Horseytalk.net/Hoofbeat EXCLUSIVE
RIDER RIGHTS
The Independent Forestry Panel.
We must have an equestrian representative on the Panel
Says Damian Hinds MP
I can understand why you are disappointed by the decision not to have an equestrian representative on the Independent Forestry Panel. However, I hope that those who do serve on the Panel will very much take into account the equestrian viewpoint and I shall be making this point to Ministers.
It is certainly the case that, during the controversy over the Government's earlier proposals, the needs of horse-riders (and cyclists) did receive additional attention and had their profile raised and that at least is a good thing.
Do you think we should have an equestrian representative on the Independent Forestry Panel ?
Vote Yes Vote No
THE BUDGET
How it affects country dwellers
The Countryside Alliance has just produced the following statistics illustrating how a rural commuter's weekly fuel costs will be affected by the Budget.
Their conclusion: Rural commuters will still be paying more for their weekly fuel than they were at the beginning of the year.
Key Facts
Fuel cost post-Budget 2011
Alice Barnard, Chief Executive of the Countryside Alliance, said: "The cut in fuel duty is a token gesture. Unfortunately this does not change the price of fuel significantly and rural commuters will still be paying more to get to work than they were at the beginning of the year."
"High fuel prices and lower disposable incomes mean people living in the countryside are becoming even more isolated. A car is a necessity in rural areas, not a luxury. This Budget could and should have gone further to ease the fuel burden on ordinary families who are struggling."