THIS month has seen a steady flow of good economic news, both nationally and locally.

It was heartening that the IMF confirmed Britain as the fastest-growing major European economy and we also saw the biggest quarterly fall in national unemployment since 1997, while local unemployment continued to drop and job vacancies rose.

However, there is absolutely no room for complacency; growth must be sustained through private sector expansion, not public spending based on borrowing, and activity must continue to spread outside the southeast.

We also have to make sure the economic progress is felt in people’s bank accounts and pockets and not just heard about, so it was also good news that inflation has fallen to two per cent and that average petrol prices are now at their lowest level for three years.

Of course, as we emerge from the deepest recession for 100 years, wage growth will be subdued and incomes will take time to recover but, with an additional increase in the personal tax allowance this April to £10,000, continued low interest rates for borrowers, frozen council tax and help with fuel bills, the economic progress should be felt by most.

The economy may be on the mend but it will come as little comfort to those mopping up flood waters in Wiltshire. I have made several local visits to assess flood damage and also held meetings with local councillors to discuss this and other local problems.

It is clear that, while there are exceptional water levels this year, the water companies and Defra have more to do in terms of managing land run-off and improving drainage capacity and I am working closely with them on a number of local proposals, as well as with the MoD to assess their riparian responsibilities.

As always, I hold regular advice surgeries around the constituency. If you would like an appointment or I can help with anything, please call my Devizes office on 01380 729358.