In recent years, life has been tougher than it needs to be for people across the UK, including here in our city. That is why, as your MP, my relentless focus is on tackling the cost of living to put more money back in your pockets and ease the pressure on household budgets.
The Labour Government has the right economic plan for Portsmouth, investing in our city and its people, supporting our community by building an economy that is stronger, more resilient, and more prepared for the future.
This week’s strong figures show we are the fastest growing economy in the G7 so far this year, with growth up to 0.6% for the first three months of this year and beating forecasts in March despite the Iran War.
The Chancellor has been clear that the Government will not repeat the mistakes made during the last energy shock – which wasn’t in the best interests of Portsmouth people – when the package of unfunded, untargeted support saw more than a third of the direct energy bills support go to the wealthiest households, and that meant higher inflation, higher interest rates and higher taxes.
Not only has the Chancellor’s choices put us in a better position to deal with the impacts of the conflict, they have already enabled us to support households with:
- Up to £150 off energy bills
- Freezes to rail fares and
- Freezes to prescription charges
- Increases to the National Minimum Wage and State Pension
- More money in parent’s pockets with free breakfast clubs and 30 hours of government funded childcare saving parents thousands each year.
However, the Government recognises that what matters for families is not just getting by but being able to enjoy time together without worrying about the next bill.
When budgets tighten, life’s little treats can fall by the wayside, a meal out, a family holiday or a day trip making memories with your kids.
That is why the Chancellor has announced Great British Summer Savings, cutting VAT to 5% on children’s menu meals, children’s tickets for cinemas, theatres and concerts from 25th June to 1st September.
Additionally, kids from 5 to 15 years old will get free bus travel in England this August.
As a result of these measures, adults and children will also be able to enjoy amusement parks, wildlife parks, museums, soft play centres and a wide range of other attractions for less. Great news for our city’s families with such brilliant attractions in Portsmouth!
Alongside this, the Chancellor has announced a 10p per mile increase in tax free mileage rates, backdated to April 2026, along with an extension of the 5p cut on fuel duty to the end of the year.
This continues the Government’s support for motorists which has benefitted those who need to drive work, from care workers to plumbers.
I know that these announcements will make a major difference to households and individuals across this city, but our work is not done.
I will continue to listen to the views and ideas of constituents and take action for Portsmouth people both locally and in Parliament.
Stephen Morgan MP
