Ruth Davidson Supports Anas Sarwar's Decision to Step Away from Winter Fuel Reduction

On the Electoral Dysfunction podcast, the Conservative peer expressed her support for the Scottish Labour leader's strategic distancing as he prepares for the 2026 Holyrood elections.

Friday, November 22, 2024, 5:

Baroness Davidson supports Anas Sarwar's decision to distance himself from Sir Keir Starmer regarding the elimination of winter fuel payments for the majority of pensioners.

The leader of Scottish Labour has vowed to defy the national party's stance and restore the universal winter fuel allowance for elderly citizens should they win the Holyrood election in 2026.

On the Electoral Dysfunction podcast with Beth Rigby, the Conservative peer explained that although it was politically essential for Mr. Sarwar to distance himself from the Westminster policy, the Scottish public recognizes the situation for what it truly is.

"She noted that the Scottish are quite discerning," she said. "They recognize it for what it truly is."

“They are aware that 35 Scottish Labour MPs chose to remove the winter fuel allowance for the elderly, and now the Scottish Labour leader is telling people, 'Ignore those 35 MPs – if you elect us in 18 months, we may potentially reimburse some of that money to you.'”

Latest in Politics: Former Security Minister Downplays Warnings from Russian Envoy

"He's making a smart political move, I believe, though there's certainly a significant amount of skepticism surrounding his actions."

Further Analysis on Labour

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Members of Parliament to examine senior poverty following reductions in winter heating allowances

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Following their victory in the nationwide general election, Sir Keir Starmer, alongside Chancellor Rachel Reeves, declared that the winter fuel payment would be subject to means testing.

Under the new scheme, only pensioners who qualify for specific benefits will receive up to £300, impacting about 1.3 million households. Previously, up to 7.6 million households were eligible for this payment.

Officials have maintained that the move was essential to address the £22 billion deficit in the national budget, which they attribute to the financial mismanagement of the former Conservative administration.

Prior to this declaration, the strategy in Scotland, where authority over benefits is decentralized, involved substituting the existing payment with an equivalent program.

The Scottish government, led by the SNP, has announced that it will require means testing for the new initiative, citing UK policy as the reason.

At the start of the week, Mr. Sarwar announced that should he come into power in two years, he plans to implement universal payments for elderly citizens. However, he noted that these payments would gradually be adjusted so that wealthier individuals would not receive subsidies from taxpayer funds.

"He stated that a Scottish Labour government would restore the winter fuel payment for pensioners in Scotland."

This year, the winter fuel payment was expected to be managed by regional authorities, with the Scottish government receiving extra funds from the household support fund to assist with this.

"This implied that an alternative strategy could have been implemented in Scotland to assist a greater number of families this year. However, the SNP chose to return the authority to the DWP [Department for Work and Pensions]."

He stated: "Scottish Labour plans to reclaim this regional authority from the DWP, restore the winter fuel payment, and implement a more equitable system to guarantee assistance for all who require it."

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On the podcast, Baroness Harman, who previously served as Labour's deputy leader, commented that Mr. Sarwar's stance on winter fuel payments exemplifies the "reality of devolution."

Discover more: Prescott, a pork pie, and my story: Ukraine launches UK-provided Storm Shadow missiles at locations within Russia.

"She noted that Anas Sarwar claims he will not be dominated by the Labour leadership in Westminster."

This encapsulates the essence of devolution. He might declare, 'I will decide what I believe is best for Scotland'… however, he must then determine whether he will redistribute resources from the very wealthy, or if he chooses not to, how he will rationalize this decision.

"I believe Keir will be quite at ease with the situation. He and Anas Sarwar share a close political alignment. Their collaboration has been effective, and this situation highlights the benefits of devolution."

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What are Keir Starmer's principles?

Friday 22 November 2024 05:10, UK

👆 Tap here to stream the Electoral Dysfunction podcast on your preferred podcast app 👇

This week, as farmers rallied in Westminster, Beth, Ruth, and Harriet discuss the challenges these demonstrations pose for the authorities. They explore if the chancellor might reconsider her decision to eliminate the inheritance tax break for agricultural properties valued over £1 million, and if the Labour Party risks alienating rural voters.

Additionally, while Labour's Scottish leader Anas Sarwar takes a step back from the administration regarding winter fuel allowances, Beth, Ruth, and Harriet delve into the values and positions of the prime minister as he navigates significant internal disputes amidst his engagements with global leaders at the G20 summit abroad.

The article also pays tribute to John Prescott, who held the record as the Labour Party's longest-serving deputy leader and was a former colleague of Harriet.

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Get in touch by emailing electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, tweeting @BethRigby on X, or sending a WhatsApp voice note to 07934 200 444.

Check out this guide to learn more about the agricultural demonstrations and the controversy surrounding the estate tax.

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Downing Street suggests that following an ICC warrant, Netanyahu could face arrest in the UK

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of war crimes and crimes against humanity tied to the conflict in Gaza.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK, following the issuance of an international arrest warrant against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the former Israeli defense secretary Yoav Gallant, accusing them of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in connection with the conflict in Gaza.

The UK authorities hesitated to confirm whether Netanyahu would be detained upon his arrival in the UK. However, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would adhere to its legal responsibilities concerning the arrest warrant.

"He emphasized that the UK is committed to adhering to its legal responsibilities, as defined by both national and international law."

He mentioned that the UK has never utilized the domestic mechanism associated with ICC arrest warrants, as no one targeted by the international court has ever visited the country.

This past Friday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper refrained from discussing the procedures related to the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing its independence, despite the UK's membership in the organization.

She informed Sky News, "We have consistently upheld the significance of international law, yet in most instances they handle, these do not integrate into the British legal system.

"The UK government maintains that the priority should be to secure a ceasefire in Gaza," is the clear stance expressed.

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, who leads the foreign affairs committee for Labour in parliament, stated: "Should Netanyahu visit the UK, we would be compelled by the Rome Convention to detain him based on the ICC’s warrant.

"It's not about whether we should; it's that we must, as we are part of the ICC."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration announced its acceptance of the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated their intentions to detain Netanyahu should he visit their nations.

In response to inquiries about whether the Israeli leader would be detained in Ireland, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris affirmed, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the rulings of international courts and enforce their mandates."

Germany stated that it would decide on a course of action should Netanyahu visit, emphasizing its strong support for the ICC, a stance influenced by its historical experiences.

A spokesperson for the German government stated, "Due to Germany's historical context, we have a special relationship and significant responsibilities towards Israel."

An arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, the Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the attacks on Israel on October 7, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was eliminated earlier this year; however, the International Criminal Court has indicated that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu described the issued warrants targeting him and Gallant as "antisemitic," and stated that Israel "strongly condemns and dismisses the ridiculous and untrue measures."

Both Israel and the United States are not participants in the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel does not acknowledge the authority of the court and refutes allegations of committing war crimes in Gaza.

Discover More: Insights from Satellite Imagery on North Gaza; Hamas Open to Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

For an improved video experience, it's recommended to use the Chrome browser.

US President Joe Biden labeled the warrants issued against Israeli officials as "outrageous," emphasizing, "There is absolutely no comparison – none – between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC may suggest."

Ex-Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett described the ICC's issuance of warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain of disgrace."

The Board of Deputies of British Jews stated that the ICC's ruling conveyed a "dreadful signal."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced on Friday that he plans to extend an invitation to Netanyahu to visit Hungary, assuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court initially announced its intention to seek arrest warrants for three individuals in May, citing alleged crimes. On Thursday, the court disclosed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and had proceeded to issue the arrest warrants.

In its recent briefing, the ICC indicated that there is "sufficient evidence to suspect" that Netanyahu and Gallant "are criminally liable" for purported offenses.

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The court identified the charges as including "the war crime of using starvation as a tactic in conflict; along with the crimes against humanity, such as murder, persecution, and various other cruel acts."

For the first time, a current head of state from a prominent Western nation has been charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international judicial body.

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Downing Street signals that Netanyahu faces arrest in the UK following an ICC warrant

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK, following the issuance of an international arrest warrant against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the former Israeli defense secretary, Yoav Gallant, on charges of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity connected to the conflict in Gaza.

The UK administration hesitated to confirm if Netanyahu would be detained upon arrival, however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would "comply with its legal requirements" concerning the arrest warrant.

"He affirmed that the UK consistently adheres to its legal responsibilities as defined by both national and international law."

He noted that the UK has never utilized its domestic mechanism for enforcing International Criminal Court arrest warrants, as no individuals sought by the court have ever visited the country.

Earlier today, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that it would not be proper for her to discuss the procedures involved, as the ICC operates independently, despite the UK being a member.

Speaking to Sky News, she said, "While we hold international law in high regard, most of the cases they take up do not enter into the British legal system."

"I can affirm that the UK government consistently maintains that our priority is to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza."

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, the Labour chair of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, stated: "Should Netanyahu visit Britain, we would be compelled by the Rome Convention to detain him based on the ICC’s warrant.

"It's not about whether we should; as members of the ICC, we're obligated to."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration declared that it would not challenge the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated that they would detain Netanyahu should he enter their territories.

In response to a question regarding whether the Israeli leader would be arrested in Ireland, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris confirmed, stating, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the authority of international courts and enforce their mandates."

Germany stated that it would determine its course of action should Netanyahu visit, noting that it remains a major advocate for the ICC, a stance influenced significantly by its historical context.

A spokesperson for the German government stated, "Due to our historical background, Germany has a special relationship and significant obligations towards Israel."

An International Criminal Court arrest warrant has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, a Hamas leader and the alleged architect of the October 7 attacks in Israel, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was eliminated earlier this year, however, the ICC has noted that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu characterized the issued warrants against him and Gallant as "antisemitic," expressing that Israel "vehemently dismisses the ridiculous and unfounded measures" with contempt.

Israel and the United States are not part of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel does not acknowledge the authority of the court and refutes allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Further information: Insights from satellite imagery on North GazaHamas signals readiness for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza

For an optimal video viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser

US President Joe Biden strongly criticized the warrants issued against Israeli leaders, labeling them as "outrageous" and stating, "There is absolutely no comparison between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC may suggest."

Ex-Israeli leader Naftali Bennett described the ICC's issuance of warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain of disgrace."

The Board of Deputies of British Jews expressed that the ICC's ruling conveyed a "dreadful signal."

On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced plans to invite Netanyahu to Hungary, ensuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) initially announced its intention to seek arrest warrants for three individuals in May, related to alleged crimes. On Thursday, the court disclosed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and proceeded to issue the arrest warrants.

In its recent briefing, the ICC indicated that there are "reasonable grounds to believe" that Netanyahu and Gallant might be criminally responsible for the alleged offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with the latest news.

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The court identified the offenses as "the war crime of using starvation as a method of warfare, along with the crimes against humanity, which encompass murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts."

For the first time, a current leader from a major Western nation has been formally charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international tribunal.

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Downing Street suggests that Netanyahu could face arrest in the UK following an ICC warrant

The International Criminal Court, on Thursday, issued an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity connected to the conflict in Gaza.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK due to an international arrest warrant issued against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the former Israeli defense secretary, Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the conflict in Gaza.

The UK authorities hesitated to confirm whether Netanyahu would be detained upon his arrival in the UK; however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would "adhere to its legal duties" concerning the arrest warrant.

"He stated that the UK is committed to adhering to its legal responsibilities as defined by both national and international law."

He noted that the UK has never utilized its domestic mechanism related to ICC arrest warrants, as no individual sought by the international court has ever entered the country.

On Friday morning, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper declined to discuss the procedures, emphasizing that the International Criminal Court operates independently, despite the UK's membership.

She informed Sky News: "We have consistently upheld the significance of international law, yet in most instances they handle, these do not integrate into the British legal framework.

"I can confirm that the UK government continues to maintain that our main priority is to work towards achieving a ceasefire in Gaza."

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, the Labour head of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, stated, "Should Netanyahu visit the UK, we would be compelled by the Rome Convention to detain him based on the ICC's warrant."

"It's not about whether we should; it's that we must, as we are part of the ICC."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration declared its acceptance of the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated their intentions to detain Netanyahu should he enter their territories.

When questioned whether the Israeli leader would be detained by police in Ireland, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris confirmed, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the rulings of international courts and enforce their mandates."

Germany stated that it would reach a decision regarding Netanyahu's visit, emphasizing its strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), a stance influenced by its historical context.

A spokesperson for the German government stated, "Due to Germany's historical background, we maintain a special relationship and significant responsibility towards Israel."

An arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, a Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the attacks on Israel on October 7, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was killed earlier this year; however, the International Criminal Court has stated that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu described the issued warrants for him and Gallant as "antisemitic," and stated that Israel "vehemently dismisses the ridiculous and unfounded measures."

Israel and the United States are not participants in the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel disputes the authority of the court and denies allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Explore further: Insights from satellite imagery on North GazaHamas signals readiness for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza

For an optimal video viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser

US President Joe Biden criticized the warrants issued against Israeli leaders, labeling them as "outrageous." He emphasized, "There is absolutely no parallel – none at all – between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC suggests."

Ex-Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett described the ICC's warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain on its reputation."

The British Jewish Board of Deputies stated that the decision by the ICC conveyed a "dreadful message."

On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced plans to invite Netanyahu to Hungary, assuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) disclosed in May its intention to issue arrest warrants for three individuals accused of crimes, and on Thursday, it confirmed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and proceeded to issue the arrest warrants.

In its recent briefing, the ICC indicated there are "reasonable grounds to believe" that Netanyahu and Gallant may be criminally responsible for the purported offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with all the latest news

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

According to the court, the offenses encompass "the war crime of using starvation as a method of warfare; along with crimes against humanity such as murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts."

For the first time, a current head of state from a significant Western ally has been charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international judicial body.

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Downing Street suggests that Netanyahu would face arrest in the UK following an ICC warrant.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of war crimes and crimes against humanity in connection with the conflict in Gaza.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has signaled that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK due to an international arrest warrant issued against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and ex-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the conflict in Gaza.

The UK government hesitated to confirm whether Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK, however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would "adhere to its legal responsibilities" regarding the arrest warrant.

"He stated that the UK is committed to adhering to its legal responsibilities as defined by both national and international law."

He noted that the UK has never utilized its internal mechanism for enforcing International Criminal Court arrest warrants, as no individual sought by the court has ever visited the country.

On Friday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that commenting on the procedures of the ICC would not be suitable, noting its independence despite the UK's membership.

She informed Sky News, "We have consistently honored the significance of international law, yet most cases they initiate do not integrate into the UK legal system.

"I can confirm that the UK government continues to hold the view that the priority should be to secure a ceasefire in Gaza."

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, the Labour Party's chair of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, stated, "Should Netanyahu visit the UK, we are bound by the Rome Convention to detain him pursuant to the ICC's warrant."

"It's not about whether we should; our membership in the ICC obligates us to do so."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration announced it would not challenge the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated their intention to detain Netanyahu should he enter their territories.

In response to inquiries about whether the Israeli leader would be detained in Ireland, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris confirmed, stating, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the rulings of international courts and enforce their warrants."

Germany stated that it would reach a decision regarding Netanyahu's visit to the country, emphasizing its strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), a stance influenced by its historical experiences.

A spokesperson for the German government stated: "Due to Germany's historical background, we have a distinct relationship and significant responsibility towards Israel."

An International Criminal Court arrest warrant has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, a Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the October 7 attacks in Israel, on charges of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was eliminated earlier this year; however, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has indicated that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu condemned the issued warrants aimed at him and Gallant, labeling them as "antisemitic." They stated that Israel "firmly dismisses the ridiculous and unfounded measures" with revulsion.

Israel and the United States do not belong to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel disputes the authority of the court and refutes allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Explore further: Satellite imagery reveals insights into North Gaza as Hamas expresses readiness for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

For optimal video playback, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

U.S. President Joe Biden strongly criticized the International Criminal Court's warrants for Israeli officials, stating, "There is absolutely no comparison between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC suggests."

Ex-Israeli leader Naftali Bennett labeled the ICC's issuance of warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain on their reputation."

The British Jewish Board of Deputies stated that the ICC's ruling conveyed a "dismal message."

Hungarian leader Viktor Orban announced on Friday that he would extend an invitation to Netanyahu to visit Hungary, ensuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court initially declared in May its intention to pursue arrest warrants for three individuals regarding alleged offenses. On Thursday, it confirmed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and had officially issued the arrest warrants.

In its latest briefing, the ICC indicated it possesses "sufficient evidence to presume" that Netanyahu and Gallant "are criminally accountable" for the purported offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay informed with the latest updates.

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The court identified several offenses, stating they encompass "the war crime of using starvation as a tactic of conflict; along with the crimes against humanity such as murder, persecution, and various other cruel acts."

For the first time, a current leader from a prominent Western nation has been charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international judicial body.

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SNP Representative Stephen Flynn has decided against pursuing a dual role as an MSP. Despite being viewed as a possible future leader of the SNP, Flynn's intentions to hold both positions faced criticism within his party.

Scotland correspondent @Jenster13

Friday, November 22, 2024, 10:

Stephen Flynn, the SNP leader in Westminster, has decided against holding both an MP and MSP position simultaneously.

Mr. Flynn, who successfully retained his seat as the MP for Aberdeen South in a July election, faced backlash after recently declaring his intention to seek his party’s nomination for the Aberdeen South and North Kincardine constituency in the upcoming 2026 Holyrood election.

The 36-year-old promised to continue serving as a Member of Parliament until the next general election, if successful, but clarified that he would not receive two salaries.

Nevertheless, his strategy provoked anger among his fellow party members, as Mr. Flynn was one of the SNP members who had previously condemned former Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross for similar actions.

Finance Minister Ivan McKee expressed that holding dual roles as both an MP and an MSP is unfeasible, and MSP Emma Roddick encouraged him to reconsider his stance.

The position is presently occupied by SNP MSP Audrey Nicoll.

On Thursday, Mr. Flynn acknowledged his mistake and announced he would not continue to seek both positions.

He stated, "I admit my mistake in this matter and will not seek a dual mandate."

"I sincerely intended to ease the financial burden on taxpayers by temporarily holding both MP and MSP positions until the upcoming general election. However, despite my good intentions, I acknowledge that my decision was mistaken."

My guiding principle and core conviction is that Holyrood, being the epicenter of Scottish democracy, serves as the democratic foundation that will propel Scotland towards independence.

"Everyone involved in the fight for independence is united by this shared purpose and eager to contribute to this narrative."

"As a member of the SNP, I am eager to review the new candidate selection guidelines that our party will implement."

Mr. Flynn is frequently mentioned as a likely future leader of his party.

He chose not to participate in the current SNP leadership contest to succeed Humza Yousaf, opting instead to support the ultimate victor, Mr. Swinney.

Since Mr. Flynn is not a Member of the Scottish Parliament, assuming the role of First Minister at Holyrood would have been challenging.

Transitioning to the Scottish parliament could set him on a path toward becoming Scotland's premier leader.

👉 Tap here to stream Electoral Dysfunction on your favorite podcast platform 👈

During the controversy over holding multiple positions, Mr. Swinney praised Mr. Flynn, calling him one of the SNP's "outstanding talents."

The first minister stated, "His talent is vast, and he possesses remarkable skills."

The application period for those aiming to be chosen as SNP candidates for the upcoming Scottish parliament election concluded last week; however, the official selection process is set to start next year.

Before the 2021 elections in Scotland, the SNP amended its regulations, mandating that its MPs step down from their positions in Westminster if they wish to contend for a seat in the Holyrood parliament.

This resulted in the former MP Joanna Cherry withdrawing from the candidacy race for the Edinburgh Central seat. At the time, she stated that the alteration in rules had significantly disadvantaged her in her campaign for Holyrood selection.

Discover further details at Sky News: Anas Sarwar was correct to separate himself from the reduction in winter fuel, according to Ruth Davidson. The Home Secretary declines to comment on whether the UK would detain Netanyahu following an ICC warrant.

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The governing council of the party, known as the National Executive Committee (NEC), might consider eliminating the regulation for upcoming competitions before 2026.

Critics from rival political groups are advocating for the prohibition of holding dual mandates, prompting the Scottish Conservatives to reintroduce an amendment to the Scottish Elections (Representation and Reform) Bill that seeks to eliminate such practices by the 2026 elections.

Legislation is anticipated to be brought to a vote prior to the Christmas holiday, with forecasts suggesting both Scottish Labour and the Scottish Greens will back the proposal.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated on all the latest news.

Scottish Tory deputy leader Rachael Hamilton described Mr. Flynn's reversal as "humiliating."

She commented, "His proposals are reflective of the typical arrogance seen in SNP politicians who believe they deserve special treatment while others must abide by different rules."

"Yet, even members of his own party recognized his blatant hypocrisy and openly expressed their opinions."

"The public deserves more than nationalists who focus on advancing their own careers instead of dealing with the actual issues that concern the people of Scotland."

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Media Announcement: Scheduled Hearings for Designated Commissioners

Distribute this information:

This announcement offers details regarding the confirmation hearings for the designated commissioners, set to take place from November 4 to November 12.

You can review the comprehensive timetable for the confirmation hearings and see the responses given by the Commissioners-designate to the written inquiries crafted by the various committees.

Conference spaces

The European Parliament in Brussels will host hearings in the ANTALL building, specifically in rooms 2Q2 and 4Q2. These sessions will occur simultaneously, allowing for up to six hearings each day.

The back row in the rooms will be set aside for the press. Seats will not be available for advance reservation and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Reporters are highly encouraged to arrive early since seating cannot be assured once the session starts. Anyone needing to exit before the hearing concludes should do so discreetly through the rear door.

Online broadcasting and digital media platforms

The press office of Parliament plans to issue a reminder each morning about the day's scheduled EP hearings, followed by a brief press release summarizing each session.

All sessions are open to the public and available for live viewing. They can be watched through Parliament's streaming service and on Ebs/EbS+.

The Multimedia Centre of Parliament is set to offer high-definition videos, high-quality photos, and graphic materials related to media topics for all hearings, as well as separately for designated Commissioners.

Videos in HD can be accessed for download just half an hour after the hearings begin (live replay available), and a curated collection of top-notch photos will also be ready for download.

A designated media zone called the Karamanlis passerelle is equipped for live broadcasts using personal equipment. To reserve a space, please contact avplanning@europarl.europa.eu.

At the rear of each room, a designated space will be provided for camera crews and photographers, where they can access a live broadcast signal.

Certification and entry

During the hearings, reporters do not need any special credentials. Those who possess an inter-institutional pass or a yearly pass issued by the Parliament are allowed to access Parliament's buildings in their usual manner.

Access to the ANTALL building, where the hearings are scheduled, will be available until 10:30 PM. The primary entrance to the Parliament on Rue Wiertz will remain open around the clock, as will the parking facility, which has designated spots for media personnel traveling by car. It is important to remember that parking spaces must be booked ahead of time using the IZIX app.

The dining area in the ANTALL structure is set to serve refreshments from 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM between Monday, November 4, and Wednesday, November 6, as well as on Tuesday, November 12. However, on Thursday, November 7, its hours will be shortened, closing at 6:30 PM. Meanwhile, the Bar located in the SPINELLI building will remain operational until midnight from Monday, November 4, to Wednesday, November 6, and again on Tuesday, November 12.

To attend the hearings, it is recommended to enter through the ANTALL entrance, which leads straight to the meeting rooms. As another option, journalists and visitors can use Parliament's entrance located in the SPAAK building, which will be accessible all week.

Individuals lacking a pass must apply for temporary accreditation via the Parliament’s registration site and pick it up at the Media accreditation desk located in the General Accreditation Centre, Altiero Spinelli building, Esplanade Solidarność, 01F035.

The times when the accreditation office is open during the hearings:

From Monday, November 4th, to Thursday, November 7th, the hours are 8

Friday, November 8th, from 8:30 AM to

Monday, November 11th: 8:30 AM – 5:

Tuesday, November 12: 8:00 AM to 8:00

Format of the proceedings

Each confirmation hearing is scheduled for three hours. The Commissioner-designate will start with a 15-minute opening speech, after which Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will pose their questions. Political groups will allocate time to their Members for participation in the hearing. The Commissioner-designate will be allowed double the amount of time to respond compared to the time allotted for the question asked. Before the hearing concludes, the Commissioners-designate have the opportunity to deliver a short concluding statement.

The evaluation of a Commissioner-designate varies based on their assigned portfolio, which may involve one or multiple committees working together. Additional committees might also be invited to join the hearing process, allowing them to ask oral questions. However, the ultimate decision regarding the candidates is made by the coordinators of the primary committee(s) in charge.

Assessment of the proceedings

The committee chair and the coordinators from each group will promptly convene following the hearings to assess whether the nominees for the Commissioner roles are suitable for membership in the College and capable of fulfilling their designated responsibilities.

After the evaluation is finished, coordinators will, within a day, dispatch a private recommendation letter. This letter will be reviewed by the Committee Chairs' Conference and then forwarded to the Presidents' Conference.

To approve or reject a Commissioner-designate, committee coordinators must generally come to a mutual agreement. However, if there are differing opinions, coordinators representing a minimum of two-thirds of the committee must support the decision.

Should coordinators fail to achieve a two-thirds consensus to either approve or reject a candidate, they have the option to seek more details by submitting additional written inquiries or by resuming the confirmation hearing for 1.5 hours, provided the Conference of Presidents agrees. If coordinators cannot reach a simple majority for either step, the Chair will organize a private committee meeting where a secret vote will be held to decide on the candidate's approval, requiring only a simple majority.

After potentially addressing additional written inquiries or reconvening for another confirmation hearing, the coordinators have the option to endorse the Commissioner-designate if they achieve at least a two-thirds majority vote. Should they not reach this threshold, the chairperson will organize a committee meeting where a confidential vote will take place. In this scenario, only a simple majority is needed to recommend the candidate for approval.

Conclusion and resolution of all proceedings

After the hearings conclude, the Conference of Committee Chairs will review the results and send their findings to the Conference of Presidents. The Conference of Presidents will then carry out the final assessment, considering the evaluation reports from the relevant committees and the advice from the Conference of Committee Chairs. When the Conference of Presidents declares the hearings concluded, the evaluation reports will be made public.

Upcoming Actions – Selection of the Commission during the full assembly meeting

Following the end of the hearings, Ursula von der Leyen, the President-elect of the Commission, will introduce the complete team of Commissioners and outline their agenda during a plenary session. This will be succeeded by a discussion with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Additionally, any political faction or a minimum of one-twentieth of the Members of Parliament, which is a relatively low requirement, is allowed to propose a motion for a resolution.

The entire Commission requires Parliament's endorsement, which must be achieved through a majority of votes in a roll-call process. This voting is planned to occur during the session from November 25 to 28 in Strasbourg.

After receiving approval from Parliament, the Commission needs to be officially appointed by the European Council, which makes this decision through a qualified majority vote.

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Since July, additional hotels accommodating asylum seekers have been established, according to Dame Angela Eagle, who has committed to phasing out their usage. The Labour government has vowed to cease using hotels for housing asylum seekers, although Dame Angela Eagle noted that there was no commitment to achieve this within four months.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 2:

The minister responsible for border security confirmed that additional accommodations in hotels for asylum seekers have been established since the Labour Party assumed power. However, she committed to phasing out this practice.

Dame Angela Eagle informed parliament that there are 220 hotels currently accommodating asylum seekers. She noted that seven hotels ceased operations since July, while 14 new ones have commenced.

In their manifesto, Labour vowed to shut down asylum hotels, yet she clarified that there was no pledge to "shut all asylum hotels within four months."

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The minister responsible for border security and asylum stated that the issue stemmed from the conditions created by the Conservative Party, which left 116,000 asylum seekers in a backlog exceeding two years by the time the Labour Party assumed office in July.

She stated that the system "came to a halt" as the Tories were preoccupied with implementing the Rwanda strategy "which was bound to fail."

"She claimed that they were left with a complete disaster by the opposing party."

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The strategy implemented by Rwanda involves relocating individuals who unlawfully enter the UK from a secure nation to Rwanda, where their requests for asylum will be evaluated, instead of within the UK itself.

Yet, only a single individual voluntarily traveled to the African nation, and the Labour Party discontinued the policy immediately after securing electoral victory.

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Dame Angela emphasized that despite addressing the backlog, the government remains legally required to offer housing for asylum seekers.

"She affirmed their unwavering dedication to ceasing the practice of housing asylum seekers in hotels," she stated.

The minister noted that the number of asylum decisions has increased from under 1,000 a month to 10,000, a figure that Labour MP Jo White pointed out is 1,000 higher than the previous week.

Dame Angela noted that since July, the government has repatriated almost 10,000 individuals to their home countries, marking an increase of almost 20%.

Learn more: Inflation rate rises for the first time in three months; MP calls for revisions to non-crime hate incident policies.

The minister responded to a pressing inquiry from Gavin Williamson, a prominent Conservative minister in the previous government, who had expressed his profound surprise and disappointment in a letter to the home secretary regarding the reuse of a hotel in his district to accommodate asylum seekers.

He criticized the Labour administration for not having an effective deterrent, following their cancellation of the Rwanda plan.

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The UK plans to decommission several warships, military helicopters, and a collection of drones as a cost-cutting measure, even amid international security concerns. Defence Secretary John Healey disclosed the strategy in a parliamentary session on Wednesday, noting that it could result in savings of approximately 500 million pounds over the coming five years.

Security and Defense Editor @haynesdeborah

Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 10

The UK plans to decommission five naval vessels, numerous military helicopters, and a collection of drones as a cost-cutting measure, even as concerns about Russian aggression and ongoing conflict in Europe escalate.

In a significant announcement made in parliament on Wednesday, Defence Secretary John Healey declared a strategic decision that is projected to cut costs by as much as 500 million pounds in the coming five years.

The Defense Secretary referred to the gear being eliminated as "obsolete" and stated that the "logical" choice to decommission it was significantly delayed.

Ukraine conflict updates: Live coverage

He indicated that the choice was a component of a strategy to overhaul and update the military, which has seen considerable downsizing after years of budget reductions, with new technologies set to be introduced to fill the voids.

"Global threats are on the rise," Mr. Healey stated in a document released concurrently with his speech to MPs.

"Conflict escalates across Europe as Russian hostilities intensify. Concurrently, enduring strife in the Middle East coupled with rapid technological advancements is transforming how wars are fought. In response, there is a pressing need for enhanced robustness and preparedness in defense strategies for what

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He also mentioned that the defense budget was experiencing "significant fiscal challenges."

He reiterated the government's commitment to increase the defense budget to 2.5% of the GDP, but once more did not specify a timeline.

The defense secretary clarified what "difficult decisions" actually entailed.

"In a rapidly evolving global landscape, it is crucial for Britain’s defense to adapt in order to maintain domestic security and international strength. This will necessitate tough choices," he stated.

The weapons systems slated for elimination include:

• The Royal Navy will soon retire its two amphibious assault ships, HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, approximately ten years earlier than originally planned. This decision significantly impacts the Royal Marines' capability to conduct sea-based land assaults.

• The Royal Air Force plans to decommission a total of 31 helicopters, including 17 Puma helicopters and 14 of the oldest Chinook helicopters in its fleet.

• The military will also retire 46 Watchkeeper drones, each valued at around £5 million, just six years after they were first deployed.

• HMS Northumberland, a Type 23 frigate, will be phased out due to the high costs of necessary repairs and the fact that it has surpassed its intended 18-year service life.

• Additionally, two major Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels, RFA Wave Knight and RFA Wave Ruler, which provide essential fuel and supplies to the Royal Navy’s aircraft carriers, will also be decommissioned.

Mr. Healey also suggested that more reductions are likely to come.

"I will have to make more tough choices to address the defense challenges we inherited," he informed the members of parliament.

The statement, though not ideal, is crafted to minimize financial losses while preserving essential functions.

This precedes the government's intention to release a comprehensive new defense review this upcoming spring, which is being prepared by an independent group and is anticipated to suggest significant reforms throughout the army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force.

The Ministry of Defence has announced that the equipment being phased out, referred to as "accelerated retirement," has been chosen for discontinuation due to its obsolescence. Military leaders are prioritizing their limited resources and personnel on arms systems that are more appropriate for contemporary conflict scenarios.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has shown that even older, less advanced weaponry can be more effective than having none at all.

The Russian military has predominantly utilized outdated tanks, artillery, and helicopters for combat after their initial arsenal used in the early stages of the conflict was decimated.

'Conflicts for National Existence'

Defense Expert

Sky News' defense expert shared his insights on the statement made by the defense secretary.

During his appearance on Sky News Today with Kamali Melbourne, he mentioned, "Two aspects are particularly striking.

"The defense sector is undergoing changes, as the world becomes increasingly perilous."

For the past three decades, defense strategies have primarily focused on elective wars and overseas military engagements.

"We've required transportation, we've needed vessels to evacuate individuals."

Critics advocating for traditional approaches might argue that decisions should be postponed until the Defence Review is finalized. However, it's rational to anticipate a shift in focus from elective conflicts to those crucial for national survival. Consequently, it's essential to ensure that each pound spent is directed towards this priority.

"Thus, if you possess vessels and gear that are inactive and on standby, maintaining and storing them in dry dock incurs expenses."

One aspect that hasn't received much attention is the financial allocation within the defense budget from a broad strategic standpoint. Approximately 6% of the budget is dedicated to maintaining nuclear deterrence capabilities. Currently, as we undergo a phase of updating and enhancing these capabilities, roughly an additional 6% of the budget is being allocated toward their replacement.

Additionally, £3 billion is being allocated to Ukraine… meaning instead of 6% of the defense budget, roughly 18% is being diverted from traditional military capabilities, effectively resulting in a substantial reduction.

"You need to balance the accounts somehow."

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Constructing warships and helicopters requires several years of development.

Sir Keir Starmer is set to confront difficult issues as both amphibious assault ships and Chinook transport helicopters face being sold or decommissioned, irrespective of their age.

Maintaining equipment in storage for potential use requires financial expenditure.

Insufficient budgeting for defense has led military leaders to conclude that discontinuing weapons prematurely is the most favorable among poor choices.

The choice to discontinue the British Army's Mark 1 model of the Watchkeeper drone, particularly when drones play a critical role in modern warfare, could prove difficult to justify.

The project has been plagued with setbacks, budget increases, and defects.

The initial deployment of Watchkeeper drones commenced in 2018, experiencing a delay of eight years.

They also face challenges functioning in adverse weather conditions, which restricts their usefulness.

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The swift advancement in drone warfare technology, which updates every six to eight weeks, suggests that the technology used in Watchkeeper, developed over 14 years ago, could be readily outmatched in combat.

Decommissioning the aircraft allows the military to allocate funds towards advancing cutting-edge drone technology.

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Ukraine launches British-provided Storm Shadow missiles at locations within Russia

It has been reported that debris from the Storm Shadow missiles was found in the Kursk area of Russia. However, there is no verified information on their deployment and it is still uncertain what effect these arms will have on the ongoing conflict.

Thursday, November 21, 2024, 10:

A source informed Sky News that Ukraine has launched Storm Shadow missiles, provided by Britain, into Russian territory.

Reports in British media widely suggest that long-range weapons have been utilized in Russia, although official confirmation from the UK and Ukraine is still pending.

A video shared on Telegram appears to display debris from a missile in Russia's Kursk region, which is adjacent to Ukraine.

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Ukraine conflict: Stay updated with the most

Previously, the UK had stated that it would allow Ukraine to use British tanks, anti-tank missiles, and various other military supplies within Russian territory as a part of its defense strategy, while continuing to impose limits on the deployment of long-range missiles.

The change follows closely on the heels of a similar decision made by US President Joe Biden just a few days earlier

On Tuesday, the Russian defense ministry reported that Ukraine launched six ATACMS missiles, provided by the United States, into the Bryansk region.

According to a report from a Russian state news agency, the ministry stated that the missile launch resulted in no casualties.

Missiles are expected to have a minimal impact

Sky News' security and defense editor, Deborah Haynes, states that the approach of Ukraine's allies has been one of vagueness, and "it is still unclear if there will be an official statement regarding this matter from either the UK or Ukraine."

"Additionally, there is the troubling fact that Ukraine has a very limited supply of Storm Shadow missiles, meaning their impact will likely be minimal."

Sky's defense expert Sean Bell expressed surprise, noting that it would be remarkable if this were truly the first instance of Ukraine deploying this type of missile for a strike on Russian territory.

He expressed his astonishment if these methods were not utilized deeper within Russian territory, targeting specific locations. "They are extremely effective in hitting Russian logistics centers, command posts, and ammunition storage sites," he stated.

These missiles, known as SCALP in French service, are also utilized by France and produced by the Anglo-French defense company, MBDA.

What are Storm Shadow cruise missiles?

These air-launched missiles have a range exceeding 155 miles (250 kilometers), potentially enabling Ukraine to target locations deep within Russian territory.

The projectile has a mass of 1.3 metric tons and measures slightly more than 5 meters in length

It can be deployed from the sky and is theoretically compatible with Ukraine's Soviet-era aircraft.

Storm Shadow missiles, produced by MBDA in Stevenage, are a product of UK manufacturing. The estimated cost per cruise missile is around £2 million.

The Storm Shadow missile originated from a collaborative effort between the United Kingdom and France during the mid-1990s.

It was deployed in Iraq in 2003, and later, France, Italy, and the UK utilized it in Libya during 2011.

The projectiles have also been deployed to strike at Islamic State positions in Syria and Iraq.

Embassies close due to concerns of aerial assaults

Previously, the United States along with various other Western diplomatic missions in Kyiv shut down due to concerns over a potential large-scale aerial assault by Russia on Ukraine's capital.

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Explore further on Sky News: Norwegian Crown Princess's son appears in court. 'Rust' debuts three years post tragic incident. Chinese ship monitored above Baltic Sea cable disruption.

For more than a year, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been requesting that his allies in Kyiv provide his forces with the means to carry out attacks further into Russian-held territory.

President Biden's shift in strategy is in response to Russia's new approach of incorporating North Korean soldiers to bolster its ranks.

The White House plans to unveil additional military support for Ukraine, valued at as much as $275 million, according to statements from the US Defense Secretary.

Lloyd Austin stated that the assistance provided would address vital needs on the battlefield, encompassing ammunition for rocket systems, artillery, and tank weaponry, as well as anti-personnel landmines.

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Russian political figure Maria Butina and Donald Trump Jr., son of incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, both cautioned that President-elect Biden's policy on allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles might ignite the beginning of a third world war.

Following the United States' action, Vladimir Putin reduced the criteria necessary for deploying nuclear weapons, heightening concerns about the potential for the conflict to intensify.

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The UK's most tenured MP urges postponement of the assisted dying legislation vote, citing insufficient time to address its profound complexities. MPs are scheduled to deliberate on the legalization of assisted dying by late November, but Sir Edward Leigh argues that there hasn't been adequate time for consideration.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 4

The UK's most veteran MP has requested a postponement of the assisted dying legislation, arguing that there isn't sufficient time to address its significant complexities.

Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to vote according to their personal views on the legalization of assisted dying on November 29, following the release of the relevant details on November 11.

In a statement to the Commons on Wednesday, Sir Edward Leigh, who holds the distinction of being the longest-serving MP and the Father of the House, expressed his concern by stating, "We have not been given sufficient time to fully explore the vast intricacies of this matter before having to reach a decision."

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The Tory MP, serving since 1983, proposed legislation in parliament that mandates the government to provide guidelines concerning the legal aspects of healthcare workers giving pain management to those with terminal illnesses.

He described the legislation as a strategy to postpone the vote on assisted dying and to ensure voters are better informed. It is scheduled for a second reading on December 6, following the initial vote on the assisted dying bill.

Sir Edward and Diane Abbott, who holds the record as the longest-serving female Member of Parliament, co-authored a letter urging the House of Commons to oppose the assisted dying bill. They argue that the bill has been hastily advanced and poses a threat to the safety of at-risk individuals.

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The bill concerning assisted dying has led to divisions among members of parliament across various parties, with approximately 100 MPs reportedly still on the fence.

Addressing the House of Commons, Sir Edward emphasized the need for an evaluation of effects, specifically concerning the NHS and the judiciary.

Assisted dying would require the approval of two independent physicians confirming a person's eligibility, along with the authorization from a High Court judge.

He stated that it is essential to fully inform the public about the condition of palliative care and the choices available to terminally ill patients before proceeding with a vote.

"He said that a significant motivation for supporting assisted suicide stems from a natural fear of experiencing pain at the end of life."

He mentioned that hospices assist individuals in passing away "as peacefully… as possible" without providing legal medications.

Palliative care nurses have informed him that a patient may receive any amount of morphine they desire without it being lethal.

He mentioned that often nurses, typically in hospital settings, are hesitant to increase the dosage due to concerns about legal repercussions.

"He expressed his wish that should he ever face terminal cancer, he hopes a nurse would administer all the required care without any hesitation," he stated.

Further reading: Government divisions on euthanasia issue

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He has communicated with palliative care professionals and was present when a friend in hospice passed away serenely under the influence of morphine. Despite this, he believes that the general public should be better informed.

He also mentioned that the aging demographic in the UK necessitates additional financial support for end-of-life care services, such as hospices and nursing homes.

Sir Edward mentioned that the upcoming debate on the assisted dying bill in 10 days could serve as a valuable opportunity to explore the issues, potentially leading to a thoughtful and informed decision in the next year or two.

"He emphasized the need to avoid pushing elderly individuals towards assisted suicide due to a lack of resources in the current system. He also mentioned that there is a significant need for more data on this topic."

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