This is what Harrogate MP wants to see from Chancellor Rachel Reeves in Autumn Statement

The Harrogate and Knaresborough Lib Dem MP says this Budget must be a turning point, delivering real economic growth, tackling the cost of living, saving our high streets and properly funding the NHS, schools and local councils, instead of leaving communities struggling with overstretched public services and rising costs.

He is calling for Chancellor Rachel Reeves to back local businesses, support high streets, scrap the unfair National Insurance hike for employers, and abolish the Family Farm Tax.

The MP is also inviting local businesses to join him for a Budget Business Breakfast this Friday at the Cedar Court Hotel in Harrogate to share views on what the Chancellor’s Budget means for our community.

“Across Harrogate and Knaresborough, families face soaring bills, businesses are being squeezed, and public services are on their knees,” he said.

“This Budget is the Government’s chance to deliver real change, but instead of growth and better services in their first year they have hammered small businesses, high streets and hardworking families.

“The Conservatives left behind a damaged economy but the Chancellor has made the wrong choices.

"We need real change in Harrogate and Knaresborough that tackles the cost of living, drives growth and makes big banks, tech giants and large online gambling companies pay their fair share, instead of punishing local businesses, hardworking families and farmers.”

Organised in partnership with Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by local firm Libertas Professional, this Friday’s event will give businesses a platform to share their views, raise concerns, and help shape the priorities the town’s MP takes to Parliament.

Martin Mann, Chief Executive of Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce, said: “As a part of the business community for nearly 130 years, we are grateful to Tom for approaching us to make this happen.

“We all know that this will be a difficult Budget for many across the country.

"This meeting will allow our voice to be heard in Parliament.”