Saturday 9 April 2011

On your side

Dear Fraser,

These are difficult times for people across Britain, but this week has shown that this can also be an opportunity to reshape Britain into a fairer, more equal and greener country.

Labour's financial legacy has left our country needing to borrow an extra £400million, every single day, just to get by. Labour also left us paying £120million in interest on our debt each and every day - for that we could build a new primary school every hour. 

Dundee City’s share of the country’s debt now stands at a dangerous £4.99billion and something needs to be done. 

But despite all this, Liberal Democrat policies coming into action this week are making a positive difference to people’s lives.

Over the last seven days in Dundee City, thanks to Liberal Democrats:
  • 49000 people are getting a £200 income tax cut - benefiting 23 million people across the country
  • 1900 people have been lifted out of paying income tax altogether, with more to come
  • pensioners have been given an extra £4.50 a week – and those retiring from today will be on average £15,000 better off over their retirement.
Liberal Democrats in government will not stop there.

This week also saw Pensions Minister Steve Webb announcing that the Government will be introducing a simple, flat-rate state pension of £140 to replace the current complicated, unfair and means-tested system.

Business Secretary Vince Cable is cutting regulation to promote small business and create jobs.

Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Chris Huhne revealed that Britain will be hosting the 2012 Clean Energy Summit - putting Britain at the heart of the Green Energy Revolution.

The Liberal Democrats have entered government at one of the most challenging times for the country. We did not choose the moment but we have not shrunk from our responsibility to act in the national interest. We will not miss the opportunity we have to build a greener, fairer and more liberal Britain. 

Best wishes,

Nick Clegg
Deputy Prime Minister & Leader of the Liberal Democrats