Local authorities in Wales to be given more powers over short-term lets

6 July 2022
Local authorities in Wales to be given more powers over short-term lets
The Welsh government has announced new measures to control short-term lets, such as holiday homes listed on Airbnb.
It had already been announced that from next year, local councils will have the authority to top up council tax on second homes by 300 per cent.
As part of their co-operation agreement, first minister Mark Drakeford and Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price jointly made the announcement.
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Liverpool City Council refers itself to data watchdog

5 July 2022
Liverpool City Council refers itself to data watchdog
Liverpool City Council has referred itself to the data watchdog due to a potential data breach after 10,000 letters about how to claim energy rebates were sent with the wrong names on them.
New letters have been sent with instructions on how to destroy the originals.
According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has received a referral.
As a result of the breach, the council could receive a fine or an enforcement notice.
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Work begins at two more locations in Kendal Flood Risk Management scheme

5 July 2022
Work begins at two more locations in Kendal Flood Risk Management scheme
Construction is continuing on the Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme, with work set to begin on two more locations.
Part of the multi-million-pound Kendal flood scheme has already been completed by the Environment Agency and contractors VolkerStevin. A section of earth embankment and flood walls will provide improved protection for residents in the Busher Walk and Benson and Sandes area of Kendal.
The riverside footpath has been reopened following the completion of the new flood defences, with some remaining minor works set to be completed soon.
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Jacob Rees-Mogg threatens to remove wellness and diversity training

4 July 2022
Jacob Rees-Mogg threatens to remove wellness and diversity training
Jacob Rees-Mogg, the government's efficiency minister wants to ban some civil service training courses which he has labelled "ridiculous".
In an interview with The Telegraph, he said that courses which he believes are "subject to mockery", in particular diversity and wellness, will be banned and "intelligent, sensible courses" will be available.
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The smart technologies changing port operations

30 June 2022
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A Smart Port is a port that uses automation and innovative technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) to improve its performance. Evolution in ports is needed to meet with the changing demands of global trade: ships are getting bigger; goods are moving faster; and geopolitical issues are creating new challenges for ports. In December last year, a British Ports Association study highlighted the five smart port technologies changing the way UK ports operate for the better