Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 17th August 2022) below:
Kev’s Column:
Cost of Living
During the middle of a heatwave, it does seem odd to be thinking about the cold of winter, yet with energy bills set to rise even further it is vital this is on the agenda nationally.
Over the last week families across our bay will have received details of how the £400 of support for each household will be paid. This is on top of the Council Tax rebate of £150 many received earlier this year, plus the additional support available to those on a low income. It is clear more will be needed, especially targeted support for those on lower incomes, any package of help should most benefit those who may need to choose between heating and other essential spending.
During my Party’s Leadership campaign both candidates have put forward ideas to go further and, whoever wins in September, these ideas should quickly be on Parliament’s agenda once they are in Downing Street.
We also need to consider the impact on many businesses, especially hospitality, for whom there is no price cap and where the Christmas period is vital to rebuilding balance sheets hit by the pandemic. This makes items like a review of the business rates they pay even more pressing.
Dentists
Another issue which must be in the new Prime Minister’s in-tray is sorting the crisis in NHS dentistry.
The situation is not unique to England, with the devolved health service in Wales seeing similar issues. The Health and Care visa also allows recruitment on a global basis of any dentists wishing to work in the UK.
Resolving issues with the relevant contract dating back to 2006 will be the key to getting NHS dentistry back on track.
Summer
The weather has been glorious for the first summer season since 2019 which has not been affected by restrictions relating to Covid.
Whilst the recent dry conditions have meant we should not waste water, we are still someway off the situation seen back in 1976 when standpipes had to be deployed in parts of the UK. The weather forecasts are also indicating there should be some welcome rain by the time you read this column.
It has been great to see so many who came here over the last 2 years, when travel overseas was heavily restricted, head back here again this year. Many having previously assumed a holiday must mean abroad.
Our bay’s tourism offer is now a world away from the “Fawlty Towers” image of decades past, with beaches, parks, quality food, accommodation, entertainment and attractions to suit every budget. All available without queuing at an airport or changing currency.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Saturday 20th August 11am till 1pm at Preston Baptist Church, 62 Old Torquay Rd, Paignton TQ3 2RB and Friday 26th August 10am till 12noon at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD.
For an appointment you can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989, surgeries are for personal queries from residents they would like me to help them with, rather than a wider policy debate. There are also drop-in sessions at my office 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD between 10am & 1pm Monday to Friday where a member of my team will be available to help with any queries.
