Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Cheryl Gillan and Madeleine Moon

Wednesday 25th April 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mrs Gillan]

Over this noise, Mr Speaker, I think the hon. Gentleman is suggesting that government should get out of the way of business. Indeed, that is exactly what this Government are doing, with the red tape challenge, by reducing the bureaucracy that the previous Labour Government imposed on our industries, and by reducing the rate of corporation tax so that our business environment can be one of the most competitive in the G20.

[Mrs Madeleine Moon (Bridgend) (Lab)]

13. What assessment she has made of the implications of the Budget for women in Wales.

[The Secretary of State for Wales (Mrs Cheryl Gillan)]

Last month’s Budget was one of fairness and values. Although we had to make some difficult decisions, we are committed to ensuring that women all over the UK play a full part in the economic recovery.

[Mrs Moon]

Women in Wales are suffering and struggling with rising food prices, the rising cost of living and the rising costs of child care. In the most recent quarter, 4,000 additional women became unemployed. How many women in Wales will benefit from the reduction in taxation on high-level earners from 50% to 45%? Will that benefit women in Wales?