Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 19th January 2022) below:
Number 10
The news over the last week will have brought back difficult memories for many in our bay who have been separated from or even lost loved ones over the last two years. Sometimes unable to say goodbye in the way they would have liked.
Like everyone else in the bay Hazel and I did our bit by sticking to the rules and the relevant guidance, including not visiting a close relative who was seriously ill as we knew the potential impact of her contracting Covid-19 and how anyone could be the bearer of it. She sadly passed away in June and at her funeral we observed the same social distancing rules others did at that time.
I therefore, like other people who also did and are still doing their bit to tackle Covid-19 here in our bay, am angry about recent revelations, it is clear some working at the heart of government did not show respect for the rules they had asked us to follow. The PM’s apology for the event attended in May 2020 was a start in recognising this, but the response to the forthcoming report will need to go much further in changing the culture in Number 10.
The on-going investigation is not about whether a party or other social event was acceptable, they were not. It is about who was involved, what their stated purpose\explanation for the events concerned was and does the actual evidence support this or show the gathering should not have taken place, plus what consequences should then follow.
Second Homes
The Government has confirmed legislation will be brought forward to close a loophole which allows Second Homeowners to avoid paying Council Tax. This follows a campaign highlighting how it allows a rate relief intended for small businesses to be abused.
Currently, second homes owners in England can avoid paying council tax and access small business rates relief by simply declaring an intention to let the property concerned out to holidaymakers. Yet there are suggestions many never actually let their homes or even make genuine efforts to advertise them, so are unfairly benefiting from a tax break meant to support genuine tourism businesses. To put this into perspective it is estimated £1.2m of Council Tax is being avoided in South Devon each year due to this practice.
This change will not make things harder for those who genuinely have a holiday rentals business here in the bay, it will simply stop those who are in the privileged position of being able to afford a second home from avoid paying their fair share towards local services.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Saturday 22nd January 2022, 11am till 1pm at Paignton Library, Great Western Road, TQ4 5AG and Friday 4th February 10am till 12noon at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD. Sadly, my surgeries must remain appointment only at this stage given the prevailing public health guidance. Video and telephone call appointments are available as well.
For an appointment you can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989. You can also drop into my office at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD between 10am & 1pm Monday to Friday, please note you may have to wait outside if others attend at the same time
