Liberal Democrats: On Shepway's Side

These are difficult times for people across Britain, but this week has shown that this can also be an opportunity to reshape Britain into a fairer, more equal and greener country.

Labour's financial legacy has left Britain needing to borrow an extra £400 million, every single day, just to get by. Labour also left us paying £120 million in interest on our debt each and every day - for that we could build a new primary school every hour.

Shepway's share of the country's debt now stands at an incredible £3.57 billion. Something needed to be done.

But despite all this, Liberal Democrat policies coming into action this week are making a positive difference to people's lives.

Over the last seven days in Shepway, thanks to Liberal Democrats:

• 36,000 people are getting a £200 income tax cut - benefiting 23 million people across the country
• 1,200 people have been lifted out of paying income tax altogether, with more to come
• 26,400 pensioners have been given an extra £4.50 a week - and those retiring from today will be on average £15,000 better off over their retirement.
• Nationally, £625 million extra has gone to our schools, aimed at the most disadvantaged pupils - rising to £2.5 billion a year by 2015

Liberal Democrats in government will not stop there.

This week also saw Pensions Minister Steve Webb announcing that the Government will be introducing a simple, flat-rate state pension of £140 to replace the current complicated, unfair and means-tested system.

Business Secretary Vince Cable is cutting regulation to promote small business and create jobs.

Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Chris Huhne revealed that Britain will be hosting the 2012 Clean Energy Summit - putting Britain at the heart of the Green Energy Revolution.

The Liberal Democrats have entered government at one of the most challenging times for the country. We did not choose the moment but we have not shrunk from our responsibility to act in the national interest. We will not miss the opportunity we have to build a greener, fairer and more liberal Britain.