ON Wednesday I was pleased to speak in the House of Commons and ask the Prime Minister how we can do more to support market towns such as Chippenham, Corsham, Melksham and Bradford on Avon.

I share residents’ concerns that our town centres are in decline and we must do more to promote our towns, support local shops and bring more into the area.

It was therefore encouraging that, in his answer to me, the Prime Minister confirmed that the Government's offer for devolution will not be limited to cities and that he is open to devolution proposals from towns, counties and districts. I will take this offer forward and will work to get as many powers for local representatives as possible, bringing more local decision making to our market towns and communities.

The Budget followed immediately after Prime Minister’s Questions. It is clear from the chaos in Greece how important it is to get our finances in order and I was pleased to see that the Chancellor has kept to the manifesto commitments to keep cutting the deficit to reduce the burden of the country’s debts.

There were two budget highlights for me. Firstly, I warmly welcomed the announcement that we will be keeping to our two per cent NATO target on defence spending. I wrote in my column two weeks ago how important I think that commitment is and how I see it as a vital part of our domestic and international security.

Secondly, in my short time as an MP, I have received hundreds of emails and letters calling for a Living Wage and I know how pleased those constituents will be that the Chancellor is supporting working people, on lower wages, with a huge boost in their pay packets by introducing a Living Wage which will rise to £9 per hour by 2020.

Of course, there are difficult decisions to make and I am very aware that reductions in welfare spending that could affect some local people. It is vital that the Government recognises the impact that this will have and puts in place support and advice for anyone affected.

My surgery on Friday is now full, but I have appointments available on Saturday, July 18 in Melksham. If you would like to book an appointment, please contact Gareth on (01249) 477 095 or email gareth@michelledonelan.com.

I would be interested to hear your views on how we can support local high streets and what you think of the budget. Do let me know on michelle.donelan.mp@parliament.uk