DONE WMCA: Mayor welcomes Spending Review’
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said the Government’s Spending Review “backs his ambition to rebuild the region”.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced funding for a range of schemes in the region including money for the Midlands Rail Hub and the £2.4 billion war chest for transport schemes and a new tram line to Birmingham City FC’s planned £3 billion Sports Quarter.
The review also includes allowing the Mayor to provide loans to drive economic growth, skill training and £39 billion for more social and affordable housing across the country.
Mr Parker said the Spending Review was a vote of confidence by the Chancellor in his four key priorities – Jobs for Everyone, Homes for Everyone, Growth for Everyone and Journeys for Everyone.
He said: “This Spending Review backs our ambition to rebuild the West Midlands and unlock opportunity in every community.
“It’s a vote of confidence in our plan and a moment to invest in our renewal.
“From the biggest boost to social housing in a generation, to billions for new transport links like the Midlands Rail Hub and the East Birmingham Metro extension, the Government is delivering the long-term investment we need to grow our economy and improve people’s lives.
“With new money for apprenticeships and skills, this is a plan for better jobs and a stronger, greener future.
“Billions in funding for research and development will turbo-charge the vital work our businesses and universities are doing in world-leading innovation. With help to cut the cost of school uniforms, expand free school meals and upgrade homes to lower bills, it’s a plan for fairness too.
“I welcome investments in automotive, life sciences, digital and aerospace – and a new local growth fund for Mayors.
“Because business and industry is vital to our region’s growth, these sectors are our strengths and we know that when the West Midlands grows, Britain grows too.
“Our defence spending will rise, our security strengthened, our public services will be backed and some of the most deprived communities in our country – including right here in the West Midlands – will get the support they’ve long deserved.
“This is what rebuilding Britain looks like. The West Midlands is ready to lead the way.”
