Those who write off the Chancellor’s budget are determined to talk our economy down. Of course economists disagree with each other: like lawyers, that’s their job. But the CBI backed Alistair Darling when he said the economy would be growing within the year and I think they are right.

Already there are some good signs: unemployment is not growing as fast as it was. Banks are starting to lend again and people are starting to buy homes. Companies are looking to invest and banks, especially those owned on our behalf, are committed to lending money, though more sensibly than before.

I have spoken at three different High Peak Business Networks in recent weeks. Every one told me the same message – not everyone is suffering in this recession. Don’t talk the economy down because that damages those who are doing all right.

Businesses are feeling the squeeze in three ways: the credit squeeze from banks, the trading squeeze from customers (wanting to pay later) and suppliers (wanting to be paid earlier); and also from the media. They sap confidence every time they wallow in doom and gloom.

The Budget was proportionate and right. It said we must keep public services going and get people back to work quickly. The quicker we do that, the better for us and our children as the amount of borrowing can be limited.

I was particularly pleased to see a real and urgent investment in green jobs and services. Cutting carbon saves money in the long run, creates jobs and rescues the planet, all at once. It’s a win, win, win and the Chancellor got it right.

And as we all tighten our belts, of course it is right and fair for a little bit more in tax contributions to come from the two in every one hundred people who earn over £100,000 a year.