Senedd to vote later today on controversial tourism tax plan
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ITV News
31 minutes ago
- ITV News
'There are lots of benefits of it' — Supporters welcome Welsh tourism tax plan
The Welsh Government is deciding if the visitor levy will proceed but there is a mixture of opinions on whether it would help areas in Wales or be a hindrance.
Wales Online
2 hours ago
- Wales Online
PIP changes explained with fears it will hugely impact Wales
PIP changes explained with fears it will hugely impact Wales What the PIP changes could mean for benefits claimants in Wales ahead of crunch vote Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall arrives in Downing Street for today's cabinet meeting ahead of the crucial welfare reform vote (Image: PA ) MPs will tonight vote on UK Government plans to reform welfare payments. It comes after a climbdown by the Labour administration after huge public outcry and facing a huge rebellion from its own MPs. At its height more than 100 Labour MPs said they would vote against their own government, but that has reduced to 39 Labour backbenchers since changes were announced. Wales' four Plaid Cymru MPs have also backed the amendment, which will be voted on. The proposals were hugely controversial. While the UK Government say reform is needed, critics said they were being rushed through and had not consulted charities or disabled people who will be impacted. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here . Work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall told the Commons: "Welfare reform, let's be honest, is never easy, perhaps especially for Labour governments. Our social security system directly touches the lives of millions of people and it is something we all care deeply about. "We have listened to the concerns that have been raised to help us get these changes right. The Bill protects people already claiming PIP, it protects in real terms the incomes of people already receiving the UC (universal credit) health top-up from that benefit and their standard allowance, and it protects those with severe lifelong conditions who will never work, and those near the end of their life as we promised we would." The Welsh Government had criticised the plans, with senior minister Jane Hutt writing to Ms Kendall saying there needed to be a review of the plans. Once the climbdown was announced, it was welcomed by First Minister Eluned Morgan. She said: "Around 200,000 people could have been in real trouble, and they've listened, they've learned and they've acted – and that is something I think we should welcome." Article continues below What is PIP? Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested benefit intended to help with extra costs arising from long-term disability or ill-health which was introduced in 2013. It replaced Disability Living Allowance for people of working age. PIP is made up of two components: a mobility component, based on an individual's ability to get around; and a 'daily living' component, based on ability to carry out other key activities necessary to be able to participate in daily life. Each component can be awarded at either standard, enhanced, or nil (where they receive nothing). What was proposed? The UK Government had proposed sweeping changes that were deeply unpopular there were two main elements: Increasing the basic 'standard allowance' of Universal Credit that all claimants receive, while reducing the generosity of the additional amounts for claimants with disabilities and health conditions that affect their capability for work In terms of PIP, changes to the way eligibility is calculated - claimants would need to score four or more points for at least one of the 'daily living' activities that determine entitlement to the daily living component Now what is happening? The UK Government announced two major changes the new Personal Independence Payment daily living 'four-point' requirement will only be implemented for new claimants from November 2026 existing recipients of the Universal Credit health element, and any new claimant meeting the criteria for the most severe and lifelong conditions, will "have their incomes fully protected in real terms" Why is it so important in Wales? There was a lack of official government data about exactly who would be impacted in Wales but it was widely commented that there would be a disproportionate impact in Wales because Wales has higher rates of disabled people of working age than the UK average. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation highlighted the constituencies where cuts to sickness and disability benefits will fall most heavily which showed of the top 20 constituencies in England and Wales with the highest proportion of the working age population in receipt of health-related social security, eight are in Wales (and 10 out of the top 30) which suggested changing PIP would have a disproportionate impact on disabled people in Wales. In fact, Welsh Government minister Jane Hutt wrote to her UK Government counterpart and said that element needed to be reviewed. "The proposed changes to Personal Independence Payments should be reviewed before any changes are made," she wrote. Policy in Practice estimated there will be substantial increases in poverty and financial hardship for working age households in Wales. The original plans would have impacted an estimated 190,000 people in Wales (6.1% of the population) and see £470m lost from the Welsh economy. Victoria Winckler, director of The Bevan Foundation, said it would "increase social inequality, and exacerbating already entrenched poverty in Wales". Are the changes better news? There are still concerns that the row back is going to create a two-tier system and younger disabled people and those who become disabled in the future will be disadvantaged and denied access to work and education. The concessions by the UK Government have seen a number of the Welsh MPs who had signed an amendment which looked set to sink the government plans has decreased. While Plaid Cymru's four MPs have signed the amendment, only one of the five Labour MPs who had originally put their names to it have kept there, that's Steve Witherden, the MP for Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr. However, a huge number of charity groups say the changes don't go far enough. Since the revisions, groups and charities including Citizens Advice, The Poverty Alliance and The Salvation Army have co-signed a letter saying they want the bill withdrawn. There has not, the groups say, been enough consultation. That was echoed by Luke Young, head of policy at Citizens Advice who asked MPs to vote against the bill. "The UK government's own impact assessment says the cuts will plunge 150,000 people into poverty by the end of this Parliament. Even this is an underestimate of the potential impact. If this Bill is passed, then by 2030 it will have cut PIP for more than 400,000 disabled people and Universal Credit for more than 700,000 people who are disabled or have a long-term health condition. Article continues below "We know Wales will be disproportionately affected, with communities such as Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly and Neath Port Talbot being hardest hit. It will push more people toward already stretched public services and into to food banks, as they find even less support available under a new three tier system."
North Wales Live
3 hours ago
- North Wales Live
Last minute hotels for Oasis in Cardiff going for £900 a night ahead of reunion gigs at Principality Stadium
Fans hoping to see Oasis live in Cardiff this weekend may need to shell out more for their hotel than for their ticket. Room prices in the Welsh capital average a whopping £588 a night, the highest of any city on the band's 2025 reunion tour. Some city centre hotels are even charging £900 for a single night during the tour dates. According to new research Cardiff is the most expensive city to stay in during the hotly anticipated Oasis tour, with hotel prices surging by 420% compared to a normal night. When the famous Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, announced their Oasis reunion and the Oasis Live '25 tour, there was a mad dash to book accommodation, sparking a huge spike in hotel prices on the dates of the Oasis gigs. For all the info we have on the gig so far, click here. Interest is so intense that Google searches for 'Cardiff hotel rooms' have soared by over 13,000%, and there's been a huge spike in searches for Airbnbs near the stadium. Cardiff isn't the only city experiencing this surge; accommodation enquiries and bookings have skyrocketed at every Oasis Live '25' tour location. Hotel prices have also climbed dramatically across all five host cities, Cardiff, Manchester, London, Dublin, and Edinburgh, with booking activity closely tracking ticket sales. While Manchester may be grabbing headlines for the biggest price hike, up 454% to £421, Cardiff's £588 average makes it the priciest overall. Even London, often the UK's most expensive city, comes in second at £527 a night, as per the data collected by Grosvenor Casinos. If you haven't yet booked your accommodation, here are places in the city and beyond that were still available at the time of publishing. Some are pricey, but we've also included some 'cheaper' ones for the Oasis dates. However, you'll need to hurry, as these rooms will likely be snapped up. Marriott Hotel A hop away from the Stadium, Cardiff's Marriott hotel currently offers a Deluxe King Room for a whopping £899 as room only and £919 with breakfast, on the first night of the Oasis Tour. This 4-star premium hotel is smack bang in Cardiff's city centre, 300 metres from Cardiff Central Rail Station and just 700m from the Principality Stadium. It has air-conditioned rooms, an onsite restaurant and a fitness club. Complimentary WiFi is available in the public areas. The stylish, large bedrooms have luxury bedding, flat-screen TVs, and Freeview channels. The newly opened Browns Brasserie and Bar, situated within the hotel, offers all-day dining and 24-hour room service. Rooms from £899 Available Friday July 4, book here Park Plaza Cardiff Who says you can't be rock and roll and treat yourself to a spot of pampering? If you're heading to Cardiff for the Oasis gig, why not go all out and crash in style at a swish spa hotel? Conveniently located in the centre of Cardiff, the deluxe 129-room Park Plaza Hotel is within walking distance of the stadium shops, restaurants and attractions. The hotel's rather plain concert façade belies its bright and contemporary interior, with chic furnishings, lofty ceilings and an array of modern art on display. For a city hotel, the Park Plaza pulls out all the stops with its Laguna Spa. You can take a dip in the UV-filtered 20m indoor pool, work up a sweat in the two-storey gym, unwind in the steam room and book treatments for those aching muscles after rocking out with the Gallaghers. Dining-wise, the Laguna restaurant and bar is where you can sip handcrafted cocktails in sleek, individual booths or on the leafy outdoor terrace, which offers a moment of solitude away from gig crowds. Rooms from £597 Clayton Hotel Cardiff Conveniently located right next to Cardiff Central Station, the Clayton is ideal for fans rolling off the train and straight into a room. The Principality Stadium is just 300 metres away, so you won't have to battle for a cab after the gig kicks out. Tidy. The air-conditioned rooms are comfy and stylish, each with a plush bathroom and a cosy seating area—perfect for putting your feet up. You'll also find a work desk, a flat-screen TV, and everything you need to make a proper cuppa. When it comes to food, The View Restaurant serves up a tempting international menu with a well-curated wine list to match. Fancy a drink? The contemporary on-site bar pours a great selection of beverages for thirsty fans. Each morning kicks off with the hearty Clayton Vitality Breakfast, so you'll be all set for a post-gig fry-up. Rooms from £736 Available Friday July 4 and Saturday July 5, Book here The Hilton Hotel Cardiff The Hilton is perfectly located in the centre of Cardiff, facing the castle and the historic buildings of the civic centre. It is a short stroll from the stadium. It's currently offering King Guest rooms for £899 on the first night of the gig. The ground floor revealed a stunning new look for 2023 with smart new reception desk and stylish new Graze Restaurant & Bar. The hotel offers 24-hour room service, concierge service, sightseeing tour tickets and a business centre. Inside the hotel and you'll find beautifully styled guest rooms, fantastic dining and a host of amenities for work, rest and play in the city. The spa facilities include beauty treatment rooms, a spa pool with hot tub, plus sauna, steam room and gym. Rooms from 899 Available Friday July 4 and Saturday July 5, Book here Hotel Indigo - Cardiff by IHG Hotel Indigo Cardiff sits right in the city's heart, just 200 metres from St David's Hall and a short stroll to the Stadium and surrounding bars and pubs. It's got a terrace to relax on, a fitness centre to keep you moving, and a lively bar for a cheeky drink. Plus, free WiFi throughout. Rooms are air-conditioned and have flat-screen TVs, and some even have a cosy seating area. Bathrooms have bathrobes and complimentary toiletries. The front desk is open 24/7, so help's always at hand. Rooms from 829 Available Friday July 4 and Saturday July 5, Book here voco St. David's Cardiff One of Cardiff 's flagship hotels, voco St. David's, has a commanding position in the marina, overlooking Cardiff's cosmopolitan waterfront area. Here, you're a short walk, bus, or train ride away from the city centre, while being surrounded by the Bay's many restaurants and bars. Stylish rooms feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the bay and come with luxurious amenities, including fluffy robes and high-end toiletries. Head to the on-site restaurant, Tir a Môr, for casual pre-gig dining and tasty Welsh-inspired dishes. If you're in the mood to unwind, hit the gym, take a dip in the indoor pool, or treat yourself to some well-earned me-time in the luxurious spa. Rooms from £519 Available Saturday July 5, book here Novotel Cardiff Centre Just a short hop from the Stadium and the Motorpoint Arena, this Novotel is a top pick for catching the Oasis tour or any big gig in the district. It has an indoor pool, gym, and a buzzing restaurant. Shops, nightlife, and Cardiff Central Rail Station are all just a 10-minute walk away. The stylish rooms have private bathrooms and hairdryers. They also have a seating area, a work desk, tea and coffee, a TV, and 24-hour room service. Free Wi-Fi keeps you connected throughout. Elements Restaurant and Bar serves modern food and drinks to fuel your day or night. Families are sorted, too—up to two kids under 16 stay free with breakfast, plus access to video games, baby gear, and a healthy kids' menu. Sunday late check-out until 5 p.m. means no rush to leave. Rooms from £636 Available Friday July 4 and Saturday July 5, Book here Campanile Hotel Cardiff Located northeast of Cardiff, this comfy hotel sits just off the A48(M) and close to the M4, making it a breeze to get into the city for the Oasis gig or any other big event. Campanile Cardiff is about 8 km from the centre, perfect for anyone wanting a quieter spot with easy motorway access. It offers free parking, an à la carte restaurant, a bar, a lounge, and meeting rooms. Rooms are clean and stylish, each with a flat-screen TV and an en-suite shower and bath. Rooms from £900 Available Friday July 4, Book here De Courceys Manor Suites & Cottages Spoil yourself with a swanky stay just outside of the city at an exclusive country haven in South Wales, where romance meets five‑star flair. Book your stay at De Courceys Manor Suites & Cottages and enjoy the Secret Garden, relax in the chic gin lounge, and dine on handcrafted menus bursting with seasonal flavours from outstanding 'foodie' chefs. Rooms feature private bathrooms, tea and coffee makers, garden views, and soundproofing. Additional amenities include terraces, hot tubs, balconies, and kitchen facilities. Available Friday July 4, book here The Gwaelod y Garth Inn If you fancy a rustic pub stay outside of the city, the Gwaelod y Garth Inn is at the foot of Garth Mountain and has a tidy selection of constantly changing cask ales. The family-run pub features individually decorated rooms with much of the furniture handcrafted locally. There's also free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, work desks, a tea and coffee maker, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. Staying a while? Unwind on the terrace and outdoor seating area, and enjoy British and local cuisine at the traditional, family-friendly restaurant and bar. Rooms from £385 Available Friday July 4, book here The Copthorne Hotel Cardiff Located on the city's outskirts in Culverhouse Cross, this waterside hotel is just a ten-minute drive from Cardiff city centre. Rooms in this 4-star property offer all the amenities you would expect, including flat-screen TVs, Hypnos beds, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Each private bathroom has a hairdryer to get gig-ready, and 24-hour room service is available. Food-wise, The Lakeview Lounge & Bar offers casual dining for lunch and dinner, as well as coffee and a wide selection of beverages throughout the day, from 9:30 am.
