Labour's Emily Thornberry and London Mayor Sadiq Khan were recognized in the New Year's honors list.

Ex-Environment Secretary Ranil Jayawardena and former West Midlands Mayor Andy Street were both knighted.

Politics correspondent Faith L. Ridler

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 1

A seasoned Labour MP and the longstanding mayor of London are included among a select group of politicians recognized in the King's New Year Honours list.

Former Shadow Attorney General Emily Thornberry, now honored as a dame, is featured on the list together with Sadiq Khan, who has been knighted following his unprecedented third consecutive election victory as Mayor of London.

Ex-Tory MP Ranil Jayawardena, who briefly served as environment secretary in Liz Truss's cabinet, received a knighthood, along with former education minister Nick Gibb.

Mr. Gibb held a position in the Department for Education during the tenure of four Conservative prime ministers – Lord Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, and Rishi Sunak.

Further Reading: Current polls indicate Labour could forfeit 200 seats if elections were conducted now, as Starmer, facing challenges, shares a holiday message.

Dame Emily, the current chair of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, expressed to Sky News her unexpected pleasure at being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, stating she was "surprised but delighted."

She commented: "I often reflect on my grandmothers, one from England and the other from Ireland. Both were essentially prohibited from working after marriage. I can't imagine what they would think of my situation now."

Politics Update

In his inaugural New Year address as prime minister, Starmer celebrates a 'year of transformation,' promising a strategy to increase disposable income by 2025.

Starting today, parents with children in private schools will see an increase in tuition costs due to the

Leaders, royalty, and heads of government have autographed an exceptional assortment of guest books from Number 10, which are being revealed to the public for the

She continued, "A few years back, my husband received a knighthood, but I've always felt uneasy about adopting the title of Lady Nugee, based on his honor. It's quite satisfying to have a title of my own to use now. I believe 'Dame Emily' sounds quite fitting."

She also shared a story about informing drag queen Ella Vaday that she would "also become a dame." Her friend, who was performing in a pantomime at that moment, inquired about the location.

"Absolutely everywhere, my dear, absolutely everywhere!" exclaimed Dame Emily.

Former West Midlands Mayor Andy Street was knighted following his loss in the Mayoral election earlier in May.

Sir Andy, inaugurated as the inaugural mayor of the area in 2017, stated that he served merely as the "public face" and that the recognition should be seen as "a tribute to the residents of the West Midlands who have driven the success of both the combined authority and the mayoral office."

He stated: "A tremendous effort was required to build this from the ground up and achieve its current level of success."

"I felt immensely privileged to represent citizens from across the West Midlands in that capacity."

The recently honored Sir Sadiq expressed his deep humility upon receiving the knighthood.

He stated: "Growing up on a council estate in south London, I never imagined that I would one day become the mayor of London."

Earlier this month, a Change.org campaign initiated by Conservative London councillor Matthew Goodwin-Freeman to halt his knighthood exceeded 200,000 signatures.

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The list also included honors for numerous ex-Members of Parliament.

Former Labour representative Kate Hollern, who was defeated in the Blackburn constituency by independent Adnan Hussain in July, has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

Sir Mike Katz, recently appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), serves as the national chairman of the Jewish Labour Movement and was knighted by Sir Keir Starmer.

Awards were also presented to Tamara Finkelstein, the permanent secretary of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, as well as to the former leader of Welsh Labour and ex-South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, Alun Michael.

Mr. Michael was honored with the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), and Ms. Finkelstein was awarded the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the Bath.

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New Year Honours List Features Notable Figures Including Gareth Southgate, Stephen Fry, Sadiq Khan, and Keely Hodgkinson

Over 1,200 individuals have received accolades in the latest New Year Honours, with recipients ranging from Team GB athletes to advocates for unjustly accused sub-postmasters.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 9

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Ex-England coach Gareth Southgate, London's Mayor Sadiq Khan, and celebrated actor Stephen Fry have been awarded knighthoods in the New Year Honours list.

Additional recipients of accolades are numerous Team GB sportspeople, including gold medalist Keely Hodgkinson, celebrated author Jacqueline Wilson, and TV host Alan Titchmarsh.

Awards have been bestowed upon several sub-postmasters who were unjustly convicted in the wake of the Horizon debacle.

Sir Gareth, honored with knighthood for his contributions to association football, guided the England squad to the Euro finals in 2020 and 2024, and to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.

Despite their efforts, the Three Lions were unable to secure any titles during his tenure, and he stepped down after they lost 2-1 to Spain in the final in July.

His knighthood is on par with that bestowed upon Sir Bobby Robson, the previous England manager who led his team to the World Cup semifinals. Fifty-four-year-old Southgate chose not to comment on the accolade.

Sir Stephen, famed for his roles in Blackadder and as the host of the quiz show QI, has been honored for his contributions to mental health awareness, environmental causes, and charitable efforts.

Since 2011, the actor has served as the president of the mental health organization Mind and has also been involved with the conservation organization Fauna and Flora International.

He expressed his surprise and delight upon receiving the letter about his knighthood, stating, "Being acknowledged like this really does make one exclaim 'wow', but the most overwhelming part is reflecting on my childhood—the terrible sadness, confusion, and foolishness, all of which paved the way for numerous failures when I was young.

"For my parents, it was truly a nightmare. Every time the phone would ring, they'd brace themselves and think, 'Oh, no, what has Stephen gotten into this time'. It became a running gag among us."

London's Mayor, Sir Sadiq, has received recognition for his contributions to politics and public service, serving in his position since 2016.

Discover more: Southgate, Fry, and Khan receive knighthoods as numerous unrecognized individuals gain accolades.

He expressed feeling "humbled" by the honor of knighthood, remarking that during his childhood on a council estate in south London, he never imagined he would one day become the mayor of London.

"It is the greatest privilege of my life to serve the city that I hold dear. I am committed to creating a fairer, safer, more sustainable, and prosperous London for all its diverse communities," he stated.

London council member Matthew Goodwin-Freeman initiated a campaign with a petition that has gathered over 200,000 signatures to halt a knighthood, gaining significant traction earlier this month.

Renowned children's writer Jacqueline Wilson, famed for her Tracy Beaker series, has been honored with the title of Dame Grand Cross (GBE) in recognition of her contributions to literature.

Actress Carey Mulligan and TV host Alan Titchmarsh have been appointed Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).

Celebrated author Sir Kazuo Ishiguro has been appointed a Companion of Honour in recognition of his contributions to literature. Meanwhile, actor Eddie Marsan has been named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), and Myleene Klass has been honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Explore further on Sky News: Five individuals have been accused related to the demise of Liam Payne. Lighting up just one cigarette may reduce life expectancy by 20 minutes. Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright are anticipating their first child.

Several awards were given to athletes after this year's Paris Olympics, during which Team GB secured 65 medals, and the Paralympics, where Team ParalympicsGB claimed second place with 49 gold medals.

At 22 years old, Keely Hodgkinson was honored with an MBE following her victory in the 800m race at the Olympics, where she established a new British record with a time of one minute and 54.61 seconds, positioning her as the sixth fastest woman ever in that event.

Double Olympic gold medalist Tom Pidcock, aged 25, has been honored with an OBE for his victories in mountain biking, while Paralympic athlete Hannah Cockroft has been awarded a CBE following her triumphs in the T34 100m and 800m races.

Among the distinguished athletes awarded were swimmer Duncan Scott (OBE), sailor Ellie Aldridge (MBE), and rowers Lola Anderson, Hannah Scott, Lauren Henry, and Georgie Brayshaw (each receiving MBEs).

Ex-Formula 1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle has been honored with an OBE, while ex-Scotland and Liverpool soccer player and BBC analyst Alan Hansen has been awarded an MBE.

Sky News royal and events analyst Major General Alastair Bruce has been appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath, a distinguished accolade awarded to high-ranking military officers and civil servants for their service.

Throughout his career, Maj Gen Bruce has occupied several roles in the military, notably serving as an officer with the Scots Guards in the Falklands War. He recently retired from his position as governor of Edinburgh Castle, a post he assumed in June 2019 and maintained until earlier this year.

As a broadcaster for Sky News, he has reported on several significant national occasions, such as the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and the coronation of the King the next year. He recently offered insights during the Remembrance Day ceremonies this year and the event celebrating the refurbishment of Notre Dame in Paris.

Victims of the Horizon IT scandal, Lee Castleton, Jo Hamilton, Christopher Head, and Seema Misra, have been honored with OBEs for their contributions to justice.

Among the political figures awarded honors were Labour MP Emily Thornberry, who was appointed as a dame, and ex-West Midlands mayor Andy Street, who received a knighthood.

The most senior individual recognized is Colin Bell, a 103-year-old veteran who piloted Mosquito aircraft during World War II. He has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his contributions to charity fundraising and his engagements in public speaking.

Eighteen-year-olds Mikayla Beames and William Ellard are among the youngest to be recognized this year. Beames was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her fundraising activities aiding children battling cancer, while Ellard received a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) following his gold medal victory in the S14 200m freestyle at the Paris Paralympics.

Over 1,200 individuals from various parts of the UK were recognized with honours in the most recent list.

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Newly disclosed documents reveal that Tony Blair's administration allowed Eastern European immigrants into the UK, despite reservations. This policy is believed to have significantly increased overall migration numbers, fueling a rise in Euroscepticism ahead of the Brexit vote.

Political journalist @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, 08:

Official documents reveal that Tony Blair's Labour administration proceeded with the initiative to relax border controls for Eastern European countries, despite significant reservations expressed by top cabinet members.

In 2004, the previous prime minister eased immigration restrictions following the accession of eight predominantly ex-Soviet nations such as Poland, Lithuania, and Hungary to the European Union.

Documents submitted to the National Archives in London reveal that former deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw both recommended postponing the policy, cautioning that it could lead to an increase in immigration if certain limitations were not established.

However, some figures, such as the then Home Secretary David Blunkett, contended that the vitality and efficiency provided by migrant workers were essential for the ongoing prosperity of the economy.

The documents were disclosed during an annual unveiling of Cabinet Office records that occurs after they reach the 20-year mark.

The documents further reveal:

Demands for a revision of open border policies

The immigration policies implemented by Blair's administration are believed to have contributed to the rise in anti-EU feelings leading up to the 2016 Brexit vote.

Following that period, immigration numbers significantly surged, with net migration annually exceeding 200,000. This influx was often criticized for driving down wages due to the availability of lower-cost foreign workers, which was seen as detrimental to the local workforce.

In 2013, Mr. Straw conceded that the oversight in implementing transitional measures, which was a common practice among most EU countries, turned out to be a grave error with extensive impacts.

Based on government documents, the Home Office initially forecasted that opening the UK job market to new member countries would have a minimal effect. However, the actual number of arrivals quickly surpassed those early predictions within just a few weeks.

Three months prior to the policy's enactment, Mr. Straw reached out to Mr. Blair, urging a reconsideration. He cautioned that some nations, initially expected to support us, were starting to back out.

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"France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Greece, and Luxembourg are each implementing a minimum two-year transitional phase. It is expected that Portugal will do the same," he noted.

Italy remains uncertain. Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark, previously aligned with us, have each declared the implementation of work and/or residence permits for individuals seeking to take advantage of the opportunity.

Mr. Prescott supported him, expressing his "extreme concern" regarding the strain on social housing due to the rapid arrival of new migrants.

Mr. Blunkett, supported by Work and Pensions Secretary Andrew Smith and the Treasury, maintained that they should adhere to the plan based on "economic reasons."

He mentioned that they would be implementing stricter rules to prevent migrants from coming to the UK just to access welfare benefits, but he dismissed the idea of a work permit system as "not only costly and administratively heavy, but also, I think, ineffective."

Mr. Blair also seemed to voice skepticism, wondering if stricter welfare regulations alone could suffice.

"Is this solution certain to work? I'd prefer not to revisit this issue," he wrote in a hand-penned message.

Additional Information: A recent survey indicates that the Labour Party could face a loss of nearly 200 seats if elections were conducted today. Meanwhile, Downing Street maintains that tuition fees at private schools remain unaffordable for the majority.

"I think it might be worth considering a system for work permits as well. Why not? It adds another tool to our arsenal."

Mr. Blair emphasized the importance of a strong deterrent strategy regarding benefits, stating in a memo: "It is crucial that we implement the most stringent measures possible on benefits and declare this along with the authority to withdraw visa plans and convey this message to the Roma community."

Bush Felt Divinely Guided in Iraq Decision

In other sections of the Cabinet documents, detailed discussions are noted between Richard Armitage, then US Deputy Secretary of State, and Sir David Manning, the British Ambassador to the US, regarding the Iraq War.

In a discussion, Mr. Armitage rejected assertions from the U.S. commander in Iraq about quelling a significant rebellion in Fallujah swiftly, labeling them as "nonsense" and "politically insensitive." He urged Mr. Blair to leverage his rapport with Mr. Bush to convince him of the necessity for an extensive "political process" to reestablish stability.

In a separate gathering, Mr. Armitage mentioned that President Bush had encountered a significant "reality check" regarding the conflict.

Sir David conveyed: "Rich encapsulated the situation by noting that Bush continued to believe he was on a divine mission, though recent occurrences had rendered him 'significantly more reflective'."

Italian Prime Minister experienced feelings akin to those of a spurned romantic partner

Various reports detailed a rift with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi following his exclusion from a three-way summit involving the UK, France, and Germany.

It is reported that he felt "injured" because, in contrast to the other two countries, he had supported Britain and the US regarding the Iraq invasion, and consequently vowed to contest Britain's EU rebate at every chance.

In a summary of a discussion between the British Ambassador to Rome, Sir Ivor Roberts, and Mr. Berlusconi's foreign policy advisor, Giovanni Castellaneta, Sir Ivor noted: "Essentially, he conveyed that Berlusconi felt profoundly disappointed by the prime minister.

He employed the analogy of a scorned romantic partner (a very Berlusconi-esque metaphor) and noted that Berlusconi's southern Italian roots could make him particularly spiteful if he felt his trust or love had been wrongly placed or deceived.

"The term 'tradito' (betrayed) was frequently used."

During a subsequent video call between Mr. Blair and Mr. Bush, the U.S. president humorously relayed "some concerns on behalf of Mr. Berlusconi regarding Italy being left out," as per a memo from Downing Street documenting the conversation.

Amid these worries, Mr. Blair found it essential to go to Rome himself to soothe the disgruntled premier and reaffirm his ongoing support.

John Major's involvement in Zimbabwe

The documents disclosed that John Major, the Conservative prime minister before Tony Blair, had sent a private letter to Blair. In it, he encouraged Blair to protect English cricket financially, should it face any penalties for withdrawing from a contentious tour in Zimbabwe.

Sir John, a well-known cricket enthusiast, described the tour as "morally repugnant" in light of Robert Mugabe's record on human rights. However, he noted that the "draconian" regulations set by the international cricket authority (ICC) could penalize nations for withdrawal, potentially leading English cricket to financial ruin.

The correspondence was sent following Mr. Blair's declaration to Members of Parliament that he personally believed the tour ought to be canceled, though he noted it would be an overreach for ministers to formally direct such an action.

Mr. Major mentioned that if the government indicates that the tour should not proceed, or if Parliament votes against it, then it would be challenging for the ICC to impose penalties on England.

He stated that in the rare event it occurred, the government should compensate the ICC for any financial setbacks.

"Mr. Major noted that although the Treasury might not be in favor, the stark reality is that the government could not allow English cricket to collapse due to a lack of intervention."

The trip ultimately proceeded as planned.

Officials encouraged to use sticky notes for communication

In related documents, it emerged that officials in Blair's administration were instructed to communicate sensitive information using sticky notes to circumvent the disclosure requirements of the newly enacted Freedom of Information (FoI) Act.

In 2000, the Labour government enacted legislation mandating that public institutions release information upon request from citizens. However, as the complete enforcement of the law approached in 2005, there was increasing concern about the consequences of this policy.

A consultant from Number 10 proposed to Mr. Blair that using sticky notes, which could be easily disposed of after the message was read, might be a method to circumvent the obligation to release government documents under Freedom of Information requests.

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Newly disclosed documents reveal that Tony Blair’s administration allowed migrants from Eastern Europe to enter the UK despite reservations. This policy is credited with significantly increasing net migration and fostering negative feelings toward the EU, which were evident during the Brexit vote.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 8

Newly disclosed government documents reveal that Tony Blair's Labour administration proceeded with the decision to relax immigration restrictions for Eastern European countries, even amid significant reservations from top cabinet members.

The ex-leader eased immigration restrictions in 2004 following the accession of eight primarily ex-Soviet nations such as Poland, Lithuania, and Hungary to the EU.

Documents released to the National Archives in London reveal that former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw both recommended postponing the policy, cautioning that it could lead to a spike in immigration if certain restrictions were not implemented.

However, some figures, such as the then Home Secretary David Blunkett, contended that the vitality and efficiency provided by migrant workers were essential for the ongoing prosperity of the economy.

The documents were disclosed in an annual publication of Cabinet Office records after they reached the 20-year mark.

The documents further reveal:

Demands for reconsideration of open border policies

The policy of open borders adopted by the Blair administration is perceived as a contributing factor to the rise of anti-EU feelings leading up to the 2016 Brexit vote.

Following that period, there was a significant surge in immigration, with annual net migration exceeding 200,000. This influx of less expensive foreign labor was often criticized for undermining the wages of domestic workers.

In 2013, Mr. Straw acknowledged that the decision not to implement transitional measures, unlike most other EU countries, was a "spectacular mistake" with significant repercussions.

Government documents reveal that the Home Office initially anticipated minimal effects from granting open access to the UK job market for newcomers from new member states. However, the influx of arrivals quickly exceeded expectations within a short period.

Three months prior to the scheduled implementation of the policy, Mr. Straw penned a letter to Mr. Blair urging him to reconsider, noting that the nations previously expected to support the initiative were starting to withdraw.

For an enhanced video experience, consider using the Chrome browser.

"France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Greece, and Luxembourg will all introduce transition periods of at least two years. Portugal is expected to do the same," he noted.

"Italy remains uncertain. Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark, previously aligned with us, have each declared the implementation of work and/or residence permits for individuals seeking to utilize this opportunity."

Mr. Prescott supported him, expressing deep worries about the strain on social housing due to the rapid arrival of new migrants.

Mr. Blunkett, supported by Work and Pensions Secretary Andrew Smith and the Treasury, maintained that they should adhere to the plan based on "economic reasons."

He stated that they would be implementing stricter regulations to prevent migrants from coming to the UK solely to access welfare benefits. However, he dismissed proposals for a work permit system, describing it as "not only costly and cumbersome, but also, in my opinion, ineffective."

Mr. Blair seemed to also voice skepticism, wondering if stricter welfare regulations alone would suffice.

"In his scribbled message, he questioned, 'Is this solution guaranteed? I would prefer not to revisit this issue.'"

Further Reading: Current polls indicate a significant loss for Labour, nearly 200 seats, if elections were conducted now. Downing Street maintains that private school tuition remains unaffordable for the majority.

"I think it might be a good idea to consider a work permits system as well. Why not? It adds another tool to our arsenal."

Mr. Blair emphasized the importance of conveying a strong deterrent message concerning benefits, stating in a memo: "It's crucial that we implement the most stringent measures possible regarding benefits and declare this alongside the authority to cancel visas and communicate directly to the Romas."

Bush Felt Divinely Guided in Iraq Decision

In other sections of the Cabinet documents, details emerged of candid discussions between Richard Armitage, then the US Deputy Secretary of State, and Sir David Manning, the British Ambassador to the US, regarding the Iraq War.

In a discussion, Mr. Armitage rejected statements from the U.S. military leader in Iraq about quelling a significant revolt in Fallujah quickly, labeling these claims as "nonsense" and "politically insensitive." He urged Mr. Blair to leverage his relationship with Mr. Bush to convince him of the necessity for an extensive "political process" to reestablish stability.

In a separate discussion, Mr. Armitage mentioned that President Bush had to confront a "dose of reality" regarding the conflict.

Sir David conveyed: "Rich encapsulated it by mentioning that Bush still believed he was on a divine mission, yet recent developments had rendered him 'significantly more somber'."

Italian Prime Minister experienced feelings akin to those of a scorned partner

Various reports highlighted a rift between Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and the leaders of the UK, France, and Germany following his exclusion from a key meeting involving the three countries.

It is reported that he felt "injured" because, unlike the other two countries, he supported Britain and the US in their invasion of Iraq, and consequently vowed to contest Britain's EU rebate at every chance.

In a summary of a discussion between the British Ambassador to Rome, Sir Ivor Roberts, and Mr. Berlusconi's foreign affairs adviser, Giovanni Castellaneta, Sir Ivor noted: "The essence of his message was that Berlusconi felt profoundly disappointed by the prime minister.

He employed the metaphor of a scorned romantic partner (quite typical of Berlusconi), and noted that Berlusconi's southern Italian roots contributed to a tendency to react harshly when he felt his emotions were disregarded or deceived.

"The term 'tradito' (betrayed) was frequently mentioned."

During a video call the next week between Mr. Blair and Mr. Bush, the US president humorously conveyed concerns on behalf of Mr. Berlusconi regarding Italy being left out, as noted in a record from Downing Street of the conversation.

Amid these worries, Mr. Blair found it essential to make a trip to Rome to directly appease the displeased leader and reaffirm his ongoing backing.

John Major's involvement in Zimbabwe

The documents disclosed that John Major, the previous Conservative prime minister before Tony Blair, had confidentially communicated with Blair, encouraging him to compensate English cricket for potential financial repercussions if it faced penalties for withdrawing from a contentious tour in Zimbabwe.

Sir John, known for his enthusiasm for cricket, described the tour as "morally repugnant" due to Robert Mugabe's record on human rights. He also highlighted that the "draconian" regulations set by the international cricket authority (ICC) impose penalties on nations that cancel tours, which could potentially bankrupt English cricket.

The correspondence was sent following Mr. Blair's statement to Members of Parliament where he expressed his personal belief that the tour ought to be cancelled, yet he noted it would be inappropriate for ministers to give a direct order.

Mr. Major stated that if the government indicates that the tour should be canceled, or if parliament votes similarly, it would be "very challenging" for the ICC to impose penalties on England.

He mentioned that, should the rare situation arise where this happens, the government ought to compensate the ICC for any monetary damages incurred.

"Mr. Major noted that while the Treasury might not approve, the stark reality is that the government could not allow English cricket to collapse due to its inaction."

The tour eventually proceeded as planned.

Officials encouraged to use sticky notes for communication

In related documents, it was disclosed that officials in Blair's administration were recommended to communicate sensitive information using post-it notes to circumvent the disclosure requirements mandated by the newly implemented Freedom of Information (FoI) Act.

In 2000, the Labour administration enacted legislation mandating that public institutions release information upon request from citizens. However, as the full enforcement of this law approached in 2005, there was increasing unease regarding its potential consequences.

A consultant from Number 10 proposed to Mr. Blair the use of sticky notes for communications, which could conveniently be discarded after reading, as a method to circumvent the obligation of revealing official documents under Freedom of Information requests.

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Newly disclosed documents reveal that Tony Blair's administration allowed migrants from Eastern Europe to enter the UK, even amidst reservations. This policy is credited with significantly increasing net migration, which fueled Eurosceptic views leading up to the Brexit vote.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, 8:

Newly disclosed government documents reveal that Tony Blair’s administration advanced its agenda to relax immigration controls for Eastern European countries, even as key cabinet members expressed significant reservations.

The ex-prime minister eased immigration policies in 2004 following the accession of eight predominantly ex-Soviet nations, such as Poland, Lithuania, and Hungary, to the EU.

Documents handed over to the National Archives in London reveal that former deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and then foreign secretary Jack Straw both recommended postponing the policy. They cautioned that there could be a spike in immigration if certain limitations were not implemented.

However, some figures, like the former Home Secretary David Blunkett, contended that the vitality and efficiency brought by migrant workers were essential for the ongoing prosperity of the economy.

The documents were made public during an annual disclosure of Cabinet Office records that occurs once they reach the age of 20 years.

The documents additionally reveal:

Demands for reconsideration of open border policies

The policy of open borders pursued by Blair's administration is considered to have contributed to the rise in anti-EU feelings leading up to the 2016 Brexit vote.

Following that period, immigration numbers saw a significant surge, with annual net migration exceeding 200,000. This increase was often attributed to more affordable foreign labor, which was accused of undermining the wages of domestic employees.

In 2013, Mr. Straw acknowledged that the decision not to implement transitional restrictions, unlike most other EU countries, was a "spectacular mistake" with extensive repercussions.

Official documents reveal that although the Home Office initially believed that opening the UK job market to new member countries would have a minimal effect, the actual number of arrivals soon exceeded all earlier projections by a significant margin.

Three months prior to the scheduled enactment of the policy, Mr. Straw sent a letter to Mr. Blair urging a reconsideration. He cautioned that nations previously expected to support the initiative were starting to withdraw.

For an enhanced video experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

He noted that countries like France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Greece, and Luxembourg are implementing a minimum two-year transitional phase. He added that Portugal is expected to do the same.

"Italy remains indecisive. In contrast, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark, previously aligned with us, have each declared the implementation of work and/or residence permits for individuals seeking to benefit from the offered opportunities."

Mr. Prescott supported him, expressing his "extreme concern" regarding the strain on social housing due to the rapid arrival of new migrants.

Despite opposition, Mr. Blunkett, supported by Work and Pensions Secretary Andrew Smith and the Treasury, maintained that they should adhere to the plan based on "economic reasons."

He mentioned that they plan to strengthen the rules to prevent migrants from coming to the UK just to receive welfare benefits, but he dismissed the idea of implementing a work permit system, calling it "not only costly and complicated, but also, I think, ineffective."

Mr. Blair seemed to also voice skepticism, wondering if stricter welfare regulations alone would suffice.

"In a scribbled message, he expressed his concerns: 'Is this solution certain to work? I prefer not to revisit this issue.'"

Further Reading: Current polls indicate a significant loss for Labour, nearly 200 seats, if elections were conducted today. Downing Street maintains that private school tuition is too expensive for the majority.

"I think it might be beneficial for us to consider implementing a work permits system as well. Why not? It adds another tool to our arsenal."

Mr. Blair emphasized the importance of establishing a strong deterrent regarding benefits. In a written message, he stated, "We need to implement the strictest possible measures on benefits and announce this alongside the authority to withdraw visa plans and communicate directly to the Romas."

Bush Believed to be Driven by Divine Directive in Iraq

In other sections of the Cabinet documents, there are detailed accounts of candid discussions between Richard Armitage, then US deputy Secretary of State, and Sir David Manning, who was the British ambassador to the US, regarding the Iraq War.

During a meeting, Mr. Armitage rejected statements from the U.S. commander in Iraq, who asserted he could suppress a significant rebellion in Fallujah quickly, labeling them as "nonsense" and "politically tactless." He urged Mr. Blair to leverage his relationship with Mr. Bush to convince him of the necessity for a broader "political process" to reestablish stability.

At a different gathering, Mr. Armitage mentioned that President Bush had to confront a harsh truth regarding the conflict.

Sir David conveyed that Rich described Bush as still believing he was on a divine mission, though recent circumstances had made him noticeably more subdued.

Italian Prime Minister likened to 'spurned partner'

Various reports detailed a rift with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi following his exclusion from a three-way summit involving the UK, France, and Germany.

It is reported that he felt "injured" because, in contrast to the other two countries, he had supported Britain and the US in their invasion of Iraq, and as a consequence, he vowed to contest Britain's EU rebate at every turn.

In a summary of a conversation between the British ambassador to Rome, Sir Ivor Roberts, and Mr. Berlusconi's foreign policy advisor, Giovanni Castellaneta, Sir Ivor noted: "The main point he conveyed was that Berlusconi felt deeply disappointed by the prime minister.

He cleverly likened him to a scorned romantic partner (a very Berlusconi-esque comparison), and mentioned that Berlusconi's southern Italian traits sometimes led him to react harshly if he felt his trust or love was misdirected or deceived.

"The term 'tradito,' meaning betrayed, was frequently mentioned."

During a video call the next week between Mr. Blair and Mr. Bush, the issue was raised again, with the US president humorously conveying concerns on behalf of Mr. Berlusconi regarding Italy being left out, as per a memo from Downing Street regarding the conversation.

Amid these worries, Mr. Blair deemed it essential to journey to Rome to directly appease the discontented premier and reaffirm his ongoing support.

John Major's involvement in Zimbabwe

The documents disclosed that John Major, the previous Conservative leader and predecessor to Mr. Blair, had confidentially communicated with Blair, urging him to protect English cricket from financial repercussions should it face penalties for withdrawing from a contentious tour in Zimbabwe.

Sir John, a well-known enthusiast of cricket, described the tour as "morally repugnant" in light of Robert Mugabe's record on human rights. However, he highlighted that the "draconian" regulations set by the international governing body for cricket (ICC) could impose severe penalties on nations that cancel, potentially driving English cricket into bankruptcy.

The correspondence was sent following Mr. Blair's declaration to MPs where he expressed his "personal opinion" that the tour ought to be canceled, yet he noted that it would be overstepping the bounds for ministers to give a direct order.

Mr. Major stated that if the government either makes it known they oppose the tour, or if parliament votes against it, then the ICC would find it "very difficult" to impose sanctions on England.

He stated that in the "highly improbable event" that this happens, the government ought to compensate the ICC for any financial damages.

"Mr. Major noted, 'It's likely that the Treasury would be opposed to this, but the stark reality is that the government could not simply stand by and watch English cricket collapse due to a lack of intervention.'"

The tour eventually proceeded as planned.

Officials encouraged to use sticky notes for communication

In other news, documents have surfaced indicating that officials in Blair’s administration were counseled to communicate sensitive information via post-it notes, a strategy aimed at circumventing the disclosure requirements mandated by the newly implemented Freedom of Information Act.

In 2000, the Labour administration enacted legislation mandating that public institutions release information upon request from citizens. However, as the 2005 deadline for full enforcement approached, concerns about the consequences of this law began to mount.

A staffer at 10 Downing Street proposed to Mr. Blair the use of post-it notes, which could potentially be disposed of after their contents were digested, as a method to circumvent the obligation to reveal official documents under Freedom of Information requests.

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Newly disclosed documents reveal that Tony Blair's administration allowed migrants from Eastern Europe to enter the UK, even amid reservations. This policy of open borders under Blair is credited with significantly increasing net migration, which fueled Eurosceptic views leading up to the Brexit vote.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 08

Newly disclosed government documents reveal that Tony Blair's Labour administration proceeded with the initiative to relax immigration restrictions for Eastern European countries, even amid growing reservations from top officials.

The ex-leader eased border regulations in 2004 following the accession of eight primarily ex-Soviet nations such as Poland, Lithuania, and Hungary into the EU.

Documents released to the National Archives in London reveal that former deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw both recommended postponing the policy, cautioning that there could be an increase in immigration if certain restrictions were not implemented.

However, some, like former Home Secretary David Blunkett, contended that the vitality and efficiency brought by migrant workers were essential for the ongoing prosperity of the economy.

The documents were disclosed during an annual public release of Cabinet Office records after they reached the 20-year mark.

The documents further reveal:

Demands for revisiting open border policies

The policy of open borders under Blair's administration is considered to have contributed to the rise of anti-EU feelings leading up to the 2016 Brexit vote.

In the subsequent years, immigration experienced a significant surge, with annual net migration exceeding 200,000. This influx was often criticized for driving down wages by introducing less expensive foreign workers, adversely affecting the local workforce.

In 2013, Mr. Straw acknowledged that not implementing transitional measures, unlike the majority of EU countries, was a "spectacular mistake" with significant repercussions.

Cabinet documents reveal that the Home Office initially expected that opening up the UK job market to new countries would have a minimal effect. However, the actual number of arrivals quickly surpassed those early projections by a significant margin within just a few weeks.

Three months prior to the scheduled implementation of the policy, Mr. Straw sent a letter to Mr. Blair urging a reconsideration. He cautioned that nations previously expected to support the initiative were starting to withdraw.

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"France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Greece, and Luxembourg will all implement a transitional phase of a minimum of two years. It is expected that Portugal will do the same," he noted.

"Italy remains uncertain. Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark, previously our partners in this matter, have each declared the implementation of work and/or residence permits for individuals seeking to take advantage of this opportunity."

Mr. Prescott supported him, expressing his "extreme concern" regarding the strain on social housing due to a sudden surge in new migrants.

Mr. Blunkett, with support from Work and Pensions Secretary Andrew Smith and the Treasury, maintained that they should adhere to the plan based on "economic grounds."

He stated that stricter regulations would be implemented to prevent migrants from coming to the UK just to access welfare benefits, but he dismissed the idea of a work permit system, describing it as "not only costly and administratively heavy, but also, in my opinion, ineffective."

Mr. Blair seemed to also voice skepticism, wondering if stricter welfare regulations alone would suffice.

"Is this solution effective? I'd rather not revisit it," he wrote in a note by hand.

Explore Further: Current polls indicate Labour could forfeit nearly 200 seats if elections were conducted today. Downing Street maintains that tuition fees at private schools are beyond the financial means of the majority.

"I think it might be a good idea to consider implementing a work permits system as well. Why not? It adds another tool to our arsenal."

Mr. Blair emphasized the importance of implementing a strong deterrent strategy concerning benefits, noting in a memo: "We need to create the strictest possible package on benefits and reveal this alongside the authority to withdraw visa plans and a direct message to the Roma community."

Bush Believed to be Driven by Divine Mandate in Iraq

In other sections of the Cabinet documents, there are detailed accounts of candid discussions between Richard Armitage, then US Deputy Secretary of State, and Sir David Manning, the British Ambassador to the US, regarding the Iraq War.

During a discussion, Mr. Armitage rejected assertions from the U.S. military leader in Iraq about quickly suppressing a significant revolt in Fallujah, labeling these claims as "nonsense" and "politically tactless." He urged Mr. Blair to leverage his rapport with President Bush to convey the need for a broader "political strategy" to reestablish stability.

In a different gathering, Mr. Armitage mentioned that President Bush was confronted with a "dose of reality" regarding the conflict.

Sir David conveyed: "Rich encapsulated it by stating that Bush continued to believe he was on a divine mission, yet recent occurrences had rendered him 'somewhat more somber'."

Italian Prime Minister experienced feelings akin to those of a scorned partner.

Various reports highlighted a rift between Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and other European leaders following his exclusion from a three-way meeting involving the UK, France, and Germany.

It is reported that he felt "injured" because, unlike the other two countries, he had supported Britain and the US in their invasion of Iraq, and consequently vowed to contest Britain's EU rebate at every chance.

In a summary of a discussion involving the British Ambassador to Rome, Sir Ivor Roberts, and Mr. Berlusconi's foreign affairs advisor, Giovanni Castellaneta, Sir Ivor noted: "The essence of his message was that Berlusconi felt profoundly disappointed by the prime minister.

He employed the metaphor of a scorned romantic partner (quite characteristic of Berlusconi) and noted that Berlusconi's southern Italian traits contributed to his tendency to be particularly spiteful when he felt his trust or emotions had been mishandled or deceived.

The term 'tradito,' meaning betrayed, was frequently mentioned.

During a video call the next week between Mr. Blair and Mr. Bush, the U.S. president brought up the issue humorously, voicing "some concern on behalf of Berlusconi about Italy being left out," as per a note from Downing Street documenting the conversation.

Amid these worries, Mr. Blair deemed it essential to visit Rome himself to soothe the dissatisfied premier and reaffirm his ongoing support.

John Major's involvement in Zimbabwe

Documents disclosed that John Major, the previous Conservative prime minister before Tony Blair, sent a private letter to Blair encouraging him to compensate English cricket for potential financial repercussions if it decided to withdraw from a contentious tour in Zimbabwe.

Sir John, known for his love of cricket, described the tour as "morally repugnant" in light of Robert Mugabe's record on human rights, yet he highlighted that the "draconian" regulations set by the international cricket authority (ICC) penalize nations for cancellations, potentially leading English cricket to financial ruin.

The message was sent following Mr. Blair's declaration to Members of Parliament that he personally believed the tour ought to be canceled, yet it would be crossing a boundary for ministers to give a direct order.

Mr. Major stated that if the government indicates that the tour should be canceled, or if parliament votes in that direction, then it would be "quite challenging" for the ICC to impose sanctions on England.

In the rare event that this occurs, he stated that the government ought to compensate the ICC for any financial setbacks.

"Mr. Major expressed in his writing that despite the Treasury's likely disapproval, the stark reality is that the government could not stand by and watch English cricket collapse due to a lack of intervention."

The trip eventually proceeded as planned.

Officials encouraged to use sticky notes for communication

In related documents, it was disclosed that officials in Blair's administration were encouraged to communicate sensitive information using sticky notes, a tactic aimed at circumventing the requirements of the newly implemented Freedom of Information (FoI) Act for document disclosure.

In 2000, the Labour administration enacted legislation mandating that public institutions release information upon request from citizens. However, as the 2005 deadline for fully implementing this law approached, concerns about its consequences began to mount.

A No. 10 advisor proposed to Mr. Blair the use of post-it notes, which could easily be disposed of after the message was conveyed, as a strategy to circumvent the obligation to release official documents under Freedom of Information (FoI) inquiries.

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Prominent figures among New Year Honours recipients, encompassing Olympic athletes, actors, and local champions

This year's New Year Honours list features a vast array of individuals, with standout figures from the 1,200 honored recipients.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, 8:

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This year's New Year Honours list acknowledges the contributions of hundreds of individuals to the nation.

Here are a few individuals who received an award this year.

Sir Gareth Southgate has been honored with a knighthood in recognition of his contributions to association football, notably guiding the England team to the finals of the European Championships in both 2020 and

Sir Stephen Fry has been awarded a knighthood for his contributions to mental health awareness, environmental advocacy, and charitable work.

London's Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, has been recognized with a knighthood for his contributions to politics and public service, a position he has occupied since 2016.

Renowned writer Jacqueline Wilson, famed for her Tracy Beaker series, has been honored with the title of Dame Grand Cross (GBE) in recognition of her contributions to literature.

TV host Alan Titchmarsh has been honored with the title of Commander of the British Empire (CBE), and Scottish broadcaster Jackie Bird has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

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Starmer celebrates a 'year of transformation' as he shares his inaugural New Year address as prime minister, promising increased financial prosperity in 2025.

Sir Kazuo Ishiguro, an acclaimed novelist and Nobel laureate, has been appointed a Companion of Honour in recognition of his contributions to literature. Meanwhile, distinguished writer Robert Harris has been named a Commander of the British Empire (

Lee Castleton, Josephine Hamilton, Christopher David Head, Dr. Kay Catherine Sheila Hilary Linnell, Seema Misra, and Richard Gresham Haley have been recognized with honours for their advocacy on behalf of subpostmasters who were wrongfully convicted in the wake of the Horizon scandal.

Discover more: Prominent figures acknowledged in New Year HonoursMany overlooked individuals gain acclaim

In athletics, 22-year-old Keely Hodgkinson has been awarded an MBE following her gold medal victory in the 800m race at the Olympics, where she also became the sixth fastest woman ever in that event.

Double Olympic gold medalist Tom Pidcock has been honored with an OBE for his victories in mountain biking, and Paralympic athlete Hannah Cockroft has been awarded a CBE following her triumphs in the T34 100m and 800m races.

Swimmers Duncan Scott, recognized with an OBE, and William Ellard, who received an MBE, along with sailor Ellie Aldridge, also an MBE recipient, and rowers Lola Anderson, Hannah Scott, Lauren Henry, Emily Craig, Dr. Imogen Grant, and Georgie Brayshaw, as well as Gregg Stevenson – all awarded MBEs – have been celebrated for their gold medal victories at the Games. Fencer Dimitri Coutya, also an MBE honoree, joins this distinguished group.

Paratriathlete David Ellis, shot put athlete Sabrina Fortune, heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson, archer Nathan MacQueen, trampoline gymnast Bryony Page, and cyclists Sophie Capewell, Sophie Unwin, Finley Graham, Dannielle Khan, and Elizabeth Jordan have each been honored with an MBE.

Olympic and Paralympic gold medalists Helen Glover, Samantha Kinghorn, Lauren Rowles, Alice Tai, Dina Asher-Smith, and Jaco van Gass have each been honored with OBEs, and Stephen Clegg has been awarded an MBE.

Marissa Callaghan, the ex-skipper of the Northern Ireland women's football squad, has been honored with an MBE.

Former Masterchef host and Through The Keyhole presenter Loyd Grossman has been knighted.

Actresses Carey Mulligan and Sarah Lancashire, along with "Coronation Street" icon Anne Reid, have been honored as Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for their contributions to drama. Meanwhile, Carmen Munroe, famed for her role in "Desmond's," has been elevated to Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE).

Actors Eddie Marsan, Kevin Whately from "Inspector Morse" and "Lewis," along with Bafta-winning actress Anne-Marie Duff, have been honored with OBEs.

Radio and TV host Myleene Klass, who also won Popstars, radio DJ Steve Lamacq, and Tom Baker, known for his role in Doctor Who, have been awarded MBEs.

Renowned costume designer Sandy Powell has been appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE

Ex-Formula 1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle has been honored with an OBE, while former Scotland and Liverpool soccer star Alan Hansen has been awarded an MBE.

Sky News correspondent for royal affairs and events, Major General Alastair Bruce, has been appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath, a distinction awarded to high-ranking military officers and senior civil servants for their service.

Labour MP Emily Thornberry has been named a dame, while the former Mayor of West Midlands, Andy Street, has received a knighthood.

Carole Gould and Julie Devey, who established the organization Killed Women, have been honored with OBEs for their advocacy on behalf of women who have been murdered in domestic settings.

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Lifelong charity supporter Ivan Black has been honored with an MBE for his efforts in raising over £700,000 for cancer research.

Mikayla Beames, an 18-year-old who survived cancer and is among the youngest honorees, has been recognized with a British Empire Medal for establishing her own cancer charity.

Renowned shipwreck explorer David Mearns, recognized for locating 29 shipwrecks throughout his career, has been honored with an OBE.

Joeli Brearley, the founder of the advocacy group for parents, Pregnant Then Screwed, has been awarded an MBE.

Nathaniel Dye, a music instructor diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2023, expressed his hope that receiving an MBE would boost his advocacy efforts.

Eric Brown, aged 78, has been honored with an MBE in recognition of his advocacy efforts on behalf of terrorism victims, following his establishment of the South East Fermanagh Foundation.

Retired solicitor Gordon Hay has also been honored with an MBE for his contributions to promoting the Doric language, spoken in northeast Scotland.

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He dedicated 17 years to converting the New Testament and subsequently the Old Testament into Doric, marking the first instance the entire scripture has been translated into any form of Scots dialect.

The most senior individual recognized is Colin Bell, a 103-year-old veteran who piloted Mosquito aircraft during World War II. He is being awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his efforts in charity fundraising and his role as a public speaker.

Dr. Douglas Glass, the King's general practitioner, along with his physician, Professor Richard Leach, have been honored for their contributions to the Royal Family. Dr. Glass has been named a Commander and Professor Leach has been appointed a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (RVO).

Ken McCallum, the chief of MI5, is also set to receive a knighthood.

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Over 1,200 individuals from various parts of the UK were recognized with honours in the most recent list.

Women account for 49% of the individuals recognized, while 12% of the awardees come from ethnically diverse backgrounds.

3% of individuals on the roster are recognized as LGBT, 15% possess disabilities or chronic health issues, and 33% hail from less privileged economic backgrounds.

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Heads of state, royalty, and global leaders are among the notable figures whose signatures fill the No 10 guest books, which have been disclosed to the public for the first time. These records from Downing Street, spanning from 1970 to 2003, are now accessible at the National Archives.

Politics correspondent @FaithLRidler

Tuesday, December 31, 2024, 8:

Guestbooks from Downing Street containing signatures from some of the most celebrated figures in recent history have been made available to the public for the first time.

The prestigious books documenting the period from 1970, during Edward Heath's tenure as Prime Minister, to 2003, under Tony Blair's leadership, have been made available to the National Archives in Kew, West London.

The impressive assortment of autographs features signatures from several global leaders and royal family members, including the former Queen Mother, Princess Diana, and King Charles III during his time as the Prince of Wales.

The visitor logs offer crucial information about those who engaged in confidential discussions with prime ministers historically, since visitor identities at Number 10 are seldom disclosed.

Earlier in the year, the discovery of the red leather books occurred after one was put up for auction by a West London auctioneer.

The transaction was ultimately halted when the Cabinet Office declared that the book was the property of the government.

During her visits to Downing Street, the late Queen Mother would autograph as Elizabeth R, whereas the current King and his former wife used the more casual Charles and Diana.

The collection features autographs from a series of American presidents, starting with Jimmy Carter and continuing through Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, to George W. Bush.

Some individuals merely added their signatures, while others wrote heartfelt notes, primarily addressed to Margaret Thatcher, who occupied 10 Downing Street for over ten years, from 1979 to 1990.

Concluding his 1989 visit, the senior Mr. Bush penned: "With respect, friendship, and gratitude for this meaningful relationship," and his wife, Barbara, also expressed her agreement, writing: "Me too."

In that same year, the French Prime Minister at the time, Michel Rocard, expressed a somewhat cooler sentiment.

He remarked, "It's always a remarkable event to engage with the prime minister, whether we share the same views or not. Thank you so much."

In 1996, Nelson Mandela, the President of South Africa, remarked that a visit to 10 Downing Street is consistently a memorable event. Meanwhile, Vaclav Havel, the Czech President, affectionately placed a heart symbol beneath his signature.

In 1985, two standout pages celebrated the 250th anniversary of Number 10.

The first bears the signatures of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, with the Duke signing as Philip.

The opposite page bears the signatures of all five living ex-prime ministers—Harold Macmillan, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, Harold Wilson, Edward Heath, and James Callaghan—along with the signature of the current prime minister at the time, Margaret Thatcher.

Throughout the years, the venue has hosted several distinguished visitors such as Clementine, the widow of Sir Winston Churchill, World War II leader Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, and Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie.

Check out further details on Sky News: According to a recent survey, Labour could face a loss of 200 seats if elections were conducted today. Meanwhile, the Mayor of London has been recognized in

It seems that the guestbook at Number 10 Downing Street was initiated by Edward Heath, a Conservative Prime Minister, during his tenure from 1970 to 1974.

However, it saw infrequent use under certain past leaders, including the tenures of John Major and Sir Tony Blair, which feature only a handful of entries.

A communication dated shortly after the September 11 attacks, originating from early 2002, was sent by New York's ex-mayor Rudy Giuliani.

He expressed his gratitude by saying, "Mr. Prime Minister, your support during this critical time is deeply appreciated. You will forever be remembered fondly by all New Yorkers and Americans alike."

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The presence of the books was revealed earlier this year when one appeared for sale at an auction.

Chiswick Auctions, the firm handling the sale, stated that the item came from a retired government employee who discovered it while clearing out boxes labeled for burning that had been water-damaged after a flood in Whitehall, with the necessary authorizations.

It was anticipated that it would generate approximately £15,000; however, the auction was halted when the Cabinet Office asserted that the item was state property, according to the Public Records Act 1958.

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What's on the horizon for Westminster in the coming year?

Monday, December 30, 2024, at 5:48 AM

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In this unique episode, Sky News' Assistant Political Editor Sam Coates and Politico’s Jack Blanchard offer a sneak peek into the political landscape for the upcoming year. They speculate on Nigel Farage's activities in 2025, consider potential improvements in the economy, and delve into what Kemi Badenoch might have planned. Additionally, they explore how the UK government will manage the comeback of President Trump. To reach out to Jack and Sam, you can message them via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or email them at jackandsam@sky.uk.

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What are the forthcoming events in Westminster for the next year?

Monday, December 30, 2024, at 5:48 AM

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

In this unique installment, Sky News' Assistant Political Editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard look ahead to the political landscape of the upcoming year. They speculate on Nigel Farage's activities in 2025, consider potential improvements in the economy, and explore what plans Kemi Badenoch might be formulating. Additionally, they discuss the UK government's approach to President Trump's comeback. To reach out to Jack and Sam, you can send a WhatsApp message to 07511 867 633 or email them at jackandsam@sky.uk.

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Downing Street maintains that private school fees are 'unaffordable for the majority' as officials justify the VAT policy. This Wednesday, the Labour Party plans to eliminate the VAT exemption and business rates relief for private schools, aiming to use the funds to hire 6,500 additional teachers for public schools.

Political correspondent Faith L. Ridler

Monday, December 30, 2024, 2:

Officials have maintained that the cost of private schooling is "undeniably unaffordable for the majority," as they persist in supporting their stance on the VAT policy.

On Wednesday, the Labour Party plans to eliminate the VAT exemption and business rates relief currently enjoyed by private schools. This move is aimed at generating funds to hire an additional 6,500 teachers for public schools.

Last week, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson indicated that middle class families support the new tax measures, arguing that such families have "mostly been pushed out" of affording private education for their children.

She explained to the Sunday Times that the widespread backing for their plan to end the tax benefits that private schools receive, and instead invest in public education, stems from this reason.

Ms. Phillipson noted that the typical annual tuition for private schools has increased to £18,000.

She further noted that middle-income parents, even those in stable professional careers and dealing with housing expenses, find such high fees unaffordable and are in favor of exceptional public schools.

Downing Street has emphasized that tuition at private schools is "undeniably unaffordable for the majority," underscoring the necessity of "directing funds towards public education."

A representative for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the policy would enable Labour to improve quality within public schools.

The representative emphasized that the vast majority, or 94%, of students are enrolled in public schools as opposed to private institutions

Further Reading: Current polls suggest Labour would forfeit 200 seats if elections were conducted now, according to a recent survey. Amidst challenges, Starmer shares a

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It is anticipated that the VAT policy will generate approximately £1.5 billion in revenue in 2025, with this figure increasing to £1.8 billion by 2029. The funds will be used to hire 6,500 additional teachers.

A representative for Sir Keir stated that the tax increase will result in "additional funds being directed towards education."

It is also anticipated that increased costs will push thousands of students from private institutions to public schools.

Officials state this measure will impact a mere 0.1% of students.

Last week, Ms. Phillipson declared herself the representative of ambitious middle-class parents who can no longer afford private schooling, a statement that drew considerable backlash.

Priti Patel, the opposition's foreign affairs spokesperson, stated that the comments were yet another example of deceit from the socialist government, which has failed to keep its campaign commitments.

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Significant political repercussions loom for Farage, Badenoch, and the Conservative Party as 2025 approaches. Survey data broadly suggest a shift in public sentiment, presenting a grim outlook for traditional political groups. Both the Labour and Conservative Parties are currently polling closely, each hovering around the mid-20% mark, which is notably weak for both parties. Reform UK trails by just around five percentage points.

Sky News analyst @adamboultonTABB

Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 2

UK citizens can expect a calmer 2025 following the tumultuous "Year of Elections," which ushered in a new administration in Britain and significant global shifts, notably the re-election of Donald Trump, who is set to be sworn in for another term as US President on January 20.

It's quite probable that Sir Keir Starmer won't need to face an election for about four and a half years, given the substantial majority his Labour Party secured in the Commons last July.

By August 2029, the United Kingdom must conduct its forthcoming general election, by which point the second administration of President Trump will have concluded.

The upcoming electoral contests for the Scottish Parliament, along with the legislative bodies in Wales and Northern Ireland, are scheduled to take place on May 27, 2026.

This implies that there are limited opportunities for those attempting to discern the political climate in the UK, with an unusually high emphasis this year on the scant elections set to occur: English council elections on May 1. Accurately interpreting these results will be challenging for two crucial reasons.

Analyzing the differences with the previous local elections held in May 2021 in certain regions may be complex. This complexity arises due to the English Devolution Bill introduced by the government, which permits some regions to skip this year's elections if they are poised to integrate into the newly proposed "Strategic Authorities" that combine multiple tiers into a single entity.

Additionally, the political landscape in 2021 showed significant changes from previous years. At that time, there was no presence of the Reform UK party, nor its antecedents like the Brexit Party or UKIP. The Conservative Party, under Boris Johnson, was performing strongly. The Conservatives achieved notable successes in local council elections, whereas the Labour Party, Liberal Democrats, and the Green Party saw little progress.

The landscape of politics has significantly changed. Currently, there are five MPs from Reform UK, four from the Green Party, and an unprecedented 72 from the Liberal Democrats serving in Westminster.

The typical inquiry in public surveys asks: "What would be your choice in the event of a general election held tomorrow?"

It's widely understood that it won't happen for a long time.

Moreover, as politicians often emphasize during challenging times, the polls, particularly those leading up to the 2024 election, did not accurately capture the outcome as determined by actual votes in actual ballot boxes.

Discover further articles at Sky News: Starmer honors his 'remarkable' brother who passed away on Boxing Day. Evaluate your understanding of politics with the Politics Hub's 2024 quiz.

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The image does not favor traditional political groups

The surveys provide a general sense of the direction public opinion is heading, and it's not a positive outlook for the traditional political parties.

Labour and the Conservatives are currently tied, each polling in the mid-20s percentage-wise, a surprisingly low level of support for both parties.

Reform UK is trailing by just five points, solidifying its position as the third major player in British politics, significantly improving from their 14% showing in the last general election.

The Liberal Democrats, with approximately a 12% share, and the Greens, at about 6%, are generally maintaining their levels of voter support.

Will Reform and Farage Maintain Their Dynamic Progress?

The key issue in the 2025 local elections centers on whether Reform UK and its leader Nigel Farage will maintain their current political drive.

At first glance, the party appears poised for significant impact. Since it's beginning from scratch, any council seats it secures will be considered gains.

Since the general election, Reform UK has undergone restructuring and is currently focused on building a robust grassroots network.

Financial support appears to be secure. Zia Yusuf, a wealthy ex-banker from Goldman Sachs, has assumed the role of party chairman.

Real estate tycoon Nick Candy, who recently became the treasurer for Reform UK, was among those who attended a meeting with Elon Musk at Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago base. Subsequently, Nigel Farage minimized rumors suggesting that Musk could potentially contribute up to $100 million (£79 million) to the party.

Change is dividing the conservative voter base

Last week, Reform UK announced that their membership numbers had surpassed the Conservative Party's reported total of 131,680, as indicated by a live counter on their official website.

The party is dividing the right-of-center vote, focusing primarily on attracting supporters from the Conservative Party. Given the Conservatives' robust showing in these regions previously, they now appear to be at significant risk.

In 2021, the Conservative Party secured victories in 19 of 21 county councils and seven out of 13 unitary authorities. However, in later local elections in different regions, the Conservatives faced significant defeats, which resulted in them trailing behind the Labour Party in the overall count of councillors. This year, the Tories are attempting to hold on to their final stronghold from previous electoral successes.

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Conservatives are uncertain about whether to confront or adapt to the Reform Party.

Mr. Farage stands out as a highly effective communicator in the realm of British politics, regularly using elections outside of the traditional Westminster system to influence the UK government. His notable successes in the European elections of 2014 and 2019 significantly pushed the Conservative Party towards hosting the EU membership referendum and subsequently adopting a firm stance on Brexit.

The Conservative Party is uncertain whether to confront or make concessions to Reform UK.

If the Reform party significantly outperforms in the upcoming council elections, it might spell the end of Kemi Badenoch's leadership. Looking ahead, there's a possibility that Reform could either replace the Conservatives or merge with them, becoming the dominant right-wing political party in Britain.

Changes aimed at attracting supporters of the Labour Party

Reform UK also poses a challenge to the Labour Party.

Thus far, the Labour Party has maintained control over the recently established strategic mayoral offices and combined authorities across England. As of now, they are in charge of all four regions that will have elections in May 2025: West of England, Cambridgeshire, Doncaster, and North Tyneside. Additionally, this year will see elections for two new mayoral positions in Greater Lincolnshire and Hull and East Yorkshire.

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Reform UK, known for its conservative social policies, is adapting its economic platform to appeal to lower-income groups, particularly targeting the "Red Wall" regions—formerly industrial zones that historically supported the Labour Party. Dame Andrea Jenkyns, a previous Conservative MP and minister, is now representing Reform UK in the mayoral race for Greater Lincolnshire.

In contrast to the major parties, Reform advocates a clear approach concerning the endangered Scunthorpe steelworks: to nationalize it. Despite its immediate appeal, the likelihood of Dame Andrea implementing this policy is virtually nonexistent.

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A setback for Farage does not signal the conclusion of the rebellion.

When the focus isn't on the central government, people tend to vote based on emotion. A major worry for Sir Keir could be that as this government continues to promote devolution throughout England, regions might begin to lean towards political affiliations other than Labour.

This year, the outcomes of the council elections might turn out to be quite unfavorable for Mr. Farage's party. However, this wouldn't spell the demise of their efforts. Reform UK is gearing up to challenge the Conservatives, Labour, and SNP in the upcoming regional elections set for 2027 in Scotland and Wales.

The relatively low-key elections of 2025 are poised to significantly impact Mr. Farage, Ms. Badenoch, and the Conservative Party at a minimum.

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