This year has presented massive challenges for our Government. After the worst economic crisis in 60 years, and a deep and painful recession, it was vital that the Government’s actions were decisive. We learned the lessons of previous recessions and we were determined not to repeat the mistake of leaving people to struggle alone.  We wanted to avoid the deep scars of long-term unemployment the country experienced under the Tories in the 1980s and 1990s. That is why we pledged £5 billion to help get people back to work.

South Tyneside, like the rest of the country, is experiencing difficult times but it is easy to underestimate the progress that has been made under the Labour Government since 1997.  Labour’s record investment in the NHS has brought the quality of service only the better off could previously afford.  Let’s not underestimate the huge commitment that Labour has made to the NHS by providing over 40,000 more doctors and over 83,000 more nurses.

Since 1997, Labour has also transformed education. We have more than doubled investment in education from £30 billion in 1997 to a massive £73.3 billion in 2008/09. Our schools are unrecognisable from those we remember following years of Tory neglect and underfunding. Since then, the Government has set out to deliver the largest programme of school rebuilding in history – providing our children with a platform to achieve their full potential.

Thousands of children have been lifted out of poverty in this country and the Government is committed to eradicating Child Poverty by 2020.   The National Minimum Wage introduced by Labour has made a big difference to low paid workers in our area. This is a huge benefit to families who are struggling with rising fuel, energy and food prices.

In his Pre-Budget Report earlier this month Chancellor Alistair Darling announced further support for households during the economic downturn. The basic state pension will increase by 2.5% in April 2010, from £95.25 to £97.65 for a single pensioner, while a pensioner couple will see their income rise to £156.16 next year from the current £152.30.  Child benefit, currently £20 per week for the eldest child and £13.20 a week for each other child, will increase by 1.5 per cent.

With a general election on the horizon, 2010 promises to be a hugely significant year in the political calendar. With this in mind, let’s not forget all that Labour has achieved over the past 12 years. A lot of hard work lies ahead but what cannot be doubted is our commitment to the people of this country.  I wish everyone a safe, peaceful and prosperous New Year.