CHANCELLOR of the Exchequer George Osborne visited Somerset on Friday ahead of his Autumn Statement next month.

He went to Wincanton’s logistics depot to hear how further road improvements would relieve congestion for businesses on the A303.

Prospective MP Marcus Fysh made the case to the Chancellor for works to improve the road.

His visit comes a week after Deputy PM Nick Clegg visited Ilminster to hear how dualling the A303 and the A358 would improve life for people in South Somerset.

Mr Fysh, a county councillor said: “It’s great that the Chancellor saw for himself what needs to be done and it’s brilliant that he’s committing to the funding for full dualling, including the A358.

“I’ve consistently pushed for this, from county council right up to the Prime Minister, and I’m really pleased the effort’s paying off.”

Mr Osborne said: “It has been incredibly useful to hear from Marcus Fysh – he’s a fantastic Conservative candidate and an effective local champion.

“After a decade of neglect we’re carrying out the biggest improvement programme for roads since the 1970s as part of our long-term economic plan with this Government committed to investing £15billion in road repair, maintenance and expansion.

“Work on the A303 would make it more reliable for businesses and safer for drivers, and I’ll be looking carefully at what we can do in the weeks ahead to support the region.”