The Isle of Wight's MP says he is backing the government's budget aims to help support people struggling to pay energy bills, curb inflation and give more cash to families.

Bob Seely's comment comes as the Prime Minister prepares to hold a press conference later today (Friday).

Pressure has been mounting on Liz Truss to scrap parts of the controversial mini-budget.

Bob Seely told the Isle of Wight County Press: "I support what the Government is trying to do in the mini-budget, and I am delighted that this week we have had two bits of great news for the Island, the announcement of a new diagnosis centre and confirmation that the multi-million pound investment in St Mary’s will start very soon."

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Mr Seely said: "Both will result in important improvements in healthcare for years to come.

"My focus is always going to be on getting a better deal for the Island, and in the past five years we have ensured £120 million of additional investment in the Island; in the NHS, in transport, in the IW College and in shipbuilding on the Island, to improve life chance for Islanders and improve opportunities. That’s always going to be my priority.

"The majority of funds earmarked in the mini-budget were to help with energy bills this winter, including for folks here on the island. That’s really important thing to do and tens of millions of people nation-wide will be supported.

"The second element was to make sure politicians keep their promises by cancelling planned tax rises. Both these measures will also help to dampen inflation and will help with jobs here on the Island.

"The third was to put more money in the pockets of families, by lowering the rate of income tax. I support these measures and I am delighted that we have had good news to celebrate on the Island in regards to substantial NHS investment."

Reports suggest the PM could be about to scrap a planned increase in corporation tax, from 19 per cent to 25 per cent.

Last week, aspects of the mini-budget were criticised by the International Monetary Fund and resulted in a £65 billion emergency intervention by the Bank of England.

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