Mixed feelings on Government spending plans

George Osborne promised to end Britain’s addiction to borrowing and put money in the bank to prepare for future economic storms as he set out fresh cuts to public spending.

Controversial changes to tax credits were scrapped and police funding, expected to be in the firing line, was left untouched. Halifax MP Holly Lynch welcomed the Government’s u-turn.

Ms Lynch said: “The Labour Party have been campaigning hard for a rethink to planned tax credit cuts which would have harmed the country’s most vulnerable working families.”

Calder Valley MP Craig Whittaker added: “This Autumn Statement delivers on the promise we made to working people in Calder Valley. Protecting our economic security by taking the difficult decisions to live within our means and bring our debts down. “And protecting our national security by defending our country’s interests abroad and keeping our citizens safe at home.”

Steven Leigh, Head of Policy at the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, added: “From a business perspective there is much to admire in the Chancellors Statement, with good news about infrastructure spending in our region, funding for the Northern Powerhouse and for Further Education We also welcome the extension of Business rates Relief Pending the publication of the Governments Business Rates Review.”

Mr Leigh however raised reservations about the Apprentice Levy and said the 0.5 per cent payroll levy on larger businesses is effectively a further jobs tax in addition to Employers National Insurance.