‘Little extras’ not enough

AUSTERITY remains the grim ideology of a continuity Chancellor putting the con into Conservative.

While Philip Hammond’s political tone shifted, the economic reality didn’t.

The mask slipped with his talk of “little extras for schools” starved of funds.

Spending per pupil has plummeted, which means the basics are teachers, classroom assistants, books, pens and toilet rolls.

But Hammond’s toilet humour is no substitute for the badly needed police officers who won’t be rehired or houses built.

Brexit is a danger, but most problems we face could be stamped Made in Britain.

Feeble economic growth owes much to self-defeating austerity since 2010.

The public is tired of austerity, so Hammond must occupy Mr Corbyn’s territory.

Actions speak louder than words. But if voters buy the spin, Labour is in trouble.