The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, described the Autumn budget as “historic”. He said “we finally have a Government that understands the problems and opportunities London faces and is working with us, not against us”.
He described the additional funding for TfL as “substantial and will help to support crucial maintenance and growth of London’s transport system. After all the dither and delay of the previous Government, confirming HS2 will terminate at Euston will mean the capital can finally realise the economic benefit of the project.”
TfL’s spokesperson on Rail services added the extension will be properly managed and budgets controlled so there will be minimal disruption whilst it is completed and no excessive costs as seen in the recent past.
Mayor Khan also welcomed more funds for the NHS, Social Housing, and schools calling them “public services in desperate need of investment”, adding the increase in the minimum wage will be a real boost for thousands of the lowest paid.”
Asked if the increase in the cap on bus fares to £3 would impact Londoners, TfL confirmed it would not as they control bus fares their area and so it will remain £1.75 per journey.
Cllr Claire Holland,Chair of London Councils, the body who represent all London’s Local Authorities, added “The measures announced by the Chancellor to tackle homelessness are very welcome as is the support for Special Educational Needs and Social Care.”
Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association, said “this is a step in the right direction, but councils still face a precarious short and long term future. The Government needs to give clarity on whether councils will be protected from extra cost pressures from increases to employer national insurance contributions.” She called for multi-year settlements for local authorities to enable long term planning rather than going from year to year.”
She added “We look forward to working with the Government on these issues.”