Congleton's MP, whose constituency includes Sandbach and Alsager, has shared her thoughts on the Chancellor's Budget announcement.

Rachel Reeves today (November 26) delivered her long-awaited Budget, outlining the Labour government's plans for the economy.

Key points include an extended freeze on tax thresholds, a new 'mansion tax' on properties worth more than £2 million, a rise in the national living wage and the removal of the two-child benefit cap.

Sarah Russell, the MP for Congleton, is particularly excited about the increased funding for road maintenance as well as the impact the Budget may have on independent businesses and families struggling with the cost-of-living.

She said: "The best news in the budget for us locally is that over the course of this parliament we are doubling the road maintenance budget.

"Given how terrible our roads are, I will immediately get to work lobbying to ensure we get our fair share of this.

"I'm going to be asking for road safety improvements as well."

Mrs Russell added: "In terms of the cost-of-living crisis, we have announced an average of £150 off family energy bills, and the freezing of prescription charges and rail fares. Lower interest rates are also driving significantly reduced mortgage payments.    

"Local independents give our high streets their charm, and we are permanently reducing business rates for smaller shops, pubs, and restaurants. We have a lot of local small and medium sized businesses. If they take on young apprentices, government will meet the cost of training – good for young people and good for the pipeline of skilled workers in our local companies.  

"We are keeping the triple lock - the full state pension rise by over £500. Three quarters of pensioners will receive the winter fuel payment. Removing the Universal Credit two child limit will take 1,310 children out of poverty in our constituency. 70% of children in poverty live in a family where at least one of their parents is working, and most universal credit recipients have a job.

"I suspect it will reduce other costs to the state nationally, such as temporary accommodation costs. We are also putting extra money into playgrounds and school libraries – this is a beautiful place to raise a family, and I can't wait to see it get even better.   

"This budget is a commitment to making life better for people through fair taxes, economic stability, and improving public services."