Stafford MP Theo Clarke has met with the Chancellor ahead of the Budget this week to discuss her priorities for the town.
Theo has been supporting calls for childcare reform and discussed with Jeremy Hunt more investment into existing schemes while looking to transform support in the longer term.
She asked him to look at more help for those who use Universal Credit to access existing support without less upfront costs for those on the benefit
Theo also mentioned to the Chancellor about restoring 24-hour A&E to the hospital, funding for improvements to Stafford High Street and tackling flooding.
“It was good to get some face-to-face time with Jeremy Hunt to talk about the priorities I have for Stafford following my return from maternity leave,” said Mrs Clarke.
“As a mum myself, I am very supportive of childcare reform and I told the Chancellor the sector needs some love and attention both for parents and those working in it.
“I made the case that many parents cannot work because of the cost of childcare and increased help would enable more people to go back to work – something that is a priority as we suffer labour shortages.
“As the person holding the purse strings, it is important he knows about how investment in the key areas I highlighted will improve lives here in Stafford.
“It was a positive meeting and I hope to see some announcements regarding some of the areas I mentioned when the Chancellor presents his budget.
“We remain in challenging times following the pandemic and the war in Ukraine but the economy continues to be robust, growth has continued and employment remains good.”
