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UK Parliament dissolved ahead of July general election

David Bratton
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UK Parliament dissolved ahead of July general election

UK Parliament officially dissolved today (30), marking the end of all parliamentary business in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

This now means every seat in the Commons – including those across Gedling borough – is vacant until after the general election on July 4, 2024.

Dissolution, the formal term for ending a Parliament, is mandated by law to occur at least every five years, prompting a general election to elect a new Parliament.

Following the dissolution, all MPs cease to represent their constituencies and must vacate their offices, although they are permitted to return briefly to clear their personal effects.

The Speaker of the House of Commons, like all MPs, also loses their seat upon dissolution but will stand for re-election under the designation ‘Speaker seeking re-election’.

Despite the dissolution, the Speaker retains management responsibilities for the Commons until a new Speaker is elected.

While members of the House of Lords, who are appointed rather than elected, retain their positions, all business in the Lords also comes to a halt with the dissolution.

Do Government operations continue now Parliament is dissolved?

Despite the dissolution of Parliament, the government has to remain operational.

Government ministers carry on leading their respective departments as their roles are distinct from their positions as MPs. They are not allowed to use the title MP during this period.

government activity is restricted during the campaign period to ensure public money is not used to support the campaign of the party in power and to maintain civil service impartiality.

Restrictions normally begin when parliament has been dissolved, however, they can start before this, as they did in 2017.

What happens after the election in July?

If the current government retains their majority in the new Parliament after an election, it will resume normal business.

If the election results in a clear majority for a different party, the incumbent prime minister and government have to immediately resign. The King will then invite the leader of the party that has won the election to form a government.

It becomes slightly more complicated if the result is a hung parliament.

A hung Parliament is when no single political party wins a majority in the House of Commons. It is also known as a situation of no overall control.

When there is no majority, the Prime Minister in power before the general election stays in power and is given the first chance to create a government. They may decide to negotiate with another party or parties to build a coalition, try and govern with a minority of Members of Parliament or resign, usually after failing to negotiate a coalition.

The current government remains in office unless and until the prime minister tenders his and the government’s resignation to the King.

When will Parliament meet again?

In terms of dates, the new Parliament will be summoned to meet on Tuesday, 9 July, when the first business will be the election of the speaker and the swearing-in of members.

The state opening of Parliament will be on Wednesday, 17 July.

New secure storage installed at Arnot Hill Park in Arnold to help cyclists

Gedling Eye
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New secure storage installed at Arnot Hill Park in Arnold to help cyclists

New secure storage has been installed in an Arnold park to help cyclists travelling to the green space.

Six new high security, steel bike lockers have now been put into place at Gedling Borough Council’s office in Arnot Hill Park thanks to funding from the Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner.

Located outside the entrance to the civic centre, the lockers are free to use and aim to promote cycling for people visiting the council’s civic centre or the park.

The new lockers are have been installed outside Gedling Borough Council civic centre in Arnot Hill Park

Gedling Borough Council, who installed the lockers, hope that by offering a safe place to store bikes, it will help reduce the number of people travelling to the park by car.

Each of the lockers can store up to two bikes.

The new lockers are operated using a key which can be obtained from the reception desk or bike owners can use their own padlocks. The lockers are funded as part of Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner’s Safer Streets Funding.

Councillor Viv McCrossen, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Natural Habitat said: “We are thrilled to introduce these high-security bike lockers at Arnot Hill Park.

“By providing a safe and convenient option for cyclists, we hope to encourage more residents to choose biking over driving, contributing to a healthier environment and a more active lifestyle”.

Meet the water detectives – how Severn Trent and detection dogs are sniffing out invasive species like Japanese Knotweed

Gedling Eye
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Meet the water detectives – how Severn Trent and detection dogs are sniffing out invasive species like Japanese Knotweed

Meet the dogs helping Severn Trent Water sniff out potentially damaging invasive species – including the dreaded Japanese Knotweed.

The clever canines are also helping with conservation by identifying protected species, like the Great Crested Newt.

The dogs are just one part of Severn Trent’s attempts to boost biodiversity, protect borough waterways and create thriving natural habitats in our communities.

The water company this week announced it had smashed a biodiversity target of transforming 5,000ha of land into natural habitats – creating fauna and flora rich sites on 11,000ha so far.

The dogs can help detect the notorious Japanese Knotweed, which spreads very quickly.
One of the most veracious of UK invaders is the Killer Shrimp

Kay Daily, a biodiversity project manager, outlined the measures Severn Trent was also taking to protect the area from Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS).

And she shed light on some of the most veracious of UK invaders – with memorable names like Killer Shrimp, Zebra Mussels and Himalayan Balsam.

Mum-of-two Kay said: “Invasive species can have a very damaging impact on our native species and ecosystems.

“Himalayan Balsam for instance was introduced by the Victorians because it looks so pretty when it flowers. But they grow very tall and densely on our river banks, meaning the plants underneath them get less sunlight and die. And when they flower, the seed pods explode sending up to 800 per plant up to seven metres away.

“We tackle this plant by pulling it out by the roots before the plant flowers, to save our riverbanks from erosion – and protect our rivers.”

Severn Trent recently launched a four-year partnership with the Canal and River Trust to tackle invasive plants along 180 miles of Midlands waterways, as part of its Great Big Nature Boost. 

Kay said: “Floating pennywort is another invasive species. It can cover the top of canals, keeping out the vital sunlight the plants and fish beneath need, so is potentially very harmful to our waterways.”

Aquatic biodiversity teams at Severn Trent also watch out for the fearsome sounding Killer Shrimp and Zebra Mussels, named after their stripy shell. They would have most likely made their way from their Black Sea origins to the UK decades ago through commercial shipping. 

“Whilst excellent at filtering, they can significantly alter ecosystems by filtering out nutrients. The Zebra Mussels can also stick to our assets like pipework and can be difficult to remove,” she said.

“There are more than 2,000 non-native species in the UK and most are harmless. It’s the ten to 15% that are invasive and negatively affect the eco-system, causing the problems, that we need to act on.”

The scent-trained dogs, hired from specialist companies, can help detect the notorious Japanese Knotweed, which spreads very quickly.

“It’s very aggressive when it grows and you only need to leave behind the tiniest bit of root and it will regrow,” said Kay.

“I’ve seen the dogs in action and they are brilliant. They are trained to sniff the roots out before they visibly break ground, which is amazing really.

“Other dogs are trained to identify and protect everything from water voles to Great Crested Newts, which are a protected species.

But there is one foreign-born amphibian Kay has no plans to tackle – a cute-looking Axolotl from Mexico called Xanthie.

“It’s my daughter’s pet, but I end up looking after him most of the time,” she laughed.

“He’s such a fascinating creature because he has lungs and can spend up to an hour out of the water – but you will definitely NOT be seeing Xanthie in the British countryside.”

Arnold Summer Fair return to coincide with council’s golden anniversary

David Bratton
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Arnold Summer Fair return to coincide with council’s golden anniversary

With a brilliant selection of independent shops, cafes and bars, Arnold is a popular place with shoppers and diners. Now, the borough’s capital is gearing up to hold its annual Summer Fair.

The annual event, which is held in Arnot Hill Park, will take place on Saturday, June 22 from 11am to 5pm and promises to be a free day of family fun, events, workshops, and live music from the main stage.

This year’s event coincides with the golden anniversary of organisers Gedling Borough Council, and the fair will showcase the rich heritage of the area and also some of the amazingly talented individuals who ‘make the borough great’.

Councillor John Clarke MBE, Leader of Gedling Borough Council, said he was ‘thrilled’ that the council will again be holding this popular event.

Arnot_Hill_Park
The event is being held in Arnot Hill Park near Arnold town centre
John Clarke Gedling
Cllr John Clarke, leader of Gedling Borough Council, is looking forward to this year’s event

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and take part in a wide range of activities,” he said.

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, it’s also a chance to reflect on our history and the vibrant community that makes Gedling special. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike for a day of fun and festivity.”

The Arnold Summer Fair is free to attend, making it an accessible and enjoyable day out for families and individuals of all ages. Join us in celebrating this milestone and enjoy a fantastic array of activities and entertainment.

Here’s just some of what attendees can look forward to at this year’s fair…

  • Musical workshops with ‘Orchestra of Objects’.
  • Theatre performances telling stories from Gedling with ‘Flying High’.
  • Circus workshops and performances with ‘The Circus Hub’.
  • Interactive Play with ‘Gedling Play Forum’.
  • Penalty shoot-out with the ‘Mapperley Allstars’ to win prizes.
  • Inclusive Skate Sessions and Art Workshop with ‘Skate Nottingham’.
  • Cool cars showcase by Notts Police for the little ones.
  • DJ workshops, archery, and a pogo challenge with the Notts County Council Youth Service.
  • Plus, a full lineup of live music and performers throughout the day on the main stage.

Lambley WI celebrate 80th anniversary of D-Day with another amazing bus stop makeover

Justin Doddy
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Lambley WI celebrate 80th anniversary of D-Day with another amazing bus stop makeover

A bus stop in Lambley has had its latest makeover in a series of transformations that take place throughout the year.

The ladies at Lambley Women’s Institute (WI) are responsible for decorating the village bus shelter for major events throughout the seasons and this has generated quite a following. 

The WI members have been busy again transforming the stop for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

The D-Day landings of June 6 1944 was the largest seaborne invasion in history and along with the associated airborne operations, it marked the beginning of the liberation of France and western Europe.

Courtesy of Lambley WI
Courtesy of Lambley WI
Courtesy of Lambley WI
Courtesy of Lambley WI
Courtesy of Lambley WI

Alison Moss, Secretary, Lambley WI told Gedling Eye that that they enjoy decorating the village bus shelter and seeing and hearing the reactions of the villagers, bus passengers and drivers.

Previous examples of their transformations include Christmas, Remembrance Day, Valentines Day, an Easter theme and Autumn Harvest.

(Courtesy of Lambley WI)
(Courtesy of Lambley WI)
(Courtesy of Lambley WI)
(Courtesy of Lambley WI)
(Courtesy of Lambley WI)
(Courtesy of Lambley WI)
PICTURED: The bus stop was previously transformed for Remembrance Sunday

Pictured: Some of the transformations (Courtesy of Lambley WI)

You don’t have to live in Lambley village to be a member of Lambley WI and most of the members actually don’t.  Everyone is really welcome.

Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month at 7.30 at Lambley village hall, unless it’s a bank holiday when meetings are moved back a week.

The WI has a speaker at many of their meetings, covering a wide variety of topics from gin making to guide dog puppy walking and everything in between, this is as well as craft or games nights, outings, and theatre visits.

New members and visitors are always welcome to come along and make new friends.

Further information can be found on the Lambley WI facebook page (including many more bus stop transformations pictures) or by emailing Michelle on nightingale633@gmail.com

Gedling borough weather Thursday, May 30

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling borough weather Thursday, May 30

The Met Office forecast outbreaks of showery rain for much of the day with mostly cloudy conditions early on breaking to give some sunny spells between the showers. Showers may be heavy with a risk of thunder. Maximum temperature 18 °C.

Lingering showers slowly easing to give a mostly dry night with clear spells. Becoming more cloudy from the east with some outbreaks of rain later. Minimum temperature 10 °C.

Tomorrow is expected ti be mostly cloudy initially with outbreaks of rain, mainly in the east, gradually clearing southwards. Some sunny spells possible later in the afternoon. Wind easing. Cool. Maximum temperature 16 °C.

Gedling MP says he backs national service plan to tackle anti-social behaviour

David Bratton
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Gedling MP says he backs national service plan to tackle anti-social behaviour

Gedling MP Tom Randall has backed plans to reintroduce national service and believes it could help youngsters gain the valuable skills they need ‘for a brighter future’. 

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced plans to return to a mandatory national service system for 18-year-olds over the weekend.

Many MPs believe it would help tackle knife crime and anti-social behaviour problems plaguing parts of the UK.

Under a future Tory Government, every 18-year-old would either spend a full year in a competitive, full-time military placement or spend the equivalent of one weekend a month volunteering in a community role like the NHS, and the RNLI.

Rishi Sunak and Tom Randall
Gedling MP Tom Randall, right, said he is behind Rishi Sunak’s plan to reintroduce National Service

Conservative MP for Gedling, Tom Randall has welcomed the plan.

He said: “We have so much to be proud of in Britain but, one of the problems we face is that too many young people don’t get the opportunities they deserve.

“That is why I welcome our new National Service model which will provide young people across Gedling with a choice to serve in our world-leading Armed Forces or volunteer for our community, so they can contribute to their country whilst gaining the valuable skills they need for a brighter future. 

“Only the Conservatives can be trusted with the future of our young people and our country. Labour would take us back to square one, placing both at risk.”

The Tories said the programme will cost around £2.5 billion a year by the end of the decade and plans to fund £1 billion through plans to ‘crack down on tax avoidance and evasion.’ 

Labour’s shadow defence secretary John Healey said: “The Conservative’s election gambit on compulsory national service is an undeliverable plan and a distraction from their failures in defence over the last 14 years.”

Shadow work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall told Sky News that the plans were ‘unfunded’ and a ‘headline-grabbing gimmick.’ 

The Conservatives say that young people would receive ‘best-in-class’ training in critical skill sets from the economy, from cyber to civil engineering to leadership. 

The UK had national service between 1947 and 1960, with men between the ages of 17 and 21 serving in the armed forces for 18 months.

‘Terrorised’ Daybrook residents living near care home say expansion will make noise problems worse

Joe Locker (LDR Reporter)
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‘Terrorised’ Daybrook residents living near care home say expansion will make noise problems worse

People living close to an assisted living care home say they are being “terrorised” by noise and inappropriate behaviour and fear plans to expand it will make problems worse.

Byron Court, off Oxclose Lane in Daybrook, cares for people living with mental health conditions and learning disabilities.

It was operated by the Royal Mencap Society until around two years ago before being taken over by Dignus, a disability service and support organisation based in Walsall.

The complex currently caters for two residents and support staff. It is currently rated as ‘good’ by watchdog the Care Quality Commission.

Two 1930s houses were originally converted into a care home in 1986, and Gedling Borough Council has now given Dignus permission to demolish them to make way for a new facility.

Initial proposals for the construction of a three-storey building with eight rooms were reduced down to two-storeys with six rooms.

But residents living nearby say they are being “terrorised” by loud music, screaming and nudity and fear the larger building would make matters worse.

Gedling Borough Council says it is talking to Dignus about the noise concerns.

John Horry, who has lived next door in Byron Street for the past seven years, said he feels Dignus is failing to cooperate or communicate and told the council he felt the neighbourhood “is being terrorised”.

“When the plans first came out it was huge,” he said.

“We opposed it along with a number of other people around here, and ever since the application has been from pillar to post.

“Planning officers said we would get a meeting where we can give evidence about why we are opposing it, but we never got this.

“We very much understand mental health is a massive issue now and anything that is going to benefit people should be done. But it has been horrific.

“There has been shouting. One resident put their head through a window.

“The only time we’ve spoken [with Dignus] is when we’ve been round to complain.

“If this is what it is like with two residents, what is it going to be like with six?”

Lynne Woodhouse, a resident of over 31 years who lives in Swinburne Way, added she felt her life had been disrupted for two years.

She said: “We have been fighting against planning permission for two years now and are very worried that Gedling Borough Council have given them the go-ahead regardless of our complaints and the fact the [Environmental Health Officer] has also agreed with us.

“We have put up with abuse, nudity, screaming, have been subjected to seeing and hearing a girl smashing up the place and windows with zero cooperation from the staff when we have contacted them.

“Each weekend, currently, we have music blaring out all day. I have just lost my father, and I can’t even grieve in my own home.”

Mr Horry asked the council why the expansion did not go to the council’s Planning Committee before being approved despite numerous objections, including from Environmental Health.

In an email, seen by the LDRS, the head of development and place, Mike Avery, said it was considered by a Planning Delegation Panel, which was content the application could be dealt with without the need for referral.

The email says the management of residents is a matter for the operator and cannot be considered in a planning decision.

A Gedling Borough Council spokesperson said: “Gedling Borough Council has received a planning application for a replacement care facility on Oxclose Lane.

“The council has carefully considered the application and based on legal requirements and existing permissions, planning permission was therefore granted.

“We acknowledge community concerns about noise issues at the property and the council’s Public Protection team have been in dialogue with the care home owners about the impact it is having on local residents and will continue to work with them proactively to reduce this impact.”

Dignus Group did not respond to a request for comment.

Gedling borough weather Wednesday, May 29

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling borough weather Wednesday, May 29

The Met Office forecast that showers will readily develop through the morning, becoming locally heavy, with a low chance of thunder by afternoon. However, there will also be sunny spells mixed in-between. Winds freshening into the afternoon. Maximum temperature 19 °C.

Clear spells are expected overnight. Isolated showers continue overnight, heavy at times. Winds easing overnight to become gentle. Minimum temperature 11 °C.

Tomorrow is forecast to see a mix of sunshine and, perhaps thundery, showers. Maximum temperature 19 °C.

Demystifying the Myths Surrounding Invoice Finance for Businesses

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Demystifying the Myths Surrounding Invoice Finance for Businesses

As a business owner, managing cash flow and maintaining a healthy financial situation can be an ongoing struggle. This is especially true for small businesses or startups that may not have established credit or have consistent revenue streams. One financing option that has gained popularity in recent years is invoice finance, also known as accounts receivable financing.

However, there are many misconceptions and myths surrounding this alternative funding method that may deter businesses from considering it as a viable solution. Today we will explore the truth behind these myths and demystify invoice finance to help business owners make informed decisions about their financing options.

What is Invoice Finance?

Running a small business can be a tricky feat, and it’s no secret that cash flow is vital to its survival. This is where invoice finance comes into play, offering much-needed financial support to small businesses with unpaid invoices.

In simple terms, invoice finance allows businesses to sell their unpaid invoices to a finance provider in exchange for a certain percentage of the total amount. This form of financing can not only alleviate cash flow issues, but it can also help small businesses maintain a healthy financial standing.

With invoice finance for small business, owners can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they won’t have to wait weeks or even months for payment. It’s an effective solution that can help small businesses maintain their momentum and thrive.

Myth 1: Invoice Finance is Only for Struggling Businesses

One of the most pervasive myths about invoice finance is that it’s only for businesses in financial trouble. This couldn’t be further from the truth. While it’s true that invoice finance can help companies facing cash flow issues, it’s also a strategic tool for growing businesses. By unlocking cash tied up in invoices, businesses can invest in new opportunities, expand operations, and take on larger clients without worrying about delayed payments.

Myth 2: Invoice Finance is Expensive

Many small business owners believe that invoice finance is prohibitively expensive. However, the cost of invoice finance for small business is often outweighed by its benefits. The fees associated with invoice finance are typically a small percentage of the invoice value. When you consider the cost of missed opportunities, delayed growth, and potential financial strain, invoice finance can be a cost-effective solution. Additionally, the competitive nature of the invoice finance market means that businesses can shop around for providers that offer favorable terms.

Myth 3: Invoice Finance is Complicated

Another common misconception is that invoice finance is complicated and time-consuming. In reality, many invoice finance providers offer streamlined and user-friendly processes. Once your account is set up, the process of selling invoices and receiving funds is relatively straightforward. Modern technology has made it easier than ever to manage invoice finance for small business, with many providers offering online platforms for quick and efficient transactions.

Myth 4: Invoice Finance is Risky

Some business owners worry that invoice finance is risky and could lead to financial instability. However, reputable invoice finance providers conduct thorough due diligence and offer transparent terms and conditions. By working with a trusted provider, businesses can mitigate risks and enjoy the benefits of improved cash flow without compromising their financial health. It’s essential to read the fine print and understand the terms of the agreement, but with the right provider, invoice finance can be a safe and reliable financial tool.

Myth 5: Invoice Finance Affects Customer Relationships

Business owners often worry that using invoice finance will negatively impact their relationships with customers. They fear that customers might be uncomfortable dealing with a third-party finance provider. However, most reputable invoice finance companies handle collections professionally and discreetly. In many cases, customers may not even be aware that their invoices have been financed. Maintaining open communication with your customers and choosing a reputable provider can ensure that your customer relationships remain intact.

The Benefits of Invoice Finance for Small Businesses

Now that we’ve debunked some common myths, let’s explore the tangible benefits of invoice finance for small businesses:

Improved Cash Flow

Invoice finance provides immediate access to cash tied up in invoices, allowing businesses to manage day-to-day expenses, pay suppliers, and invest in growth opportunities without waiting for customer payments.

Growth Opportunities

With improved cash flow, businesses can take on larger projects, hire additional staff, and invest in new equipment or technology. This flexibility can drive growth and help businesses stay competitive.

Reduced Financial Stress

By converting invoices into cash, businesses can reduce financial stress and avoid the pitfalls of late payments. This stability allows business owners to focus on strategic planning and long-term goals.

Access to Expertise

Many invoice finance providers offer additional services, such as credit control and risk management. These services can help businesses manage their finances more effectively and make informed decisions.

Flexibility

Invoice finance is a flexible solution that can be tailored to the needs of individual businesses. Whether you need to finance a single invoice or a whole ledger, there are options to suit your requirements.

Conclusion

Invoice finance is a valuable financial tool that can benefit small businesses in numerous ways. By debunking the myths surrounding invoice finance for small businesses, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of its advantages and encourage business owners to consider it as a viable option for managing cash flow and driving growth.

If you’re a small business owner looking to improve your cash flow and capitalize on growth opportunities, invoice finance for small business could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Explore your options, do your due diligence, and find a reputable provider to help you unlock the full potential of your business.

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