Spring Budget is ‘full of empty promises’ and does nothing for rural North Devon, says Lib Dem candidate

North Devon’s Liberal Democrat candidate has labelled today’s Spring Budget a ‘desperate deception’ and said it does little for people in this area.

Speaking after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled his Spring Budget earlier today (Wednesday, March 6), Lib Dem parliamentary candidate Ian Roome said residents would still see their income tax bills rise despite the 2p cut in National Insurance.

He called the budget ‘more empty promises from this Conservative government’ while ‘local health services are left on their knees’.

Mr Roome said: “I am deeply disappointed by the Conservative Spring Budget's failure to address the pressing needs of Ilfracombe, which is one of the most impoverished areas in Devon.

“It is disheartening to see such a glaring disparity, with Canary Wharf receiving £242million while rural North Devon receives nothing.

“As the Leader of North Devon Council, I have advocated for a £24m investment in Ilfracombe to prevent further economic decline. Once again, rural North Devon has been neglected in favour of urban areas like London.

“I urge the Parliamentary-Under Secretary of State for Levelling Up to consider our request in the coming weeks. By doing so, we can collaborate as a council to enact meaningful change in Ilfracombe.”

Mr Rome said the budget ‘barely touched the sides’ for local families and pensioners facing soaring mortgage bills and an ever-increasing cost of living.

He added: “People in North Devon know that their tax bills will remain sky high after this budget, and the Chancellor is attempting a desperate deception after years of income tax hikes.

“People don't want more Conservative empty promises while our local health services are left on their knees. They want proper change through a General Election so we can kick this Conservative government out of office.”