Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell has hailed today’s Budget as a welcome boost to the local economy.
Mr Mundell, who pushed for a Borderlands Growth Deal to be included in the Conservative election manifesto, was delighted to hear a commitment from the Chancellor that detailed negotiations are to begin on the deal.
Mr Mundell believes that the deal has the potential to greatly boost the region’s infrastructure, unlock great skills potential and strengthen the links with our neighbours across the Border.
The rural MP also hailed the continuation of a fuel duty freeze as a welcome boost for the rural economy and a boost to motorists across his constituency.
Commenting David Mundell MP said: “This is a Budget that has delivered for the economy of the South of Scotland and I particularly welcome the announcement from the Chancellor that detailed discussions are going to begin on a Borderlands Growth Deal.
“This has the potential to hugely boost the local economy and it is vitally important we continue to strengthen our links with our neighbours across the Border in the coming years.
“I am absolutely committed to delivering a significant Borderlands Growth Deal for my constituents and will do all I can to make it a reality as soon as possible.”
He added: “I also welcome the continuation of the fuel duty freeze, for the seventh year running from the Chancellor which is great news for the rural economy.
“This is welcome news for motorists and businesses across Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale and keeping fuel costs low has always been a priority for me as a rural MP.”
Furthermore, Mr Mundell has called on the Scottish Government to boost the economy which continues to flag behind the rest of the UK, following a further £2bn spending boost from the Chancellor.
Mr Mundell said: “There is absolutely no excuses for the Scottish Government not to give the local economy here in Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale a boost following a £2bn funding increase from the Chancellor.
“That money can be used to boost infrastructure and coupled with a Borderlands Growth Deal, can bring about a major boost to the economy across my constituency.”
He concluded: “This Budget is one full of measures that will help families right across my constituency and give a boost to the lowest paid and drive forward our economy.
“Bringing jobs and investment to my constituency will always be my top priority and this is a Budget that delivers on that front.”