27 October 2010
Harriett Baldwin MP today welcomed recent news on economic growth during her question to the Prime Minister in the House of Commons. The West Worcestershire MP asked David Cameron about figures released yesterday which suggested that the economy is growing more than expected. Harriett commented: “Three quarters of yesterday’s strong growth figures came from the private sector. There has been no ‘double-dip’ and I hope that many local businesses are starting to be more confident about the outlook. “I know that the Prime Minister joins me in welcoming this good news which I hope we will be reflected in new jobs and new opportunities across West Worcestershire and the rest of the country.” Harriett had a large number of ideas for questions from local people after announcing in the local media that she had won the chance to quiz the Prime Minister. She added: “I am grateful that so many people contacted me with ideas for questions. The most popular question was around job prospects so I was pleased to be able to raise the economic good news in the House of Commons. “Over the course of the next few weeks I will be announcing plans to hold a dedicated ‘business’ surgery to help with banking advice. I am keen to offer as much support as possible to companies who are looking to take up the challenge of starting to lead our recovery and a return to economic prosperity.” FULL TEXT Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): If he will list his official engagements for Wednesday 27 October. The Prime Minister (Mr David Cameron): I am sure that the whole House will wish to join me in paying tribute to Corporal David Barnsdale from 33 Engineer Regiment (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), who died on 19 October. He was a brave and highly skilled member of our armed forces whose service and sacrifice must not be forgotten. Our thoughts must be with his family, his friends and his colleagues. This morning I had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others. In addition to my duties in the House, I shall have further such meetings later today. Harriett Baldwin: May I associate myself with the condolences expressed by my right hon. Friend? Does the Prime Minister agree that yesterday's excellent growth numbers show that the private sector is growing and will create the jobs that my constituents need? [ Interruption. ] The Prime Minister: My hon. Friend is entirely right. The growth figures yesterday were twice as good as market expectation. Of course, Opposition Members do not like good news, but they should celebrate it when it comes. This was strong growth, largely driven by the private sector, and it was accompanied by the Standard & Poor's agency saying that we should no longer be in the danger zone for our credit rating, which is welcome news. Opposition Members who are waiting for a double dip have had a bit of double depression, but I am sure that we will get lots of questions about the economy this morning. | Hansard