Nic Rigby

A temporary UK government VAT-cut scheme aimed at reducing holiday costs for families is welcomed by visitors and some tourist attractions, with reductions applied to children's meals, tickets, and certain leisure venues alongside free bus travel for children. While commercial attractions say the measures offer needed relief, charity-run sites such as Africa Alive receive no benefit due to their VAT-exempt status. Family charities stress that the scheme does not address broader cost‑of‑living pressures and call for long‑term investment in support services. A Labour MP notes existing childcare provisions but acknowledges ongoing financial challenges for families.

Paul Bristow argues that expanded devolution proposed by Andy Burnham could lead to more directly elected mayors in the East of England, enabling coordinated advocacy for investment as “Team East.” He outlines his current responsibilities, budget constraints and priorities, including regeneration projects in Peterborough. The government is considering new mayoral roles for Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. Liberal Democrat MP Pippa Heylings warns that additional mayoral structures create unnecessary bureaucracy and that funding should go to local councils instead, highlighting concerns about overlapping authorities and low public engagement.