The Chancellor’s Budget included several measures that will make a real difference to people in Brent East and across London, according to the area’s MP.
Dawn Butler, Labour MP for Brent East, picked out five announcements she said would support local communities and create new opportunities.
First, gambling tax. Ms Butler said she has spent years campaigning to tackle gambling harm and stop betting shops clustering on high streets. Increasing taxes on gambling companies in the Budget is real progress, she said, although she believes the industry should still contribute more. “I will keep fighting to protect our communities from gambling harm,” she said.
Second, business rates. “Our high streets are the heart of our communities, providing jobs, supporting independent businesses and bringing people together,” she said. Reducing business rates will give thousands of businesses breathing space to invest, employ staff and keep their doors open, she said. Combined with progress towards ending Aim to Permit licensing rules, she said there is an opportunity to create healthier, more vibrant high streets.
Third, the minimum wage. The increase announced in the Budget means a welcome pay rise for some of the lowest-paid workers, Ms Butler said. With the cost of living still a real concern, ensuring people receive fairer pay matters, she said, as it can help households manage costs while supporting spending in local shops and businesses.
Fourth, first-time buyers. For many constituents, getting onto the housing ladder feels impossible, she said. Some spend two-thirds of their salary on rent, despite being able to afford mortgage repayments. The new scheme aims to make that first step easier, she said, adding that she will keep working to ensure more Londoners can buy a house in the city they call home.
Finally, greater power for London. Ms Butler said the Budget represents the biggest devolution of power to London in a generation, giving the capital greater control over its finances. By the end of the decade, London is set to retain 100 per cent of locally raised business rates, while mayors will receive a share of income tax revenues from 2028.
“I believe local communities should have greater control over how money is spent in their areas,” she said. “I want these new powers to help deliver infrastructure Londoners deserve, including the West London Orbital rail project and the Bakerloo line extension. Better transport means better connections and a stronger local economy.”
Ms Butler said the Budget represents progress, but there is more to do. “I will continue pushing for action that supports families, backs local businesses and gives Brent East a stronger voice in shaping its future,” she said.
Elsewhere in London, councils are also stepping in to support residents hit by unexpected costs. Evacuated Canning Town residents will pay no council tax while they are out of their homes.
