A LibDem Perspective: Lights in the Darkness
Next Saturday Battle will celebrate the annual switch-on of its Christmas lights. Undaunted by lack of funding, a crowd-funder was set up, quickly surpassed its target thanks to the spontaneous generosity of local businesses and residents, and was even able to expand its original lighting plans. The switch-on marks the start of a critical month for many local businesses.
Meanwhile the nation is holding its breath ahead of next week’s budget. The Chancellor’s flip-flopping over Income Tax rates has created unprecedented levels of uncertainty about just how the necessary funds will be raised-or which vital services will be cut- to balance the nation’s books. Longer term business uncertainties include the impact of the Employment Rights Bill, Trump’s on-again-off-again tariffs, a likely review of business rates, above target inflation, shoplifting, the impact of AI- the list seems endless. The adverse impact on jobs of the big rise in Employers’ NIC has yet to be fully played out. If there was ever a time when businesses needed a steady hand on the ‘governmental tiller’ to build confidence it is now, and it is simply not happening. That means less investment, fewer jobs and lower standards of living, all helping to stoke the toxic environment in which far right political parties nurture fear, anger and intolerance.
But it’s the season of good cheer isn’t it, so let’s be positive!
Despite all the challenges set out above over 80% of business leaders are confident about the prospects for their own business. A large majority expect to see increases in sales and profits. Nearly half expect to increase staff recruitment.
The Government is claiming improvements in the NHS with shorter waiting times and improved GP access, but in most public sector areas it’s a matter of ‘work in progress’ and growing frustration with the pace of change, especially around illegal immigration. And exciting news locally, the first Blackfriars/Tapestry homes will soon be ready!
From a LibDem perspective things are certainly encouraging. Since the local elections in May, LibDems have won more council seats across the country (49) than Conservatives, Labour and Greens together (42), and only four fewer than Reform UK- despite the higher media profile of those other parties. We have a dynamic new President, Josh Babarinde OBE, MP for Eastbourne, aged just 32. We are now the largest group within the Rother Alliance after two Independent Councillors joined us.
Nationally our 72 MPs have secured major policy wins on carers’ rights, free school meals, domestic abuse protections, and solar energy standards- despite not being in government.
Back here in Battle and our local villages, our businesses need you to come and enjoy spending your money in your local community, not online. Whether that’s booking a Christmas meal, a bottle of Sussex bubbly, some British made gifts, books, smoked salmon or turkeys, or indulging in a tan, hair do or manicure, it all adds to the enjoyment of Christmas- and helps ensure a thriving High Street and local village businesses.
So, enjoy the lights and get shopping!
Cllr Kathryn Field