Jasmine Rambless: July 2018

President Trump’s UK Visit

July 13, 2018

This week, the American President, Donald Trump, has landed down on the British land for his UK visit, and the media are making sure we are aware. Throughout his week, he has spent time with UK Prime Minister, Theresa May, no doubt forming some form of negotiations and treaties. To finish off his trip, Trump is landing in Glasgow Prestwick Airport before heading to his famous “Trump Turnberry” golf course - one of the many courses he owns. And of course, mixed opinions are amongst UK citizens, with some even trying to ban the man from entering the UK.

There is no doubt that Trump is one of the world’s most controversial people at this present day. However, is it really necessary to try and prohibit him from entering the country? With his role, part of his job includes him visiting other countries, like any world leader, but you don’t ever hear of France or North Korea complaining about him visiting their leaders. Likewise, Theresa May also visits other countries, and no one stops her. So why Trump? Is it a wise choice?

You can protest to your hearts content, but in all seriousness, is Trump really going to listen and think “oh, UK citizens don’t want me coming. Best cancel the trip!”? No. He isn’t coming to please you or visit the UK tourist attractions; he’s coming for a political visit, much like Obama once used to do. People have even tried making petitions to ban him from coming. For a petition to even be considered in the UK Parliament, it requires 100,000 legit signatures. But, are the Parliament going to turn around and block an American President, or even any political figure, from entering? Highly doubt it. The result of that would be messy.

For instance, let’s say that we prohibit Trump’s entry (highly unlikely) and his UK visit doesn’t go ahead. Think of the consequences. Do you really think he’d want anything to do with the country, ever again? No. It’d be bye-bye Britain, and an end to all of our trade negotiations. And with our current Brexit situation, we need America. Theres no denying that Trump is known for his outrageous plans, but it’s not like he can implement them here, he isn’t part of the UK decision making process.

Last night, I watched a programme on STV (Scottish equivalent of ITV) and it was regarding Trump’s visit to Scotland. When he bought land to build one of his golf courses, local people were livid, because they were expecting him to build on the beach as this it what the planning permission had outlined. However, it was miles away. People still are resentful towards him, and are planning demonstrations when he’s nearby at his golf course. One woman has planning a “lie in the sand” and write out things in the sand. Is it even worth it? Trump isn’t going to pay any notice to this, and if he did, he’d just laugh.

People haven’t taken well to the idea of Trump being in the UK, but it’s not directly affecting them. He’s here to discuss our country’s future, and have his political discussions. He’s not going to turn up at your door or try promote anything. So, why do you want to ban him?

happiness

Money and Happiness

July 06, 2018

Money. How such a short word can determine so much in life and also control us. As of 2018, statistics revealed that the total sum of all the bank notes circulating the UK’s market is £68.9 billion. This is the total sum combining together notes of £5, £10, £20 and £50. As of 2017, there were a whopping 134 billionaires living in the UK and almost one million millionaires living within the UK. Of course, the wealth divide still occurs as there are 14 million people in Britain living in poverty - which is the equivalent of one in five. But, the real question still lies - does money make you a happier person?

Having money means you are able to buy not only just the basic needs in life, but also the wants too; you have a roof over your head, able to buy food and water, afford basic sanitation and clothing, and pay off bills. But on top of that, you can buy the latest gadget you have been lusting over, splash the cash on the top of the range car and also afford that 5 star holiday to the Maldives. To some, this is just second nature. But, the harsh reality, is that some people are living, struggling to afford the basic necessities. They cannot afford their own house, they’re scrimping and scraping to put a meal on the table and they haven’t got the adequate funds to pay for this months bills. This is reality. It’s out there, happening. Some people are so oblivious to this happening because they’re too busy living in their own bubble. However, having this money, does it necessarily mean they’re living a happier life?

By no means am I stereotyping here, but those who tend to be wealthy portray this on social media. And, if they’ve worked hard for their money, they’re rightly so - I would do the same. There’s one question though - does a glamorous social media page mean a happy life? You could have the best of the best when it comes to gadgets, big name labels for fashion and all the rest, but does it mean they’re happy with their life? Having money doesn’t solve everything. Some people are lonely, and all they spend their time doing is splashing the cash, because they have nothing else worth doing. And it’s sad.

Here in Scotland, we are privileged enough that our prescriptions and university fees are funded for us. But, it’s a different story for the rest of the UK. Young students living in England or wales aren’t so fortunate and need to pay for their university education - fees costing as much as £9,000. Students from the poorest families unfortunately cannot afford this money, so sometimes education is out the picture. They could be a straight A’s student, but because of the money, aren’t able to pursue their education and expand on their knowledge. On the other side, a person may be ill and require a few prescriptions to improve their health, but with the average price of a prescription currently sitting at £8.80 per item, costs will add up. And sometimes, it can be a hefty price which some cannot afford.

I’m not wealthy, and I’m not discriminating those who are, but I know what I’d rather - happiness. Of course, money would help with a lot of things in people’s circumstances - not needing to worry about bills, being able to buy a fridge full of food and replacing clothing items if they’re outgrown or worn out. Those without money would appreciate it. But, in this day and age, it seems that the rich are getting richer, and the poor are getting poorer. The UK Government have a long battle ahead of them on the road to ending wealth inequality.

employment

Zero Hour Contracts

July 01, 2018

What is the definition of a zero-hour contract? Essentially, it is a contract negotiated between an employer and employee whereby the employer doesn't need to issue a minimum amount of working hours, and the employee doesn't need to take onboard any work which is available. The industries where they are most common include agriculture, hotels and catering, education and healthcare. Although only 3% of UK workers are categorised as working on a zero-hour contract, it is still widely used in many other countries.

There are employment rights for those on a zero-hour contract, much like those on a set contract. Of course, they are entitled to their employment rights, like anyone else. They are paid the National Minimum Wage (NMW), allowed paid annual leave, breaks within their shifts and protection from discrimination. The benefits for employees allows them to work around other life commitments, including education, or childcare. This improves their flexibility. Not only is beneficial to employees, but it can be helpful for employers of new businesses too, because like anything new, there can be undiscovered and unexpected issues arising.

However, there is of course it's downsides. Some employers might take advantage of their zero-hour contract employees. The flexibility should be there for both employers and employees, but some employers will be issuing the exact same shift - same days and same hours - over a long period of time, but won't change it to a permanent, part-time position. Legally, they are entitled to the employment rights, discussed above, but some employees might find themselves not being treated as fairly as they could be.

Personally, I believe it would be beneficial who require that extra flexibility, and the contract will only work if both sides, ie employee and employer, play along with the "rules" if you like. Not entitling an employee to their employment rights is illegal, but because of the additional requirements, these must also be in place.

Jasmine Rambless

President Trump’s UK Visit

Money and Happiness

Zero Hour Contracts

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