Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Torbay Weekly and you can read the latest edition (Published on Thursday 25th August 2022) below:
Energy
Whilst recent drops in petrol and diesel prices have brought some relief for motorists the outlook for this winter in terms of energy prices for businesses and consumers is bleak.
The war in Ukraine has seen Russian Gas leave international markets and prices surge, affecting the UK, even though in recent years we have only sourced a small percentage of our gas from Russia. Whilst much of the national media has focused on the impact for domestic consumers, we must also recognise the impact on businesses, especially those whose work inherently involves energy usage, such as hospitality or manufacturing. One local business highlighted to me it faces an unsustainable 1,000% rise in the bill it pays.
The long-term solution to energy price pressures lies in increasing energy efficiency and domestic supply, with the full range of options being pursued. This includes increased renewables and new nuclear, alongside domestic production of the gas and oil we will need during any transition towards carbon neutral, given many families will be relying on gas boilers to heat their homes for years to come.
Support of up to £1,200 has already been made available to households who will most struggle, but it is clear the government will need to go further, with both Conservative Party leadership candidates having pledged to do so. This will mean support not only for consumers, but also the businesses which employ them, with additional measures targeted to ensure they help those most in need.
I look forward to the leadership contest concluding and Parliament re-assembling on 5th September, so we can get on with agreeing additional measures to ensure there is certainty and vital support for businesses and consumers across our bay as we head into winter.
Summer
It is good to see our bay busy with visitors enjoying the first summer since 2019 where no rules around the pandemic have applied.
I have also welcomed feedback from local tourism businesses about the current situation, with the ERBID Company reporting many being very busy, but with a lot more last-minute trade than usual.
Like others I find relatives are always keen to come and visit during August, providing a good chance to see our bay through the eyes of a visitor. Hazel’s Grandchildren were here over the last week, and this meant time spent at their favourite places in our bay, including Paignton Beach. My trip into the sea with them being a lot warmer than the last dip I had there with Paignton Lions on Boxing Day!!!
Our bay is a naturally inspiring place and it will continue to inspire visitors for years to come.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Friday 26th August 10am till 12noon at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD and Saturday 3rd September 10am till 12noon at St Martin’s Church, Barton Hill Rd, Torquay TQ2 8JA.
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.
