Families across Britain are understandably feeling worried, with all the news about bank failures, global financial crisis and troubled stock markets across the world. In times of uncertainty, people look to the government to step in and take action. Over the past few months the Labour Government has moved to stabilize the situation, and take important steps to help people.

We have overseen decisive action by the Bank of England, with internationally co-ordinated cut in interest rates by 1.5 per cent.

Ann said:

The most important thing right now is that all the banks pass these cuts to ordinary families and businesses across Glasgow North so that this cut can help the real economy. The Government has taken steps to support the banking system. It’s right that the banks do their bit and pass this cut on to people. I will be working with other Ministers to ensure this happens.

At this time of economic uncertainty, you can be certain of one thing - Gordon Brown and the Government will provide real help in tough times. I will support the Prime Minister’s action: to save jobs, support homeowners, help small businesses and keep prices down.

We've changed taxes so that a lot of people will have more cash in their pockets to pay their bills when they most need the help. 22 million basic rate tax-payers are getting an extra £120 a year in their pay packets. This comes on top of this year’s basic rate cut from 22p to 20p.

To help with fuel bills the Winter Fuel Payment remain a lifeline for many older people. And our support for home insulation and energy efficiency means we’re helping people cut their costs.

For drivers, the Government's decision to freeze petrol tax means saving money when filling up. These cuts not only help drivers, they also help to keep food prices low as the costs are passed on.

We’ve been listening carefully when people explain their worries about job security during the projected recession. We are taking action here too.In past downturns people were put out of work and onto the scrapheap.Under this Government, no-one will be written off. It is important to remember that if you do face losing your job, the Government will be working flat out to ensure there is full support and a quick return to safe employment with an expanded, better equipped, JobCentrePlus service in every community.