“The recent financial crises in America and the downturn in the American economy will clearly impact on us. But Gordon Brown's legacy as Chancellor, the strongest economy in Europe, means that we are in a better position to weather the storm than our European partners.

Given the slowdown in the world economy, this was never going to be a "give away" budget but Alistair Darling has shown he has the right priorities by deciding to tackle poverty amongst the most vulnerable children and ensuring that the poorest families get the full benefit of any tax and benefit changes. He has also provided pensioners with extra help with their fuel bills and announced plans to help others on low incomes who rely on prepayment meters. And of course I welcome his recognition of the need to raise the target for reduction of carbon emissions from 60% to 80%.

When times are tough it is right to protect the poor and the environment.”