"I’m delighted that Suffolk is one of just nine areas across the country being trusted to take on a lot more power and responsibility as part of the government’s detailed Levelling Up plan unveiled last week. Well done to Cllr Matthew Hicks and other Suffolk leaders who have worked hard on the proposal. The invitation to agree a new County Deal will also come with more money locally which has already been pump primed by Suffolk becoming an Education Investment Area. Importantly this extra government money will include retention payments to keep the best teachers and specific support for SEND children and their families. There will also be a laser-like focus on skills helping to support adults with free, flexible training and the expansion of skills bootcamps.
Talking of skills, I welcome the announcement from the Energy Secretary that £100 million of government funding is being made available to support the continued development of Sizewell C. Nuclear power as a low carbon energy source is a key strand of the government’s plan to achieve net-zero by 2050. And whilst there are various matters still to be decided in the planning application - will also be of huge benefit locally - with high-quality jobs and economic gain. I’m pleased to see the recent investment EDF have made at Suffolk New College, which will mean local people will be able to take advantage of the opportunities throughout construction and operation.
Finally, the energy regulator OFGEM has announced that the energy price cap will rise in April. Without action, this would be very tough for millions of families. So, the government are stepping in with a £350 Energy Bills Rebate. The first part of the scheme spreads the extra costs of this year’s price increase over time. In October every household will receive a £200 discount on their electricity bills. People will then have five years to repay that discount in equal instalments of £40 a year. We'll also provide more help to those who need it most by discounting Council Tax bills by £150 in April. Providing the discount to households in Bands A to D. Around 80% of all homes in England. East Suffolk Council will also get a discretionary fund to help lower income households in higher Council Tax bands."