Politics

 The number of free to use cash machines available in the UK has fallen by almost 30% in the last five years, according to new figures from the Association of Convenience Stores. 

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has reiterated its calls on Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to give convenience store retailers the incentives necessary to invest in the safety, security and long term future of their businesses.

In its submission to the Autumn Statement, taking place on 22nd November, ACS has called on the Chancellor to support retailers with stability on business rates, pragmatism on future wage increases, and a commitment to tackling crime in communities across the UK.

Key measures recommended by ACS in the submission include:

ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) has submitted evidence to a Government committee inquiry on waste, resources and recycling reforms, highlighting the need for proper lead times and planning when making major changes like the introduction of Deposit Return Schemes, extended producer responsibility, and single use plastic bans. 

Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers has outlined his support for retaining the existing Sunday trading regulations in a visit to a SPAR store in Humberston operated by Blakemore Retail.

Local shops in Wales have raised concerns over proposals in the Environment (Wales) Bill that would see new regulations introduced on carrier bags and waste disposal. The Bill puts forward the following proposals: