Miscellaneous

I am confused about the use of mobile phones in cars. I have heard that you can be in trouble for using a hands free phone. Is this true?

From 27th February 2007 the fixed penalty for using a hand held mobile phone while driving includes the award of three penalty points and an increased fine of £60. The same changes apply for not having proper control of a vehicle, which can be used when a driver has been distracted by using a hands free mobile phone. If the police or the driver choose to take the case to court the maximum fine is £1,000 (£2,500 for drivers of vans, lorries, buses and coaches).

When will the smoking ban come into force?

The Department of Health has announced that smoking in nearly all enclosed public places and workplaces will be banned from 1st July 2007.

I paid voluntary national insurance contributions, but now realise that the government has reduced the amount of qualifying years for state pension and I would have had enough. Can I get my money back?

If you made voluntary contributions on or after 25th May 2006, you can claim a refund if you would have chosen not to make those payments, knowing that the number of qualifying years would reduce.

Are statutory holidays due to increase?

From 1st October 2007 the minimum holiday entitlement is due to rise from 20 days to 24 days per year. From 1st October 2008 this will rise again to 28 days. Remember that these days can include all bank holidays.

Last updated: March 8, 2007