THURROCK MP Jackie Doyle-Price has welcomed today's budget announcements by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, saying it offers a boost for the lower paid.

And she has also welcomed news in the budget that Thames Freeport will be able to begin initial operations from November.

Ms Doyle-Price told Thurrock Nub News: "Considering the difficulty of the past eighteen months the Chancellor has done well to deliver increased spending across all our public services.

"I am particularly pleased to see the changes to Universal credit.  Working people on the lowest incomes should be at the front of the queue when it comes to budget giveaways.

"Locally we received the good news that the Thames Freeport can begin initial operations from November.  Thames is leading the way in the development of Freeports and is proof again that Thurrock is the port capital of the UK."

The minister for levelling up, housing and communities, Neil O'Brien, has been in touch with Ms Doyle-Price to say: "Following the announcement at Autumn Budget 2021, I am pleased to confirm that three prospective Freeports based in Humber, Teesside and Thames, will be able to begin initial operations from November following the designation of their tax sites.

"The next step is to complete designation of Freeport customs sites, which is expected from mid-November provided operators demonstrate that they meet HMRC's conditions for authorisation.

"I appreciate how important Freeports are to you and I am grateful for your endless support to deliver this programme. As you know, Freeports are a cornerstone of the Government's plan to drive post-COVID recovery and level up the country.

"This exciting milestone represents an important next step on the journey and signals confidence to investors and businesses, including those in your constituency, to seize on opportunities presented by Freeports.

"Our work is not yet finished, and like you I share the objective of rapid progression for all prospective Freeports. We remain committed to make sure that all our Freeports partners become operational as soon as they are able.

"The next step is to complete designation of Freeport customs sites, which is expected from mid-November provided operators demonstrate that they meet HMRC's conditions for authorisation."

And South Basildon and East Thurrock MP Stephen Metcalfe is also upbeat about today's budget.

He says: "Despite the unprecedented challenges caused by the pandemic, this Conservative government is getting on with the job and delivering on the priorities of the British people.

"I welcome the Budget which will make a real difference to people in South Basildon and East Thurrock. The announcements made will help working families with the cost of living, support businesses with their recovery, and invest in our public services so that everyone gets the world-class hospitals, schools, and police services they deserve."

The BBC's summary of the budget can be accessed via this link