I am working for policies to strengthen the economy and support people into work.
Since 1997 the Government has worked to build a strong economy and increase work. A combinination of strong economic management and new initiatives like tax credits - which help support people in work - has meant that in Islington South and Finsbury unemployment has more than halved over the last decade from 5,319 to 2,386.
The latest Budget will mean an extra credit of £60 a week for the first year compared with £40 for parents in other parts of the UK. Some parents in London who do not currently go to work feel that they cannot afford it because of the high costs of housing and child care. I am pleased that the Government have recognised that and increased the tax credits.
I will continue pressing with more action to support my constituents in work and strengthen the economy.
