Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 21st December 2022) below:
Immigration
Last week the Prime Minister gave a statement to MPs about his plan to address problems in the asylum system.
There were some very welcome proposals in it, including moves to reduce the backlog of claims by recruiting more caseworkers (Taking the total to 2,500) whilst streamlining decision-making processes, increased resources aimed at dealing with boats crossing the channel, a new deal with Albania for increased removals, legal changes relating to the ability to settle in the UK if arriving via a small boat and moves to end the use of hotels as accommodation for asylum seekers. The final one being particularly relevant for our bay.
Where the challenges will come is in how quickly skilled decision makers can be recruited and trained, putting in place the proposed legislation quickly given the likely opposition to it from other political parties in the House of Lords and how deliverable the 10,000 accommodation spaces identified to replace hotels will be (None of the likely locations for these are in or close to Torbay).
The deaths in the Channel last week are a reminder of what happens when vulnerable people put themselves in the hands of people smugglers. Some have argued “safe and legal routes” would resolve this, yet it would never be possible to offer a route to all the millions of displaced people globally who may wish to live in the UK. In addition, resettlement routes prioritise the more vulnerable and families, which does not reflect the make-up of the small boats cohort which is often younger men on their own.
Business Rates
A parliamentary debate on Business Rates and Levelling Up was a chance to highlight the impact business rates have on our economy.
The Business Rates system is rooted in an era when operating from a physical premises was an integral part of doing business. The presence of a business rates liability can directly and adversely affect the chances of levelling up a community, by discouraging private sector investment in commercial property, especially within our Town Centres.
I urged the Government to look at what more can be done on rates reform to ensure they do not become a barrier to regeneration of our high streets or the development and prospects of our tourism sector.
Merry Christmas
As 2022 draws to a close, I would like to wish all Herald Express readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
This year has seen dramatic events, both at home and abroad, which few could have predicted 12 months ago. Let’s hope 2023 brings further progress for our bay, resolutions for the challenges currently facing our nation and victory for Ukraine.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Friday 23rd December 10am till 12noon at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD and Saturday 14th January 11am till 1pm at Paignton Library, Great Western Rd, Paignton TQ4 5AG.
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. My team and I will be available for urgent queries throughout the festive period, with email inboxes, post (Write to 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD) and phone messages checked regularly.
