THE ROYAL British Legion has campaigned long and hard on behalf of former Japanese prisoners of war. They have rightly sought special gratuity payments in recognition of the suffering experienced by prisoners and their spouses during and after their captivity.

Along with 327 other Members of Parliament, I made representations to the Prime Minister in support of the British Legion's campaign, and at long last the announcement of recognition came.

Previous campaigns by Westminster colleagues saw their pleas fall on deaf ears, and I consider it to be an honour to be part of the Government that has finally corrected this dreadful injustice and granted £10,000 to those who suffered. The award is not only a triumph for justice but a fitting tribute to every one of the 50,000 captured by the Japanese, who suffered so terribly, during their captivity and afterwards.

The Chancellor's pre-budget report is designed to deliver long-term prosperity for all. Over 16,000 pensioners in my Bolton North East constituency will benefit from winter fuel payments of £200 tax free paid to all households with someone over 60 living there. From November 1, over 6,500 of my over 75-year-old constituents will also benefit from a free TV licence. Although the Chancellor did not feel that he could extend this concession to below age 75 at this time, every pensioner in Bolton can be assured that I will continue to fight for a free TV licence for all pensioners.

In his report, Gordon Brown announced that the basic state pension would rise by £5 for a single pensioner, and £8 for pensioner couples. Extra money will go direct to schools for repairs -- ranging from £4,000 to £30,000 for each school. For motorists there will be a £55 cut in Vehicle Excise Duty for cars up to 1500cc, along with a freeze in fuel excise duty, plus the introduction of a 'British Disc' system to ensure that non-UK lorries pay their share for using Britain's roads.

The Chancellor stuck to tough choices on spending in the first two years of government, in order to build a stable economy, and it is that very stability that now allows us to invest in public services, helping families and pensioners.

If any readers would like further information on the Chancellor's pre-budget report please write to me at the house of Commons, London, SWIA OAA.

David Crausby MP