Politics & Council · Reading
Reading MPs highlight budget relief measures for families and local businesses
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Reading's Labour MPs have welcomed new budget measures designed to ease cost of living pressures, including energy rebates, tax freezes, and business rates support.
Reading's parliamentary representatives have highlighted new government support measures following the 2026 budget announcement, which aim to provide financial relief to local families and the business community.
Olivia Bailey, MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire, and Yuan Yang, MP for Earley and Woodley, both emphasised that the package is designed to offer breathing space during a challenging economic climate. The measures include direct support for household energy costs and relief for retail and hospitality sectors.
Household and motorist support
A key announcement for many residents is the commitment to reducing energy costs. This includes the extension of the zero per cent VAT rate on electricity until 30 June 2027 and the removal of standing charges from gas bills. These changes are intended to provide immediate relief to domestic consumers facing higher utility costs.
For households in council tax bands A to D, the government has confirmed a £100 rebate, which is scheduled to be paid directly into bank accounts this January. The budget also provides stability for motorists, with the 5p fuel duty cut being extended and rates frozen until 1 July 2027.
Impact on local business
Businesses across the Thames Valley are set to benefit from a £1 billion business-rates package. This initiative ensures that more than half of all retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses in the South East will pay no business rates at all.
Local data suggests this will directly benefit approximately 588 properties in Reading and 542 in West Berkshire. Furthermore, the government has responded to calls for a guest beer provision, a move welcomed by local brewers and publicans, which officials hope will provide a boost to local community venues.
Looking forward
Reflecting on the announcement, Olivia Bailey noted the importance of these long-term choices, stating that the budget is designed to put money back into the pockets of local people while investing in future stability. She also highlighted progress towards a new devolution agreement for the Thames Valley, which aims to grant local leaders more autonomy over regional decision-making.
Yuan Yang, who was present in the House of Commons during the speech, described the budget as a measure intended to help working people navigate global economic challenges, including the ongoing volatility in global energy markets. She added that while the domestic economy has shown resilience, the new support measures are designed to act as a buffer for families through the upcoming winter months.
Source: Reading Chronicle · View original