Bobservation No. 92: Migrants and Volunteering


Migrants
It seems to me to be quite ridiculous to make ‘illegal’ entry to the United Kingdom penalised without first attempting to find out what skills the migrant might have. Our nation is plagued by shortages of labour in many fields and workers with skills in the building trade, hospitality sector and agriculture for example could well be found within the ranks of such migrants. They may need training to enable them to fit in with our ways of working and talking but I would think human beings who put themselves to such risks as crossing the Channel in a rubber dinghy show a great sense of determination and courage. Eventually they could become useful tax paying citizens.

Fulking Fair
We seem to be getting along very well with the organisation of the fair on Sunday 24 July but still need  helpers. Please give me a shout on 271 or bob.pamrowland@btinternet.com if you have perhaps half a day to give. You will be playing a big part in making the fair possible.

On the market

Three-bedroom house in Poynings

“We are going travelling for 4-6 months and are looking for someone to move into our home from the 1st of July. The resident cat would appreciate you looking after him during your stay. His upkeep costs would be our responsibility.”

Bobservation No. 91: Housing


Rural Housing Support Grants

I understand that the Government is proposing an annual grant of 20% of the rateable value of rural housing for properties with 4 or more bedrooms. This will be the cornerstone of ‘Levelling up’ to ensure that the responsibility of maintaining a large rural property is rewarded. It is not quite clear, as yet, how this will be implemented for billionaires but some sort of compensation for their contribution to society will have to be found to allay public sentiment. Of course, if this comes to fruition it will form a major part of the Conservative manifesto at the next general election. In the event that this will cause a surge in the demand for larger properties, a ‘help to buy’ scheme will be instigated but only for taxpayers in the 40% bracket of Income Tax. (1.4.22)

Bluebells
By the middle/end of April we should have a really good display of bluebells at Furzefield. As it has been in the past 30 years villagers, their families and friends are most welcome to have a walk around. Please take every care to stay on paths and keep children under strict control. Regrettably no dogs. Best if you give us a shout before you come (tel: 271).