A government agreement between local authorities in Hampshire is hoped to create 15,000 jobs. The agreement will include building a rapid bus link between Gosport and Fareham, a new road linking Southampton Airport and a new ’strategic employment zone’ in Eastleigh.
Both the Treasury and HM Revenue & Customs have released a consultation document on the use of travel dispensation for temporary workers.
Travel dispensation allows temporary workers to claim tax relief for expenses that they incur when travelling to and from temporary work.
Commenting on the paper, the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, said: “We need to consider this consultation carefully. However, there is certainly a place for mobile workers to claim expenses they incur through their flexible employment.”
Is has been confirmed by the Mayor of London that all Greater London Authority staff will be paid at least £7.45 per hour from November. This will include staff from Transport for London, the Metropolitan Police and the Fire Service.
A fair rate of pay for living in London is hoped to lead to better recruitment, retention, higher productivity and a more loyal workforce.
Angry public sectors worker will be asked to accept below inflation pay rises as councils try to avoid job cuts. When you take into account the rising cost of food goods, fuel and household bills, an annual pay rise of 2.5% leaves you worse off than the previous year. Taking this into account over a period of 10 years has led many of those working in the public sector looking for second jobs just to maintain their lifestyle.
You could argue that for the good of the economy that public sector workers should be willing to accept their situation, ultimately though what is in it for them in the long run? In short if pay goes up, we the local community lose out in services or level of service as job cuts are made.
To put a few things into context food inflation is at 20% and gas and electricity is rising at 15% then if you take into account the rising cost of fuel people are starting to be unable to afford the basics in life! What choice would you make?
The Ministry of Defence has finally approved the construction of two new Royal Navy aircraft carriers. It is news that the shipping industry was waiting to desperately to hear. The contracts will secure over 10,000 jobs in the UK and will create even more with initial estimates at around 1,000. Great news for the shipyards.
