December 17, 2024

The government has decided not to provide financial compensation to women born in the 1950s affected by changes in the state pension age, despite acknowledging maladministration in how these changes were communicated. Secretary of State Liz Kendall emphasized that most…

The Labour Government pushed through a controversial increase in employer national insurance contributions, raising the rate from 13.8% to 15% and lowering the threshold from £9,100 to £5,000, despite fierce opposition. Critics argue this “jobs tax” will harm small businesses,…

The future of Aldridge train station was debated in Parliament, with MP Wendy Morton expressing frustration over funding being redirected by the new West Midlands mayor. Despite a £30 million budget initially secured, the mayor reviewed the project and moved…

The Employment Rights Bill session focused on amendments related to the pay and conditions of school support staff, with Conservative MPs proposing changes to limit the School Support Staff Negotiating Body’s (SSSNB) authority over academy staff. The proposed amendment aimed…

The parliamentary session focused on energy security and net zero, with key discussions on the mineworkers’ pension scheme and community energy projects. The government announced a 32% increase in mineworkers’ pensions, marking a significant step towards rectifying historical injustices. There…

The BBC charter review, eagerly awaited, aims to enhance the broadcaster’s accountability and transparency, addressing public concerns about impartiality and the use of licence fee money. MPs expressed frustration over perceived biases and the high costs of certain BBC operations,…

The construction of Old Oak Common station for HS2 is set to disrupt rail services to the West and Wales for up to seven years, causing delays and slower journeys. MPs from affected regions expressed frustration over the lack of…

The Employment Rights Bill continued its line-by-line review, focusing on public sector outsourcing protections and equality action plans. Discussions emphasized ensuring fair employment conditions for outsourced workers and addressing gender equality issues, including pay gaps and menopause support. Amendments on…

Urgent calls were made in Parliament for the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to address the looming deadline for pension credit applications, crucial for winter fuel allowance eligibility. Tensions rose as an MP criticized the government for ignoring…

Luke Akehurst introduced a new Bill aimed at tackling the menace of off-road bikes driven dangerously in public spaces. The Bill seeks to empower police to seize these bikes from private dwellings if they have been driven without insurance or…

Parliament swiftly approved new regulations extending professional qualifications to Switzerland and other countries, alongside approving financial commitments to the Asian Development Bank and the Inter-American Investment Corporation. Additionally, a shake-up in the Public Accounts Commission saw Sharon Hodgson replaced by…

In a parliamentary debate, Sonia Kumar highlighted the critical role of musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapists in diagnosing and managing MSK conditions, emphasizing early intervention and broader community involvement. MPs stressed the severe impact of MSK issues on individuals’ lives, the economy,…

Parliament debated the urgent need to boost apprenticeships in trades, especially construction, due to a looming skills shortage that could hinder the UK’s housing and net zero goals. MPs stressed the importance of increasing apprenticeship numbers, improving completion rates, and…

Community pharmacies in Devon and the South West are facing severe financial strain due to decreased NHS funding and increased costs, leading to reduced services and closures. MPs urged the government to reform the funding model and increase support, highlighting…

The UK Parliament discussed the Draft Local Digital Television Programme Services (Amendment) Order 2024, aimed at extending local TV multiplex licences until 2034. The order seeks to support local TV services in providing community-focused content and training opportunities, despite challenges…