ASIAN STANDARD LONDON 30 AUG 2024 by Asian Standard News

AROUND 225 FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE DEVASTATING

EAST LONDON BLAZE

By DAVID BASS

A fire has devasted a block of flats in East London in the early hours of this morning.

The fire has now been brought under control by firefighters who arrived quickly at the scene – responding within six minutes.

The fire was so serious that it took 40 fire engines and an estimated 225 fire fighters to battle the blaze, using the latest firefighting technology, including a drone. Four people were treated on scene by the London Ambulance service and two were taken to hospital.

Continued on page 6

Editor's Note

In the past week an intersection of arts, culture, and economics took center stage, showcasing how entertainment can significantly impact the economy and public wellbeing.

Taylor Swift's recent tour has been nothing short of a phenomenon, with reports suggesting her concert has boosted the London economy by nearly £1 billion. According to a Barclays report from May, Swift's Eras Tour is set to drive substantial UK spending this year, with London hosting more shows than any other city globally.

Beyond just ticket sales, Swift’s brand generates extensive economic activity through merchandise and various deals, highlighting the massive influence of top-tier entertainment on local economies.

In a similar vein, the arts scene in London is further energised by Bollywood and Punjabi music. The rising popularity of Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh exemplifies this trend. Due to overwhelming demand, Dosanjh has added a third London date to his Dil-Luminati Tour, with a performance scheduled at the O2 Arena on October 18, joining

previouslyannounceddatesinearlyOctober. This demonstratesthegrowingappetitefor livemusic,despitehighticketpricesreaching upto£700.

TheUK’slivemusicindustryiswitnessinga surge, Septemberalonewillfeature performancesfromAsianmusicstarslike KaranAujla,AtifAslam,andB-Praak.This vibrantlineupsuggestsa robustdemandfor liveentertainment,potentiallyfueledbythe pent-upexcitementfrompandemic-era cancellations.

Whetherthistrendrepresentsa temporary surgeora lastingshiftinentertainment consumption,onethingisclear:theartsand culturesectorplaysa vitalroleinboththe economyandmentalwell-being.Aswe navigatethecost-of-livingcrisis,thejoyand economicbenefitsoflivemusicremain important,offeringa much-neededescape anda boosttolocaleconomies.Enjoythe culturalfestivitiesandthesenseof communitytheyfoster.

Fa

timaPatel

EditorASNews

@editorasnews

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WhatsApp introduces username PIN feature to combat spam in latest Beta

In its latest beta release, WhatsApp is introducing a significant privacy feature designed to address one of the platform’s most persistent issues-spam.

The new feature, available in the beta version 2.24.18.2 for Android, introduces a Username PIN system aimed at improving user security and curbing unwanted messages, according to GSM Arena.

This new functionality allows WhatsApp users to set a four-digit PIN in addition to their username.

The PIN serves as an extra layer of security, ensuring that users who have not interacted with you previously cannot send you messages solely by knowing your username.

This measure is expected to significantly reduce spam and enhance privacy for WhatsApp users, according to GSM Arena.

"Once implemented, this feature should greatly cut down on spam, which has been a prevalent issue on WhatsApp," said a spokesperson for the company, according to GSM Arena.

The PIN feature will

require anyone who wishes to message you for the first time to know both your username and the PIN you have set.

Conversely, conversations with contacts you have previously interacted with will remain unaffected by the new username and PIN system.

The transition to using usernames will be seamless for these existing connections, allowing current chats to proceed as usual.

Despite the promising benefits of this new feature, it remains in the beta testing phase, and there is no confirmed timeline for its official release.

Given WhatsApp’s typical development cycle, it may be some time before the username and PIN features are available to the general public, with a launch potentially not occurring before the end of the year, according to GSM Arena.

As WhatsApp continues to refine this feature, users are encouraged to stay updated on the progress through future beta releases.

The introduction of the Username PIN marks a proactive step by WhatsApp in addressing privacy concerns and improving the overall user experience on the platform.

Unsplash

MCLAREN unveils 2025 750S model with enhanced customisation options

McLaren has announced the 2025 model year specifications for its acclaimed 750S supercar, which succeeded the award-winning 720S in 2023. The latest iteration introduces enhanced customization options and vibrant visual personalisations, including new content packs developed by McLaren Special Operations (MSO).

The new MSO Contrast Packs allow customers to personalize their 750S with unique craftsmanship. Known for its bespoke paint colours and meticulous design, MSO offers 12 pre-configured themes for these packs, with additional combinations available upon request. Contrast Pack 1 includes a selection of exclusive MSO Bespoke paints, such as Volcano Red, Tokyo Pearl, and Alaskan Diamond White, which are not available as standard colours. It also features a bespoke paint for the brake calipers and a unique pinstripe effect on the door mirror caps, offering matching or contrasting colours based on the chosen body paint.

For those seeking further personalisation, Contrast Pack 2 adds bespoke interior treatments to the exterior features of Pack 1. This includes full Alcantara upholstery in Carbon Black, colourful interior accents, and MSO motif headrests that complement or contrast with the selected paint colour.

The 2025 750S also sees an expanded range of standard options, including Stealth badging with black McLaren badges and a black Speedmark on each wheel center cap. New Body Colour Carbon Fibre Front Fenders with Gloss Visual Carbon Fibre Louvres are now available as separate line-fit choices. Additionally, the Stop/Start button now comes in Papaya Orange, McLaren Racing’s traditional color.

George Biggs, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at McLaren Automotive, praised the 750S’s success and highlighted the new enhancements from MSO as ensuring the supercar remains a benchmark in its class.

The 2025 McLaren 750S, along with the new Artura Spider, coupe, and GTS, is now available for order at McLaren’s global network of over 100 retailers across 40 markets. Customers can also arrange a virtual spec session with MSO for

Channel breaks records with 14million subscribers in under 24 Hours!

Cristiano Ronaldo’s new YouTube channel, UR Cristiano, has set a new benchmark in the digital world, amassing 14 million subscribers in less than 24 hours. The football legend announced the launch on social media, triggering a wave of excitement that saw 1 million fans subscribing within the first 90 minutes and soaring to 4 million in just four hours. The channel provides an exclusive look into Ronaldo’s life, passions, and interests, and with his vast global influence and loyal following across all social media platforms, UR Cristiano is poised for explosive growth.

Cartoon Network closes its website, signalling the end of an era in animated entertainment

After years of captivating audiences young and old, Cartoon Network has officially shut down its website, marking the end of an iconic chapter in animated entertainment. Known for its beloved shows like The Powerpuff Girls, Dexter’s Laboratory, and Adventure Time, Cartoon Network has been a cornerstone of childhood for generations since its inception.

The closure of the website underscores a significant shift in the media landscape, as viewers increasingly favour streaming

platforms over traditional websites for their content. Despite this change, Cartoon Network’s impact on pop culture and the cherished memories it created for millions remain indelible. Fans around the world are reminiscing about their favourite moments and celebrating the legacy of a network that brought unparalleled joy and creativity to screens everywhere. While the website may be gone, the spirit of Cartoon Network lives on through its unforgettable characters and stories.

Three jailed for the murder of Hamzah Iqbal in Wembley

commendation.

Three men have been jailed for a total of more than 70 years for the murder of a man in Wembley Ali Al-Amiri, 21, of Wyld Way, Brent, Joshua Oladele, 20, of Wyld Way, Brent, and Micah Hines, 21 of Victoria Avenue, Brent, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Wednesday, 28 August and were sentenced to life imprisonment.

Oladele was sentenced to life imprisonment, to serve a minimum of 28 years. Hines was sentenced to life imprisonment, to serve a minimum of 25 years, and Al-Amiri was sentenced to life imprisonment, to serve a minimum of 24 years.

Officers investigating the murder were recognised for the detail and attention that had been given to this case and all involved with the trial were issued with a Judge’s

The three men, who armed themselves with weapons before fatally stabbing 25-year-old Hamzah Iqbal in Wembley were all convicted following a trial at the same court on Tuesday, 20 August

The court heard how Hamzah was attacked when he was out with friends in Olympic Way on the evening of 24 September 2023. The three defendants had gone out that night armed with knives and machetes, and were wearing masks. Why Hamzah was singled out has never been established, but he was attacked with a sustained ferocity by all three defendants, suffering 23 knife wounds, one of which ended his life.

Officers and the London Ambulance Service rushed to the scene and Hamzah was taken to hospital, but despite the best efforts of the

emergency services he could not be saved.

Detectives began to piece together the events of that evening, compiling footage from a painstaking trawl of CCTV, which led to the identification and arrest of the suspects.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, who led the investigation, said: “This was a ferocious sustained attack by three men that left Hamzah with no opportunity to defend himself.

His family is devastated by their loss and their lives are forever changed by the actions of three violent thugs.

“Those three men went out armed with weapons that evening, the only conclusion that can be made is that they had set out that evening intent on violence. Our investigation team worked hard to build a case against the defendants,

ensuring that they would face the consequences of their actions.

“Although nothing can bring Hamzah back, it is my sincere

hope that his family find a measure of solace in knowing that those responsible for his death will now spend many years of their lives behind bars ”

JAILED: L-R Ali Alamari, Joshua Oladele, Micah Hines

By HEBA ABDULLA

Met Police

Around 225 firefighters battle

By DAVID BASS

In an official statement from the London Fire Brigade, London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe described the scene:

“The first crew arrived within five minutes and the second crew arrived within six minutes. To allow us to focus our resources on the incident, we declared a major incident, which has now been stood down.”

Although everyone has so far been accounted for, the area was cordoned off and over 100 residents evacuated to a local sports centre. The fire took place at the Spectrum Building in Freshwater Road in Dagenham.

Although at the time of writing the exact cause of the fire is still unknown, there has been issues with the buildings cladding, which was in the process of being removed.

Speaking on the Twitter / X platform, London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe talked of the dedication and bravery of the services that tackled the situation:

“I’m immensely grateful to crews and officers who have operated in dangerous conditions to rescue people and bring the incident under control.”

The Asian Standard talked with local residents and a business owner – all of whom have family in the flats, about their experiences.

Shafiul, who lives near the building, talked of his horror as the situation unfolded:

“It’s come as a shock. My

son’s nursery is on the ground floor. From the pictures that I have seen it’s completely wiped out the inside, the playground outside as well

The fire took place during the night, so luckily the nursery was

empty. I first heard helicopters and multiple fire engines around 2AM.

From what I have heard, everyone has been evacuated.

My son started his nursery back in November, A month or two

Thomas Matthew is another local resident whose brother and family live in the flats. Thomas spoke to the Asian Standard while carrying bags full of supplies to help his brother and family.

“I think it may have been an issue with the cladding. My brother has an apartment there.”

later scaffolding started going on to replace the cladding, because of fire safety. The nursery did notify me that there are some fire issues within the building, but I don’t know much more than that.”

When asked to recount his experience of the emergency, he continued: “My brother called me at about half two in the morning, saying that there is a fire in the building, I’m coming out of the building, please help me. I live five minutes down the road in my house.

“I saw my brother in his trousers only, with his wife and his baby in his arms.

“At first the fire seemed quite low on the building, in around five minutes time the fire engine came, and by then the flames went all the way to the top.

“He came out into the corridor, there wasn’t any smoke – it was OK to walk around. The fire seemed to happen outside of the building, not inside. He saw the flames though the window. The firemen knocked on the

and

doors

got everyone out quickly.”

Around 40 fire engines and 225 firefighters battle fire in East London

Horrific fire destroys building in Dagenham

Resident Shafiul shares his son’s nursery has been ‘wiped out’ by the fire

Thomas Mathew received a call from his brother at 2:30 am about a fire. His brother escaped with his wife and baby, wearing only his trousers

Supplies Matthew was carrying for his brothers family

David Bass

David Bass for RFMP

devastating East London blaze

visit my daughter – everything seemed OK.”

“In the morning, when we came to set up the shop we noticed a big fire over there in a street near our shop. My daughter used to live in the flats but has left around two weeks ago. The fire brigade and police arrived very quickly.” He told Asian Standard “There had been some construction there, with scaffolding for around six months, but we didn’t really know what was going on. I have been in the building a few times to

Residents have been evacuated to a ‘rest centre’ at Becontree Health and Leisure centre, with fire brigade officers and members of community support teams stationed there to provide care and support.

Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has spoken out on the situation and even visited Becontree Leisure Centre in East London, where people made homeless by the major fire incident in Dagenham are being temporarily housed and supported by police, council and fire brigade representatives.

She told reporters:

“It was incredibly horrific to see the level of damage to the flats, but also heroic to see the front-line emergency workers that were here on the scene –on a bank holiday, in the early morning, making sure that they got everyone out safely while they got the fire under control.”

Commenting on the issue of

the fire safety of the flats, Ms Rayner stated: “We still have far too many buildings that have got this cladding on that needs to be removed and there’s a responsibility to make sure that that is removed as quickly as possible.”

Ms Rayner stated that she will be meeting with safety regulators to “press home the urgency to make sure that the work is done”

Habib Bajwa is the manager of a local shop, Stop and Go Groceries.

Shopkeeper Habib Bajwa shares his horror and relief his daughter moved out, before the fire

David Bass

Angela Rayner visits victims of fire 27 Aug

Fire in Dagenham East London

Upcoming Asian Achievers Awards reveals several notable figures on the shortlist

The 22nd Asian Achievers Awards, the UK’s most highly regarded celebration of South Asian success, is set to take place on 20 September 2024, at Hilton Park Lane, London. These awards have recognised the outstanding contributions of the South Asian community across various fields since their inception in 2000.

Supported by media partners Lyca Radio, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, the Asian Achievers Awards aim to honour the achievements of South Asians in leadership roles spanning politics, business, arts, and civil society.

“The Asian Achievers Awards aim to celebrate Asian excellence across the UK. They harbour a special place in the community, documenting our growth and contribution to life in the country over the last two decades,” said Pratik Dattani, Managing Director of EPG. “We have been impressed

by the breadth and calibre of nominations from across the country that came in this year, which show quite how extensive our positive contribution is across all aspects of British life.”

This year’s shortlist reflects a diverse array of talent and achievement, from business executives to sports personalities and media figures. Notable figures on the shortlist include Managing Director of Apollo Tyres Neeraj Kanwar, the founders of Indian street food café Chaiiwala, singer Abi Sampa, television doctor Dr Nighat Arif, and Leicester City footballer Hamza Choudhury. They were selected from over 500 nominations, narrowed down to four candidates per category ensuring equal representation of male and female achievers.

The judging panel for the 2024 Awards boasts a distinguished lineup, including Umer Khan OBE, Commander of City of London Police; and Lubna Shuja,

Immediate Past President of the Law Society of England and Wales and Myles Stacey OBE former advisor to Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak. Their collective expertise and diverse backgrounds embody the spirit of the Awards, ensuring that the winners truly represent the pinnacle of South Asian

achievement in the UK.

Winners will be revealed at the gala ceremony on Friday, September 20 2024. This event promises to be an evening of celebration, honouring the extraordinary accomplishments of South Asians who continue to shape the UK’s cultural, economic, and social landscape.

National polls show significant rise in anti-Muslim rhetoric in the UK since 7 October

Tell MAMA commissioned a poll of 550 British Muslims in July 2024 to assess perceptions around anti-Muslim prejudice and to assess what the impacts of anti-Muslim hate have been on Muslims post 7 October and the subsequent conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The Survation poll was conducted between 15 July 2024 and 29 July 2024. It involved 550 British Muslims of Shia and Sunni theological backgrounds. The survey was representative of the British Muslim population to targets drawn from the Office for National Statistics, representative of age, sex and regional distributions.

The Tell MAMA Commissioned Poll demonstrated several key findings, including that 60% of the participants surveyed believed anti-Muslim hate in British society has increased over the past year. 27% of British Muslims surveyed said that they had experienced an anti-Muslim hate incident in the last year. There has also been a 300% increase in verbal abuse and antiMuslim prejudice against British Muslims since 7 October 2023.

The Tell MAMA commissioned Survation data backs up the academic reports of Tell MAMA, in that verbal anti-Muslim abuse against British Muslims has

increased and key locations where the abuse takes place includes ‘at a street level’, on public transport and worryingly, within work environments. 22% of those who had experienced incidents of verbal abuse experienced it in the workplace or other institutions.

The report demonstrates why ‘Third Party services’ like Tell MAMA

are important and where individuals can report physical and online antiMuslim attacks against them. Third Party hate crime reporting services provide members of the public with another avenue through which they can report in anti-Muslim hate and organisations like Tell MAMA help to support access to justice for victims by linking them into relevant forces,

assisting in collecting relevant evidence and in advocating for victims.

Nearly 69% of British Muslims who received verbal attacks, did not report these into the police, authorities or third-party services. This demonstrates that more work needs to be done by all to demonstrate how reporting in can

ensure access to justice for victims of anti-Muslim hate or Islamophobia. These findings point to a significant number of British Muslims who have suffered antiMuslim abuse and hate in the last year. The poll also points to verbal abuse that has taken place at a street level, on public transport and in the workplace.

The findings also show that perceptions within British Muslims, of anti-Muslim prejudice in British society, are increasing allied with a sense of feeling uneasy about their personal safety. The inverse correlation is understandable given the tensions felt by British Muslims since 7 October 2023.

“These findings demonstrate that British Muslims feel a sense of trepidation and a growing sense of the toxic nature of anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia,” said Iman Atta OBE, Director of Tell MAMA. “This is even before the recent events and the attacks on mosques like Southport mosque by members of the far right. We have a real problem now and that is entrenched anti-Muslim hate in the minds of some in our communities. We need to actively and pro-actively challenge this hate wherever and whenever we come across it through peaceful dialogue, engagement and law enforcement where necessary”.

By HEBA ABDULLA

Ariana Abawe

Dr Nighat Aif

Hamza Choudhury Wikipedia

Asian Achievers Awards

Charity Tell Mama says Islamophobia is on the rise

Alexandros Michailidis-Shutterstock.com

Netflix offers £30k funding for aspiring documentarians

By HEBA ABDULLA

At the Edinburgh Television Festival on 21 August, Netflix announced that the Documentary Talent Fund will return for its third year in a bid to provide opportunities for underrepresented filmmakers in the UK and Ireland.

The opportunity will be open to everyone and will give five filmmakers and their teams the chance to make a short documentary film with a budget of £30,000 each. All teams will be under the guidance of Netflix and other filmmaking professionals.

In the first two years of the fund 15 short films have been produced with over 60 festival screenings. Iranian Yellow Pages, made by Anna Snowball & Abolfazl Talooni, and Black Stroke, a film by Olivia Smart have been shortlisted for Best Documentary Short at this year’s Grierson Awards – with the latter also receiving a nomination for the Broadcast Digital Award for Best Short Form Documentary 2024.

Two Mothers, a film by Anna Rogers and Zlata Filipovic, won Best Documentary at FastNet film festival. Turn Up The Bass, directed by Ted Evans and executive produced by Caroline Williamson, has had seven festival acceptances, whilst Love Languages, directed by Jason Osbourne made last year’s BAFTA Longlist for British Short

Film. Filmmakers have also gone on to make their first features, been nominated for numerous other awards and become BAFTA Connect members.

“For this third year of the initiative we will be focusing our search on directors and producers who truly want to work in, and remain, in the documentary field,” said Kate Townsend, Director Documentary Features. “We are looking to nurture and empower the future generation of documentarians and help support them in the next stages of their careers.”

Throughout the year, the chosen teams will take part in Netflix hosted workshops covering all aspects of production including legal, creative, HR, production and finance. In their finished forms, each documentary must be between 8-12 minutes long and will live on

Netflix See What’s Next YouTube Channel. The brief for these short documentaries is “You’re never gonna believe this…” Molinare will be supporting teams by providing their worldclass postproduction services at a reduced cost, plus access to their Online post facilities. Entries are open 21 August and will close on 27 September 2024. For the first round, applicants will be required to submit a logline (one sentence); a short synopsis and a creative statement about their documentary idea. The final docs will be launched in June 2025 and will be showcased at an event attended by industry figures to help our talent expand their networks and advance their careers.

Further details on how to apply can be found at

30k funding from Netflix for aspiring documentarians

Iranian Yellow Pages short film, one of 15 funded films is now in the shortlist for Best Documentary Short at Grierson Awards 2024

Netflix UK HQ

Image: Jakob Owens, Unsplash

Top 10 nominees revealed for exciting Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards

By HEBA ABDULLA

Shortlisted restaurants and takeaways have been unveiled for the annual Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA), which this year will be taking place on 6 October at London’s Royal Lancaster.

Hosted by Samantha Simmonds, BBC Journalist and Broadcaster, and Paul Martin, Magician and member of the world-famous Magic Circle, the awards are in recognition of the UK’s best Asian cuisine across a series of regional and national categories. ARTA rewards excellence, craft, creativity and great taste by bringing the UK’s best Asian restaurants and chefs together under one roof.

Nominees were chosen based on nominations by customers

from across the UK, including over 900,000 customers of ARTA’s strategic partner ChefOnline, social media and food hygiene ratings, followed by a final judgement from a judging panel to crown each region’s Asian excellence. The process will conclude at the Grand Finale and Gala Evening, where the ultimate winners will be

announced and honoured with awards in various categories. From the National Champion of the Champions, Regional Restaurant of the Year and National and Regional Chefs of the Year to National and Regional Takeaway of the Year and National Newcomer of The Year, ARTA will spotlight over 1,250 restaurants and

takeaways across the UK that were nominated by restaurantgoers and diners from all over the country.

The UK’s curry industry contribution accounts for a fifth of the restaurants in the UK dating back to the 1800s. ARTA awards celebrate and recognise Britain’s vibrant Asian restaurants and takeaways and offer solidarity and morale for the industry currently facing high energy costs, inflation, skilled staff shortages and the rising prices of raw materials.

“Asian restaurants and takeaways have made a significant contribution to the UK economy, both historically and in recent times. They deserve recognition and rewards for their efforts,” said Mohammed Munim, Founder Member and CEO of ARTA. “These restaurants & takeaways have not only created thousands of jobs but have also boosted local economies through their presence, especially post Brexit. Each nominee is a worthy winner, and we look forward to celebrating with them all at the award ceremony.”

COLUMN

CAN I OFFSET CAPITAL GAINS TAX WHEN SELLING MY BUY-TO-LET?

Ilyas Patel is an entrepreneurial tax advisor with an expert knowledge of ground-breaking tax saving tools. Being a businessman himself, he has years of experience dealing with tax issues and with HMRC. For more information visit www.taxexpert.co.uk or call 01772 788200

When it comes to selling a buy-to-let property, the goal for most landlords is to reduce their tax liability as much as possible.

A common query is whether the costs incurred in running the property, such as utilities and local rates, can be deducted from Capital Gains Tax (CGT).

The answer, while straightforward, highlights the importance of understanding property-related tax rules.

REVENUE VS CAPITAL EXPENDITURE – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

expenditure relates to costs that add value to the property.

This includes significant improvements like extensions, renovations, or the fees involved in purchasing and selling the property, such as estate agent commissions, legal fees, and stamp duty.

These expenses are directly linked to the property’s value and can be deducted from your gains when calculating CGT.

WHY CAN’T UTILITIES AND LOCAL RATES BE DEDUCTED FROM CGT?

When you own and manage a rental property, you incur various expenses.

These expenses generally fall into two categories: revenue expenditure and capital expenditure.

The distinction between the two is crucial when it comes to tax relief.

REVENUE EXPENDITURE

Revenue expenses are the ongoing costs of running your rental property.

This includes utilities, council tax, and general maintenance. These costs can be deducted from your rental income to reduce your income tax liability. However, they do not affect your CGT calculation when you eventually sell the property. Essentially, revenue expenditure is linked to the operation of your rental business rather than the property’s value.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Utility bills, local rates, and other running costs are considered revenue expenses.

Since they are associated with the day-to-day operation of your rental business, they are deductible from your rental income but not from your capital gains.

When you sell the property, these costs do not reduce the gain you’ve made from the property’s appreciation, which is the basis for your CGT liability.

WHAT EXPENSES CAN REDUCE YOUR CGT?

To lower your CGT bill, you can deduct several key capital costs:

 Purchase Costs: This includes the original price paid for the property and associated costs like stamp duty and legal fees.

 Selling Costs: Costs incurred during the sale of the property, such as estate agent fees, legal fees, and advertising costs.

 Capital Improvements: Any significant enhancements to

the property that add to its value, such as a new kitchen, an extension, or structural repairs. These improvements are not just repairs or replacements; they must add value to the property to qualify as capital expenses.

By carefully documenting these costs and ensuring they meet HMRC’s criteria for capital expenditure, you can substantially reduce the capital gain on which you’ll be taxed.

THE ROLE OF ANNUAL EXEMPTIONS AND CGT

RATES

In addition to deducting allowable expenses, every taxpayer is entitled to an annual CGT exemption.

For the tax year 2025, this exemption stands at £3,000, meaning the first £3,000 of your gains are tax-free.

Any gain above this threshold will be taxed according to your income tax bracket.

For residential property gains, basic-rate taxpayers pay 18% CGT, while higher and additional-rate taxpayers are charged at 24%.

TIMELINE FOR REPORTING THE DISPOSAL

From the date of completion of the sale, you have 60 days to report the disposal to HMRC and pay any CGT owed.

This 60-day reporting period is mandatory for residential property sales where CGT is due.

The reporting is done through the “Capital Gains Tax on UK property” service, which is accessible online via HMRC’s website.

FAILURE TO REPORT WITHIN 60 DAYS: PENALTIES

If you fail to report the disposal within the 60-day period, HMRC will impose penalties. The penalties are structured as follows:

 Late Filing Penalty: An initial £100 fine is imposed immediately after the 60-day deadline passes.

 Additional Penalties: If the report is more than 6 months late, further penalties are charged. This includes a fine of £300 or 5% of the tax due, whichever is greater.

 Further Delays: If the report is more than 12 months late, another £300 or 5% of the tax due is added, whichever is greater. Additionally, HMRC may charge daily penalties for prolonged delays.

SUMMARY

While you can’t offset running costs like utilities and local rates against your Capital Gains Tax, understanding which expenditures qualify as capital expenses can help you reduce your tax bill significantly. By maximising allowable deductions, taking advantage of your annual exemption, and properly planning your sale, you can ensure that you pay only what is necessary.

The Rise of

From Humble Beginnings to Bollywood Stardom

Shraddha Kapoor

KATE WINSLET'S new project is 'THE SPOT'

Hollywood star Kate Winslet will be soon in a series titled 'The Spot'.

As per Variety, Ed Solomon is the writer of the show.

The official logline of 'The Spot' read, "When a successful surgeon (Winslet) and her schoolteacher husband begin to suspect that she may be responsible for a child's hit-and-run death, their quest for truth spirals into a web of mounting suspicion and dark secrets, testing their resolve and their relationship as they confront

the possibility of hidden guilt and betrayal."

Solomon serves as writer, executive producer, and showrunner of "The Spot." Winslet will executive produce in addition to starring under her Juggle Productions banner.

Winslet was most recently starred in the HBO limited series "The Regime." Previously, she starred in the HBO limited series "Mare of Easttown," for which she won the Emmy Award for best actress in a limited series.

SUNIEL SHETTY begins shooting for 'HUNTER 2'

How RAJKUMMAR RAO coped up after being dropped from films

Actor Rajkummar Rao, who has recently delivered the blockbuster 'Stree 2', has opened up about the times when he was replaced or dropped from projects. There have been instances when the actor was dropped from projects for some or the other reason. However, the actor has said that such instances don't highlight his but the failure of those makers.

Rajkummar recently appeared on 'The Longest Interview' podcast by Audible, and said, "There were a couple of times when everything was going well, but then I was dropped from the film for some reason. That wasn't my failure; it was theirs for not handling it properly. Those experiences taught me to always be prepared".

He further mentioned that looking back, he realised it might have been for the best-- either the film never got made, or the character wasn't impactful.

"I believe that when the universe is guiding you, everything falls into place", he shared. He also spoke about how he manifested to work on 'Kai Po Che'.

Actor Suniel Shetty is all set to come up with season 2 of the action thriller series 'Hunter'. He shared a glimpse of the shooting.

Taking to Instagram story, Suniel re-shared director Prince Dhiman's post featuring the clapboard of the series.

The first season of action thriller stars Suniel Shetty in the lead as A.C.P Vikram Sinha, and Esha Deol, Rahul Dev, Barkha Bisht, Mihir Ahuja, Teena Singh, Chahat Tejwani, Karanvir Sharma, Siddharth Kher, Gargi Sawant and Pawan Chopra in pivotal roles.

The 8-part episodic series is produced by Yoodlee Films - the film division of Saregama India Limited and directed by Prince Dhiman & Alok Batra.

Meanwhile, Suniel has a lot of exciting projects lined up in his kitty.

From 'Welcome 3' to 'The Legend of Somnath', Suniel will be seen in varied roles in upcoming projects.

Speaking with ANI, he shared, " In the coming months, I will be seen in 'The Legend of Somnath'. I am quite excited about it. The film has already been made...only some VFX work is pending...I also have 'Welcome to the Jungle' and also a show 'Nanda Devi' with Lionsgate'."

If reports are to be believed, 'Nanda Devi' is an "explosive thriller" project.In a career of over three decades, Shetty has starred in movies such as "Dilwale", "Mohra", "Gopi Kishan", "Krishna", "Vinashak", "Dhadkan", "Hera Pheri" films, "Hulchul" and "Main Hoon Na".

Fans are eagerly waiting to see him reuniting with actor Akshay Kumar in 'Welcome to the Jungle'. The film is the third installment of the hit franchise 'Welcome' which starred Feroz Khan, Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar and Paresh Rawal in the lead roles. The second instalment, titled 'Welcome Back', was released in 2015.

Actors John Abraham and Shruti Haasan replaced Akshay and Katrina in the second part. Both films were helmed by Anees Bazmee.'Welcome 3' will arrive in theatres this December. The third part was announced on Akshay's birthday last year with a promo.

Sharing the video, Akshay Kumar wrote, "Khud ko aur aap sab ko ek birthday gift diya hai aaj (Have given a birthday gift to myself and you all). If you like it and say thanks, I'd say Welcome(3) #WelcomeToTheJungle. In cinemas, Christmas - 20th December 2024. Welcome 3."

Why SELENA GOMEZ was 'nervous' to join the cast of 'ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING'

Actress-singer Selena Gomez has revealed that she was "nervous" about joining the cast of her comedy-drama streaming series, 'Only Murders In The Building'.

Selena made her name as a teenager with the leading role of 'Wizards of Waverly Place' but carved out a pop career in the years that followed, reports Female First UK. However, when she gave her nod to star in the Apple+ series alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short, it proved to be a major comeback to the small screen for her. Selena, who has been nominated for an Emmy for her role in 'Only Murders In The Building', told Extra: "I was nervous. This was my second TV show that I'd ever done. I was really excited, but I have to be genuine. The first day we shot I felt I could take a deep breath because I knew I was in good company."

As per Female First UK, the actress-singer is also a part of the reboot of 'Wizards of Waverly Place'. However, she will be seen serving as an executive producer for the show, and will also appear in the first episode as she prepares to return to the role of Alex Russo on the magical show, admitted that she is "honoured" to be going back to her roots.

She said: "It took years, honestly. It was just an idea and then after probably four years we came up with an idea. I was immediately on board, and I can't wait to bring this show to a whole new generation. And I'm honoured to pay homage to where I started."

Selena's Emmy nomination is the first time she has been up for any major award in the field of television and recently revealed that she had no clue about her sudden career milestone until her friend texted her.

VIJAY DEVERAKONDA jokes about 'Full cut' release as 'Arjun Reddy' turns 7

The Telugu film industry celebrated a significant milestone on the 7th anniversary of the release of 'Arjun Reddy', a film that catapulted actor Vijay Deverakonda and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga to fame.

Amy Jackson, Ed Westwick say 'I Do'

Actors Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick have officially tied the knot, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

The couple delighted their fans by sharing the first official pictures from their picturesque wedding held in Italy, offering a glimpse into their magical day.

Amy Jackson looked absolutely radiant in a classic white gown that featured an ethereal veil cascading elegantly to the floor.

She carried a delicate bouquet of white roses, complementing the serene and sophisticated ambience of the ceremony.

Ed Westwick matched her grace in a white suit.

Their joint Instagram post included a pair of photos from the event, capturing both the splendid decor and their tender moments.

The first image showcased the wedding venue, adorned with an abundance of white flowers, creating a dreamy and romantic setting.

Ed was seen holding Amy close, their love palpable in the intimate shot. The second image presented the couple gazing directly at the camera, exuding joy and excitement.

The caption read, "The journey has just begun."

The couple's engagement in January was equally charming, with Ed's surprise proposal leaving Amy overjoyed.

They also hosted an engagement dinner party in London, where Amy was seen arriving with her son Andreas, from her previous relationship with George Panayiotou.

Amy Jackson made her relationship with 'Gossip Girl' actor Ed Westwick Instagram official in 2022.

Both Deverakonda and Vanga took to social media to reflect on the film's enduring impact and their personal connection to the project.

Released in 2017, 'Arjun Reddy' is renowned for its bold storytelling and intense performances.

The film, which stars Vijay Deverakonda as the volatile surgeon Arjun Reddy Deshmukh, delves into themes of love, addiction, and self-destruction. It was a commercial success and has since been regarded as a modern classic in Telugu cinema.

To commemorate the anniversary, Vijay Deverakonda shared a series of behindthe-scenes photos from the film's set on Instagram and X.

He humorously urged director Sandeep Reddy Vanga to release a "full cut" of the film for its 10th anniversary, writing, "Give the people 'The SandeepVanga #ArjunReddy full cut' for the 10 years anniversary @imvangasandeep! I cannot believe it is 7 years already, remember so many moments as if it was last year." In response, Sandeep Reddy Vanga expressed his sentiment by noting how much he misses working with Deverakonda.

He replied to him on X, "Vijay.... for sure we should make it for the 10th anniversary. Missing you more today. #7YearsOfArjunReddy."

The film's success led to a Hindi remake, 'Kabir Singh' where Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani took on the lead roles, which was a blockbuster hit.

The Rise of

Shraddha Kapoor:

From Humble Beginnings to Bollywood Stardom

Shraddha Kapoor, one of India’s most beloved and highest-paid actresses, has carved out a remarkable career in Bollywood. Known for her versatility, charm, and hard work, Kapoor has become a household name, capturing the hearts of millions across the globe. Her journey from a young girl with big dreams to a leading lady in Hindi cinema is a testament to her dedication and passion for the craft.

EARLY LIFE AND INITIAL STRUGGLES

Born into a family with strong ties to the film industry, Shraddha Kapoor is the daughter of the famous actor Shakti Kapoor. Despite her father’s reputation, Shraddha was determined to make a name for herself through her talent and hard work. At just 16 years old, she was offered a role opposite Salman Khan in "Lucky: No Time For Love." However, she chose to decline the offer to focus on her education, a decision that speaks volumes about her commitment to her personal growth.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Shraddha once said, “I felt that at the age of 15 or 16, I was too young and wanted to finish schooling and attend college. I don’t think getting offers back then has defined my success. But it was difficult to turn it down and focus on studies because it was such a fantastic opportunity to work with Salman Khan.”

BREAKING INTO BOLLYWOOD

Shraddha Kapoor made her acting debut in the 2010 heist film "Teen Patti," where she had a brief role that earned her a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Female Debut. Following this, she landed her first leading role in the teen drama "Luv Ka The End" (2011). Despite her initial films not achieving commercial success, Shraddha did not lose heart. Her determination to prove herself kept her moving forward.

Her big break came in 2013 with the romantic musical "Aashiqui 2," where she played the role of Arohi, a singer whose love story struck a chord with the audience. The film was a massive commercial success and earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. This was the turning point in her career, and there was no looking back for Shraddha Kapoor after this breakthrough performance.

A VERSATILE PERFORMER

Over the years, Shraddha has showcased her versatility by taking on a wide range of roles. From the girl-next-door to a bold and brazen dancer, she has captivated audiences with her performances. Her portrayal of a character inspired by Ophelia in Vishal Bhardwaj’s critically acclaimed drama "Haider" (2014) further solidified her position as a serious actress in the industry.

Shraddha’s ability to adapt to different roles has made her a favorite among filmmakers and audiences alike. Her recent pairing with Ranbir Kapoor in "Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar" has created a buzz, with their on-screen chemistry expected to be a hit with viewers.

A HIDDEN TALENT: THE SINGING SENSATION

Beyond acting, Shraddha Kapoor is also a classically trained singer, a talent that has added another layer to her artistic persona. She lent her voice to several songs in her movies, with tracks like "Galliyan" from "Ek Villain" and "Bezubaan Phir Se" from "ABCD 2" becoming instant hits. Her soothing voice has won her praise from fans and critics alike, establishing her as a multi-talented star in Bollywood.

OFF-SCREEN CHARM AND PERSONAL LIFE

Shraddha Kapoor’s appeal extends beyond her onscreen performances. She is known for her down-to-earth personality and her genuine interactions with fans and colleagues. This approachability has made her popular with both celebrities in the industry and the general public. Her love for animals, especially dogs, is welldocumented, and she often shares her affection for her furry friends on social media. She also has a strong work ethic, once famously working for 72 hours straight to complete a film shoot.

AN INSPIRING JOURNEY

From her early days working in a coffee shop to becoming one of Bollywood’s most soughtafter actresses, Shraddha Kapoor’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. Her rise to fame has been marked by hard work, resilience, and a passion for storytelling. She continues to charm audiences with her performances and remains a beloved figure in the film industry. As Shraddha Kapoor moves forward in her career, her story serves as a reminder that with perseverance and dedication, dreams can indeed become reality.

Review:

Hilarious Khel Khel Mein, a nostalgic throwback

to classic Bollywood comedy

Cast:

Akshay Kumar, Vaani Kapoor, Taapsee Pannuu, Ammy Virk, Fardeen Khan, Pragya Jaiswal, Maahi Jain and Aditya Seal.

Director:

Mudassar Aziz

Platform: Out in cinemas since 15 August

Akshay Kumar's charismatic and mischievous persona makes a triumphant return in the comedy

Khel Khel Mein, a film that delivers a hearty blend of laughs, drama, and a touch of emotion. In this multi-starrer, Akshay, sporting his dashing salt-and-pepper look, fully embodies the role of Rishab, a plastic surgeon whose life takes a hilarious turn during a game night with friends.

Mudassar Aziz's direction and writing are at the forefront of this entertaining adaptation of the Italian hit Perfect Strangers. While the concept may be fresh to Hindi film audiences, it has already captivated international viewers. Yet, Aziz manages to infuse this familiar premise with enough originality and humor to keep viewers engaged throughout.

The story unfolds at the wedding of Vartika's sister, played by the elegant Vaani Kapoor, who is also Rishab's wife. As friends and their spouses gather for pre-wedding celebrations, the group decides to play a game that tests the boundaries of honesty

and secrecy. They agree to place their phones on the table, sharing all incoming messages and calls, under the guise of proving they have nothing to hide. As you can imagine, hilarity ensues as

secrets begin to spill out, each revelation more shocking and humorous than the last.

The comedy in Khel Khel Mein is consistently sharp, thanks largely to Mudassar Aziz's witty dialogue. Tapsee Pannu and Ammy Virk, playing a quirky couple both named Harpreet, add a unique layer of humor to the film. Saved in each other's phones as "Harpreet Male" and "Harpreet Female," this running gag not only serves as a hilarious element but also subtly comments on the strange dynamics within their relationship. It's a joke that is both funny and oddly touching, perfectly encapsulating the film's blend of comedy and sentiment. Despite some predictable gags and a few preachy moments that slightly detract from its pacing, Khel Khel Mein largely succeeds

as a light-hearted entertainer. The cast's chemistry is palpable, with each actor bringing their A-game to the table. Taapsee Pannu shines as the lively Punjaaban, Vaani Kapoor brings grace and depth to her role, and Fardeen Khan's return to the big screen is a welcome surprise, showcasing his comedic timing and charm.

Aziz's direction is notably sharp, handling sensitive subjects with a maturity that doesn't sacrifice humor. The film navigates through various tones seamlessly, ensuring that it hits all the right notes in blending comedy, drama, and emotion. The soundtrack is packed with chart-toppers that complement the lively atmosphere of the film, and the screenplay is tight, moving the story along with just the right amount of twists and turns.

If you've been longing for the slapstick humor and breezy comedies that were once the hallmark of Bollywood, Khel Khel Mein is a delightful throwback to that era. It's refreshing to see Akshay Kumar returning to a role that plays to his strengths as a comedic actor, reminding us why he became such a beloved figure in Bollywood comedies in the first place. Overall, Khel Khel Mein is a thoroughly enjoyable film that delivers exactly what it promises: laughs, a bit of drama, and a whole lot of fun. It might not be perfect, but it's a spirited ride that's sure to entertain. Whether you're a fan of Akshay Kumar or just in the mood for a feel-good comedy, this film is worth a watch.

This week we take you down southern Indai, with the yum Upma. Upma is a popular breakfast dish in South India, especially in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The word upma comes from the Tamil word uppu-mavu, which literally means "salt-flour".

Upma is often made with a variety of seasonings and vegetables, and can be customized to individual preferences. Some common ingredients include: nuts, spices, curry leaves, onions, green chile peppers, tomatoes, ginger, mustard seeds, cashews, urad dal, and chana dal.

Upma can be eaten with podi, sugar, chutney, or sambar, and can be garnished with peanuts, coconut, cashews, dry fruit, or fruit slices.

Upma

Method:

Heat pot over medium heat and add Semolina. Stirring constantly toast until fragrant and very Light golden. Remove from pot and set aside. Heat oil in the same pot and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal, chana dal and cashew nuts. Fry until seeds start to splutter and dal and nuts turn golden. Add ginger garlic paste, curry leaves, red chillies and asafoetida and cook for 1-2 minute. Now add chopped onions and cook until soft. Add water, sugar and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and stirring constantly add toasted semolina in batches (this will prevent lumps forming). Mix everything well, cover and continue to cook for a few minutes or until all water evaporates. Garnish with chopped coriander and serve immediately.

Ingredients:

½ cup Supreme Fine Semolina

¼ cup oil

½ tsp Supreme Mustard Seeds

½ tsp Supreme Cumin Seeds

1 tsp Supreme Urad Dal

1 tsp Supreme Chana Dal

1 small onion, finely chopped

½ tsp Supreme Ginger Garlic Paste

3 Supreme Dried Red Chillies

20 Supreme Curry Leaves

15 Supreme Cashews, chopped

1 tsp sugar

Salt to taste

Pinch of Asafoetida (hing)

1 ¾ cups of water

Handful of chopped coriander leaves

This recipe is in partnership with Supreme Ingredients!

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New PM promises

to ‘stop the rot’ – but warns: ‘Things will get worse before they get better’

By DAVID BASS

Keir Starmer has given a dynamic speech on Tuesday, making promises such as prioritising growth, help for key workers and to tackle the cracks and divisions demonstrated in recent civil unrest, but has also warned about tough times ahead.

In particular the PM has warned that the October budget will be ‘painful’. Mr Starmer stated that difficult and unpopular decisions must be made now in order to lay the foundations needed to build the UK’s future.

One key point is that the “£22 billion black hole in public finances” that he claims was only discovered once his administration had come to power, and that this can only be addressed by short – term pain for long – term gain.

Mr Starmer stated: “We have not just inherited an economic black hole, but a societal black hole.”

As part of this difficult time, he answered why the controversial move to cut the winter fuel allowance for pensioners –something that is already causing outcry. Defending the move, Mr Starmer gave his view that it was

We have not just inherited an economic black hole, but a societal black hole. Prime Minister Keir Starmer

unavoidable in order to tackle the shortfall in public finances.

The new system will see winter fuel payments being means –tested, meaning only those on pension credit will receive them.

Mr Starmer said: “I didn’t want to means test the winter fuel payment – but it was a choice that we had to make. A choice to protect the most vulnerable pensioners, while doing what is necessary to

repair the public finances.”

Another key issue addressed in the speech was his plans to heal the cracks in society that have been so shockingly demonstrated in the recent riots that have rocked the UK and caused distress and damage to cities across the country.

Addressing the situation, Mr Starmer put this down to 14 years of populism and failure

by the previous Conservative government.

Pledging to take action and to continue to pursue tough sentencing for those who commit acts of damage and violence, Mr Starmer talked of his disgust at rioters terrorising people and making Nazi salutes.

However, Mr Starmer also spoke of his admiration for the communities who came together in the areas affected by the riots, to help clean up and stand together.

“The riots didn’t only convey the sickness. They also revealed the cure. Found not in the cynical conflict of populism, but in the coming together of the country. The people who got together the morning after, all around the country, with their brooms, their shovels, their trowels, to clean up their community. They reminded us of who we truly are.”

He further commented on the riots: “They also showcased the strength of our communities coming together to clean up and support each other the morning after.”

Looking to the future, Mr Starmer put forward his plans to focus

and infrastructure by bringing the railways into public ownership.

He stated his vision for the future, and his task now: “I won’t shy away from making unpopular decisions now if it’s the right thing to do for the country in the long term”.

Conservative Party chairman Richard Fuller described the PM’s words as "nothing but a performative speech to distract the public from the promises Starmer made that he never had any intention of keeping"

on helping with the hopes and ambitions of working people, in particular pursuing the levelling up agenda to help poorer areas.

Mr Starmer also promised to protect taxpayers, build more homes, harness the power of Artificial Intelligence for the public good and to improve transport

Conservative leadership candidate Kemi Badenoch, who serves as shadow housing secretary, said: “Keir Starmer is taking the British public for fools, but his dishonest analysis won’t wash. He campaigned on promises he couldn’t deliver and now he is being found out.”

But Lib Dems leader, Sir Ed Davey, said "only the out-of-touch Conservative Party will deny the scale of the challenges facing the new government and the new Parliament".

"From the millions stuck on NHS waiting lists to the millions struggling to make ends meet, the last Conservative government has left a toxic legacy," he said. “We need bold and ambitious action from the Government to fix this mess."

PM Keir Starmer says 'difficult and unpopular decisions must be made now' in speech

Lib Dem Leader Sir Ed Davey calls on the government for bold and ambitious action to fix this mess left by the Tories.

Screengrab No.10 Wikipedia

REDBRIDGE: Redbridge Council pays £3,000 to family after two years in ‘unsuitable’ accommodation

By SEBASTIAN MANN Local Democracy Reporter

Redbridge Council has apologised and paid £3,000 to a mother-of-four who was left in ‘unsuitable accommodation’ for almost two years.

The resident – identified only as Miss X – was owed a housing duty by the council, which is legally required to provide accommodation for people at risk of homelessness.

She was moved into a home in April 2022, along with her husband and children, two of whom have unspecified medical needs.

The council agreed with Miss X in October that it did not meet her needs, but did not find her an alternative until January 2024. The family accepted an offer to move into a new property in March, but issues with the building meant they were forced to stay put until June.

Miss X first complained to the government’s independent

Housing Ombudsman in September 2023, which ordered Redbridge to pay £1,650 to acknowledge her home was unsuitable.

The council was then told to provide the family with £150

each month, from October 2023, until it made an offer of more appropriate housing.

The ombudsman’s report, published earlier this month, did not explain how exactly the house fell short of the family’s

needs, or what their needs were.

A Redbridge spokesperson said the council was “sincerely” sorry the house had not met Miss X’s needs.

He said there was a shortage of social housing in the borough – and across London – and that meant relying on temporary accommodation to “ensure those most in need have a roof over their head while longer-term housing is sought”.

He added: “We do our best to ensure this accommodation is suitable and meets the needs of all those living in it, and we will continue to work alongside the Social Care Ombudsman and follow the recommendations they set out.”

In its report, the ombudsman said: “We are mindful of the difficulties in procuring housing in London and nationally. But the law says temporary accommodation must be suitable, the duty to provide suitable accommodation is immediate and cannot be deferred.”

The council stopped paying the monthly fee to Miss X’s family in April, one month after the unmet move-in date. However, the delay meant they were still owed compensation, the ombudsman said.

On top of the £2,700 already paid, Redbridge was told to shell out a further £300 to the family to make up for those extra two months. The ordeal had caused the family “uncertainty and distress,” Miss X claimed.

In recent months, at-risk people in Redbridge have reportedly been relocated to towns as far away as Telford, in Shropshire, due to the shortage of available properties.

In March, councillors backed then-deputy leader Kam Rai’s plans for the authority to buy homes in the borough to boost its housing stock. Councils across London often have to rely on hotels or bedand-breakfasts to house at-risk people, which comes at an enormous cost.

CITY HALL: Small businesses urge London mayor Sadiq Khan to extend Ulez relief for struggling firms

By NOAH VICKERS

Small businesses have urged Sadiq Khan to keep support in place for them as London marks one year since the Ultra low emission zone (Ulez) expanded to cover the whole city.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) claimed the decision to close the mayor’s £210million scrappage scheme on September 7 does not give firms enough time to swap their non-compliant vehicles for cleaner alternatives.

Sole traders and businesses with 10 or fewer employees have been able to apply to the scheme since January 2023. The cap was raised to 50 employees six months later.

Transport for London (TfL) said 17,704 vans or minibuses belonging to small businesses have been scrapped under the scheme, with grants to those firms totalling almost

£115million.

As of February, 96 per cent of vehicles driving in London on an average day were Ulezcompliant and did not pay the £12.50 daily charge. However, the figure for vans was 89 per cent, and for minibuses 80 per cent.

Laura Timm, the FSB’s London policy chair, said rising compliance had come “at a cost to struggling small businesses”, adding: “The TfL quote ‘Every Journey Matters’ has resonated with small firms over the past year as many sectors, from construction to arts, entertainment and recreation, have had to rethink business decisions and operations.

“Smaller businesses, particularly on the cusp of the M25, have had to absorb the extra cost or pass it onto their customers where feasible and fair.”

Ms Timm said providing only

three weeks’ notice before closing the scrappage scheme, and doing so during the summer holiday, “does not feel supportive” for businesses.

The FSB called on Mr Khan “to continue to provide financial support and grace periods up to the end of 2025 to enable small businesses to have more time to access the

options available”.

Grace periods, which temporarily exempted small firms from Ulez charges while they waited for their new vehicle to arrive or for an old one to be retrofitted, expired three months ago.

Christina Calderato, TfL’s director of strategy, said scrappage scheme demand was “now much lower than when it was first introduced” and encouraged anyone still driving a non-compliant vehicle to apply before it closes.

“Any application made before the proposed deadline is guaranteed to be processed,” she said. “Once approved, van and minibus applicants have up to six months to scrap their vehicle.

“The expanded Ulez has brought cleaner air to five million more Londoners. Harmful NOx pollutants from cars and vans are estimated to be 13 per cent and seven

per cent lower than a scenario without the expansion, amounting to a total reduction of 424 tonnes in NOx emissions. This is equivalent to removing 200,000 cars from the road for one year.”

The anniversary of the zone’s expansion was celebrated by Izzy Romilly, sustainable transport manager at the climate charity Possible, who said: “The leadership shown by the Mayor of London in pushing forward with this world-leading policy has led to London being on track to meet the UK’s legal air pollution limits by 2025 –much earlier than originally expected.

“The Ulez expansion has shown how effective clean air policies can be, despite fierce opposition from a vocal minority. Now, we need politicians in London and across the UK to go further and faster with cleaning up our air and tackling the climate crisis.”

Redbridge Town Hall

LDRS

Sadiq Khan

Local Democracy Reporter

Wikipedia

BARKING & DAGENHAM: Barking and Dagenham council launches fundraiser for fire-ravaged families

By RUBY GREGORY

Local Democracy Reporter

Barking and Dagenham Council has launched a fundraising page to support devastated families and “get them back on their feet” after a major fire broke out across a tower block on Monday 26 August.

Around 225 fire fighters and 40 fire engines were called to tackle a huge blaze at the Spectrum Building on Freshwater Road in Dagenham at 2:44am on Monday morning.

More than 80 residents were evacuated from the six-storey building and 20 residents were rescued, with two people being taken to hospital.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has said all the residents have now been accounted for, and an investigation into the cause of the fire in collaboration with the police has begun.

Residents were taken to an emergency rest centre where they have been supported by

staff and visited by Darren Rodwell, leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, ward councillors and Margaret Mullane, the area’s local MP.

The council says it has provided emergency accommodation to residents who are unable to return home and have nowhere to stay.

Lukasz and Agnieszka, a couple who live at the building and are due to get married in Poland in a fortnight, say they have “lost everything”, including Agnieszka’s £2,500 wedding dress which they picked up just two days before the fire.

A fundraiser has been launched on GoFundMe by the council and

has raised £7,936 out of a £10,000 target at the time of writing, which the council says is to help families impacted by the fire.

The council wrote on its fundraising page: “As you can imagine, it’s an extremely difficult time for the people who have lost everything, and while their personal possessions can never be replaced, this will hopefully help them get back on their feet in the coming weeks.

“We’re asking people not to come to the rest centre with items for donation at the moment because our staff are trying to support people who are understandably distressed. The best way you can help right now is by donating on this page.

“This is the official crowdfunding page, endorsed by Barking and Dagenham Council, to raise funds for those who have been affected.”

A planning application from June 2023 reveals “remedial work” had been approved to remove non-compliant cladding

on floors five and six of the building.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of Fire Brigades Union said: “Once again, a fire has erupted in a residential building wrapped in flammable cladding. There needs to be an urgent and swift investigation of how this has been allowed to happen.”

The fire service said the building, which is not councilowned, had several “known” fire safety issues.

On Tuesday 27 August, LFB’s commissioner, Andy Roe said the investigation is going to be “difficult” as some of the building is currently unsafe to enter.

Speaking from the scene, Mr Roe said: “-due to the extensive damage to the building, with parts of it now being declared unsafe to access, it is difficult to make entry in there to do that investigation. That means it is likely to be protracted and our fire investigation and fire safety officers are likely to be on-scene for many days.”

Horrific fire destroys building in Dagenham

David Bass

SLOUGH:

Figures reveal Slough Borough Council

rakes in massive profits from parking fines

By NICK CLARK Local Democracy Reporter

Slough Borough Council rakes in more than £800,000 each year from parking fines, figures acquired by the LDRS have revealed.

The numbers– released under freedom of information laws –also show that the council issues more than 40,000 parking fines each year.

The council says the money is used to pay for ‘staff costs, IT and contractor costs’.

The LDRS asked Slough Borough Council to disclose

income from parking charges in the last three financial years, as well as how many fines had been issued in those years.

The council replied that in the most recent year, running April 2023 – April 2024, it made £844,724 and issued 41,986 fines.

It made £854,152 in the 2022-23 financial year from 44,392 fines. And in 2021-22 it made £898,138 from 44,514 fines.

The figures come after Slough Borough Council had launched an 18-month trial of residentsonly parking zones in Bayliss and Stoke.

London outpaces global cities in heart disease prevention

By NOAH VICKERS

Local Democracy Reporter

London has been ranked second only to Hong Kong in a global study of cities’ efforts to prevent and treat heart disease.

The UK capital was praised by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in its ‘City Heartbeat Index’ for pursuing policies like the Ultra low emission zone (Ulez), banning junk food adverts on the Tube, and greatly expanding its cycle lane network.

The index of 50 world cities places London above every other European capital, as well

as almost all global rivals, such as New York and Tokyo.

The study, funded by Novartis and independently conducted by Economist Impact, produced an overall ranking by taking account of different factors, with London scoring highest globally in the ‘governance’ factor.

WHF president-elect Dr Jagat Narula said London was “a pioneer in air pollution controls” and has at the same time taken significant steps to boost “active travel” among residents by opening more cycle lanes, low traffic neighbourhoods, and

pedestrian links.

These policies are important, he said, because exposure to air pollution is linked to the exacerbation of all major cardiovascular diseases.

London performed less well when looking at heart-related ‘health risks’, particularly in terms of people’s blood pressure levels, cholesterol intake, and consumption of trans fats.

But Dr Narula said the capital’s NHS services were working to reduce those risks, such as by using Inclisiran, a new cholesterol-lowering drug.

He stressed that as well

as enabling healthier lives, actions to tackle heart disease also make clear “economic sense” for cities, with savings for the health service and workers better able to participate in the jobs market.

Responding to the findings, mayor Sadiq Khan said he was “extremely proud of the work we have done to make London a healthier place to live”.

He added: “We have made real progress improving health outcomes by taking old polluting cars off our roads and bringing cleaner air to millions more Londoners, enabling more walking and cycling and promoting healthier food advertising on our transport network.

“However, there is more we need to do to help Londoners to live in good health and I am determined to work with the new Government and our health partners as we continue to build a cleaner, greener and healthier London for everyone.”

Hong Kong and London were followed at the top of the ranking by Madrid in third place, Berlin fourth and New York fifth. At the bottom of the list was Cairo, just below Kathmandu which was secondlowest and Algiers which was third-lowest.

Parking ticket

City of London

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London mayor Sadiq Khan

Noah Vickers