Roundup before Recess.

NOT surprisingly, last week in Parliament was all about the budget - before, during and after.

It was a budget for growth and, appropriately, was well received by business and entrepreneurs.

In my constituency, the focuses on manufacturing, technology, infrastructure and international trade resonated well with the priorities of small and medium sized firms.

Increasing income tax thresholds was the other big story.

Now, almost two million people have been lifted from the need to pay income tax.

This measure effectively creates a more simplified tax system, meaning that everyone moves towards the same personal allowance.

Pensioners have protected benefits, including winter fuel payments, free prescriptions and eye tests and free bus travel.

Also, already announced is the biggest rise ever for the state pension.

Three other issues were at the top of my list for action this week.

In no particular order they were, firstly, the risk of flooding with the specific problem of access to information about the impact of flood defences and other natural barriers.

This affects the availability and cost of home insurance for householders.

I asked a Parliamentary Question to highlight the concerns of many constituents and I am pressing for further measures to ensure that accurate and timely information is made available to all interested parties.

Secondly, the consequences of the Judicial Review on NHS Gloucestershire’s plans to create a social enterprise to run the community health services include a delay to the implementation of a sustainable solution and mounting legal costs.

I have had meetings with ministers and officials in order to help pave the way forward.

A huge amount of work by many individuals is necessary before any final decision can be made.

Finally, the plans to build a ‘waste to energy’ facility at Javelin Park are moving into a critical stage as protesters signal their opposition to the project.

I have had numerous meetings with residents about their specific concerns and I am writing to Gloucestershire County Council to outline them in detail. Local people must be confident that their views are taken into account by the county council.

One thing is sure - all of these issues will be on my agenda during the recess. If you would like to discuss the issues raised above, please contact me on 01453 751572 or visit my website – www.neilcarmichael.co.uk.