To consider Notices of Motion.

Council debated the motions contained in the report by the Director of Law and Governance.

Motion – Gaza

Councillor O’Driscoll proposed and introduced the motion.

Councillor James seconded the motion.

Council debated the motion. There was support across the chamber for the recommendations contained in the motion.

The motion was put to the vote and was carried unanimously.

RESOLVED: -

This Council expresses deep sympathy for all those affected by the conflict in Israel and Palestine. For those in Herefordshire who have been affected by this conflict we offer our support at this difficult time.

This Council calls for an immediate release of all hostages and a sustainable bilateral ceasefire with unfettered access to humanitarian aid across Gaza in order to strengthen the possibility of a permanent peaceful resolution.

This Council believes that people of all faiths and none should feel safe both in Herefordshire and throughout the world, and utterly condemn the increase in anti-Semitic and Islamaphobic abuse and violence. Herefordshire Council thanks community leaders for the role they are playing in reducing tensions at this sensitive and difficult time.

This Council resolves to write to the Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary, and Herefordshire’s two Members of Parliament stating that the Council supports a sustainable and lasting bilateral ceasefire requesting they do all in their power to work towards a viable two state-solution.

We also ask they recognise with additional funding the key role local authorities play in promoting cohesion and understanding throughout their communities by supporting the many voluntary organisations and faith groups who work together to help those affected by this and other conflicts.

Motion – Household Support Fund

Councillor Chowns proposed and introduced the motion. An alteration to the motion was raised to change the date specified to 30^th September and change the tense from has beento is to be preceding the word axed in recommendation (a). The seconder and Council indicated agreement to the alteration.

Councillor Crockett seconded the motion.

Council debated the motion. There was support across the chamber for the recommendations contained in the motion.

The motion was put to the vote and was carried unanimously.

RESOLVED – that:

The government proposes to end the Household Support Fund on 30^th September this year. 

This fund has been providing vital support to help vulnerable households cope with the rising cost of living.

Many local community groups and charities across Herefordshire do amazing work to help ensure this funding gets to those who need it most.

Since the cost of living is still rising, and very many families are still struggling, this council believes it is not right for the government to axe the Household Support Fund.

This council therefore asks the Leader and Chief Executive to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to:

a)    express this council’s deep concern that the Household Support Fund is to be axed, and ask that the decision be reversed;

b)    urge the government to establish improved funding settlements (multi-year, with greater levels of funding) for local councils, in order to support our essential services for all Herefordshire residents.