The Chancellor must deliver for the Borders in his budget next week, local MP John Lamont has said.

A freeze in fuel, whisky and beer duty, significant extra money for the NHS and a commitment to the Borderlands Growth Deal are all among the priorities for the Scottish Borders. Speaking ahead of the budget, local MP John Lamont has also the Chancellor must outline financial support, including for farmers and fishermen as we leave the EU.

Commenting, John Lamont MP said: “This is a really important budget for Scotland and for the Scottish Borders. It is the last budget before we leave the EU and I would expect the Chancellor to outline what measures will be in place to help businesses adapt to this new environment.

“I have been clear about my key asks for the Borders. Fuel duty needs to remain frozen to help those in the Borders who rely on their car. And both whisky and beer duty must remain as competitive as possible as a boost to the new distilleries in the Scottish Borders and to support our local pubs.

“I also want to see further details about the significant extra funding for our NHS and a clear commitment from the Chancellor about the Borderlands Growth Deal.

“Over the past few months, I have met with the Chancellor and Treasury Ministers to outline all of these key issues. These have all been useful exchanges and I’m confident the Treasury has a better understanding of the priorities of the Scottish Borders as a result.”