Easter 2013 Newsletter
Budget
Despite the difficult times financially, I was pleased to see that the Chancellor continues to focus on tackling the debt crisis, yet was also able to help those who work hard and look to the future.
I am particularly pleased that George Osborne introduced new measures to help people struggling to buy their first home and also small businesses that are considering taking on their first employee. New homes and new jobs are vital for growth.
For families, I welcome the increase in the personal tax allowance to £10,000 from April 2014 and the introduction of the tax free childcare vouchers. Childcare costs put a lot of pressure on working families.
I am absolutely delighted that more victims of the near collapse of Equitable Life will get compensation.
HGVs
Last month the new law to make foreign HGVs pay a levy to use our roads came into effect. I welcome this – not least because during my time as transport minister I was very involved in pushing this Bill through Parliament.
With British HGVs paying charges and tolls to use European roads, this Bill delivers fairness for British hauliers, and rights a wrong that they have faced until now.
Locally we see foreign lorries on our roads all the time, but they haven’t had to pay anything to use them. From now on Britain will benefit from foreign lorries using our roads.
Arctic Star medal and Bomber Command clasp
Last month I welcomed the new Arctic Star medal for Arctic convoy veterans and the new Bomber Command clasp. I am keen for anyone who is eligible to apply so I have added the application forms to my website. You can download them at
www.penning4hemel.com/medals.
For more information call my office (01442 450444).
Arctic Star photo Sergeant Tom Robinson RLC, UK Ministry of Defence
Meeting Hemel Hempstead School’s new head
I was pleased to meet with the new Headteacher at Hemel Hempstead School this month. Patrick Harty took up the post in January and we had a very interesting discussion about the school, the work of the pupils and extra-curricular activities on offer.
Playing rugby against the Irish
On a particularly grim day in February the Commons and Lords rugby team took on the Irish Parliament - it was difficult to tell which team was which by the end! Not our best result though - the Irish won 20-5.
Here to help...
As ever if you need help please don't hesitate to contact me. My office is at Hamilton House, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1BB and I hold regular surgeries. Call in advance for an appointment.
Tel: 01442 450444
email: mike@penning4hemel.com
website:
www.penning4hemel.com Photo with Cllr Dan Wood in Adeyfield Best wishes for a Happy Easter...
Mike Penning MP
