Sharon Hodgson MP: Two years on: the difference a Labour Government makes
Two years ago, after 14 long years of Conservative decline, austerity and economic mismanagement, we were sent a clear message: enough is enough. The cost-of-living crisis, the economy, the NHS and immigration were all top-ranked issues of importance when voters took to the ballot box. Two years on, it makes sense to judge our success on how these core areas are faring under Labour.
Tackling the cost of living has been a core objective of this government since day one. When our communities feel better off and people have more money in their pockets, people can spend less time worrying and more time living. Under Labour, household energy bills are down by £117, rail fares and prescription charges are frozen and we have extended the £3 bus cap, boosting tax-free mileage rates by 10p per mile. Bus travel has been made free for five to 15-year-olds throughout August and VAT on children’s meals and attractions over the summer have been slashed. This will boost businesses and help families to create precious memories.
We also know that when the economy is not managed well, ordinary people are hit the hardest. Liz Truss’ reckless mini budget which hit families most serves as a stark reminder of this. That is why investing in our economy has been a central mission. This year alone, our economy has grown strongly in the first quarter and we are one of just two G7 economies not to see a rise in inflation in April. Interest rates have been cut six times and £360 billion in private investment has been secured signalling a huge vote of confidence in this country.
We have delivered record investment in the NHS ensuring it is fit for the future. Waiting lists are down by over 400,000 and we have delivered the best A&E waiting times and ambulance response times in seventeen years. Cancer patients are now getting diagnosed in the shortest times on record and 3500 more GPs and 8700 mental health workers have been recruited. This is work that I am proud to have played a part in during the last four months as Minister for Public Health and Prevention.
We have cut the asylum backlog which is now down nearly 50% in a year. The last government thought they could ignore this issue and it would simply go away, leading to a huge accumulation of unprocessed applications which increased temporary accommodation use for asylum seekers while their paperwork gathered dust. This isn’t good for vulnerable people and it isn’t good for the communities which house them. There are now just under 170 asylum hotels in operation, down 63% from the peak of 400 under the Conservatives. I am proud that we are moving towards a functioning immigration system which is both effective but also compassionate for those seeking sanctuary here.
These are not just numbers and statistics. These are not just niche policy debates taking place in Westminster. These are not just meaningless policy slogans. This is the difference a Labour Government can make for communities like ours, who have for too long felt left behind.
While it hasn’t all been smooth sailing, knowing that my constituents can access healthcare quicker, have more money in their pockets and trust in a functioning immigration system is something worth celebrating.