Archive for February 18th, 2014
Tuesday, February 18th, 2014
The UK’s inflation rate, as measured by the consumer prices index, fell to 1.9% in January, for the first time in more than four years and the fall is likely to underline the Bank of England’s message that there is no rush to raise interest rates.
Inflation as measured by the Retail Prices Index rose to 2.8% from 2.7% in December, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.
The lower inflation was in large part due to a fall in the cost of recreational and cultural activities, including falling DVD prices and lower entrance fees to attractions. Discounts on furniture and household goods, and also lower alcohol and tobacco prices, also had an impact, the ONS said.
The Prime Minister tweeted that the figures support the Government’s economic strategy. Mr Cameron said, “Today’s fall in inflation is more evidence our long term economic plan is working. We want to ensure a secure future for hard-working people.”
Bank of England Governor Mark Carney indicated earlier this month that interest rates would not rise for some time and according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), the fall in inflation is likely to help bolster this message.
Tuesday, February 18th, 2014
On Thursday 13th February, a meeting of Conservative controlled Staffordshire County Council once again agreed to freeze council tax as members agreed the budget for next year and that means there has been no rise for four years.
Being able to freeze council tax will keep more money in everyone’s pockets, including those staff who live in the county. This in turn will help further boost Staffordshire’s economic recovery, which is already heading in the right direction.
Demand for council services, particularly for adult social care, people with learning disabilities and vulnerable children, has continued to increase. As people live longer, the health and social care demands will only grow. In addition, the substantial reduction in funding from Government in recent years has focussed our minds very clearly on exactly how we, as officers, use public money to the very best advantage. With increasing demand and reducing income it’s undeniably challenging to achieve the right balance and we must continue to adapt and embrace doing things differently.
We must support those who need us most, invest in our economy to support jobs, and find the savings to balance our books. We are determined to do the ‘right thing’ for our residents.
This determination is reflected in the new strategic plan and the associated five-year financial plan. Together they set out how we will invest and create the right conditions for the economy to grow and new jobs to be created.
Underlying all is a continuing refinement in the way we must now work together. Whatever our role, we can all contribute to creating a connected Staffordshire where everyone has the opportunity to prosper, be healthy and happy.
Whether it’s working together across teams, with partner organisations or with the private sector, we will all become more connected to deliver the necessary efficiencies and savings. With your help, we will always be able to put the people of Staffordshire first and do the right thing.
You can see more information about Staffordshire County Council share of the council tax here.
The UK’s inflation rate, as measured by the consumer prices index, fell to 1.9% in January, for the first time in more than four years and the fall is likely to underline the Bank of England’s message that there is no rush to raise interest rates.
