In todays job market job-seekers face un-necessary hurdles that make finding work harder than ever. Despite having good qualifications and work experience candidates must go through endless tests group tasks and psychometric evaluations — its becoming a real problem for people who just want to earn a living
The youth employment situation needs quick fixes: many point to the declining tradition of weekend work as a key issue. Natalie Campbell suggests that bringing back saturday jobs could help create half-a-million new positions by 2024 (especially in hospitality); however increased costs make businesses less likely to hire inexperienced workers
Healthcare system problems affect work participation rates too. People cant return to their jobs due to long waiting times; a writer shares how their 40-year old son remains jobless while waiting 6 months for a simple operation. The system seems to work against both young and older workers — with retirement age at 66 many feel its too high for those whove already given 40-plus years of service
- Family businesses face double taxation risks
- Owners might need to sell to overseas buyers
- Capital gains tax applies to pre-death gifts
- Seven-year survival rule still exists for inheritance tax
The debate about French state policies shows interesting contrasts: pre-1905 churches get state maintenance but new religious buildings face different rules. This creates tension with modern needs especially regarding Muslim communities demands for equal treatment
In other matters Christopher Price raises important points about native cattle breeds in rewilding projects. He notes that cross-bred tauros cattle planned for Highland introduction might not suit local conditions when existing native breeds could do better
The planning system faces serious staffing issues with estimates showing only 1-in-10 departments have full staff levels. This causes major delays in housing projects and puts new developments at risk due to rising costs and missed deadlines