Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 27th March 2024) below:
Kate
Imagine being a mum with young children who has had a cancer diagnosis, at the same time as your father-in-law is undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.
Then imagine, at the same time, having to deal with a ragbag of social media conspiracy theorists, speculating journalists and people trying to access your medical records to make a quick buck selling on your private information. I know from experience in my own family what it means when a parent is diagnosed with cancer, it is a time of mixed emotions and often those involved will just want privacy and time to be with their family and loved ones.
The Princess of Wales had every right to ask for the same type of privacy of her medical matters as any of us would expect. The video statement she made was dignified and heartfelt, but it should have been done purely out of her own choosing, not due to some ridiculous speculation and conspiracy theories needing to be shut down.
Following this statement, we should now simply wish her a speedy recovery and then allow her the privacy she deserves.
Triple Lock
The State Pension Triple lock guarantees that the annual increase in the state pension will be the highest of average earnings growth, inflation or a minimum 2.5%.
When it was introduced in 2010, pensioners were more likely to be in poverty than other income groups, now because of the triple lock they are less likely to be in poverty. Next month the State Pension will rise 8.5%, following a 10.1% rise last year. From April the full rate of the new State Pension will be £219.75 a week.
Given the positive impact of the Triple Lock and the certainty for the future it creates, keeping it will rightly be a Conservative manifesto pledge.
Football Governance
As the search for a new owner for Torquay United AFC continues, I welcome the introduction of the Football Governance Bill, which will lead to the creation of an Independent Football Regulator.
I have campaigned alongside the Torquay United Supporters' Trust (TUST) for major reform in how football is regulated and to ensure fans are once more at the heart of the game. Introduction of legislation to create the Independent Football Regulator will also tackle issues which have often seen fans feel loyalty to their club has been pushed to one side. This includes club relocations and alterations to the identity of clubs which undermine their heritage, such as an owner changing the historic club colours on a whim.
The changes being made are very welcome and Torquay United fans have been at the heart of delivering them.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Friday 5th April 1pm till 3pm at Paignton Library, Great Western Rd, Paignton TQ4 5AG and Saturday 13th April 11am till 1pm at Preston Baptist Church, Old Torquay Road, Paignton TQ3 2RB.
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. 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.
