The debate concerns an amendment to the Tobacco Products Duty Act 1979, specifically revising the rates of tobacco products duty. Ms Eleanor Laing emphasises the importance of members staying in the chamber throughout the debate and stresses that they must remain until winding-up speeches are made by both the Opposition spokespersons and the Minister. She also mentions a minor correction to resolution 21, which is now available online.

The government is committed to helping the most vulnerable families by providing millions of cost of living payments directly into bank accounts. We are increasing universal credit and other benefits by 6.7% next April in line with inflation, boosting the local housing allowance for private renters on low incomes, and honouring the triple lock for pensioners with an increase of 8.5%. The government is also investing £2.5 billion over five years to help disabled people and those with health conditions stay or return to work.

Intervening, Edward Leigh suggests that insisting on work visas being given only to people who earn average UK earnings would create a virtuous circle by which skilled people come here and care homes pay proper wages, pushing more people into productive work.

Intervening, Stephen Crabb acknowledges the resilience of the British economy and labour market and credits numerous Ministers in reforming welfare to encourage work incentives. He notes that predictions of economic doom were wrong, demonstrating the success of these measures.

Intervening, Debbie Abrahams questions the Secretary of State about anticipated deaths due to policy proposals forcing people into work and taking away their benefits if they fail to comply.

Intervening, John Redwood inquires about initiatives being taken by DWP so that self-employment is an option for those currently unemployed but capable of offering value to employers.

Intervening, Liz Twist asks the Secretary of State about steps being taken to ensure Access to Work schemes are readily available, funded, and implemented swiftly.

Intervening, Lia Nici applauds initiatives aimed at encouraging more employers to become disability confident and offers work placements to those currently out of work but capable. She seeks a commitment from the Secretary of State or one of his Ministers for meeting to discuss these matters.

Expressed concern about the reduction in childcare funding from £5.2 billion to £4.6 billion, questioning whether the Government will honour its promise to allocate the full pledged amount towards childcare.

Agreed with the notion that those who can work should do so but raised concerns about the impact of jobcentre pressure on vulnerable individuals' health and called for safeguards to protect them.

Critiques government policies on disability benefits and work incentives. Cites statistics showing that the number of people out of work due to long-term sickness has doubled over the last decade, with higher rates in deprived areas. Calls for investment in healthcare, job training programmes tailored to individual needs, and support systems such as Access to Work to help sick and disabled individuals enter employment.

Welcomes the agreement among political parties on promoting employment, criticises forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility and Bank of England for being unreliable. Points out that the Monetary Policy Committee's approach to inflation control is flawed due to its lack of focus on money and credit. Highlights the need for greater accountability at the Bank of England due to potential losses of £170 billion from bond buying programmes. Supports measures in the autumn statement aimed at boosting growth, emphasising the importance of creating more capacity through tax cuts for small businesses and self-employed individuals.

Thomson criticised the Chancellor's statement for not offering any meaningful change to those struggling economically. He pointed out that despite having slightly more headroom than forecasted, the Chancellor did little to address the economic issues faced by Scotland and the UK. Thomson highlighted a 6.7% uplift in benefits as the least the Chancellor could do, but noted this still leaves many people struggling. He also emphasised the importance of whisky duty for job creation and export growth.

The Speaker intervened to note that they are in Lancashire, redirecting attention to a regional context mentioned by Richard Thomson during his speech.

The House, on both sides, wants to get Britain growing, and that is a great statement of intent. I am delighted that the Opposition parties agree with the Government and the Conservative party on that. He supports changes to national insurance as it will be an important step in delivering work incentives for economic growth. He also welcomes changes for the self-employed because they are crucial for those who start their own businesses and look for new opportunities. He emphasises fairness in the system, which includes looking at welfare again but ensuring support for those who fall on hard times. The abolition of the lifetime allowance is an important statement of intent as it creates incentives for people to work longer and contribute more to society. Labour’s plan to restore the lifetime allowance would price out doctors, policemen and teachers from public service at their peak. Childcare issues are important but family-friendly taxation is arguably more crucial in terms of fairness, especially considering families being taxed 26% more than OECD counterparts. He calls for reviewing tax thresholds such as the 40p threshold which affects people north of the border heavily. The Government needs to make sure that people who strive to progress in their career should be rewarded by reflecting the right incentives in the tax system. Lifting inheritance tax threshold from £325,000 to perhaps £1 million is also suggested as a way to encourage saving and investment.

The speaker highlights the current cost of living crisis in Tamworth, noting that many residents are struggling to make ends meet. She emphasises the importance of community organisations such as Heart of Tamworth for support. Sarah pays tribute to her predecessor Brian Jenkins and reflects on the historical significance of Tamworth, mentioning its heritage from Æthelflæd, the lady of the Mercians. She discusses local businesses like Roasters and Christopher’s that need support due to the impact of the pandemic. Edwards also addresses concerns about antisocial behaviour in Tamworth and advocates for the reopening of a police front desk and community policing methods established by Sir Robert Peel. She concludes by expressing her commitment to championing the priorities set out by her constituents, such as regenerating the high street and addressing issues related to public safety.

Emphasises the importance of supporting the tourism sector with a permanent reduction in VAT, given its significant contribution to GDP and employment. He also calls for an increase in defence spending to prepare for global shocks.

Intervenes to agree that the OBR’s forecasting does not give credit for cutting tax rates, suggesting it could be a good example of where such measures would work.

Compliments Tobias Ellwood's comments on pharmaceutical and engineering sectors in constituencies like his own, calling for an increase in child benefit thresholds to help hardworking families.

The UK faces a £36 billion tax gap, a significant portion of which benefits the rich. Multinationals such as Google and Facebook are avoiding substantial amounts in UK taxes, while prosecutions for tax evasion have fallen drastically. Government waste is pervasive, with billions lost to fraud, overspending on defence contracts, and failed infrastructure projects. The complexity of the tax system allows for aggressive avoidance through numerous reliefs that cost billions annually without clear accountability or effectiveness.

The rise in taxation is impacting working-class people's ability to afford childcare, suggesting a need for more assistance to ensure they can meet their costs and responsibilities. Without such support, it becomes increasingly difficult for those on low incomes to make ends meet.

The autumn statement is aimed at growing the economy by allowing individuals to fulfill their potential rather than increasing public spending. It includes benefits increases, new policies for welfare engagement, and significant tax cuts. The complexity of the current tax system means that simplification is necessary to have a more honest conversation about tax thresholds and fairness. The government acknowledges fiscal responsibility while emphasising the importance of digital literacy in fulfilling potential through projects like open banking and the pensions dashboard.

The defence of the UK is being undermined by a lack of military support to Ukraine, coupled with recruitment and retention issues within the armed forces. Additionally, energy bills are increasing faster than national insurance cuts can compensate for, leading to widespread financial hardship. Local government funding has been cut disproportionately in Halton, exacerbating social care delays and education crises.

Supports the Chancellor’s autumn statement, emphasising two themes: boosting incomes and improving the benefits system. Mentions that under previous Labour Government, the minimum wage was less than £6 an hour and the state pension was less than £100 a week. Highlights the national living wage of £11.44 an hour as transformational for constituencies in Wales. Acknowledges the long-term costs associated with the triple lock but notes it has lifted pensioners out of poverty. Supports Government efforts to link local jobcentres with health authorities and health boards, improving co-operation between departments.

Critiques the autumn statement for offering little support to address major challenges in Newham such as knife crime, poverty, and housing crisis. Highlights that August alone saw 38 knife attacks causing injury in her constituency, with many young lives destroyed and families devastated by fear. Argues that social problems make young people vulnerable to gang grooming due to lack of stability and unaffordable living costs. Mentions the impossibility for communities to work their way out of poverty due to low earnings and high rents. Discusses the brutal housing crisis leading to homelessness, with more children in temporary accommodation than entire regions combined. Calls for strategic action to address interconnected problems affecting young people's futures.

The Chancellor's autumn statement is sensible and responsible, delivering tax cuts for families and businesses. Key measures include a permanent extension of the full expensing policy to encourage investment in technology and machinery, and a 2% reduction in national insurance affecting 27 million people. Aims to support job creation through programmes like the hospitality sector-based work academy trial run with UKHospitality and apprenticeship funding. Also highlights housing allowance increases benefiting low-income households by £800 annually on average. Emphasises the importance of the City's financial services industry and announces additional funding for tackling antisemitism, but calls for tax-free shopping for international visitors to boost retail revenues.

The autumn statement is an act of neglect; it shows no progress from previous Tory economic policies. It includes attacks on the public sector, tax cuts for the wealthy, and cuts to social security systems. The Resolution Foundation and Institute for Fiscal Studies have highlighted that these policies will result in real-term cuts to departmental budgets by 2028, leading to more bankrupt councils, longer waiting lists in courts, fewer police, and a decline in quality of life.

Congratulates the Chancellor on his autumn statement which was well thought through, soundly based, and properly reasoned. Emphasises the need for investment in skills, protection of vulnerable people, and levelling up in the east of England. Welcomes the announcement of £50 million to increase apprenticeships but notes a long-term strategy is still needed. Supports the back-to-work plan but warns about challenges in equipping people with necessary skills. Urges the Chancellor not to overlook the east when implementing levelling-up agenda and calls for closer attention to coastal protection budget due to climate change impacts.

The autumn statement does not address the economic challenges faced by people in Ealing, Southall and across the UK. Unemployment is high at 6.8%, with household incomes lower than pre-pandemic levels. The cost of living crisis is worsening, impacting families' ability to afford basic necessities. Investment in housing and infrastructure is inadequate, exacerbating affordability issues and hindering economic growth.

The autumn statement strikes the right balance between providing tax cuts for individuals and businesses, which are essential steps towards controlling inflation and reducing government borrowing. Key measures include a 2% reduction in national insurance, extension of hospitality relief, frozen alcohol duty, pension triple lock increases, and support for those seeking employment. Additionally, an investment zone will be established in Wrexham and Flintshire to boost local economies.

The Government's 'autumn statement for growth' is an attempt to distract from the OBR’s revised downward economic projections. The economy faces a potential downturn with GDP growth near zero, retail sales falling, and unemployment rising. The cuts in national insurance will not significantly benefit low-paid workers or gig economy employees, and it disproportionately affects women. Moreover, the lack of additional funding for public services is detrimental to disabled people, who are facing a significant cut in benefits. The Conservative government’s policy does little to help those most affected by economic downturns, while offering tax giveaways to businesses. Local councils across the country, especially Middlesbrough Council, face severe financial issues due to cuts in local government funding. Freeports expansion is criticised for setting up private investors with rewards and leaving risks to public taxpayers. The Government's approach is seen as a failure to support the British public.

Welcomes the autumn statement, praising its pragmatic approach to addressing inflation and public finances responsibly amidst unprecedented economic challenges from the pandemic and Russian invasion of Ukraine. Acknowledges the Government's expenditure during tough times but criticises opposition for opposing measures while calling for more spending. Supports measures such as national insurance cut, pensions increase in line with inflation, benefits increase by 6.7%, local housing allowance rise, business support, and rise in national living wage. Calls for further tax reductions, encourages VAT cuts for tourism and hospitality to boost the economy. Also highlights concerns about the care sector struggling under rising costs.

The autumn statement has failed to address the concerns of my constituents who are struggling with changes to benefits, unemployment, and rising costs. It is a watered-down version of policies that have previously hurt those in need. The debate highlights the disparity between governmental priorities and the needs of everyday people.

Welcomes the measures taken to protect pensions, extend tax reliefs for English freeports, and cut national insurance. However, he criticises the high levels of interest rates and the impact of increased corporation taxes on small businesses in his constituency. He calls for a more nuanced approach to wage increases that considers the differing capacities of large corporations versus smaller local enterprises.

The autumn statement is disappointing for those living in rural areas like North Shropshire. While some elements such as lifting the freeze on housing allowance and increasing the national living wage are welcome, they do not address the daily struggles of constituents dealing with tax hikes and mortgage repayments. The increase in the national living wage will not offset the impact of the cost of living crisis for rural residents who spend an average of £800 more a year on fuel due to poor public transport and high heating oil costs. Councils are struggling to provide services because of social care, special educational needs support, and temporary housing costs, which now include increased wages without additional funding. The Chancellor's statement failed to address these issues or invest in adult and children’s social care, increasing the pressure on an already strained sector with high retention and recruitment problems. Shropshire Council spends 85% of its budget on social care, exacerbating the risk of a crisis due to unfunded wage increases and insufficient funding from central government or local authorities raising their own finance. This will have dangerous knock-on implications for hospital bed availability and ambulance waiting times, making it difficult for hospitals to prepare for another winter with limited resources. The Government's failure to address these issues demonstrates a lack of understanding that a healthy economy requires a healthy population, which in turn needs a well-functioning NHS and care sector. Furthermore, the Chancellor's decision to lift the freeze on local housing allowance is welcome but does not apply to temporary accommodation, where costs remain high, placing strain on council budgets. There is an urgent need for clarification that the policy will not be reversed and that councils will receive subsidised support to manage this issue moving forward. On mobile signal investment, while 5G technology is beneficial, a prerequisite for rural Britain's levelling up must be a reliable 4G connection.

Welcomed the statement as more optimistic and extensive than expected, highlighting support for paying bills such as an increase in the national living wage by nearly 10%, state pension by 8.5%, and benefits by the full rate of the consumer prices index from September. Also welcomed investment zone announcement for Derby, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and business rate reliefs for high streets and hospitality sector. Emphasised need for long-term, predictable tax plan including reduction in national insurance to 10p in the pound and a higher starting point for paying income tax and national insurance. Suggested simplifying corporation tax rules with full expensing and addressing legacy situations. Supported pot-for-life approach on pensions and a new duty on employers to think about quality of their pension scheme. Welcomed welfare changes but warned of the need for careful messaging to maintain trust in the system.

The autumn statement is a continuation of the Conservative's approach that has led to crises in health, criminal justice and local government. It fails to address mental health issues adequately and does not provide continued funding for suicide prevention programmes. The statement also neglects local government with real-term cuts of 30%.

The autumn statement delivers the largest tax cuts since the '80s, boosting jobs and growth by putting more money in people's pockets. It supports work-based mental health initiatives, expands talking therapies and prioritises treatment over time off for those with severe conditions. The Chancellor’s focus on supporting those into meaningful employment is a moral imperative that benefits both individuals and the economy.

There is much in the autumn statement on which I could comment, but I want to focus on one area. Disabled constituents are worried about their finances and benefits due to DWP assessments that feel inflexible, ineffective, and even callous. The autumn statement has caused anxiety among those reliant on PIP and ESA, with fears of worsening circumstances due to changes. People who can work should receive the right support for good employment, but insecure and low-paid jobs are as harmful as unemployment. Only 16% of adults work exclusively from home in any given week, making it difficult for people with mental health issues to compete for remote jobs. Sanctions on benefits have a negative impact on mental health and take longer for individuals to move into paid work with lower earnings. NHS waiting lists are preventing many from working, as well as the impact of education and poverty exclusion. The extension of the NHS individual placement and support scheme is welcome but needs broader application. Concerns over childcare costs that do not meet high-quality standards.

Welcomes measures in the autumn statement to back British business, such as rates relief for hospitality and leisure sectors. Freezing alcohol duty helps local micropubs, while class 2 and class 4 national insurance contributions are beneficial for self-employed individuals. Extending full expensing will be welcomed by larger companies but may have little impact on small businesses, suggesting a cut in corporation tax to 19%. The increase in the national living wage is appreciated but challenges exist for some businesses and community organisations. A 2% cut in employee national insurance rate from January 2024 will bring relief to workers, while fiscal drag must be addressed through increases in tax-free allowance thresholds. Commitment to the triple lock welfare reform ensures a significant increase in pension payments. The plan to work is welcomed for understanding skills gaps and providing apprenticeships and education pathways. Investment zones will drive growth and create jobs, with Aldridge-Brownhills being part of this initiative. Apprenticeship pilot schemes are valuable, but traditional industries must not be neglected. Supply-side reform is needed in planning areas but must ensure local authorities have capacity to deal with applications efficiently. Defence spending remains at 2% GDP with extra support for veterans' programmes.

The Chancellor's autumn statement was optimistic but the growth figures are disappointing. Despite the increase in minimum wage, businesses face challenges due to rising costs and inflation. The tax burden is at its highest since World War II, and living standards are set to fall below pre-pandemic levels. The national insurance reduction of £450 pales compared to monthly increases in mortgage payments, leaving many households struggling with the cost of living crisis.

Welcomes some announcements but criticises lack of support for public investment and higher energy costs. Living standards will not recover to pre-pandemic levels until 2027-28, with real household disposable income falling at the fastest rate since records began in the 1950s. The Resolution Foundation estimates that workers are worse off after 15 years of wage stagnation following the financial crash of 2008.

Critiqued the Government's economic plan, highlighting its failure to support working people and households struggling with rising prices. Emphasised Labour's 'better-off' plan aimed at cutting household bills by up to £3,000 a year over the next decade through various measures such as insulation for homes, cheaper energy supply via Great British Energy, and building 1.5 million affordable homes. Condemned bank closures on high streets which are worsening access to essential services and stressed the urgent need for a general election due to economic mismanagement.

Joined criticism of the Government's autumn statement, pointing out its failure to tackle skills shortages and address high NHS waiting lists. Highlighted concerns about impact on people with disabilities and those suffering from sickle cell disease. Called for increased investment in research into sickle cell disorder and improved access to NHS services to help individuals return to work. Stressed the importance of addressing food poverty and essential living costs, advocating for Labour's plan to cut household bills and improve economic conditions.

Critiques the Chancellor's autumn statement, highlighting economic failures and increasing tax burden. Emphasises the need for a Labour government to invest in people and skills. Reports on rising food bank use and criticises the current government for not delivering growth.

Expresses concern over proposed measures that compel disabled individuals to find work, increasing sanctions penalties, including loss of free NHS prescriptions. Criticises the proposal as cruel and a further demonisation of disabled people.

The Chancellor's autumn statement is insufficient in addressing the severe economic hardships faced by constituents. The proposed tax cuts and minimum wage increases are negligible compared to the current inflation rates, leaving families worse off than before. Keir criticises the Government for endorsing a mini-budget that led to economic instability and argues against further austerity measures which will disproportionately affect vulnerable groups. He also highlights how welfare reforms will exacerbate existing issues in the social security system, failing to address long-term labour shortages.

Welsh public services are being decimated due to falling departmental budgets and investment. Beth emphasises that 14 million people live in poverty, including 4 million children, highlighting the failure of current social security systems. She criticises welfare reforms for causing stress and hardship among vulnerable groups and calls for an end to sanctions on social security benefits. Additionally, she discusses local service cuts and community agitation against them, advocating for alternatives like 'community wealth building'. Beth also demands fair funding for Wales, a need-based settlement, and increased public investment in areas such as pay restoration for public servants.

Errol Graham's death highlights the devastating impact of social security policies on disabled individuals. Since 2012, 82 people have died due to alleged DWP activity. The autumn statement includes harmful measures targeting sick and disabled people, including threatening to withdraw benefits if they cannot find work after 18 months and imposing new sanctions that could see people losing access to free NHS prescriptions and legal aid. This policy shift is part of a broader strategy to demonise marginalised groups, such as migrants and refugees, to distract from austerity cuts. The OBR predicts a £20 billion reduction in real value Government departmental spending by 2028. Despite the myth that there's not enough wealth to go around, Britain's billionaires' wealth grew by over £30 billion last year. An annual wealth tax of just 1.5% on assets over £10 million could raise £12 billion annually, helping fund essential public services.

The autumn statement fails to address critical issues faced by rural communities in Somerset. Only 38% of adults in Somerset accessed a dentist in the previous two years, with one dentist per 1,773 people. Many dentists are closing their lists, leading some residents to resort to DIY dentistry due to lack of access. The Liberal Democrats would have used an extra £13 billion fiscal headroom to tackle this crisis and end dental deserts. The number of GPs in Somerset has declined by 59 since December 2016, with one fully qualified GP for every 2,157 patients. This leads to delays in accessing essential medical care, forcing people to seek expensive private treatment. The Liberal Democrats would have used this funding to deliver 8,000 more GPs and create 65 million more appointments yearly. Additionally, pharmacies are closing due to financial pressures and a recruitment crisis, exacerbating health service access issues.

I want to start where a number of my hon. Friends have in this debate, which is talking about community facilities that are filling gaps where the Government are failing. A few weeks ago, I visited a fantastic community resource in Burnbank in Hamilton in my constituency, which is providing emergency food parcels, but also doing a lot to support people back into work through things such as improving IT skills so people can improve their CVs. Far from the image that the Government might like to give about people not in work, they are doing everything they can to find employment, and the least the Government could have done last week was to meet them halfway. There are a number of things in the autumn statement that I do support. The increase in the minimum wage, however it has been rebranded, is welcome, although it has not kept pace with the real living wage, which means that the wages of many of the lowest earners are still not keeping up with their costs. I welcome the commitment to uprate benefits by the September rate of CPI, although since that is the convention anyway I am not sure the Chancellor deserves any applause for it. The reality is that a year on from the ill-fated mini-Budget we have a Government engaged in smoke and mirrors, giving out with pre-election frenzy what they have taken away tenfold before. We have a Government who claim to improve living standards while the OBR finds the complete opposite: the largest reduction in living standards since records began in the 1950s. Perhaps most damaging of all, the rates of poverty and destitution in the UK are forecast to go up, not down. That in itself is a damning indictment of any Government, and I confess that I struggle to comprehend it. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation reveals that a staggering 3.8 million people experienced destitution last year, more than double the figure in the last five years—and, most shamefully of all, that figure includes 1 million children. The social security system, our great collective invention to provide the cradle-to-grave support that people need when they need it most, is not touching the sides of this crisis. Some 72% of those destitute were in receipt of benefits. One of the most affected groups is those with a disability and chronic health problem; some 63% of people experiencing destitution fit into that category. I will focus my remarks on that group, and I draw the House’s attention to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests: I am the trustee of two charities working with people with disabilities. Alongside the failure to provide the kind of boost to living standards that would have made a real difference, the Chancellor sought to use his autumn statement to demonise those with long-term conditions who rely on benefits. On work capability assessments, the removal of the mobility descriptor will mean those with severe mobility issues being placed in the limited capability for work group, meaning they will receive less support every month and be expected to prepare for work they might simply not be able to do. Disabled people have enormous potential and, as many of my hon. Friends have said, I do not think anyone would suggest that those who are able to get into work should not be given the support to do so, but the key is to understand the support they need. The Multiple Sclerosis Society recently highlighted the issue of workplaces not providing the reasonable adjustments necessary to provide for flexible working. Much of what the Chancellor said seems to be predicated on the assumption that the world of work has changed since the pandemic and that everybody is somehow now able to work from home, but I would be curious to know what evidence he has to base that on.

The Chancellor’s autumn statement is yet another assault on the poor, long-term sick and disabled—one that is both deadly and economically illiterate. Thirteen years of Conservative policies have caused untold misery for the poor, and especially for disabled people, and have been linked to hundreds of thousands of excess deaths. A University of Glasgow study last year found that more than 330,000 excess deaths were the result of austerity, and that austerity had not just halted the decades-long increase in UK life expectancy, but thrown it into complete reverse, especially among poor people. Rather than respond to the appalling effects of those policies by changing course, the Government are now intensifying their attack on the poor, sick and disabled, scapegoating and demonising them for the Government’s failure to grow the economy. This country already has by far the worst out-of-work benefits of any comparable European nation and one of the harshest conditionality regimes, yet the Chancellor will now punish claimants for not engaging with state-sanctioned coercive therapy while the Government usurp the role of medical experts in deciding who is fit for work. Capitalism and oppression rely on the exploitation of human labour, and it seems that not even the exploitation of disabled people’s labour is off the table in the competitive drive to accumulate even more wealth for the rich. People’s wellbeing is a secondary concern for capitalism, and oppression through vicious sanction is the necessary corollary. The escalation of the already punitive sanctions regime will see the working class, including the long-term sick, cut off even from support with healthcare. The awful consequences of those moves are not hard to predict, especially for those with long-term complex health conditions or disabilities, or those suffering poor mental health. As long ago as 2014, NHS data showed that more than four in 10 people claiming out-of-work disability benefits—more than double the figure from the previous survey—had attempted suicide because of the punishing and attritional fit-for-work regime. Under successive Conservative Governments, the treatment of disabled people has been so horrific that the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities condemned the UK for creating “a human catastrophe”. To the shame of this Government, the UK has 14 million people in poverty, well over 4 million of them children. Children from families with a disabled or long-term sick member are more than twice as likely to live in poverty. That figure was measured before the impact of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis. The Government claim that the sanctions they intend to apply in cutting off universal credit to the poor will not be applied to those with children or to people with disabilities, but medical professionals and disability campaigners point out that, based on the Government’s track record, the new regime will clearly be used to legitimise discrimination against people with chronic illnesses or disabilities. That is unequivocally against the European convention on human rights, but also fundamentally counterproductive. As economists have pointed out, it is overwhelmingly clear that if we want to grow the economy, we need to redistribute wealth, invest in communities and put more money into the pockets of the poor, the working classes and the worst-off, because they will spend it locally and increase economic activity. Instead, the Chancellor has announced tax cuts for the wealthy and for corporations—money that will end up in offshore bank accounts, where it does nothing for our economy. This latest assault on the poor and disabled will do the opposite of what the Chancellor claims to be trying to achieve. Our country desperately needs politicians who put physical, emotional and economic health above an ideological commitment to helping the rich and hitting the poor, the sick and the disabled. Tragically for the millions of struggling poor people in this country, the Chancellor and the Prime Minister are again doing the opposite of what they need. The Government’s proposals are part of an ideological attack on the working class. The Chancellor’s statement betrays those who most need help. It is simply unfit for purpose.

The autumn statement has failed to provide relief for Welsh households, with a significant drop in living standards and the highest tax burden since the second world war. The national insurance cut predominantly favours London and the south-east, offering an average gain of £316 annually while those in Wales stand to gain £211. Public services are suffering due to lack of investment, with departmental budgets facing a £19 billion cut.

The Chancellor's autumn statement was disappointing as it failed to address the economic challenges faced by households and communities. Despite some positive measures like extending the business rate discount, there were no additional funds for the NHS or social care. The lack of investment in healthcare is particularly concerning given the current pressures on our health services. Additionally, there was a notable absence of funding to help clean up rivers and beaches, which has significant environmental impacts.

The Labour Party criticises the autumn statement, highlighting the negative impacts of high taxes and inflation. It questions the Chancellor's claim that tax is down when it has risen, and energy bills are going up despite claims to the contrary. The debate emphasises the need for economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and modernising public services.

The autumn statement aims to boost employment through £1.3 billion for people with physical and mental health conditions, supports manufacturing sectors like aerospace and automotive, provides small business rate freezes and investment zones. It also includes measures such as cutting class 2 national insurance contributions, raising the living wage by 9.8%, reducing main-rate employee national insurance, merging R&D expenditure credit schemes from April 2024, simplifying systems for innovation support, supporting trade deals like CPTPP, addressing the UK tax gap reduction to a record low of 4.8%, and highlighting foreign direct investment and export successes.