Two Borders politician have given their reaction to the chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s autumn statement which was delivered to MPs in the House of Commons this morning.

MP for Berwickshire Roxburgh and Selkirk John Lamont praised the statement and in particular the decision to retain the triple lock on pensions and also the doubling of support for those households that do not use gas to heat their homes.

He said: “The UK Government has produced a robust plan to restore economic stability, tackle inflation and boost economic growth.

READ MORE: Travel advice for rugby fans heading to Murrayfield on Saturday

“The Prime Minister and Chancellor are delivering for Scotland and all our United Kingdom by prioritising a strong economy and good public services at this crucial moment.

READ MORE: Join Doddie Aid 2023 and help find a cure for MND

“It’s right that we protect the most vulnerable by uprating benefits in line with inflation and keeping the pensions triple lock, while also ensuring that future generations are not left to pay the price of the pandemic.

“I know lots of Borderers do not use gas to heat their homes and had concerns about the help on offer.

“That is why I welcome the doubling of support for those households to £200. This will be a boost to thousands of rural households across the Borders.

“I’m fully behind the tough but fair decisions that the government is making to support our public services and help workers through the cost-of-living crisis.”

READ MORE: Galedin Vets in Duns to double in size with move to new premises

Borders MSP Rachael Hamilton was happy to see an additional £1.5billion for Scotland.  

She said: “The global economic crisis has forced the government to make very difficult decisions, but I welcome the fact that the most vulnerable will be protected from harm through the increase of benefits and pensions with inflation.

“The UK Government is correct to focus on restoring economic stability and protecting our public services. 

“This Budget delivers an extra £1.5 billion for Scotland, including increases from additional health and education spending. 

“Now the SNP must use this money wisely and not waste it on another divisive referendum.”

However First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Scotland essentially had a flat budget because its value had shrunk by £1.7bn as a result of inflation.