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Plans for taxation powers: Purpose, principles and priorities published

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Welsh Secretary: Aims for successful devolution.

Welsh Secretary: Aims for successful devolution.

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT is in preparation for the recommendations of the Silk Commission, and the impending devolution of tax and borrowing powers. A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The Finance and Government Business Minister has today published a Welsh Government Treasury paper setting out its purpose, principles and priorities for the taxes to be devolved.

The paper outlines the tax powers coming to Wales; how the Government is approaching the development of its tax policies; the principles for these taxes and the broader priorities for future devolution for Wales. It also sets out essential facts and figures about the taxes that will be devolved along with key forthcoming dates.” Government Finance Minister, Jane Hutt, went on to say: “I have been clear that the development of our tax policy must be based on firm principles. The devolution of tax powers provides us with the opportunity to develop taxes that are based on fairness and reflect the needs, circumstances and priorities of the people of Wales.

Borrowing powers will also enable us to fund our infrastructure across all sectors, helping businesses to grow in line with our Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan. This Welsh Treasury paper comprehensively sets out our approach to tax devolution and how we are – and will be – engaging with people and businesses. Balancing the need to maintain vital public services with the responsibility to manage our new taxation powers will be vital. That is why I am determined to ensure that everyone in Wales has the opportunity to contribute to the debate.

I hope this paper will provide a wider understanding of the new powers and taxes that will help us deliver our economic and social goals for Wales.” A Wales Office spokesperson said: “The Secretary of State for Wales set out his vision for devolution on Monday: powers for a purpose, to grow the Welsh economy and make the Welsh government more accountable.

We’ll continue to work with the Welsh Government to make devolution successful for the people of Wales – including on issues such as these, which were discussed at the Joint Exchequer Committee in Cardiff last month.” The Welsh Government is currently consulting on its White Paper ‘Collection and management of devolved taxes in Wales until December 15. Further White Papers – on a Welsh tax on transactions involving interests in land and on a Welsh tax on disposals to landfill – are expected in Spring 2015.

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Crime

Haverfordwest retailer accused of Bounce Back Loan fraud

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A HAVERFORDWEST businessman has been accused of committing fraud by making false representations to multiple banks in applications for Government-backed Bounce Back Loans.

Zahid Afzal, 36, of Albert Street, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he pleaded not guilty to three charges of fraud by false representation.

The court heard that Afzal, listed on Companies House as a director of Phone Bits Ltd and Phones Onn Ltd, allegedly made false statements to secure loans intended to support businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Phone Bits phone accessory and repair shop in Haverfordwest

Prosecutors claim that on May 12, 2020, he falsely stated to Barclays Bank that the application for a Bounce Back Loan was Phone Bits Ltd’s only application. It is further alleged that he made similar false claims to Starling Bank on July 23, 2020, and to Metro Bank on November 22, 2020, in relation to Phones Onn Ltd.

The alleged misrepresentations included inflating the company’s turnover to £200,000 and falsely claiming the loans would be used solely for business purposes.

Afzal’s case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court for trial, with a hearing scheduled for March 10. He was granted unconditional bail.

An interpreter will be required for the proceedings, as Afzal requires assistance in Urdu.

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Charity

Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

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THE CREW of Tenby RNLI have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to 5-year-old Archie Garland for his outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the station.

Archie took part in the Advent Challenge with the Tenby Aces over Christmas, running a minimum of one mile every day throughout Advent. His dedication saw him cover an impressive 47.3 miles, raising a remarkable £552.25 thanks to generous donations from the local community.

Archie is pictured with (L-R): Deputy Coxswain Gary Waring, his dad and Deputy Coxswain Rob Garland, Deputy Coxswain Dan Young, station full-time mechanic Will Horton, and his mum, Tenby Aces member Claire Thomas.

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Crime

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn launches ambitious four-year policing plan

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Public trust at the heart of new strategy

DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has unveiled his four-year Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, outlining his vision to strengthen public trust and confidence in policing.

Plan to strengthen public’s trust in local police service: Dafydd Llywelyn

The plan, shaped by extensive public consultation, sets out priorities for policing, crime prevention, and the criminal justice system across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys. It follows feedback from surveys and focus groups, where residents highlighted their key concerns.

The three core priorities of the plan are:

  • Supporting victims and preventing victimisation
  • Preventing harm to ensure safer communities
  • Enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system

Llywelyn formally launched the plan on Tuesday (Feb 13) at an event attended by key partners and commissioned services. The event focused on collaboration, with discussions on how joint efforts can strengthen crime prevention, victim support, and justice delivery.

Victims at the centre

Commissioner Llywelyn emphasised the importance of ensuring victims receive the right support.

“This plan is built on the views of our communities, focusing on what truly matters to the people of Mid and West Wales,” he said. “Victims must be at the heart of our policing and justice system. It is essential that those affected by crime have access to timely, effective support to help them recover and seek justice. Strengthening services that prevent victimisation is just as important as responding to crime itself.”

Tackling root causes of crime

The plan also prioritises crime prevention by addressing underlying issues.

“By tackling antisocial behaviour and vulnerability, we can reduce harm and build a more resilient society,” Llywelyn said. “A proactive, problem-solving approach will ensure resources are used effectively to protect our communities.”

A joined-up approach to justice

Llywelyn stressed the need for stronger collaboration across the justice system.

“A fair and efficient justice system relies on agencies working together. I will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that policing, the courts, and support services deliver justice fairly and effectively for victims and communities alike.”

The Police and Crime Plan sets out a clear vision for Dyfed-Powys policing over the next four years, focusing on improving public safety, supporting victims, and delivering an efficient justice system.

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