Antony Higginbotham MP has welcomed extra support with the cost of housing for families across Burnley and Padiham, with more than 115,000 households set to benefit across the wider North West region thanks to the Conservative Government’s Autumn Statement for Growth.
With inflation falling, and global economic conditions stabilising, the Conservative Government are now able to take the long-term decisions required to strengthen the economy and build a brighter future.
The Chancellor has announced the Local Housing Allowance (LHA), which calculates housing benefits, will be raised, meaning 1.6 million families will be £800 better off in 2024-25.
Exceptionally high rents, caused by global inflationary pressures, mean housing support provided to many on the lowest incomes are out of step with market rates. By raising the Local Housing Allowance rate to the thirtieth percentile of local market rents in April 2024 the Conservative Government are supporting over one million families to meet current costs.
This cost of living support is only possible thanks to the long-term, difficult decisions the Conservative Government took to get inflation falling and strengthen the economy.
Commenting, Antony Higginbotham MP said:
I have said since the day I got elected that my job is to be the voice of residents in Parliament, and ensure Government is focused on us and our needs. And I know from talking to residents that housing costs are a struggle for many. Working with the Government we have a strong record in supporting those who need help with the cost of living – especially during the continued fight to keep inflation down and tackle higher energy bills. But we can’t rest on our laurels.
That’s why I’ve been discussing the Local Housing Allowance with Ministers and why I’m pleased to see it increase. This decision means families who need it the most, right across our area, will receive greater support with the cost of rent – in line with increased rents across the private sector.
It is the measure of our actions that show our compassion, and this will ensure our most vulnerable continue to be protected.
Commenting, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt MP said:
With inflation falling, and global economic conditions stabilising, we are now able to turn our attention to the long-term decisions required to strengthen our economy and build a brighter future.
Our Autumn Statement for Growth takes those long-term decisions to reduce debt, cut tax, reward hard work and back British business right across the country.
By doing so we are making huge progress in tackling the long-term economic challenges facing the UK so we can build a more dynamic economy that delivers prosperity across our United Kingdom.
