APRIL marked the start of the new financial year, which meant many local businesses were met with rising costs and new uncertainty.
From April 6, bill increases introduced by the Labour Chancellor of the Exchequer came in, placing fresh pressure on family businesses, farmers and employers across Worcestershire.
This followed a deeply concerning Spring Statement which exposed the consequences of Labour’s economic mismanagement.
After raising spending by £70billion, taxes by £40billion and borrowing by £30billion, the Chancellor is now scrambling to correct her own mistakes. Economic growth forecasts have been halved and hardworking families are being left to foot the bill.
Of particular concern is Labour’s cap on Business Property Relief which could see long-established family firms face inheritance tax for the first time in generations – forcing many to break up or sell.
I’ve heard from GP surgeries, care providers, charities and hospitality businesses all alarmed by Labour’s tax hikes, red tape and cuts to business rates relief. Confidence is being lost, and investment delayed.
Family businesses employ nearly 14million people and contribute more than £200billion to the UK economy.
They deserve certainty, not more costs and confusion. I will continue to stand up for them in Parliament.
Supporting pubs
I was proud to sponsor an event in Parliament celebrating our brilliant pubs.
In Droitwich and Evesham, 91 pubs and three local breweries support more than 1,600 jobs and contribute £55million to the local economy.
Labour’s decision to cut business rates relief from 75 per cent to 40 per cent and hike employer National Insurance contributions puts these community hubs at risk. In Worcestershire alone, pubs face an average rates rise of more than £4,500 next year.
If you support our pubs, please sign the petition on my website.
Fighting modern slavery
It was extremely disappointing to see Labour MPs block an amendment that would have prevented taxpayer money being spent on solar panels linked to modern slavery. This was a cross-party issue of principle.
The UK must follow the example of countries like the United States and ensure our green transition does not come at the expense of human rights.
I am pleased that, after pressure from the Conservative MPs, the Government has now U-turned and used our common sense approach to ban solar panels linked to modern slavery.
Backing a Ban on Phones in Schools
I voted to ban mobile phone use during the school day. Sadly, the Government blocked
our amendment. Phones can impact children’s wellbeing and I believe a consistent, legal approach is needed.
A rare Saturday in Parliament
On April 12, Parliament sat on a Saturday to debate emergency legislation on British Steel. I support protecting steel jobs, but the rushed process and the scale of the powers being granted raised serious concerns.
The Conservatives proposed a sunset clause to ensure these emergency powers would be time-limited and subject to review, but sadly, it was not even allowed to be debated.
The Government must now be fully transparent about the costs, oversight, and long-term implications of this legislation.
With spring in full swing, I encourage everyone to enjoy some of the fantastic festivals and community events coming up across the constituency – it’s a great time to get involved and support our local culture.
Nigel Huddleston
MP for Droitwich and Evesham
