Pensioners and children in Rutherglen and Hamilton West are the big winners from the recent Budget, local MP Tommy McAvoy has said.
Almost 20,000 pensioners across the area will benefit from the big increases in the winter fuel allowance, with over 65s getting an allowance of £250 and over 80s getting £400. This is an increase of £50 for over 65s and £100 for over-80s.
The minimum income guarantee for all pensioners will also increase, going to £124 per week for a single person and £189 for a couple.
Local parents and children will also benefit, with increases in child benefit levels. 12,905 people are entitled to child benefit in Rutherglen and Hamilton West and from April 2009, they will benefit from the benefit rising to £20 per week for the first child.
Local parents will also gain as child benefit will no longer count as income when calculating entitlement to Housing and Council Tax Benefit, again from April 2009.
Tommy McAvoy MP said:
“This week’s Budget shows that Labour hasn’t stopped delivering for people in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West area.
”The changes which have been announced will benefit age groups right across the area, whether for children, parents or pensioners. This is great news for all our local communities.
“I’m delighted that children and pensioners have gained most from this budget. This is a clear example that Labour is determined to wipe out poverty and ensure everyone can live a good life.
“We still have more to do though. I know from speaking to local people that they want to see more action on tackling poverty and ensuring everyone gets a fair deal. I will keep fighting to achieve that.”
The budget has also taken action on tackling climate change, including more money to promote renewable energy sources such as wave and wind farms.
Tommy McAvoy added:
“We all have to play our part in improving the environment – we can’t expect other people to do it for us.
“This budget shows that the government is serious about climate change. Of course all countries have to play their part in this which is why are continuing to campaign for action an international level too.”
