The abolition of the 10p income tax starter rate was announced in Gordon Brown's last budget, in March 2007, but only came into effect at the start of the 2008/9 tax year on 6th April. Labour MPs have known about this measure for a year. Most of them, including those who have recently raised concerns about the impact, voted for the budget resolution on 18th March 2008 that specifically abolished the 10p rate.
The High Court today ruled that the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) was wrong to drop an investigation into alleged bribery in a massive arms deal between BAE Systems and Saudi Arabia. The decision represents a stunning victory for Campaign Against Arms Trade and Corner House Research, which campaigns against corruption in international trade, as well as a major embarrassment for the Government.
Lib Dem New Romney Coast Councillor Val Loseby has been pushing for Shepway Council action over the increasing number of large and intrusive lights being erected at Lydd Airport (LAA). After months of correspondence, the Planning Department has now written to the airport - asking them to confirm if the airport believe they need planning permission for the lights!
POLITICS has taken over the Clarke household.
Dundee LibDems today (Thursday 10th April) called for a secure future for public service broadcasting, following the publication of radical suggestions put forward by media regulator Ofcom.
100 years ago the Territorial Army was set up during the great reforming Liberal Government of Lloyd George. This 'citizens army' or as it is more generally known "The Territorials" did sterling service as a reserve for the Regular Army during the first world war and right up to present day conflicts.