Andrew has welcomed tough measures set out in the Pre Budget report, announced by the Chancellor Alistair Darling. It lays out Labour’s three-point plan for Britain’s future – securing the recovery and going for growth; taking tough choices necessary to halve the deficit in four years – and protecting vital frontline public services.

Andrew, particularly welcomed the measure to extend eligibility to Free School Meals to primary school pupils in working families with a household income below £16,190 saying:

“This not only takes the pressure off low-income families but it also provides greater incentives to work, which will help stimulate economic recovery on a personal and national level.”

Other measures announced included a reduction of bingo duty from 22% - 20%.

Andrew said:

“I know many of my constituents play bingo and this is something I have received hundreds of postcards about in the past. They will be pleased to learn that Bingo duty is to be cut - something that could make a big difference to its players.”

There was also

· Extra help for pensioners including:

- Cold Weather Payments of £25 a week

- An extra £50 alongside their winter fuel payment – and an extra £100 if they’re over 80
- State pension to rise by 2.5% next year.

· Green incentives like:

- A Boiler scrappage scheme along the lines of a car scrappage scheme

- Tax rebates for wind turbine and electric cars.

Speaking more generally about the PBR, Andrew said:

“This report makes clear the Labour Government’s plans to get out of this recession. It is important that the economic burden does not fall on the shoulders of those on low incomes, but instead that there are mechanisms in place to offer them support. As the Chancellor said, the biggest burden should fall on the broadest shoulders. It’s not painless but it’s the responsible thing to do.

“This is in stark contrast to the Tories who would cut back too fast, too soon, including cutting vital public services like Sure Start and education to pay for unfair tax cuts for the wealthiest in our society – like a £200k inheritance tax giveaway to 3000 wealthiest estates.”