Queens Speech
On Wednesday last week I felt very privileged to witness our Secretary of State for Wales The Rt. Hon David Jones MP address the Assembly Members, Cabinet Ministers and the First Minister during the Queens Speech debate in the Senedd. David Jones MP highlighted details of the 11 introduced bills and 3 further draft bills within The increase in the Personal Allowance to £10,500 will lead to a further 14,000 people being lifted out of income tax , meaning that altogether, this will benefit some 155,000.
The UK is delivering well on its economic plan and the Pensions Bill will give our pensioners greater control over how to access their pension and greater freedom for the individual. The Small Business , Enterprise and Employment Bill will make it easier for our businesses in Wales and the UK to access much needed finance, reduce the burden of regulation including our pub landlords to get a fairer deal.
In short the 3 main priorities for the fourth session legislative programme for the coming year are “ A Stronger and Fairer Society “ : Economic Growth and Deficit Reduction, Social Reform, Justice and Prevention of Crime.
Plenary Business.
I raised a question to the Health Minister regarding the stark announcement by Senior GPs and the B.M.A. regarding the recent media reports that a crisis is looming in terms of GP recruitment and retention, particularly here in North Wales. This is a particular worry given that it is indicated also that with the numbers of those GP’s aged over 55 and those seeking retirement, that within just 3 years we would face huge challenges in this regard. The shortage of radiologists in Wales was also discussed as part of the evidence session last week during our inquiry into the Cancer plan delivery. It is vital that the Welsh Government and our Local Health Boards adopts an immediate and effective recruitment strategy to ensure that these posts are filled. I will look to challenge and monitor the progress and the actions taken accordingly.
Constituency Events.
The warmer weather is bringing forward the amazing array of local fundraising and business events that are held on an annual basis. Last weekend saw a very successful “ Snowdon Fest” and other events across Conwy . I am delighted to report that my diary is certainly filling up quickly with many kind invitations that I have received from event organisers across the whole constituency.
Llandudno Donkeys.
Many of you will know that the tradition of having donkeys on our beach goes way back and there have been concerns as to whether this activity was being stifled, as a result of the recent sea defence works. I am very pleased and somewhat relieved that C.C.B.C. in conjunction with Llandudno Town Council have now sanctioned some clearing and removal of the boulders in this area. It is important that the Llandudno Donkeys are able to continue with this much loved and traditional attraction. I have also heard many good reports as to the numbers of our residents and visitors alike visiting the Punch and Judy show on the promenade. Our Hoteliers and Businesses within Aberconwy are certainly dependent on these popular attractions and long may they continue.
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