Ex-interior minister advocates for a limit on political contributions while the government declares it 'not a priority'

Amidst concerns about foreign meddling, there are calls for the government to disclose its plans, particularly as reports suggest Elon Musk might donate substantially to Reform UK.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 01:

Ex-Interior Minister Lord Blunkett has advocated for a limit on political contributions from corporations and tougher regulations regarding the sources of funding.

The veteran Labour figure, now serving in the House of Lords, expressed to Sky News that he supports the ability of companies and trade unions to donate to political parties, but he believes it would be wise to impose a maximum limit on the amount they can contribute.

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He further urged for measures to block the clever tactics through which foreign funds infiltrate British politics.

Critics argue that despite the prohibition on political parties receiving funds from foreign sources, existing "loopholes" allow overseas donors to channel contributions through companies established in the UK.

The topic has gained attention following claims that X's owner, Elon Musk, might donate millions to Reform UK.

The wealthiest individual globally, originally from South Africa and now a U.S. citizen, is restricted from making direct contributions. Nevertheless, he has established a new entity in the United Kingdom, named X.AI LONDON, which was officially incorporated and listed with Companies House in December.

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Addressing peers in the House of Lords recently, Lord Blunkett called on the government to take immediate action to "protect our future" and "counteract those — be they harmful state entities or wealthy tycoons — who attempt to disrupt our democratic processes."

During discussions in the upper house, there were suggestions to completely prohibit corporate contributions. Additionally, figures such as Lord Dubs from the Labour Party supported measures to restrict overseas contributors from funding British advocacy organizations.

When questioned about which policies he would endorse, Lord Blunkett expressed to Sky News his worries regarding foreign financial contributions influencing not just the financing of political parties, but also the broader political system.

The Labour peer stated, "I have no objection to companies or trade unions making donations; however, it appears prudent to establish a maximum limit on the amount they can contribute."

"Furthermore, there is a pressing need for more stringent regulations concerning the sources of funds, verifying the authenticity of claims that they are 'locally produced,' and curtailing clever methods of significant foreign contributions."

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What are the existing regulations?

Individuals or corporations can contribute unlimited amounts to political parties provided that the funds originate from an allowable source.

Included in this are individuals listed on the UK electoral roll, UK-based corporations and labor unions, along with UK-registered informal groups.

There has been ongoing worry regarding the origins of funds received from corporations, especially since they can contribute money sourced from foreign or unclear origins.

Transparency International has revealed that nearly 10% of all funds declared by political parties and their affiliates since 2001 have originated from undisclosed or dubious sources.

Learn More: Entrepreneur discloses his contribution of £75,000 to Robert Jenrick, yet queries about tax havens linger. Sky News Westminster Accounts: Discover your MP's earnings.

Stay informed about the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

The advocacy group, among others, contributed to a report last year highlighting that regulations intended to block questionable funds and foreign influence from infiltrating UK politics are "full of gaps."

The panel of impartial specialists suggested implementing a limit on contributions, cutting down the spending limit for party campaigns, and legally mandating that political parties disclose the actual origins of their funding.

Organizations such as the Electoral Commission have advocated for a cap on corporate donations to ensure they do not surpass the net profits these companies have made in the UK over the previous two years.

Headgear 'not a main focus'

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The matter is being advanced in the House of Lords, where members express that they can speak more openly compared to Members of Parliament, who might hesitate to pose challenging questions to their government.

The Labour Party pledged to tighten donation regulations in its platform, though specific details on the proposed measures and their implementation timeline remain uncertain.

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Addressing the Lords on Wednesday, junior minister Lord Khan of Burnley stated that imposing a limit on donations is not presently a main focus for the government. However, he emphasized that enhancing the regulations concerning donations is a priority, and that plans to do so will be announced in the near future.

A spokesperson from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government spoke to Sky News, stating, "It's crucial that we safeguard our democracy against harmful forces aiming to disrupt UK elections via unauthorized political contributions.

"This is the reason the administration pledged in its platform to enhance regulations concerning contributions to political parties, and efforts are continuously being made to fulfill this promise."

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Under proposed changes, members of the Senedd might be ousted if they break the code of conduct. Currently, unlike the situation at Westminster, the Welsh parliament lacks a procedure for removing members who violate ethical guidelines.

Welsh journalist @TomosGruffydd

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 1:

Under proposed changes, members of the Senedd might be at risk of losing their positions, as advised in new recommendations to the

At present, there is no established procedure for removing a Senedd member (MS) from their position if they violate the code of conduct for members.

In 2015, Westminster introduced laws to oust Members of Parliament convicted of specific crimes.

Initiating a by-election requires the signatures of 10% of the voters on a recall petition, collected over a span of six weeks.

Plans are underway to implement a recall mechanism in the Scottish parliament, with the proposed legislation currently under discussion at Holyrood.

However, the suggested method in Wales would involve a voting process instead of a petition, allowing voters just a single day to decide whether to retain the incumbent representative or to appoint the subsequent nominee from the party’s roster.

Should the standards committee suggest a recall as a disciplinary measure, it must then be approved through a voting process in the Senedd.

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The conduct standards committee discussed worries about the possibility of an unfilled seat if a non-affiliated, independent Senedd member were to be recalled.

The study urges the government of Wales to implement laws that would allow for recall procedures following the upcoming Senedd elections in May of the next year.

The committee is also examining the issues of political contributions and the prohibition of intentional deceit in Welsh politics as components of a broader investigation.

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At the upcoming election, the total count of Senedd representatives will rise from 60 to 96.

The electoral process is set to be modified, allowing for the election of six members who will represent 16 different regions throughout Wales.

Learn More: Wales decides to prohibit lies among Senedd members; Proposed gender quotas for the Senedd abandoned.

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Hannah Blythyn, the head of the standards committee, emphasized that politicians need to conduct themselves with honesty and decency, and be held responsible by the public when they fail to do so.

"She emphasized the necessity of establishing a strong system to ensure that Members of the Senedd (MSs) are fully accountable to the Welsh populace."

Ms. Blythyn stated that enacting new laws would enhance the system and bolster public trust in Senedd members.

A spokesperson for the Welsh government stated, "We will carefully review the recommendations from the committee and will provide a response in the appropriate timeframe. We are eager to see the committee's additional report on intentional deceit."

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The Church of England has expressed worry following the government's decision to significantly reduce the financial aid dedicated to the maintenance of registered historic religious sites. Initiated in 2001, this program assists various religious buildings such as churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples in covering the 20% VAT incurred on repair works.

Journalism professional @alixculbertson

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 10:

The Church of England has expressed concerns over the government's decision to cut funding for repairs of heritage worship sites, stating that it will offer only "temporary relief" and is worried about how a funding cap will impact major projects.

Former Anglican priest and current Heritage Minister, Sir Chris Bryant, has declared that the funding for the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme will be reduced to £23 million for the fiscal year 2025/26, down from £42 million allocated in the current year.

For the first time in nearly a quarter-century, an annual limit of £25,000 per building will be set to help adhere to budget constraints.

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The program offers financial support by reimbursing the 20% VAT incurred on repairs and renovations exceeding £1,000 at numerous registered religious sites such as churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples.

Initiated by Gordon Brown in 2001, this program has been consistently upheld by successive administrations, each ensuring its financing often extends for multiple years.

Since that time, close to £350 million has been allocated to maintain buildings that are not only historically and culturally important but also serve as venues for community events, preventing them from deteriorating.

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Amidst anxiety that the Labour administration might discontinue the program after its current term concludes in March, Sir Chris has assured its extension.

He did not verify whether the program would be extended past March 2026, a timeline that churches indicate complicates scheduling for maintenance.

'Short-term respite' and 'difficulties'

The Church of England expressed approval for the renewal, however, they voiced worries that bigger initiatives might suffer due to the imposed cap, and noted that funding was assured for only one more year.

The Heritage Alliance, speaking on behalf of institutions like English Heritage and the National Trust, voiced similar worries.

The Bishops of Bristol, Viv Faull, and Ramsbury, Andrew Rumsey, who oversee church buildings for the Church of England, expressed their approval of the "12-month extension," noting that it offers only "short-term respite for numerous minor initiatives either in progress or expected soon."

"Implementing a cap on the program will create obstacles for bigger initiatives," they noted.

They expressed their appreciation for the government's efforts in implementing the program, noting, "Since its introduction in 2001, the program has been essential for the sustenance of our buildings."

Discover more: Prime Minister pledges to challenge local development opponents; Ex-interior minister advocates for limits on political contributions.

Labour MP Marsha de Cordova, who also serves as the Second Church Estates Commissioner, emphasized: "It is crucial that we find a sustainable resolution for some of the nation’s key communal structures and make this program a lasting one."

Carole Souter, the head of The Heritage Alliance, expressed her approval of the announcement, stating that the initiative "has been a crucial support for thousands of ancient places of worship."

She also mentioned, "Given the limits on funding and the uncertainties that lie beyond March 2026, we worry that it might become more difficult to pursue bigger projects in the future."

She expressed the group's eagerness to collaborate with the government on establishing a lasting and successful plan after 2026.

Conservative shadow culture secretary Stuart Andrew charged Labour with concealing "their intentions to significantly reduce the funding for the program for months, leading to churches delaying essential renovations and initiatives due to concerns about facing a substantial tax invoice."

"He added that Labour needs to acknowledge that their choice to cut the budget for the scheme, effectively introducing a tax on worship, will severely impact historic churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious sites that play a central role in communities."

The majority of projects cost less than £5,000.

Sir Chris informed members of Parliament that although £42 million was allocated for the program last year, only £29 million was utilized.

He noted that since the introduction of the program, 94% of the applications received were for less than £25,000, and over 70% were for less than £5,000.

In the period before the announcement, churches informed Sky News that they had been reserving funds typically allocated for community support, concerned they might have to cover VAT on essential repairs if the program was discontinued.

Members of Parliament faced significant pressure from constituents to extend the program, with church members actively corresponding with their representatives, detailing the crucial role that churches play in their communities, especially since they make up almost half of the UK's registered historic buildings.

This falls short of flawless

Sir Chris informed members of parliament: "This challenging choice was made in the context of a difficult financial situation and considering various pressing spending priorities within the department."

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He confessed, "The sum is quite modest, to be honest.

Traditionally, cathedrals are built without perfect symmetry, as it is believed that only God can attain perfection.

"I understand this might not be ideal for everyone, but I hope it meets a satisfactory standard."

Financial support for maintenance is also provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which allocates a £15 million fund aimed at assisting religious sites including their repair needs. Additionally, the Churches Conservation Trust contributes to the upkeep and repair of over 350 churches.

Historic England’s Heritage At Risk program extends aid to several religious structures that are critically in need of restoration.

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Sir Keir Starmer pledges to confront 'NIMBYs' and accelerate major construction initiatives

The term NIMBYs, an acronym for "not in my back yard," describes individuals who resist local development. The Labour leadership promises to challenge this opposition.

Journalist specializing

Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 2

Sir Keir Starmer is pledging to confront "the NIMBYs" by curtailing legal obstacles to infrastructure development – introducing strategies to prevent "newts and bats" from hindering building projects.

The Labour administration has prioritized economic expansion, focusing heavily on the construction of new infrastructure such as highways and energy facilities.

Recent efforts to finalize these projects have repeatedly been mired in legal disputes, an issue the government is now aiming to resolve.

NIMBYs, an acronym for "not in my back yard," describe individuals who resist development projects in their local vicinity.

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Sir Keir Starmer stated, "Blockers have dominated the legal system for too long, exploiting court procedures to hinder progress."

"We are putting a stop to this culture of challenge by confronting the NIMBYs and a dysfunctional system that has hindered our national advancement.

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"The government's strategy for transformation is unfolding through this initiative, which accelerates the UK's progress by overhauling the planning framework to support expansion and infrastructure development."

According to the government, over 58% of decisions regarding significant infrastructure projects end up facing legal challenges, which they say hinders their primary objective of economic expansion.

The text indicates that each issue typically requires about eighteen months to address.

Under the government's new proposals, cases deemed "unarguable" will be limited to a single court appeal, as opposed to the existing allowance of three.

The initial phase, known as the "paper permission stage," will be eliminated, and under new legislation, a High Court judge will have the authority to declare a case "completely without merit," thereby blocking any further appeals.

The government has expressed a desire to "eliminate the obstacles and postponements in the construction of homes and infrastructure caused by existing environmental commitments."

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In a novel approach, developers will now contribute to a unified "nature restoration fund" aimed at safeguarding the environment. This central fund replaces the previous requirement for each project to implement its own environmental mitigations.

"The government stated that the practical new strategy prioritizes the construction of essential housing, roads, and hospitals over the protection of newts and bats."

The proposed modifications to the planning process are the result of a review conducted last year by the planning attorney, Lord Charles Banner, who suggested a more efficient system.

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Conservative opposition spokesperson for levelling up, Kevin Hollinrake, commented: "We are pleased that the government is adopting Conservative strategies to simplify the planning process. However, Labour's resistance to reducing EU-inherited bureaucratic hurdles, like nutrient neutrality, in their quest to maintain ties with the European Union, will impede UK's progress."

Labour ministers have remained inactive regarding the execution of policies set by the Conservatives aimed at reducing red tape and enhancing predictability for both community members and developers. Additionally, the strategy of dismantling numerous local councils and requiring all their staff, including planning officials, to reapply for their positions does not seem conducive to speeding up the decision-making process.

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Starmer Against the Obstructionists

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 08:40

👉Tune into the Politics At Jack And Sam's podcast on your favorite listening app👈

Sky News' assistant political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Dan Bloom preview the upcoming day in UK politics.

Today, Sir Keir Starmer is actively challenging NIMBYism to stimulate economic expansion, proposing measures that limit the frequency of legal challenges against infrastructure projects.

The administration is optimistic that initiatives such as nuclear power plants, wind farms, and rail networks could be constructed faster. However, the question remains whether this is achievable and effective.

Amid recent borrowing figures exceeding expectations, Rachel Reeves faces continued pressure to adhere to her financial regulations. However, Sam argues that reductions in welfare spending will not be beneficial for her upcoming spring statement.

Today's headline story is undoubtedly the sentencing of Axel Rudakubana for the Southport murders. As more information about his appalling actions comes to light, Sam and Dan will explore the ongoing political repercussions.

Reach out to us via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or drop us an email at jackandsam@sky.uk

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Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband has stated he will not step down if the government supports a third runway at Heathrow, despite his long-standing resistance to the project. Previously, in 2009, Miliband had considered leaving Gordon Brown's cabinet due to proposals for expanding Heathrow, and his opposition has been consistent since then.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 3:

Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband has declared that he will not step down from his position even if the government decides to support the addition of a third runway at Heathrow, despite his long-standing opposition to the project

In 2009, Mr. Miliband considered stepping down from his position as the energy and climate change secretary in Gordon Brown’s cabinet due to proposals for a new runway, and by 2018, he expressed concerns that such an expansion would probably exacerbate air pollution.

He now claims that the government can achieve both its economic growth and net zero goals simultaneously.

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When questioned about the possibility of stepping down should the government green-light a third runway, he responded, "Don't be ridiculous, no."

Next week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is anticipated to advocate for the growth of facilities in her speech, including those at Gatwick and Luton.

Mr. Miliband stated that the government's stance is that any growth in aviation must comply with the UK's carbon budgets, which aim to achieve the nation's goal of a 100% reduction in emissions by 2050, relative to 1990 figures.

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Experts from the government's Climate Change Committee have urged that there should be no overall expansion of airports unless there is a comprehensive national strategy to reduce aviation emissions and control the number of air travelers.

Mr. Miliband further stated, "According to the Climate Change Committee, we must ensure that all decisions regarding aviation, including those about expansion, are aligned with our carbon budgets."

"They are completely correct in that assertion, and it fully aligns with the government's stance.

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"We are confident that achieving our primary goal of growth can coincide with adhering to carbon budgets. Furthermore, our commitment to clean energy is vital and integral to fulfilling our growth objectives."

"Rather than conflicting, they actually enhance each other perfectly."

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He declined to comment on whether achieving net zero emissions would still be possible if Heathrow were to add a third runway.

"I won't engage in guessing games about particular matters of that nature.

"I mean that aviation contributes to our economic development and must operate within our established carbon limits. This is acknowledged throughout the government as we are committed to legally binding carbon budgets."

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Thursday, Ms. Reeves strongly suggested that her government will prioritize economic expansion over climate issues by supporting the development of Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton airports, stating, "growth is the top priority of this government."

London's Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, remained firm in his stance against expanding the city's airports, following his third consecutive electoral victory last year.

Today, Mr. Khan reaffirmed his stance against the proposed plans in his address to the London Assembly, emphasizing the significance of the aviation industry for economic expansion, yet highlighting the urgent challenges of a climate crisis and emergency.

"He made it known, his stance on adding a new runway at Heathrow remains unchanged," he stated.

He mentioned that should the rumors of a new runway adhering to carbon objectives, as well as worries about noise and air quality, materialize, "we will certainly assess the value of that situation."

His representative informed Sky News: "The mayor has consistently been against expanding airports in London due to concerns over worsening air quality, increased noise pollution, and the risk it poses to London achieving its 2030 net zero goals."

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Environmental activist labels Starmer's tactics as 'pathetic bullying' following NIMBY commentary

In a commentary for the Daily Mail, Sir Keir Starmer references the efforts of Dr. Andrew Boswell without directly naming him, criticizing his long-standing attempts to obstruct crucial safety improvements. Although Starmer's piece doesn't mention him by name, the associated article in the Mail does reveal his identity.

Assistant Political Editor, Sam Coates (@SamCoatesSky)

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 8:

A Norfolk environmental activist has charged Keir Starmer with "pathetic bullying" after being targeted and mocked by the prime minister in a piece for the Daily Mail.

Sir Keir sharply criticized Andrew Boswell in the initial sections of a newspaper piece, which was titled "We'll halt the obstructive NIMBYs and zealots from paralyzing the nation".

Dr. Boswell, originally a computer scientist, has redefined his career as an environmental consultant. He actively opposes various construction projects, including roads, by legally contesting them on the grounds that they violate environmental, wildlife, and habitat protection laws.

In an interview with Sky News today, Dr. Boswell expressed dismay, stating, "It's appalling that he singled out a person like this, especially one who cannot easily defend themselves."

"It's quite risky for the prime minister to act in this manner, and he should not have handled it like this."

When questioned about his concerns regarding safety, Dr. Boswell responded, "He has identified me by name. I'm simply a regular individual, a citizen like anyone else. I live my life as such. I lack a large media team for defense. I'm without additional safeguards. It's extremely risky for someone in my position."

Dr. Boswell stated, after the incident, that Keir Starmer needs to recognize the government's shortcomings in meeting its climate goals, and he expressed a desire to speak about this issue with the Prime Minister.

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"Keir Starmer really should arrange a meeting with me; I'm eager to discuss the climate crisis with him and address how dismissing carbon emissions, as Rachel Reeves did recently at Davos, is not an option. We simply cannot afford to overlook that.

"The straightforward truth is that the current planning system fails to uphold the government's objectives for climate action."

"I decided to engage with the planning and legal frameworks to strengthen them. As long as these areas remain weak, individuals will persist in pursuing legal challenges against governmental actions that fail to safeguard our environmental goals."

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In a commentary for the Daily Mail, Sir Keir refers to Dr. Boswell by discussing his contributions, though he refrains from mentioning his name.

However, the article in the Mail does name him.

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In his article, Sir Keir mentions: "A one-time Green Party council member dedicated several years to obstruct essential safety improvements on the A47. This issue was escalated to the Supreme Court last year, where it was ultimately rejected due to lack of 'logical foundation'."

A leading judge remarked that the situation seemed utterly surreal. How, then, was he able to consume years of judicial resources and dissipate tens of millions of pounds of public funds?

"Numerous instances exist where NIMBYs and extremists clog the judicial process, frequently due to their own ideological biases, obstructing the construction of essential government infrastructure needed by the nation."

"They are aware that victory is unlikely; their aim is to prolong the proceedings, hoping that the authorities or corporations will eventually concede. Their goal is to secure a personal triumph, rather than acting in the nation's best interest."

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When queried on whether the Prime Minister should have written that, Dr. Boswell responded to Sky News, saying, "No, he's definitely not, on multiple counts there."

"To begin, during our appearance in the high court, the presiding judge acknowledged that my case had cast a spotlight on the existing problems with how environmental impact assessments are conducted."

"Regarding the concern about safety, the reality is that these highway plans allocate £500 million to brief segments of roadway, despite there being significantly riskier hazardous areas in Norfolk."

"I've consistently argued for enhancing road safety in Norfolk. It's crucial to focus on the problem areas rather than allocating substantial funds for extensive roadworks, which ultimately don't yield significant safety enhancements."

Sky News reached out to the Prime Minister's office for a comment.

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The Rachel Reeves Comeback

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 08:59, UK

🎧 Tune into the "Politics At Jack And Sam's" podcast on your favorite podcast platform! 🎧

Sky News' assistant political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Anne McElvoy preview the upcoming events in UK politics.

Anne is currently in Davos, where Chancellor Rachel Reeves is initiating her economic recovery strategy. The leader of the Competition and Markets Authority has been replaced, with significant initiatives being launched in areas like AI, environmental conservation, and joblessness. However, the question remains whether these efforts will generate the economic growth that the chancellor is avidly pursuing.

At the same time, in Westminster, what can be expected from Sir Keir Starmer during his initial Prime Minister's Questions following Axel Rudakubana's admission of guilt regarding the Southport incident?

Feel free to reach out via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633, or send an email to jackandsam@sky.uk.

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Complaint alleges institutional sexism and bullying within GMB union

GMB strongly refutes allegations of a bullying and sexist environment in the organization.

Political reporter @serenabarksing

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 8:

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This week, ex-employees and GMB union representatives have filed a formal grievance with the equality oversight body, claiming systemic sexism and harassment, according to Sky News.

According to a document reviewed by Sky News, the women claim that there exists a "systematic targeting and harassment of women who voice concerns" regarding misconduct within the union supported by Labour. They suggest this may violate the GMB's obligations under the Equality Act.

GMB has previously encountered similar challenges. A critical report authored by Karon Monaghan KC four years ago accused the union of being 'institutionally sexist.' This week, several women have lodged complaints with the EHRC, asserting that the union has not reformed.

In her first account, Ms. Monaghan characterized the atmosphere within the union as plagued by "bullying, misogyny, cronyism, and sexual harassment." She depicted the GMB's environment as dominated by excessive drinking and late-night gatherings, inappropriate rumors, and a general absence of professionalism.

In the previous year, union members from the Yorkshire and Humber area voted to strike due to issues of bullying and harassment. However, these plans were halted after the union agreed to bring Ms. Monaghan back to conduct an investigation into the matter.

Currently, a collective of approximately twelve past and present employees of GMB have reached out to the equality authority, calling for an independent inquiry.

Cath Pinder, previously a regional president for GMB North East who has faced suspension and expulsion from the union and is currently contesting these measures, stated, "They cannot be permitted to self-regulate. It's quite challenging to speak out, but when several individuals come forward, it indicates a systemic issue."

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GMB, a union with approximately 630,000 members across the UK, is a key financial supporter of the Labour Party, highlighting the political importance of its general secretary, Gary Smith.

At the GMB conference, held one year prior to the previous general election, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer delivered the main address. Several members of the cabinet, the Prime Minister included, are also members of this group.

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GMB, an organization that contributes over £1 million annually to the Labour Party, firmly rejects allegations of a bullying or sexist environment and asserts that Ms. Pinder's suspension was warranted.

Sources indicate that following the Karon Monaghan report, the union has implemented detailed and transparent protocols to thoroughly investigate and address any claims of bullying, sexism, or harassment.

A representative from GMB stated: "This type of conduct is unacceptable and strictly prohibited within GMB. We do not employ non-disclosure agreements. Instead, departing employees are required to sign standard settlement agreements, which are commonly used across both public and private sectors."

These women, who expect their union to stand up for employees facing bullying or harassment at work, now find themselves in the position of having to challenge their own union, GMB, to ensure it upholds those same standards.

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Government to Intensify Measures Against Welfare Cheats with Bank Monitoring and Driving Prohibitions

The Department of Work and Pensions is set to escalate its efforts against welfare fraud with the introduction of new legislation to parliament this Wednesday.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 3:

Individuals who commit benefit fraud may face driving bans and have their bank accounts monitored if they do not repay the government, according to a new stringent policy initiative.

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has initiated a major campaign aimed at tackling welfare fraud, described as the most significant in recent decades.

The proposed Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill includes provisions that would enable the government to directly retrieve funds from the bank accounts of individuals who commit fraud.

The legislation is scheduled for presentation to parliament on Wednesday, and the Department for Work and Pensions predicts it could result in savings of approximately £1.5 billion for taxpayers over the coming five years.

Government data reveals that approximately £8.6 billion was erroneously overpaid due to fraud and mistakes in the fiscal year that concluded in April 2024.

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Following the enactment of the proposed legislation, individuals who commit benefit fraud and fail to repay their debts may face driving bans of up to two years.

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Clock is ticking with the approaching cutoff to sign up for the winter heating allowance valued at as much as £300

Lord Blunkett asserts that the government has no obligation to support individuals who choose not to work.

All elderly residents in Scotland will get a winter heating allowance next year.

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Courts have the authority to revoke driving licenses upon application when individuals fail to respond to repayment demands and their debts exceed £1,000.

The Department for Work and Pensions will be authorized to access the bank records of individuals suspected of having sufficient funds to settle their debts but are choosing not to repay them.

"By closing these loopholes, we're cutting off the flow of funds to criminals who exploit the system and rob from honest taxpayers," declared Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall.

Discover additional details on Sky News: Southport incident indicates 'nation confronts fresh danger' Powerful gusts expected across the UK soon Community encircled by towering 80-foot trash heap

She stated: "This will lead to more severe repercussions for those who deceive and bypass the system, potentially culminating in the revocation of their driving licenses in the gravest instances.

Supported by fresh and significant protective measures, such as monitoring systems and autonomous supervision, to guarantee that the authorities are exercised in a balanced and secure manner.

"Citizens must trust that the government is utilizing every possible avenue to combat fraud and eradicate waste, as we undertake the most comprehensive governmental agenda in decades—sharply concentrating on results that will significantly impact their lives, all within our Blueprint for Transformation."

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During the COVID pandemic, there was a notable increase in overpayments of benefits due to fraud and errors.

From the fiscal year concluding in April 2021 to the peak in 2023, the rates surged to approximately 4% of the total benefits disbursed by the department.

The proposed legislation will provide enhanced authority to address fraud from the COVID era.

Helen Whately, the opposition's spokesperson for work and pensions, stated that the regulations represent an ongoing effort by the Conservatives.

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She also stated: "However, by deliberately choosing a known fraud convict for his cabinet, Keir Starmer has shown he cannot be relied upon to rigorously tackle fraud."

Ms. Whately commented on the situation involving ex-transport secretary Louise Haigh, who had to step down from her cabinet position following the disclosure that she had misled police in 2013, claiming a work phone was stolen during a mugging.

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Proposals for dual ID verification to purchase knives on the internet following the Southport assailant's Amazon purchase.

Seventeen-year-old Axel Rudakubana acquired a knife from Amazon, which he used to fatally stab three young girls and wound 10 others, despite laws prohibiting sales to minors.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 11

Under new proposals from the government, individuals purchasing knives via the internet will need to provide two forms of ID to curb sales to minors, a response catalyzed by the tragic stabbing deaths of three young girls in Southport.

This week, Axel Rudakubana confessed to the murder of several young girls last summer. He acquired the knife used in the killings from Amazon at the age of 17, even though it is against the law to sell knives to minors.

Rudakubana, who additionally pleaded guilty to 10 counts of attempted murder, had been recommended to the anti-terror initiative Prevent on three occasions.

Latest in Politics: Minister Calls for Additional Authority to Address Knife Crime

Authorities are suggesting that purchasers should make a real-time video recording and provide a form of identification, like a passport, to verify their age.

Presently, customers purchasing knives on Amazon must provide their date of birth and are informed that they might also need to present a valid photo ID that includes their date of birth at the time of delivery.

"The operator will enter your birth year into their system and might also ask to see your identification to finalize the age confirmation procedure."

Further Details on Southport Incident

Southport Juvenile Murderer Axel Rudakubana Sentenced to Life in Prison, Must Serve at Least 52 Years

'Our hearts broke': Parents in Southport recount the 'nightmare' of their daughter's tragic loss

Axel Rudakubana, convicted of murder in Southport, was ejected from his sentencing hearing for yelling from the

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Amazon has stated that it is deeply committed to its duty concerning the sale of any items that have age restrictions, such as bladed items, and has initiated an investigation in response to the incident in Southport.

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A study on internet knife purchases conducted by Commander Stephen Clayman, who spearheads knife crime initiatives for the National Police Chiefs' Council, has indicated a need for more rigorous identity verification processes.

Commander Clayman was scheduled to provide a report at the end of the month, however, the timeline has been accelerated following inquiries into the simplicity with which Rudakubana acquired a knife.

Discover more: Starmer discusses how terrorism has evolved and the fresh challenges the UK now confronts. Relatives of the Southport assailant have been relocated to a confidential place. Exploring how Southport is coping with the recent terrifying incident.

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Home Minister Yvette Cooper declared an investigation into the Southport incident on Monday, shortly following Rudakubana's surprising admission of guilt.

Minister Alison McGovern expressed to Sky News' Kay Burley on the program "Breakfast with Kay Burley" her desire for the inquiry to proceed as swiftly as possible.

"I wouldn't want to assume the conclusions that the individual conducting the investigation, separate from any governmental influence, might reach. However, I do hope that the process is completed as swiftly as possible."

The home secretary expressed outrage, calling it a "complete scandal" that Rudakubana could "simply purchase a knife on Amazon."

The Labour Party emerged victorious in the recent summer election, shortly before the incident in Southport, campaigning on a promise to reduce major violent crimes, such as knife-related offenses, by 50% within the coming ten years.

In September, the government expanded the list of prohibited weapons to include zombie-style knives and machetes and initiated the Coalition to Tackle Knife Crime. This coalition aims to unite advocacy groups, families affected by such violence, impacted youths, and community leaders.

Authorities have introduced new penalties for leaders of technology firms that do not stop the sale of illegal knives on their websites.

According to official data, over the last five years, incidents of knife-related violence have significantly increased across various regions in England. Specifically, the City of London experienced a surge of 72.73% in such cases up until June 2024. Similarly, Northumbria reported a 46.2% increase, while Avon and Somerset saw a 25.56% rise in knife crime.

From 2022 to 2024, incidents of knife-related crimes in London increased by

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Government officials announce reforms to expedite infrastructure projects

On Wednesday, government officials unveiled reforms aimed at accelerating the construction of various projects such as wind farms, railways, roads, gigafactories, and data centers nationwide. These reforms will reduce the authority of environmental agencies to postpone these developments.

Political journalist @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 2:

Authorities overseeing environmental regulations will lose their ability to postpone significant infrastructure developments, as part of efforts to accelerate construction activities across Britain.

In an effort to accelerate the progress of 150 projects across road, rail, and energy sectors, regulatory bodies will now be restricted from requiring developers to address environmental impacts prior to the commencement of construction.

They will be invited to donate to a new Nature Restoration Fund. This fund will aggregate contributions to support broader, strategic efforts aimed at preserving ecosystems and wildlife, rather than focusing on individual locations.

Politics Live: Badenoch criticizes Starmer's school changes as 'destructive'

The recent legislation also targets facilitating construction in regions hindered by contentious nutrient neutrality regulations.

Critics claim that the regulations on water pollution, which are said to have hindered the construction of tens of thousands of new homes, unfairly target residential development. They argue that the contribution of housing to the nutrient pollution in rivers is negligible compared to the impacts from water companies and agricultural activities

In 2023, ex-housing chief Michael Gove aimed to eliminate regulations originating from the EU, however, his efforts were thwarted by a revolt led by the Labour Party in the House of Lords.

It is believed that Labour ministers are not concerned about this situation recurring, as they are confident that the Nature Restoration Fund will mitigate the effects by being utilized for river cleanup efforts.

An insider familiar with the discussions informed that the government collaborated with environmental organizations to develop a mutually beneficial and feasible strategy for both conservation and construction efforts.

Richard Benwell, the head of Wildlife and Countryside Link, refrained from directly criticizing the announcement but urged Labour to fulfill its pledge to "restore the natural world" as promised in its manifesto.

He informed Sky News, "The government's plans must not allow for unsustainable projects in exchange for unclear promises of potential benefits."

"Effectively executed, this presents a significant chance to enhance how developers comply with environmental regulations, while also increasing funding and safeguards for the restoration of natural habitats."

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The administration is facing challenges in fulfilling its campaign promise of constructing 1.5 million homes and approving 150 infrastructure projects by the end of its term, aiming to spur economic expansion.

Advocates for construction have raised doubts about the practicality of the proposals, citing issues with the UK's overloaded planning system.

Currently, before receiving approval to proceed with construction, infrastructure developments are required to address and compensate for any environmental damage to safeguarded habitats and wildlife, which adds expenses and prolongs the timeline.

£100 million allocated for HS2 bat habitat

Recent reports have brought attention to the struggling HS2 project, which incurred a £100 million expense for a bat shed along a segment of the railway.

Sir John Thompson, the chairman of the company, stated that there is "no evidence that high-speed trains affect bats," and the construction of the cover is to satisfy the recommendations from Natural England, the advisory group in Whitehall.

He referred to it as a "real issue" in finishing large-scale infrastructure projects in the UK, noting that after the central government passed legislation in 2017 to greenlight the project, HS2 had to secure more than 8,000 planning permissions from various governmental agencies.

Further Reading: Delays hit Thames crossing project as costs exceed those of the world's longest road tunnel. Property developers may sidestep planning committees in an effort to revamp procedures.

Changes to accelerate initiatives

Officials stated that the changes unveiled on Wednesday are designed to expedite the development of 150 initiatives, such as new wind farms, railways, roads, gigafactories, and data centers nationwide.

According to the government, the existing regulations mandate that developers assess and fulfill environmental responsibilities for each individual project, a process that overlooks the potential for more comprehensive, strategic approaches.

The updated method eliminates the requirement for separate assessments and mitigations at each site, allowing projects to move forward following a one-time contribution to the Nature Restoration Fund in the majority of instances.

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The management of the fund is anticipated to fall under the responsibility of Natural England, which will assess the comprehensive measures required to safeguard various habitats and species across the nation. This might involve allocating funds towards diminishing water contamination or preserving breeding grounds to boost the numbers of specific species, for instance.

The expectation is that the fund will assist developers in quickly and extensively fulfilling their environmental responsibilities by consolidating funds for more significant initiatives.

Stay informed about the newest developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

The modifications are set to be part of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, anticipated to be brought forward early this year.

The advocacy organization Britain Remade has expressed support for the recent statement, criticizing that environmental bodies "have excessively prolonged and obstructed vital infrastructure developments that are crucial for stimulating our economic growth."

CEO Sam Richards commented, "Initiatives ranging from bat tunnels to fish discos not only introduce significant delays to projects but also incur costs of hundreds of millions of pounds, all while doing minimal to safeguard or improve the natural environment."

Environment Secretary Steve Reed stated, "For far too long, there has been an unhelpful opposition between nature conservation and development. This has hindered economic progress without benefiting the restoration of natural environments.

"These changes will facilitate the advancement of infrastructure projects while safeguarding the natural surroundings that are essential for everyone."

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