Guide Dog Jennie
As we step into the new financial year, I do so with concern for the future, especially after the government’s disappointing Spring Statement.
This was a missed opportunity to deliver the change our community desperately needs. Instead of scrapping the jobs tax and reforming business rates, the Chancellor has chosen a path that will deepen the challenges we face.
From April 6, taxes on small businesses will rise due to the increase in employers’ national insurance contributions. This decision will hit Torbay hard, given our reliance on seasonal employment in tourism and hospitality. It’s frustrating to see the Labour Government prioritising revenue from local high streets while letting big banks and tech giants off the hook. My colleagues and I have been urging the Government to ask these corporate giants to pay their fair share instead.
Across Torbay, I see people struggling with bills, businesses under pressure, and public services crumbling. This Spring Statement could have been a turning point. Instead, it will inflict more pain on small businesses, cut public services, and hit disabled people the hardest. I will continue to campaign for a fairer approach—one that raises money from banking, tech, and gambling giants, not hardworking businesses or farmers.
Standing Up Against Welfare Cuts
The Spring Statement also left me deeply concerned about severe welfare cuts. Over the past weeks, my inbox has been flooded with messages from anxious constituents. As Liberal Democrat Work and Pensions Spokesperson, I challenged the Chancellor on these rushed and unfair measures, which will disproportionately impact the most vulnerable. Balancing the nation’s books should never come at the expense of those who rely on support. I remain committed to advocating for a fairer, more compassionate system.
I also raised concerns about proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and their devastating impact on carers' allowances. Some carers could face financial losses of up to £12,000 a year—a cruel blow to those who dedicate themselves to supporting others. I called on the Government to rethink these reforms and adopt a more compassionate approach.
A Memorable Spring Conference
Last weekend, I attended the Lib Dem Spring Conference in Harrogate. We kicked things off in style, arriving by rowing boat—a fun start to the event. My guide dog Jennie, however, had her own plans and decided to jump ship to join a colleague’s boat!
The Friday night rally was uplifting, and one quirky highlight was Workingham Lib Dem MP Clive Jones taking the stage dressed as a Thunderbird. I also visited exhibition stalls, including Lib Dem Friends of the Armed Forces and Friends of Ukraine, who are doing incredible work. Catching up with colleagues and friends is always inspiring, and the dedication of everyone involved never fails to energise me. It’s moments like these that remind me why I’m so proud to be part of this party.
Jennie’s Parliamentary Adventures
A couple of weeks ago, Jennie caused a stir in the House of Commons with an unexpected “defection”! She decided to “cross the floor,” much to the delight of Labour MPs. Although she returned to the Lib Dem benches later, her actions didn’t go unnoticed. Lib Dem Chief Whip Wendy Chamberlain even called for a meeting with Jennie to discuss her surprising behaviour!
Moments like these bring a welcome dose of levity during challenging times in Parliament. Jennie’s warmth continues to brighten everyone’s day, and she’s become quite the character in Westminster. Her charm and antics never fail to bring a smile to those around her.
Thank you for reading. As ever, if I can help, please email: steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk or phone: 07908 349347. To stay updated, sign up for my weekly e-newsletter atwww.torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter.
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