families.”
High Peak Borough Council was approached for comment.