Category Archives: Local Government

Business, Leadership, Local Government

Tornsten Bell Hired to Assist Rachel Reeves: A Reflection on the Government’s Questionable Qualifications

A New Appointment Amid Criticism

The recent appointment of Tornsten Bell to assist Chancellor Rachel Reeves has reignited discussions about the current UK government’s qualifications and capacity to manage the nation’s complex economic and social challenges. With a backdrop of rising public concern over fiscal policy and foreign aid allocations, the government’s competence is being scrutinised more than ever. 

Who is Tornsten Bell and Why the Appointment Matters

Tornsten Bell is a respected economist and former senior official with a background in economic policy advising. His new role is intended to bolster the Treasury’s ability to navigate pressing fiscal challenges, particularly in the lead-up to the October Budget. Bell’s expertise comes amid increasing unease about the government’s handling of the economy and mounting pressure to deliver credible solutions.

While Bell’s arrival is welcome among some economists, the need to recruit such an experienced figure to support Chancellor Reeves suggests a tacit acknowledgment that current government leadership may lack sufficient experience or strategic foresight in economic management.

Questionable Qualifications and Policy Missteps

Critics have increasingly argued that many ministers, including Chancellor Rachel Reeves, appear underqualified for the scale and complexity of the issues they face. Since taking office, Reeves and her team have faced sharp criticism over their fiscal strategies, including repeated promises to avoid tax hikes that now seem untenable given soaring borrowing costs.

The government’s approach has often been described as reactive rather than strategic, with last-minute policy reversals and inconsistencies fueling public scepticism. For example, despite assurances that national insurance rates would not increase, many commentators now expect these taxes to rise, reflecting a disconnect between promises and policy realities. 

Foreign Aid Spending: A Symbol of Misplaced Priorities

One of the most contentious areas exposing the government’s questionable judgement is its commitment to foreign aid. Despite domestic financial pressures—including record levels of student debt, NHS funding shortfalls, and rising living costs—the government remains committed to spending approximately £14 billion annually on international aid, roughly 0.5 percent of GDP. Of this, around £150 million is allocated specifically to aid programmes in Palestine, a figure that has sparked debate given the competing demands on the UK’s domestic budget.

This has led to widespread public frustration. Polls indicate that a significant majority of Britons believe foreign aid should be reduced or reallocated to address pressing domestic needs. The decision to maintain or even increase overseas aid budgets at a time when many families are tightening belts appears tone-deaf and reinforces perceptions of government disconnect. 

The Economic Context: Challenges Demand Competent Leadership

The UK’s economic outlook remains challenging. Inflation has hovered near 7 percent for much of the year, while energy costs and housing pressures continue to squeeze household budgets. The Treasury’s debt servicing costs have escalated to over £80 billion annually, crowding out other spending priorities.

Amid this environment, the Treasury requires clear, experienced leadership to balance fiscal responsibility with growth and social support. The government’s track record suggests they have struggled to meet these demands effectively, often appearing out of depth in managing both macroeconomic policy and public expectations.

Why Expertise Like Tornsten Bell’s is Essential

Tornsten Bell’s appointment signals recognition that navigating today’s economic complexity requires specialised expertise. His previous work advising the Treasury and understanding of global economic trends equips him to contribute meaningfully to policy development. His involvement may help mitigate some of the more damaging policy errors seen in recent months.

Nevertheless, this development also raises the question: why was such expertise not embedded within the Treasury’s leadership from the outset? The need to bring in external support midway through a term suggests institutional weaknesses that could undermine effective governance. 

Public Perception and Political Implications

Public trust in the government’s ability to manage the economy and foreign aid effectively remains fragile. Recent surveys show that fewer than 30 percent of voters express confidence in the Chancellor’s fiscal strategy, while concerns about mismanagement of taxpayers’ money persist.

The controversy over foreign aid, in particular, risks eroding political capital, as citizens question whether their money is being used prudently. The government’s failure to convincingly justify continued aid spending amidst rising domestic hardship feeds a narrative of misplaced priorities and weak leadership. 

A Government at a Crossroads

Tornsten Bell’s hiring to assist Rachel Reeves highlights both the government’s acknowledgment of its own shortcomings and the urgent need for expert guidance. With complex economic challenges ahead, including debt management, inflation control, and public service funding, competent leadership is more critical than ever.

The government must demonstrate not only expertise but also a clear and credible strategy that aligns with public expectations—especially on sensitive issues like foreign aid spending. Failure to do so risks further undermining trust and political stability as Britain navigates a difficult economic period.

Economy & Jobs News, Local Government, North Wales

First round of funding received towards £1bn North Wales Growth Deal

WORK will begin on the landmark Growth Vision for North Wales after the first round of funding from the Welsh and UK Governments was received.

North Wales Economic Ambition Board can now move forward in laying foundations for the programmes that make up the North Wales Growth Deal, covering agri-food and tourism, energy, land and property, digital, and innovation in high-value manufacturing.

Driven by the Board’s Portfolio Management Office, based in Llandudno Junction, the initial £16m injection sets the wheels in motion and comes after years of hard work and collaboration at a regional and national level, with partners including both Governments, the private sector, colleges, and universities.

This is the first tranche from a £240m overall contribution – £120m each from both governments.

Portfolio Director Alwen Williams said: “This is a significant milestone, and a positive first step after an unprecedented 12 months.

“We’re investing in projects that will ultimately create thousands of jobs and have an effect on the lives of many families, businesses and organisations across multiple sectors.

“This is a pivotal time and – together with the Welsh and UK Governments – we will do all we can to help lead the region to a brighter future.”

Economy and North Wales Minister Ken Skates is delighted to see progress made since the Deal was signed in December.

He said: “I’m pleased that today we’re able to announce another significant milestone as the first tranche of funding is released.

“This is good news for the region after a difficult year with many challenges ahead. The Growth Deal will be pivotal in the region’s recovery from the pandemic as it has the potential to unlock £1bn investment and create thousands of jobs.”

UK Government in Wales Minister David TC Davies says the investment will have a major impact on the wider economy.

“Every area of Wales is now covered by a Growth Deal and the fantastic news that the North Wales deal can now get up and running is a testament to the planning and hard work that has gone into making it a reality for the area,” said Mr Davies.

“Growth Deals like the one in North Wales will create jobs, services and businesses as we build back better and stronger from the pandemic and revitalise our local economies.”

For more on North Wales Economic Ambition Board, visit www.northwaleseab.co.uk or follow them on social media @buegogleddcymru and @northwaleseab.

Construction, Innovation, Local Government, Property News

Ambition Board awaits final decision on future of billion-pound North Wales Growth Deal

THE transformational North Wales Growth Deal that will create thousands of jobs and boost the economy for generations to come is one step closer.

North Wales Economic Ambition Board (NWEAB) met last week and gave its support to move forward with the five programmes that make up the £1bn Deal, underpinned by £240million investment from both the Welsh and UK Governments.

These programmes cover low carbon energy, innovation in high-value manufacturing, agri-food and tourism, digital connectivity and land and property.

Progress is reflective of how the region worked together with UK and Welsh Governments to define a portfolio of investments, which once fully approved, will see work begin in 2021.

The Deal has now been submitted to both the UK and Welsh Governments for consideration, with a final decision expected before the end of the year.

Cllr Dyfrig Siencyn, Ambition Board chair and leader of Gwynedd County Council, said this was a “major milestone” after years of hard work and collaboration between the region’s local authorities, colleges, universities and private sector representatives, with support from both governments and national stakeholders.

“The Growth Deal has been developed to deliver long-lasting positive investment and change that will enable economic and employment growth for the long-term,” he said.

“Over the next 15 years it will empower us to work together and take control of how we invest in our future. It is a unique opportunity to make investment decisions locally and demonstrate the value this brings.

“Ultimately, as part of a broader programme of investment, the Growth Deal will enable us to build a more vibrant, sustainable and inclusive economy for us all in North Wales.”

Driven by the Ambition Board’s Portfolio Management Office, based at Conwy Business Centre in Llandudno Junction, the three main objectives of the wider Growth Vision for North Wales are to create up to 4,200 new jobs by 2036, support an uplift of £2bn-2.4bn for the economy over that same period, and deliver total investment of up to £1.1bn.

Portfolio Director Alwen Williams is confident the business cases put forward to both governments will meet these targets and spark a sustainable economic and social resurgence when the country needs it most.

“Our Investment in low-carbon energy projects enable us to contribute directly to the climate change emergency, not only helping to make North Wales a cleaner, greener environment, but also positioning ourselves as one of the leading UK locations within the low carbon energy sector,” said Alwen.

“Not forgetting our foundation economies in agriculture and tourism, we will help to enable and encourage diversification to improve the long-term future of these key industries, ensuring they have opportunity to thrive.

“We recognise and value our obligation to deliver the Growth Deal in a way that improves and enhances our social, cultural, environmental and economic well-being and look forward to leading this important investment in our home and our region – North Wales.”

Askar Sheibani, chair of the Ambition Board’s Business Delivery Group, believes connectivity between communities is going to be key as momentum grows.

“The Growth Deal will invest in the region’s digital infrastructure,” he said.

“This is essential and underpins economic growth. Accessible and reliable high-speed fibre broadband and 5G capability throughout the whole of North Wales is essential.”

Jim Jones, chair of North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council, added: “A Deal that delivers on supporting business and productivity growth for both our home grown SMEs and the international businesses based in North Wales – in our key sectors of manufacturing, tourism and hospitality, agriculture and energy – has the potential to make a once in a lifetime positive impact for us all.”

Secretary of State for Wales Simon Hart welcomed the positive steps made in past weeks, and said: “The UK Government is working to bring greater investment and job opportunities to communities across Wales and the latest steps in the North Wales Growth Deal represent real progress in achieving those aims.

“It is a huge opportunity to transform the region and help rebalance the Welsh economy and that is why UK Government is committing £120million to the deal. Working hand in hand with local government and business, we will continue to develop the Growth Deal and ensure it unleashes the full potential of North Wales.”

Minister for Economy and North Wales Ken Skates added: “I’m pleased to see the progress made on the North Wales Growth Deal, which has the potential to transform the region’s economy.

“This is now more important than ever in these very challenging times. I’d like to thank all the partners for their hard work in reaching this stage.  We’ll now work with the UK Government so we can progress the next steps as quickly as possible.”

For more information on the Growth Deal, follow @northwaleseab (English) and @buegogleddcymru (Welsh) on social media.

Digital Transformation, E-Commerce, Economy & Jobs News, Energy, Local Government

Growth Vision for North Wales and economic investment the subject of virtual conference

PROGRESS on the Growth Vision for North Wales and major investment in the region will be the focus of a virtual conference.

Organised by North Wales Mersey Dee Business Council, in partnership with North Wales Economic Ambition Board (NWEAB), the online event takes place on Wednesday November 4.

Presented by Business Council chair and North Wales Tourism CEO Jim Jones, the event will feature updates from the NWEAB Programme Office on transformative projects set to begin in 2021.

Among the speakers are Programme Director Alwen Williams, Digital Programme Manager Stuart Whitfield, Energy Programme Manager Henry Aron, Land and Property Manager David Matthews and Operations Manager Hedd Vaughan-Evans. There will also be a question and answer session.

Programmes to be discussed include Digital Connectivity, Regional Transport Decarbonisation, Regional Land and Property – including commercial property and housing schemes – and the Smart Local Energy Network, encouraging more local renewable energy generation.

The Holyhead Gateway project is also on the agenda, targeting infrastructure improvements and investment that will create jobs and enhance transport links between Wales and Ireland.

Ashley Rogers, Commercial Director of the Business Council, said this is an opportunity to gain further information on where things stand in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic and following the £240m commitment towards the North Wales Growth Deal from the Welsh and UK Governments last year.

Heads of Terms on the Deal were signed last autumn, and strides have been made over the last 12 months, in the face of Covid-19 and economic pressures.

“This is the right time to come together with businesses in the region to showcase what has been going on behind the scenes, what is to come, and how the Growth Vision will impact upon North Wales,” said Ashley.

“This has been a year of unprecedented challenges, but the Programme Office has been working closely with stakeholders in education and the private and public sectors.

“We have already had a great response to the session and hope to see a wide range of companies join us on the day, to feed back their thoughts and ensure they are fully aware of progress made and how they can benefit and contribute to our economic recovery – that collaboration and communication is going to be vital.”

In past months, the Programme Office – based at Conwy Business Centre in Llandudno Junction – has been busy shaping business cases, engaging with stakeholders and exploring private sector investment opportunities, while holding virtual meetings and conferences in lockdown.

“Together with the Welsh and UK Governments and our partners in this region we have been driving the programmes forward,” said Alwen.

“It has, of course, been a challenge laying these foundations while unable to hold meetings face to face or with the ease of travel and access to different areas that was there before the pandemic took hold in the UK.

“But we have met those challenges head-on and look forward to sharing with those who join the conference the advances we have made.”

She added: “The Growth Vision for North Wales is a long-term masterplan to create jobs and grow our economy, and we realise that is more important than ever in the light of past months.

“By working together with businesses, we can respond to these pressures and start to build positive momentum, so we are ready to deliver from 2021 onwards.”

As well as creating thousands of new jobs, the Growth Vision is targeting a £10bn increase in the value of the North Wales economy by 2035.

The free private sector stakeholder sessions runs from 1pm-4pm. Companies and organisations can register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/north-wales-growth-deal-private-sector-stakeholder-session-tickets-124549409637

For more information on North Wales Economic Ambition Board, visit www.northwaleseab.co.uk.

Alternatively, email info@buegogleddcymru.co.uk or follow @BUEGogleddCymru (Welsh) or @NorthWalesEAB (English) on social media.

Local Government, Mental Health

Former Mayor launches new business and clothing range to support people with mental health issues

A FORMER Mayor has launched a new business and clothing range to support people with mental health issues.

Stephen Williams, from Colwyn Bay, hopes CBT (Connect Build Transform) will shine a light on problems faced by businesses and individuals across the UK, notably those impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.

Having qualified this year as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, the 47 year-old has also unveiled the Mind Free Clothing UK range of hoodies and leisurewear, emblazoned with hashtags and messages encouraging positivity.

Supported by Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub at M-SParc on Anglesey, and in collaboration with Mark Bryant from Fast Way to Fitness in Mochdre, Stephen hopes to be able to help people when they need it most.

Having suffered with his own mental health following the death of his beloved mum Maureen, the former Eirias High School pupil said: “I started the company earlier this year but due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns I’ve had to do everything online, including completion of the qualification.

“Until it is safe to do so I’ll continue holding sessions via video conferencing but have also been able to make strides in developing the clothing brand and CBT in the background.”

He added: “I’ve always been passionate about supporting people with mental health issues, through my role as a councillor and Mayor of the Bay of Colwyn, and in other voluntary roles over the years.

“It will be great to work with Mark, who does so much in mental health, fitness and wellbeing coaching, so I’m excited at what lies ahead and am sure we can help people.

“I’ve been through the tough times myself when my mum died; I felt a change in attitude and experienced some dark times. It’s only when I started to talk that I made the journey out of it, but many of us – especially men – are often too proud to speak about how we feel.”

Mark said the synergy between both organisations made working together a natural next step.

“Health, exercise, and mental health and wellbeing go in hand in hand, so we can support each other with corporate wellness, resilience and training to help people transform their lives,” he said.

“There is still a stigma around stress and depression and even talking about the issues we face, but given the events of this year it’s time to open up and be there for one another.”

Through CBT, Stephen is also planning to hold webinars and podcasts, as well as appearing on local radio station, Bayside.

For more information, visit the website www.cbtnw.co.uk or follow

Visit www.hwbmenter.cymru/en for more on Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub and support for businesses.

Business News, Local Government, Wales News

Bridgend Businesses encouraging visitors and other businesses to make a promise to help keep Wales safe this summer

Businesses in Bridgend are encouraging visitors and other businesses across Bridgend county borough to make a promise to help keep Wales safe.

The promise, or Addo in Welsh, is part of a Visit Wales initiative which asks people to care for each other, for the land and for our communities by doing the little things that together will make a big difference.

The steps include regularly washing hands or using sanitiser, keeping a safe distance from other groups by choosing open spaces and respecting local rules, sticking to paths in the countryside and keeping dogs on leads when needed, and enjoying the best Wales has to offer by supporting local businesses and buying Welsh produce.

Emma Lamport who provides outdoor activities to connect children and families to the coast via the Beach Academy at the Watersports Centre in Rest Bay, Porthcawl, said: “I think it’s really important for businesses to sign to help instil confidence – everyone wants to feel safe and we are certainly finding that parents want to know safety measures are in place.

“As a service provider, anything at the moment that can give confidence and shows to people that you care is important, it’s extremely simple to sign up to and only takes a moment.

“We’ve been open for a couple of weeks and are seeing more and more families venture out – at the watersports centre and on the beach, it’s easy to put all the safety measures in place.”

The Visit Wales scheme is free to join and anyone travelling around Wales is encouraged to get involved by signing the pledge online to ensure Wales is a safe place to visit.

Tracey Miles runs STEER – The Enterprise Academy in Tondu, a 37-acre community project incorporating a Resource and Wellbeing Centre, a forest school, sensory garden, outdoor gym, community café, 14-acre historical woodlands and more. She said: “We would encourage businesses and visitors to sign up to the promise – with the Covid-19 pandemic, these safety measures are key and when it comes to caring for our environment and our communities – it’s exactly what we’re all about.”

Bridgend County Borough Council recently launched a new destination brand and website, promoting places to visit in the area and providing information on activities and available accommodation.

The new platform visitbridgend.co.uk was due to launch ahead of the Easter holidays but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Replacing the BridgendBites website, the new site promotes the sea, summits and scenery of the county borough, featuring a range of activities, accommodation and various places of interest.