CHESHIRE East Conservatives welcome the Spending Round announcements that launch an ambitious agenda that reflects the public’s priorities and marks a welcome move away from austerity.

We have long recognised the excellence of our local schools and colleges and have consistently lobbied for fairer funding including investment for our pupils with additional needs. We are therefore delighted to see that funding per pupil is set to rise both next year and again in 2022-23, working to redress the balance.

In addition, funding for further education will support our colleges and sixth forms across the borough and support work with local employers, to expand apprenticeship opportunities, ensuring that our children and young people gain the knowledge and skills they will need to succeed in the future.

The news of an extra £750 million to recruit new police officers is very timely as Cheshire Police launch their September recruitment drive.

This financial boost will help tackle violent crime and keep our streets and residents safe.

Increased NHS funding and the option for Cheshire East Council, as a devolved administration, to raise a local social care precept is vital, as Cheshire East Conservatives explore ways in which health and social care partners can work better together.

Finally funding support for transforming bus services and helping more young people onto the housing ladder is especially important in Cheshire East.

These plans are ambitious but necessary to ensure a good education for every child, safer streets, and better healthcare for those who need it. This provides a sound basis for building a sustainable future as we move towards Brexit and leaving the EU.

Cllr Janet Clowes, Leader of the Conservative group on CEC