National politics had never been more interesting. UKIP on the rise, Lib Dems bombing out of sight and a collective national amnesia about Labours tragic economic performance whilst in power. Under Conservative governance the economy is now improving significantly. All around the country the battle for national control remains clear. Conservatives or Labour with the… Read more

Liberal Democrats are seeking to add a new council tax band on houses. The current top band limit is £320,000. Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg has set out his new plans. The current band limits are based on notional 1991 valuations to attempt to be fair and consistent. Adding a new band will be complex,… Read more

Religion is an interesting topic. It seems to be made up of many ideas, stories and beliefs. Mix in a large dose of power control and a certain amount of arrogance, in declaring there is only one true religion, and it is easy to understand why religion has been at the bottom of a large… Read more

Sexual violence in conflict has ruined the lives of millions of women, men and children in our lifetimes. We have the chance, at last, to transform global attitudes and shatter the culture of impunity that has existed for too long. This Summit will welcome over 100 countries and over 900 experts, NGOs, survivors, faith leaders,… Read more

Maximum fines available to magistrates will rise significantly under new proposals announced today. People who break the law should be properly punished – and financial penalties set at the right level can be an effective way of dealing with criminals and deterring them from further offending. That’s why Conservatives want to bring in these changes.… Read more

A Labour Party policy report outlined plans to impose a new annual tax on every farm and farmland across the country. Labour’s report proposes to impose business rates on farmland and farm buildings, which have been exempt since 1929. This new tax on the countryside will decimate the farming industry and force up the cost… Read more