← Back to House of Commons Debates

Ways and Means

03 March 2021

Lead MP

Rishi Sunak

Debate Type

Ministerial Statement

Tags

EconomyTaxationEmploymentCulture, Media & SportBusiness & Trade
Other Contributors: 3

At a Glance

Rishi Sunak raised concerns about ways and means in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Government Statement

EconomyTaxationEmploymentCulture, Media & SportBusiness & Trade
Government Statement
In his statement, Rishi Sunak outlined the UK's fiscal response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The Chancellor announced an additional £65 billion in measures over this year and next, bringing total support to £352 billion for this period. He extended support schemes such as furlough and self-employment grants until September, while also reinforcing business rates relief and VAT cuts for key sectors like hospitality and tourism. The statement highlighted the economic recovery forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), which predicts a swifter and more sustained recovery due to the government's interventions. However, acknowledging the profound damage caused by coronavirus, Sunak emphasised the need to address public finances carefully, announcing measures such as freezing personal tax thresholds until 2026 and increasing corporation tax from 19% to 25% in April 2023. Furthermore, Sunak introduced significant investment incentives like the super deduction for businesses investing in capital projects, and announced a new UK Infrastructure Bank with an initial £12 billion capitalisation. He also emphasised initiatives to support green growth, scientific research, small business productivity, and regional development through various programmes such as Help to Grow: Management and Digital. Sunak concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to uniting and leading the country towards a more prosperous future, focusing on job creation, education improvement, public service reform, economic growth, and spreading prosperity across the UK.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About House of Commons Debates

House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.