Leader of Wakefield Council responds to Spending Review

“The Spending Review today is an important milestone in the Government’s mission to renew Britain. I welcome the commitment they’ve made to go further and faster so that change is felt in every part of our district.
 
“The scale of the ambition is evident in a record £29 billion per year for our NHS – with more appointments, more doctors, and a stronger focus on prevention and community healthcare. A £39 billion public investment into social and affordable housing over the next decade. And £15 billion to improve transport, including for major projects in our region.
 
“I know our communities will also support the strong focus on security. With £11 billion more funding for our armed forces. Concrete plans to improve our border security and end the use of hotels for asylum seekers. And a £2 billion increase for the police, funding 13,000 more officers, PCSOs and special constables to provide more visible neighbourhood policing.
 
"We’re already starting to see the positive impact of some of these decisions in our district. But it’s important that Councils continue to be right at the heart of this renewal. Great local public services are fundamental for making sure our economy and society are fairer for working people.
 
“The dire inheritance the Government had means money remains tight. As they continue to fix the foundations of our country we’ll continue to press for longer term funding settlements for Councils. To guard against a return to austerity after all the damage those policies caused under the previous Government. And to continue to listen, as they have recently when announcing more support for pensioners on the Winter Fuel Allowance.
 
“The voice of our region is being heard – with a hugely important change to the Treasury’s Green Book to make sure funding is spread more fairly across the country. The commitment to an integrated settlement for West Yorkshire that will give us access to a single flexible pot we can use to support our priorities. And support for our most disadvantaged communities.
 
“These are all announcements today that show how Wakefield is at the centre of a West Yorkshire region that is working closely with the Government to deliver the change that local people want to see.”