Will Mr Burnham’s business rates plan work? Thursday, 3 September, 2026 One of Andy Burnham’s first announcements was a 20 percent cut in business rates for pubs. The proposal is welcome. Although many pubs would still be paying more than they were in 2023 and 2024, because it follows substantial increases in recent years, any reduction will be welcomed by a sector under significant pressure. I used to work in the pub trade and know how significant the fixed cost... Articles for the Herald and Post
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs among losers in Spending Review 11th June 2025 Damian has released the following statement in response to today's Spending Review: “One thing we learned in the Gordon Brown era was: whatever you think about... Local News
Planning and Infrastructure Bill - report stage 9th June 2025 During today's Planning and Infrastructure Bill debate, Damian called again on the government to rethink the housing numbers formula, which doesn't work for... Speeches in Parliament
Bowls weekend rolls into Alton 5th June 2025 The Bowls’ Big Weekend came to Alton last weekend and it was the perfect excuse to spend time on a sunny Sunday afternoon at the excellent Alton Social Bowling... Articles for the Herald and Post
Damian seeks information on hospital land 4th June 2025 Following a recent visit by the Health Minister to Basingstoke Hospital, Damian has called for clarity on whether funding has been secured for the purchase of... Local News
Reporting Back - May 2025 30th May 2025 Click here for the latest edition of Damian's monthly newsletter: May 2025 'Reporting Back' update from Damian Hinds Reporting Back newsletter
From drought to taxes - why farmers need support more than ever 29th May 2025 There are many meetings in Parliament where an organisation or charity or representative group sets out its lobbying points. But recently, something unusual... Articles for the Herald and Post
New sculpture trail opens at Catherington Lith 23rd May 2025 Damian was honoured to be invited to the official opening of the sculpture trail at Catherington Lith, which features oak tree sculptures designed by local... Local News
Habemus papam! 22nd May 2025 “Habemus papam!” – it is the phrase exclaimed as white smoke is seen above the Sistine Chapel: “we have a new pope!”. The 267th pontiff is the latest in a line... Articles for the Herald and Post
Protecting children in a digital age 15th May 2025 Parents today face an unenviable dilemma: trying to protect their children from the harms of the online world, whilst also wanting them to benefit from tech’s... Articles for the Herald and Post
