News

Chancellor set to raise National Insurance for employers to fund public services

Published

5 hours ago

October 26, 2024

THE Chancellor is poised to announce a significant increase in National Insurance contributions for employers, aiming to generate £20 billion in additional funding for public services, including the NHS in England.

The Budget, set for Wednesday, will likely feature a lowered threshold for employer contributions to National Insurance, allowing these combined measures to become the largest revenue drivers in the upcoming Budget. However, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is not expected to apply the increase to employers’ pension contributions.

Currently, employers pay 13.8% on earnings over £175 a week. A two-point hike to 15.8% would yield an estimated £18 billion annually, though the threshold adjustment may push that figure higher.

A government source commented: “There is a universal consensus that the NHS needs more money. That means asking businesses to help out. The choice is investment versus decline.”

Tough choices for NHS funding

Speaking at a news conference during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer remarked that the government is prepared to make “tough decisions” to support the NHS. However, he declined to provide further Budget details.

National Insurance represents the UK’s second-largest revenue stream after income tax, encompassing contributions from employees, the self-employed, and employers. The Chancellor has signaled that while the Labour manifesto promised not to increase National Insurance for “working people,” this was intended to shield employee contributions, not those of employers.

Wider budget implications and business concerns

As Labour prepares for its first Budget in nearly 15 years, concerns are rising about the potential for further tax changes, including a freeze on income tax thresholds, a possible hike in taxes on asset sales, and revisions to inheritance tax.

In a recent International Monetary Fund meeting, Reeves underscored the need for responsible spending, hinting that a return to austerity is off the table. Instead, she emphasized that day-to-day expenses must align with tax receipts, given the current state of critical services like the NHS and prisons.

Yet the potential impact of these changes has sparked concerns among businesses, who argue that a National Insurance hike could dampen job creation and wage growth, ultimately hampering economic expansion. The government, however, maintains that these funds are essential to rescue the NHS, even as critics argue the increase is a “tax on jobs” and breaches the Labour manifesto.

Addressing the housing crisis

In addition to healthcare funding, the Chancellor is expected to unveil a £500 million initiative to build up to 5,000 affordable homes in England, aimed at addressing the national housing crisis. This will be accompanied by a consultation to limit Right to Buy, protecting council housing stock for future generations.

Meanwhile, the Fire Brigades Union has called on Reeves to deliver a Budget that ends what they describe as the “catastrophic austerity era.” In a letter to the Chancellor, Union leader Matt Wrack warned of potential strike action if the Budget does not provide substantial funding, citing severe hardship among firefighters due to prolonged real-term pay cuts.

As Wednesday approaches, Labour faces the task of balancing its commitment to economic growth with the urgent demands of public services. The Conservatives, however, have criticized the impending National Insurance hike, accusing Labour of redefining the term “working people” as the Budget deadline looms.

Community

Lantern parade lights up Haverfordwest in dazzling display

Published

55 mins ago

October 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

HAVERFORDWEST came alive with light and colour on Saturday evening (Oct 26) as the town’s annual Lantern Parade captivated thousands. Organized by SPAN Arts, the event drew a crowd of around 2,000 spectators, all eager to experience the magic of this much-loved community tradition.

Beginning at 5:00pm in St. Thomas’s Square, the procession wound its way through Haverfordwest’s streets, led by an impressive giant illuminated boat lantern. Music from the Samba DOC band created a festive rhythm for the parade, while the local choir, Côr Pawb, filled Castle Square with harmonious choral performances.

The night concluded in spectacular fashion at the Skate Park, where PFS Entertainment UK delivered a high-energy circus-style performance and dazzling fire display. The finale left the crowd exhilarated, bringing a memorable close to the evening’s festivities.

The parade featured approximately 500 lantern bearers, many carrying lanterns crafted during free community workshops held before the event. This collaborative effort highlighted Haverfordwest’s creative spirit, drawing participants and onlookers of all ages in a celebration of unity and artistry.

Thanks to careful planning, the event ran smoothly, with sections of Bush Row, Market Street, and High Street closed to facilitate the parade. SPAN Arts marshals were on hand to ensure safety, helping create a welcoming and well-organized atmosphere.

The Lantern Parade once again proved to be a highlight on the Haverfordwest calendar, shining a light on the community’s talent, creativity, and enduring spirit.

(Image: Lindsey Mac/Haverfordwest Civic Society/Facebook)

Entertainment

Peaky Blinders & Casino Night set for Broad Haven

Published

3 hours ago

October 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

RESIDENTS of Broad Haven and surrounding areas are in for an exciting night, as the Havens Events Crew brings a Peaky Blinders themed Casino Night to Broad Haven Village Hall on November 8. The event will run from 7:00pm to 11:30pm, offering locals a chance to dress up, try their luck, and enjoy live music.

Tickets for entry are priced at £15 and can be purchased at Broad Haven Post Office. Casino tickets, available for £5, can be bought at the door, allowing guests to fully dive into the night’s gambling activities. Entertainment will feature live music by The Numbers Racket, a local favourite, starting at 8:00pm.

Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Peaky Blinders attire, though it’s optional. The event follows a BYO (bring-your-own) policy for alcohol and snacks, making it a relaxed and flexible evening. Strict ID requirements will be in place, with no alcohol permitted for under-18s, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Health

Joshua’s fight for life: A Crymych man’s Burkitt’s Lymphoma battle

Published

3 hours ago

October 26, 2024

Tom Sinclair

BETHAN CARTER-HEWINS is appealing for support in a life-saving fundraiser for her partner, Joshua, who faces a battle against Burkitt’s Lymphoma – a rare, aggressive form of cancer. Diagnosed in June following a transplant, Joshua’s journey has been fraught with hardships.

While intensive chemotherapy initially provided hope, a scan on Wednesday revealed devastating news: the treatment is ineffective, and the cancer has spread further. The NHS consultants have offered some alternative treatment suggestions, but, tragically, Joshua is not eligible for these options.

Desperate to explore every avenue, Bethan and Joshua have discovered two potential treatments that could help, but they come at a steep price, estimated to be at least £50,000 and potentially even more. With limited time and resources, they are now turning to the community for assistance.

Bethan writes, “We are reaching out to anyone able to help, no matter the amount. Any donation would be a lifeline in this fight, a fight we will not give up.”