Osborne's flood protection for the South

Along with his axe, George Osborne brought some other tools today. A sharp stick, to keep prodding for efficiency, and a spade. Labour would say he'll need that to dig himself out of the mess if the economy falters, but he had another plan in mind - digging for growth.

A clear majority of his statement was about the places he will protect, or even invest.

The mentions of road schemes at Weymouth and Hindhead refer of course to projects started under Labour - it would be even more difficult to save money from those now than the aircraft carriers.

Another growth plan was for flood protection - 145,000 homes will surely include major schemes on the South coast.

Weymouth and Southampton have to fight out who gets the port facilities for the offshore wind which is approved - Eastleigh's MP Chris Huhne has battled well - his climate change department loses just 5%, and sees a large increase in some capital spending.

Raising the cap on regulated rail fares by 3% will hit many commuters in the South who rely on the cheap tickets.

The money to refurbish 600 schools will come the way of the South of England - we missed out on the previous Building Schools for the Future programe.

Osborne promised to limit cuts to Fire and Rescue Services, in return for substantial operational reform. Sussex, and under Chief Officer John Bonney, Hampshire, have been cutting numbers on tenders, but this will go further still.

There are still questions.

Plans for a super prison are now deferred. Legal aid bill and courts shut - what effect will that have on crime?

On housing the detail on the New Homes Bonus will be critical - will it persuade Southern Councils and residents to allow development?

On welfare we must look at the detail again - do the changes allow someone to live in high cost areas?

What do YOU think?

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