Autumn Statement lays fair foundation for Highland growth – Alexander  

- Welcome for decision to reject January fuel duty hike Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch & Strathspey MP Danny Alexander says the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Autumn Statement today will help to build a fair foundation for the Highland economy to grow. Mr Alexander welcomed a package of measures to support growth and help young unemployed people. He is urging the Scottish Government to make full use of the extra £432million which will be added to its budget to reflect boosted spending plans on infrastructure and housing at UK level. The announcement made by George Osborne in the House of Commons confirms that next year will see the biggest ever increase in the basic state pension, and the protection of those on working age benefits from the effect of inflation. The Chancellor also revealed that a 3p increase in fuel duty planned by Labour for January 2012 will not now go ahead. Mr...