RELENTLESS in the pursuit of animal rights, I’ve been lobbying the Government to make time to get my Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill back on track given the coronavirus impact on Parliamentary business. I’m delighted that my Bill is due to return to the House of Commons this Friday 12th March.

At the time of writing, over 22.5 million people across the UK have received their first dose of coronavirus vaccine. As of 28th February, 44 per cent of West Dorset constituents had received their first dose – that’s the 4th highest proportion of any constituency in England! This number has now climbed higher still, paving West Dorset’s route out of lockdown which began with the return to school on Monday.

Last week, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a historic and creative Budget providing over £407 billion of support for families, jobs and businesses across the country and here in West Dorset. Whilst I am nervous about such high levels of public borrowing, much of this support will be of great benefit to the people of West Dorset.

The Government has extended furlough to the end of September, provided two further grants for the self-employed along with extended eligibility for these grants, a six-month extension to the Universal Credit uplift, and various new grants and loans for businesses. Particularly important for West Dorset’s tourism sector – which accounts for over 6,000 jobs – the Chancellor has frozen alcohol duties, extended of the business rates holiday, and continued the reduced rate of VAT for hospitality. These measures will help get out pubs, brewers and cafés back on their feet!

The Dorset Local Plan will shape development in our county until 2038 and the consultation closes this Monday 15th March. It’s vital that you respond now to make your voice heard. For more details, visit www.chrisloder.co.uk/localplan

Chris Loder

West Dorset MP