So, what is the truth in the story that Exmouth is to get high street funding boost?

Exmouth could be in line for a town centre funding boost.

The second line of the Exmouth Journal article gives a clue with the word “could” which suggests its not a done deal!

The Secretary of State for housing, communities and local government Robert Jenrick said he wants Exmouth to benefit from Future High Streets Fund cash to help secure up to £20 million.

Don’t we all want our local towns to benefit from the last governments “Future High Street Funding”?

But East Devon District Council were turned down on their single application for Axminister. This was their selected town as only one town per District was allowed and Axminister was considered by the Council as the neediest, despite Cranbrook not having a town centre at all, due to developers delaying tactics and funding shortfalls!

At the latest round of funding, Exmouth was not selected with the district council putting Axminster forward.

Well they got that right!

If Exmouth was selected for future rounds, it could receive up to £150,000.

Like the first sentence in the Conservative Press Release using the word “could” notice the inclusion of the word “If”

Who says there will be another round, Parliament is actually closed, and no decision has been taken on another round of funding?

The money could allow local authorities to work on detailed project proposals that can be submitted for capital funding.

Again, notice the word “could” again, but East Devon District Council have not been invited to submit for a further round nor have the Council debated and decided which town to put forward if they had been asked!

The fund can be used to improve transport and access into town centres, convert empty retail units into new homes and workplaces, and invest in infrastructure.

They have got this right at least!

Conservative Party election candidates for East Devon Simon Jupp lobbied the government for this funding.

All MPs from the last administration have stood down, and at this very moment the ones wanting to carry on are standing for reselection. Therefore, there is no government to Lobby, and if anyone did lobby a Minister and the Minister promised anything at all they are committing what is called “Purdah” which restricts various communications and activity of Government Officers and Ministers who although not strictly working MPs but remain in office and in charge of their departments during the election period.

Mr Jenrick said: “I want Exmouth to benefit from that (the Future High Streets Fund) and be part of the next group of towns to receive up to £20m each.”

Mr Jenrick although a current minister cannot comment on behalf of the dissolved government, but he however can comment in his personal capacity, just like any Tom Dick or Harry! Therefore, he is just like you or I saying something in the Pub, he would like Exmouth to benefit from a funding stream!

Ian MacQueen, chairman of Exmouth Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is excellent news for Exmouth and demonstrates the importance of backing business to create jobs and opportunities for everyone.”

Unfortunately, Mr Macqueen is misinformed as well as everyone unfortunate enough who has read this very poor press report that gives the impression that Exmouth will benefit from £20Millian because our Tory Candidate has so “Lobbied” his mate!

The truth is, East Devon District Council is awaiting information if there will be a round 2, and if there is one, it will then decide democratically which Town they wish to put forward and then submit an application to Government.

Therefore, please disregard this spin, go to the polls tomorrow, and vote for an Honest, Truthful, Respected and Local Person – but not Simon Jupp!