Month: August 2024

Chancellor vows to work in partnership with business ‘to fix the foundations’

The Chancellor ‘ushered in a new era of business partnership’ yesterday (29 August) as she met business groups together for the first time as Chancellor.

Rachel Reeves told senior business leaders that just as they had worked together in opposition to write their plans for government, they will work together now to deliver them.

In her first meeting with the BCC, CBI, FSB, Make UK and IoD as Chancellor, she said that businesses will be at the heart of delivering the government’s growth mission, as it takes action to fix the foundations of the economy to rebuild Britain and make every part of the country better off.

Ahead of October’s Budget, Reeves promised to ‘co-design’ policy with business on shared priorities to boost growth, pointing to the same approach being taken for designing the National Wealth Fund. 

She pledged to establish a new British Infrastructure Council to advise government on how to support more investment into UK infrastructure projects, and work closely with business to bring down barriers to growth and investment.

Reeves told senior business representatives the Treasury’s door was always open to valuable business insights on the opportunities and challenges they face. 

She added that the Business Secretary is committed to the new Industrial Strategy Council having a strong business voice and is also consulting with business on the details on Plan to Make Work Pay.

Business representatives also gave their views on what a successful partnership with government could look like and areas to prioritise to help their members grow and invest. 

Speaking after the meeting, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “Under this new government’s leadership, I will lead the most pro-growth, pro-business Treasury in our history – with a laser focus on making working people better off. 

“That can only happen by working in partnership with businesses: big, medium and small. I want to continue the strong partnership we built with business in opposition now we are in government to deliver on our shared goal of fixing the foundations of our economy, so we can rebuild Britain and make every part of the country better off.”

Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO of Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation said: “The Chancellor promised that she would engage properly with business and today was more evidence that the promise is being honoured.

“It was very welcome to have the Chancellor highlight further progress in delivering an Industrial Strategy with assurances that the governing Council would have a strong business voice.  

“In order to build confidence for businesses to increase investment, it is critical we keep this momentum going and see more detail on the delivery as well as vision. UK Manufacturers are fully behind the government’s growth agenda and look forward to working in partnership with government to achieve it.”

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Today’s meeting was a valuable opportunity to reaffirm our commitment, on behalf of the businesses across our Chamber network, to work in partnership with Government. 

“We outlined our priorities for the Autumn Budget, recognising the public finance challenge. Boosting economic growth and investment is crucial, while maintaining a fiscal environment that protects the UK’s business competitiveness. 

“We welcome the Chancellor’s pledge to work with us on plans for an industrial strategy and to boost infrastructure investment. 

“We look forward to more discussions with the Chancellor and the Treasury team ahead of her statement on October 30th”

Tina McKenzie MBE, Federation of Small Businesses Policy Chair, said: “Today’s meeting was a crucial partnership moment, and I was pleased to raise issues and growth ideas from FSB members up and down the country, in every local community.

“You don’t get growth, jobs or wealth creation without UK small businesses; this was a core feature of our discussions in Opposition.  

“Now as the Chancellor and her team turn to the Budget, the diversity of UK businesses – 99% of which are the small, micro or self-employed that we represent – needs reflecting in Government policy-making just as much.”

CBI CEO Rain Newton-Smith said: “Businesses are the engine of growth and will be central to achieving the government’s mission to boost the UK economy. It’s why the CBI welcomes the Chancellor’s promise to co-design policy with the business community.

“Together, we can find shared solutions to shared problems – to increase productivity and business investment – in turn, improving living standards.

“The CBI is proud to work in close partnership with the Treasury, providing a cross-economy voice to help remove the roadblocks holding back investment and sustainable growth.”

Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the Institute of Directors, said: “For the government to successfully deliver its growth mission, it will be crucial that it works in partnership with business.

“Therefore, we look forward to building on the productive relationship that we have developed with the Chancellor, to ensure that the priorities and challenges of businesses and entrepreneurs are understood and acted upon.

“Specifically, as we approach her first Budget in the autumn, we are calling on the Chancellor to take time to get policy design right for the long-term, to deliver the stable tax and policy framework needed to support business confidence and investment.”

GMB Scotland accepts council pay offer and halts strikes

Union: Ministers must not blame spending cuts on public service pay 

Ministers must not blame public service pay deals for spending cuts, according to GMB Scotland.

The warning comes as the union announces members have voted to accept a council pay offer and halt looming industrial action.

The union, one of the biggest across Scotland’s local authorities, revealed a ballot of members in councils showed 78% of those voting supported the deal offering up to 5.6% for frontline workers.

The offer from Cosla, representing Scotland’s councils, came just days before the start of strikes in waste and cleansing earlier this month.

Keir Greenaway, GMB Scotland senior organiser in public services, confirmed the industrial action, suspended during the vote, would not now go ahead.

He said it was right the offer, delivering a minimum rise of 3.6% for all grades, was weighted to ensure full-time frontline staff got a rise of £1,292 – equivalent to 5.6% for the lowest paid – but criticised needless delays.

Greenaway said: “Council leaders’ lack of urgency and stubborn refusal to ask the Scottish Government for support meant negotiations and uncertainty went on far longer than necessary.

“It should not take imminent strike action to deliver a fair offer but, while it came too late, the deal was above inflation for all staff and weighted to benefit frontline workers most.

“That was what the unions had asked for and, given that, it is no surprise our members accepted it.”

GMB Scotland has criticised the Scottish Government, however, after ministers froze non-essential spending within 24 hours of the offer being made before warning of more cuts this week.

Greenaway said: “Ministers implying a fair pay offer for our members means cuts to spending are only diverting attention from the real cause of the crisis in our public services.

“We have endured more than a decade of cuts not because of staff being paid fairly but because our governments, at Westminster and Holyrood, have failed to properly fund the public sector.

“Government is about choices but, when our public services are struggling to recruit and retain skilled staff, paying council staff fairly is not part of the problem but part of the solution.”

Council extends financial support for tenants struggling to pay rent

City councillors have announced plans to increase the Tenant Hardship Fund maximum average payment to around £480.

Launched in 2023, the Fund was created in response to the additional financial burden that tenants were facing from the cost-of-living crisis. It offers financial assistance to tenants struggling to make rent payments.

By 31 March 2024, the Council had received 2,741 applications to the Fund with 2,585 approved.

For 2024/25, the award has increased to a maximum of two fortnightly charges which will help tenants who need intervention to prevent court escalation and secure an affordable repayment plan.

Around 80% of Council tenants in Edinburgh receive assistance with their rent in the form of housing benefits or Universal Credit. The changes will also apply to new Universal Credit claimants, where deferred payments may create a rent pressure. 

The new two fortnightly payment is expected to support tenants during this period and protect them against an arrears spike.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Jane Meagher said: “We don’t want tenants to fall into a situation where their debt becomes unmanageable, and we absolutely want to help people remain in their home. It’s so important that we continue to collect rent but that we do everything we can to support tenants in arrears.

“By extending the fund, we are providing a vital lifeline for those facing difficult times, allowing them to stay in their homes and avoid the devastating impact of eviction. I want tenants and residents’ groups to know that they can come to us if they’re worried about being able to pay their rent or have already missed payments.”

Tenants who are struggling to pay rent can speak to their housing officer or contact tenanthardshipfund@edinburgh.gov.uk.

Six men convicted following £100 million cocaine seizure

Six men have admitted conspiring to flood Scotland with around £100 million of cocaine smuggled to the UK from South America.

Today, Thursday, 29 August 2024, James Stevenson, 59 (above), David Bilsland, 68, and Paul Bowes, 53, plead guilty to serious organised crime and drug offences following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow.

Gerard Carbin,45, Ryan McPhee, 34, and Lloyd Cross, 32, had plead guilty earlier in the trial.

In September 2020, around a tonne of cocaine with an estimated value of £100 million was discovered, concealed within a consignment of bananas, during a joint operation by Police Scotland and the National Crime Agency (NCA) at Dover.

The seizure of 119 packages of the Class A drugs, which had arrived into the port on a vessel from Ecuador, was made by Organised Crime Partnership officers, assisted by specialist Border Force search teams.

Searches were subsequently carried out at properties in Scotland and England and the accused were identified.

The investigation was closely linked to Operation Venetic – the most significant operation into serious and organised crime involving Police Scotland, the National Crime Agency and police forces across the UK – which has seen hundreds of arrests following the infiltration of an encrypted communications platform used by criminals.

Stevenson had fled the UK and was arrested in February 2022 in the south of The Netherlands by Police Scotland, NCA and international law enforcement officers.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry, Police Scotland’s Head of Organised Crime said: “The conviction of those men involved in this dangerous organised crime group are testament to the hard work and determination of those who undertook a complex investigation which spanned countries across the world.

“The multi-agency operation, including the National Crime Agency, prevented a massive haul of drugs reaching our communities across Scotland and ruining lives. It also underlines the value of working in partnership with our law enforcement colleagues in this country and abroad.

“Police Scotland officers work tirelessly every day to disrupt the activities of serious organised crime groups who think they are above the law, and in some way untouchable. The guilty pleas tendered today show this not to be the case.”

NCA Regional Head of Investigations Gerry Mclean said: “The drugs trade causes immense damage and devastation, fuelling violence on our streets and the exploitation of young and vulnerable people across the country.

“Following his arrest in 2020, career criminal Stevenson fled the country but continued to direct the importation of cocaine into the UK from abroad, falsely believing he could evade justice.

“His plea today, and the earlier admissions of guilt by five of his co-conspirators, are testament to the dedicated work of NCA officers, our Police Scotland partners and our many law enforcement colleagues right across the globe.

“Together, we are working tirelessly to disrupt and dismantle organised crime groups who supply class A drugs, ensuring that all those involved, wherever they choose to hide, are brought before the courts.”

Another man, Lewis Connor, aged 27 years, was jailed for three years in July this year after the same investigation found encrypted phone messages which proved he had set fire to properties and vehicles across Central Scotland.

The Organised Crime Partnership (Scotland) is a joint Police Scotland and NCA team. Police Scotland and the NCA are partners in Scotland’s Serious Organised Crime Taskforce, which oversees the work being carried out to reduce the harm caused by serious organised crime in Scotland by ensuring all partner bodies work together.

Mental Health Foundation: Look after your mental health using mindfulness

Feeling overwhelmed?

Pause. Breathe. Be mindful.

Mindfulness can work wonders for your mental health. Whether it’s a deep breath, a mindful walk, or a moment of meditation, the key is being present.

Find more tips on mindfulness here:

https://bit.ly/3T8SeWx

How-to-mindfulnessDownload

Lost Shore Surf Resort spotlights the best of Scotland’s independent food scene

 Lost Shore, Scotland’s first inland surf resort, has announced the arrival of three celebrated Scottish restaurants in its highly anticipated waterfront bar, cafe, and restaurant offering, Canteen.

Glasgow-based Five March and Rafa’s Diner are set to join the resort, along with the iconic Edinburgh pizzeria, Civerinos.

The eateries will be the first to take up residence in the resort’s waterfront dining experience, Canteen, designed and managed by renowned Edinburgh-based events and hospitality agency, Rogue Village.

The venture aims to showcase a seasonally rotating roster of Scottish eateries, shining an international spotlight on Scotland’s exciting food and drink industry, providing visitors to Lost Shore with a diverse and ever-changing culinary experience. 

The announcement comes as the Edinburgh-based inland surf resort is now taking online bookings for surfing and accommodation.

Lost Shore Surf Resort, which will open this Autumn, will be the home of Europe’s largest wave pool with luxury hilltop lodges, premium waterfront pods and wellness treatments.  This has quickly become one of the most hotly anticipated tourism openings anywhere in the world this year and is expected to attract an additional 160,000 surfers and tourists to the surrounding areas annually.

Meet the Restaurants

Five March 

Originating from Glasgow, Five March is renowned for its effortlessly cool vibe and inventive small plates.

This will be Five March’s third venture, following the success of their collaborative pop-up in Glasgow’s Southside, Five at Phillies, and the original Park Circus location. Owner Joanna Nethery has curated a menu rich in locally and ethically sourced ingredients, with a strong emphasis on vegetarian and vegan options, while also celebrating the incredible Scottish meat and fish offerings.

At Lost Shore, diners can expect a creative array of dishes that are as delicious as they are sustainable, making Five March a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Civerinos 

A staple of Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary scene, Civerinos is set to open its sixth location at Canteen.

Inspired by the atmosphere of classic New York Slice joints, Civerinos offers a laid-back yet dynamic dining experience, with an array of mouth-watering pizzas and Italian street food on offer.

Civerinos promises an inviting and energetic dining experience perfect for surfers and families alike.  

Rafa’s Diner 

From its humble beginnings in Glasgow’s Hidden Lane, Rafa’s Diner has quickly become a beloved spot for its down-to-earth charm and fantastic food.

Known for its no-fuss, flavour-packed menu, Rafa’s will bring its celebrated Mexican dishes to Lost Shore, offering a taste of comfort and authenticity. The diner’s Finnieston location has garnered a loyal following, and visitors to Lost Shore can look forward to the same delicious experience with a menu designed to delight.

Locality is a keen focus of Canteen’s offering. In addition to the rotating food offering, Canteen is working with speciality coffee roaster Machina Coffee, and the award-winning Company Bakery, both based in Edinburgh, to provide visitors with first-class hot drinks and pastries. Leith-based brewery, Pilot, is providing the resort with its house beer.

Peter Maniam, Co-director at Rogue Village said: “We’re passionate about showcasing the very best of Scotland’s food scene at Lost Shore.

“We are creating a dynamic dining destination that offers something for everyone. We’re thrilled to partner with innovative and beloved eateries like Five March, Civerinos, and Rafa’s Diner, each bringing their unique flair and exceptional quality to Canteen at Lost Shore.”

Andy Roger, Chief Executive of Lost Shore Surf Resort, said: “Lost Shore will become one of Scotland’s leading leisure destinations and with our food and drink offering, our priority was to achieve the perfect balance of quality, diversity, and, most importantly, taste. 

“Canteen is bringing a vibrant mix of lively and unique kitchens to Lost Shore, offering surfers and visitors an unforgettable dining experience. With the anticipated influx of tourists, we are honoured to showcase the very best of Scotland’s food and drink scene to a domestic and international audience.”

Lost Shore Surf Resort is set to open in Autumn this year.

To find out more about the upcoming food and drink offering, and to book surf sessions and accommodation please visit: https://www.lostshore.com/

Kickstart Your Fitness Journey with Edinburgh Leisure’s flex for less membership campaign

As National Fitness Day approaches on September 18th, themed ‘Your Health is for Life,’ there’s no better time to jumpstart your fitness routine. Whether you’re seeking a cost-effective option or simply a change of scenery, Edinburgh Leisure’s latest membership campaign is here to support you.

With unlimited access to gyms, pools, fitness classes, and climbing facilities, Edinburgh Leisure has everything you need to build a healthier lifestyle.

Running from September 1st to 30th 2024, new members can take advantage of a special no-joining-fee offer, saving up to £35. Enjoy additional member benefits including priority bookings, free gym introduction and 1:1 Instructor sessions.

And unlike many other providers, there are no contracts – with the ability to freeze or cancel your membership.

This offer applies to golf, gym, swim, fitness class, and climb memberships, with flexible monthly options to fit any budget: Golf (from £46.00), Gym (£39.99), Swim (£45.99), Fitness Class (£45.99), Climb (£54.50), and Full Fitness (£59.99). The offer excludes soft play, and junior fitness memberships. Memberships can be conveniently purchased online (terms and conditions apply).

To make the journey even more enjoyable, Edinburgh Leisure is introducing ‘Free Friend Fridays’ throughout the campaign. On the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th of September, members can bring a friend along for free, so they too can try before they buy, allowing them to experience Edinburgh Leisure’s facilities before committing to a membership.

Additionally, Edinburgh Leisure’s friendly and experienced gym staff are available at no extra cost to help members develop and review personalised fitness programs, ensuring everyone receives the support they need, regardless of their fitness journey.

With 17 gyms, 12 swimming pools, over 750 fitness classes per week and the biggest climbing arena in Europe, Edinburgh Leisure has something wherever you’re at on the map or in life.

For further information visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/no-joining-fee-september

Follow on Facebook – @EdinburghLeisure

Follow on Instagram – @ed_leisure

Ian Murray underlines Westminster government mission for growth

The latest Scottish GDP stats were published yesterday here for the month of June and here for Q2 of 2024.

Responding to the latest figures, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “Scotland is critical in the UK Government’s mission for economic growth, as the Chancellor underlines today in Glasgow where she’ll meet with key members of the business community to turbocharge Scotland’s regeneration.

“Rebuilding is at the root of everything we do but the £22billion black hole in spending left by the previous government – the worst economic inheritance of any incoming government since the Second World War – means that tough decisions are ahead to achieve stability.

“We are making work pay, ensuring the national minimum wage is a true living wage. And with the end of exploitative zero-hours contracts, workers will have increased job security.

“Backed by £8.3bn of UK Government investment, Scottish-based GB Energy will bring jobs and opportunity for all parts of the UK and trade talks have resumed globally to forge stronger links with our international business partners.”

  • Scotland’s onshore GDP is estimated to have fallen by 0.3% in June. This follows growth of 0.2% in May.
  • In the three months to June (Quarter 2), GDP is estimated to have grown by 0.6% compared to the previous three month period (Quarter 1). This is a slight increase on the Quarter 1 growth rate of 0.5%.

Pre-eclampsia: Scottish Government to provide funding for blood testing

Health Secretary @NeilCGray has announced @Scotgov funding for all health boards to provide a blood test for pregnant women who need it, to help identify pre-eclampsia.

More information about pre-eclampsia here:

https://bit.ly/pre-eclampsiainpregnancy