THERE was a big thumbs down from Bridgwater and West Somerset Liberals for measures outlined in the Queen's Speech at Westminster last week.

Lib Dem candidate Theo Butt Philip said the Government's plans would do little to help people in Bridgwater cope with the recession.

He said: "We need legislation to change the way energy tariffs work to make sure people get the cheapest prices for their essential fuel and power and changes to taxes to put money back in people's pockets.

"With the massive discounts on offer in the shops at the moment, the short-term trimming of VAT will make little difference and what we need is income tax cuts targeted at low earners and paid for by closing loopholes.

"People who are worried by the economic situation will find little comfort in this programme.

"The Government wasted the opportunity to help people."