Labour launches local election campaign in Exeter

The Labour Party has launched its local election campaign in Exeter, with a cabinet minister visiting the city to highlight the government's cost of living pledges.

Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, visited Exeter on Wednesday as part of the national campaign launch, which began earlier in the day alongside Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in Wolverhampton.

Speaking to local supporters, Ms Kendall praised the work of Exeter City Council and local representatives, and set out a series of measures the government says will support households across the country.

The party says its programme includes a £150 reduction in energy bills starting next week, a freeze on rail fares and prescription charges, and an expansion of free breakfast clubs and government-funded childcare.

Labour also points to an increase in the minimum wage and action it says will lift nearly half a million children out of poverty by ending the two-child benefit limit.

Ms Kendall said: "The council, alongside their fantastic MP Steve Race are working hard delivering for the people of Exeter: from investment in new leisure facilities, improvements to public transport such as a new bus station, supporting community organisations and retrofitting homes to help cut energy bills.

"Labour is the party on your side in Exeter."

Exeter MP Steve Race welcomed the visit, saying: "As a city that is leading the world in scientific research and cutting-edge technology, I particularly welcomed the opportunity to talk to the Secretary of State about the fantastic things happening here, and how the Government can help us to do even more."

Mr Race said Labour had candidates standing in every ward in the city, and pointed to investment, including the £20 million Pride in Place funding, new flood defence funding, and the return of Sure Start services to local communities.

Local elections are due to take place on 7 May.