Brighton reacts to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement

After news that millions will pay more in income tax, many were divided as to whether this was the right idea to reduce the economic deficit.

Those in the city also reacted to the news of an increased windfall tax as well as confirmation from Chancellor Jeremy Hunt that pensions would rise with inflation.

Nick and Penny Pell, from Linfield, said that they agreed with the government’s decision to lower the top tax bracket from £150,000 to £125,000, meaning more people on higher incomes will pay the 45% rate.

Nick and Penny Pell (Image: NQ Staff)

Penny said: “We would agree with that because they’re not going to be facing hardship. They might have less of a holiday or something but they won’t be at a food bank.”

Nick added: “I would favour making those with more pay more.”

On the government introducing targeted energy bill payments in April, John Loxton said: “The people who need help the most is a massive group of people.”

Jeremy Hunt also announced that the government would be introducing a windfall tax for energy companies, with a new 45 per cent tax on their profits.

Paul, who works in public services, said: “I would say that’s a good thing but investment in green energy needs to be protected.”

Some, however, were not so pleased with the Autumn Statement. Steven O’Callaghan, 74, said: “It’s a bit wrong that we are hitting the people who really try.

“People who earn big money earn it for a reason.”

On the targeted energy payments being introduced in April, he added that the government should “support everyone because everyone pays in”.

Fiona and Michael Rushworth (Image: NQ Staff)

Fiona Rushworth agreed, saying: “I think it should be targeted because there’s people who are affected a lot more.”

Fiona, 61, with her husband Michael, 74, said she was happy that pensions would be rising with inflation. She added: “I took early retirement to spend time with my husband. We are just happy that the triple lock is going to stay.”