Small and medium-sized businesses, from tech start-ups to hairdressers and cafes, in Milton Keynes will pay an extra £9.8 million a year due to the rise in national insurance, research commissioned by the Liberal Democrats has found.
Boris Johnson broke his 2019 manifesto promise by raising employer National Insurance Contributions by 1.25%, impacting small businesses in Milton Keynes and across the country. House of Commons Library research has detailed the impact of the tax rises, and it is estimated that the average micro-business employing up to nine people will pay more than £1,000 extra a year as a result of the tax hike.
A local councillor revealed he will be quitting smoking after a cross-party decision was made to discourage smoking outside schools.
Councillor Paul Trendall, Liberal Democrat Cabinet Member for Customer Services, moved a successful motion at Full Council on Wednesday, asking for signage outside schools urging parents and carers not to smoke within 20 metres of school gates or other entrances/exits.
A Progressive Alliance motion about accessible Changing Places Toilets was passed unanimously at Wednesday's meeting of the Full Council, with support from local charities and campaigners.
Changing Place Toilets are different to disabled toilets; they often have extra space, a larger sink and/or shower and equipment such as a bench or hoist.
As part of their MK COVID Holiday Help Scheme, Milton Keynes Council has secured funding to issue supermarket e-vouchers for children eligible for free school meals over half term.
Labour Councillor Zoe Nolan, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:
"The Progressive Alliance is committed to tackling child poverty and supporting our children and young people, and these vouchers will help us to do exactly that."
If there is a nearby house, road junction, or numbered lamp-post it's easy to pinpoint where the problem and report to: www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/pay-report-apply/report-it
