The leader of Barnet Council said he would “cautiously welcome” action put forward in the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Autumn Statement.

Phillip Hammond read out his first – and last – autumn statement as chancellor to the House of Commons yesterday, to mixed reception.

The most popular measure appeared to be a banning of letting agents’ fees when signing for rented property while future statements will be read in the spring, rather than the autumn.

Richard Cornelius, leader of Barnet Council and Conservative councillor for Totteridge, was cautious to comment on the statement before the picture became clearer in the near future.

READ MORE: Experts in Barnet and London Councils react to Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond's first and last Autumn Statement

He said: “There are many policies we are happy with, such as more money being put into generating affordable homes – we are hopeful we can get Barnet a share of that.

“It’s very positive there are 10,000 more doctors this year but I don’t believe there was any mention of social care in the statement, which we will have to wait and see about.”

The Barnet Labour group has been contacted for comment and this story will be updated if they respond.