“The Budget Statement yesterday has given residents and businesses across South Oxfordshire lots to cheer about. South Oxfordshire District Council’s Conservatives welcome the Chancellor’s announcement of measures to protect our small businesses and to ensure that the nation’s economy remains robust during the coronavirus outbreak. We are particularly pleased to see his extensive measures to create a low-carbon economy and to boost flood defences which underline this Government’s commitment to protecting the environment while promoting productivity and economic growth.

We welcome the investment in science and technology, which we anticipate will benefit some of the country’s most innovative companies based right here in South Oxfordshire.

We are especially pleased that the Government, while confirming its commitment to the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, has decided to think again on the potential for an Oxford-Cambridge Expressway. Since its inception, South Oxfordshire Conservatives have argued against the National Infrastructure Commission’s ill-conceived proposal to drive a dual carriageway through South Oxfordshire’s open countryside. We are delighted that the Government has listened to the voices of local residents and politicians, and hit the ‘pause’ button on this destructive scheme.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

For more details please contact:

Cllr Jane Murphy, Conservative Group Leader on Jane.murphy@southoxon.gov.uk or on 07970 932054

Cllr Caroline Newton, Conservative Deputy Group Leader on caroline.newton@southoxon.gov.uk or on 07951 477144