Jeremy Corbyn’s accused Tory ministers of what he calls a “sweetheart deal” to ensure Surrey Councillors dropped the planned 15 % rise in Council Tax.

Leader, David Hodge says, the decision not to proceed with the increase “was ours alone and there has been no deal” between Surrey and the Government.

The Labour Leader during Prime Minister’s Questions yesterday quoted, what he said were leaked text messages showing Hodge negotiating with the government to call off the proposals.

Teresa May responded by saying, “The deal that is on offer to all councils is the one that I have already set out.” Hitting out at Corbyn saying he was making “alternative facts” and what Labour really needs is an “alternative leader.”

An investigation is underway into the cause of a house fire in Lingfield.

It happened in the early hours of yesterday morning in Selbys, with crews from Lingfield, Godstone and East Grinstead attending.

No-one was injured, but three people were treated for smoke inhalation.

A man’s been sentenced for his role in an acid attack in Crawley.

Lee Bates and Michael McPherson attacked Samir Hussain outside Cineworld in Crawley in August 2015.  During which McPherson threw acid over Mr Hussain, scarring him for life.

Bates was given a two year conditional discharge after admitting to common assault, while McPherson will be sentenced for GBH at a later date.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-38883470

The proposed 15% tax increase in Surrey to help the social care funding gap has been scrapped.

Council Leader David Hodge spoke yesterday saying, “the government has listened” to their concerns, adding “We are therefore willing to take a risk that a solution will soon be found.” Opting instead for a 4.99% rise.

It means there will be no referendum on the matter as it’s below the 5% which requires voter consent.

More information can be found here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-surrey-38895493

A study has been launched to look at how much the region’s economy could grow with more investment in road and rail improvements.

It aims to unite both politicians and businesses, to give decision makers a clear message about what needs to be done in the area.

It’ll be published in April, just before the next round of investment decisions by Network Rail and the Government.

http://www.mediacentre.gatwickairport.com/press-releases/2017/17_02_06_growth_board_transport_study.aspx