A court has heard that the choice to eliminate the universal winter fuel payment by the UK and Scottish authorities is a 'direct consequence' of actions taken by Westminster. This legal challenge is being brought by a duo from Coatbridge in North Lanarkshire.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 3:

In a court session, it was revealed that the decision by Scottish authorities to discontinue the universal winter fuel payment was a direct result of the UK government's choice to cease the benefit.

Counsel Joanna Cherry KC informed Justice Lady Hood that, in her view, the decision made by the SNP government was influenced by the policies implemented by their counterparts in Westminster.

During a procedural hearing at the Court of Session in Edinburgh on Wednesday, the ex-SNP MP presented their submission.

Attorney Ms Cherry is acting on behalf of retirees Peter and Florence Fanning in a legal examination at the courthouse.

The pair, hailing from Coatbridge in North Lanarkshire, contend that both administrations did not properly engage with senior citizens nor did they publish an assessment of the impact on equality regarding the alterations.

The judiciary has been requested to determine if the termination of the universal benefit for elderly recipients violated the law.

This would enable the petitioners to request that the court effectively annul the policy and reinstate the winter fuel payment for everyone.

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Liz Kendall MP, who serves as the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, is the primary defendant in the legal proceedings in Scotland.

The Scottish government is the second party involved in the response.

Ms. Cherry informed the court that, in her view, Holyrood reached its decision following the Labour government's resolution on the issue.

She stated: "The choice by the second respondent to cancel the non means-tested winter fuel payment directly resulted from the UK government's decision to discontinue the winter fuel payment."

After Labour's victory in the recent elections, Chancellor Rachel Reeves declared that the winter fuel allowance, once available to all, would now be restricted to recipients of pension credit and other means-tested benefits. This change, she explained, was necessitated by the economic difficulties left by the outgoing Conservative administration.

The choice prompted similar action by the Scottish government.

The Scottish administration has stated that it anticipates a reduction in funding to Holyrood of as much as £160 million in 2024-25 due to a decision made by Westminster.

Ms. Cherry mentioned that English attorneys are also handling a comparable lawsuit at the High Court in London on behalf of Unite.

She stated that the union's attorneys received documents regarding the Labour government's choice to proceed with the policy.

She stated: "To foster goodwill between England and Scotland, I have requested that these documents be handed over to us."

The legal team representing the second respondents has just declined the request, stating their refusal.

"Unite's legal team has informed the London court that they consent to the release of those documents to us."

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Ms. Cherry informed the court of her intention to retrieve the documents, indicating that the previously set court deadline for the judicial review scheduled for March 13 and 14, 2025, might need to be postponed.

Discover further details on Sky News: Starmer dismisses the idea of an urgent budget while supporting his finance chief. While there's positive inflation news for the Chancellor, it might be short-lived.

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Andrew Webster KC, representing Ms Kendall, informed the court that Ms Cherry had received documents explaining why the UK government decided to abandon the policy.

He further mentioned that Ms. Cherry received a sworn affidavit from a government official concerning the policy.

Mr. Webster contended that the court should not alter the previously set deadline, as it might lead to the cancellation of the judicial review scheduled for March.

He informed the court that the proper legal process would have required the petitioners to apply to the Scottish court earlier to access the English materials.

Mr. Webster stated, "Failing to apply to the court promptly should result in penalties, and in my view, the petitioners ought to face those penalties."

He stated that extending the previous deadline would reflect poorly on Scotland’s civil justice system.

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Discussing the English content, Mr. Webster mentioned that it would not significantly vary from the materials Ms. Cherry possessed.

He also stated: "She cannot claim that the content will be helpful to her or the court."

James Mure KC, representing the Scottish government, argued that the court should reject any expansion of existing guidelines.

Discussing the English content, Mr. Mure remarked, "It seems to be somewhat of a wild goose chase."

Lady Hood denied Ms Cherry's appeal to delay the case for 28 days.

The judge stated, "At this point, I'm not convinced to take that step. The content may not change significantly."

An additional court session is set for Friday, January 24.

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The government has been criticized for reversing its stance on reinstating Conservative laws meant to protect free speech. The Education Secretary announced that the previously halted legislation will now proceed, emphasizing that safeguarding academic freedom is more crucial than accommodating the preferences of certain students who prefer not to be upset.

Political correspondent @alexrogerssky

Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 5:

The Education Secretary is facing allegations of reversing her stance following her decision to move forward with the contentious free speech legislation introduced by the Conservative party.

Last summer, Bridget Phillipson put a temporary halt to the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023, with intentions to repeal what sources from Whitehall at the time described as a "charter for hate speech."

The legislation, set to be implemented in August, might have resulted in fines for universities and student unions if they did not maintain freedom of speech on campus.

During her address in the House of Commons on Wednesday, Ms. Phillipson announced that the government would proceed with the legislation, emphasizing that the principle of academic freedom holds greater significance than the preferences of certain students to avoid offense.

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"She emphasized to the MPs the importance of safeguarding the freedom for our scholars to investigate and articulate novel concepts via education and scholarly work."

"These basic rights are far more significant than the preferences of certain students to avoid feeling offended. A university serves as a battleground where ideas are revealed and challenged, scrutinized and evaluated."

In her reaction, the opposition's education spokesperson, Laura Trott, highlighted a prevailing "confusion" surrounding the legislation, remarking: "It appears this administration is incapable of executing a necessary reversal effectively."

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The Conservative Party launched the Freedom of Speech Act aiming to tackle issues related to "cancel culture" in universities, where speakers are often barred from speaking due to their contentious opinions.

The former administration stated that the legislation increased the duty of universities to safeguard students' freedom of speech, both inside and outside of the classroom, and also provided greater security for educators presenting content that might be controversial to some students.

The announcement indicated that the updated regulations would permit individuals to voice opinions that might not be universally accepted, provided they do not cross into the realms of hate speech or calls to violence.

One of Ms. Phillipson's initial actions upon becoming education secretary was to halt the enforcement of the Act, considering its eventual repeal.

At that moment, individuals familiar with the education secretary's thinking indicated that the administration was contemplating the revocation of the act due to concerns that it might provide a stage for extremist voices.

Ms. Phillipson stated that the Department for Education undertook "thorough consultations involving various perspectives" – including input from scholars, universities, and students before she decided to move forward with the plan.

She mentioned that certain aspects of the legislation from the Conservative period would be implemented soon, but emphasized that the government intends to move forward in an effective manner.

Parts of the new legislation set to be implemented impose responsibilities on higher education institutions to actively support and uphold freedom of speech legally, and to establish a set of guidelines governing free speech.

The administration is moving forward with implementing a prohibition on non-disclosure agreements involving employees and students at higher education institutions in instances of bullying, harassment, and misconduct. Additionally, the Office for Students (OfS) regulatory body will receive enhanced authority to offer guidance and disseminate exemplary practices concerning freedom of speech.

Ms. Phillipson stated that the government has decided to revoke the proposal which would have allowed the Office for Students (OfS) to impose fines or sanctions on higher education institutions and student unions in England. She cited a lack of resources to comply with the regulations and existing coverage under charity laws as reasons for this decision.

"She emphasized her anticipation that student unions would safeguard legal free speech, regardless of their personal agreement with the expressed opinions."

The Education Secretary announced plans to establish an independent body to handle complaints regarding violations of free speech rights.

Further details: Tulip Siddiq implicated in a third Bangladeshi investigation concerning money laundering. Kemi Badenoch labels grooming gang culprits as 'peasants' from 'sub-communities'.

Ms. Trott informed members of parliament that the government prioritized "virtue signaling over the country's best interests" when discussing amendments to the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023.

"She stated that this government will recklessly dismantle policy without regard for the outcomes."

"They prioritize appearing morally superior over the true well-being of the nation."

She added, "Even after the secretary of state's announcement, there remains uncertainty about the current situation."

Addressing claims that she had reversed her position, Ms. Phillipson stated that the Conservative draft of the legislation "would have encouraged Holocaust denial and demonstrated a troubling indifference to the well-being of Jewish students."

Should the opposition be curious about the appearance of a reversal on the stance of free speech, they might want to observe Liz Truss. Previously a champion of free speech, she now seems embarked on an odd mission to discredit the prime minister for his comments that she and her party were responsible for economic turmoil. It's important to remember that the principle of free speech applies universally.

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Police probe 'spiking' episode in parliamentary bar

Authorities from the Metropolitan Police are looking into reports of a suspected spiking event that occurred on January 7. The incident allegedly took place in Strangers' Bar, a drinking establishment within the parliamentary complex.

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Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 8:

Authorities are probing a reported case of drink tampering that occurred last week in the Houses of Parliament.

Initially brought to the attention of parliamentary officials, the case has since been escalated to the Metropolitan Police for further investigation.

A representative from the Metropolitan Police stated, "On Tuesday, January 7, at approximately 6:30 PM, authorities were notified about a reported spiking incident at a venue within the House of Commons.

"The inquiry continues, and law enforcement is providing support to the victim.

"At this point, no one has been taken into custody."

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Members of Parliament reconvened at the legislature on Monday, January 6, after their holiday recess.

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A representative of the House of Commons stated: "We have been informed of an incident that occurred on the parliamentary grounds in early January. It was reported to parliamentary security and is currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service."

According to Politico, the purported event took place in Strangers' Bar, a bar located within the parliamentary grounds that offers alcoholic beverages.

It is believed that the individual involved is employed at parliament, though not as a politician.

There have been recurring concerns about the availability of alcohol in parliament, prompting suggestions from some quarters that it should be prohibited.

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Jenny Symmons, who leads the GMB union's parliamentary branch, expressed that the occurrence will inevitably provoke anxiety and concern among everyone working in parliament. She noted that for every case of abuse reported in the media, there are probably others that remain unreported.

"We stand in full support with those who have suffered abuse in our workplace and are committed to assisting any employees who feel distressed or unsafe due to these events."

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Who is Tulip Siddiq? The departing Labour minister connected to Bangladesh who advocated for Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe's release

Ms. Siddiq, a relative of Bangladesh’s longest-tenured Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted in a coup the previous year.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 4:

Minister for Anti-corruption Tulip Siddiq stepped down from her position following a scandal related to her connections with her aunt’s deposed political group in Bangladesh.

The Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate is widely recognized for her advocacy in securing the freedom of her constituent, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was imprisoned in Iran for six years.

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In 2019, the mother of two made news when she postponed her cesarean section to cast her vote against Boris Johnson's Brexit agreement, arriving at parliament visibly pregnant and using a wheelchair.

Following childbirth, she broke new ground as the first Member of Parliament to cast a vote through a proxy.

Ms. Siddiq secured her initial parliamentary seat in 2015, representing the country's narrowest constituency at that time, and had previously held a position as a local council member in Camden.

The woman, 42, is related to Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has held the position longer than anyone else in the country's history. Hasina was deposed in August after a revolt against her two decades of governance.

In various blog entries from late 2008 to early 2009, Ms. Siddiq, who was then an activist with the Labour Party, shared her experiences of supporting her aunt during the general elections in South Asia, and rejoiced in her aunt's triumph.

Ms Siddiq is the granddaughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the inaugural president of Bangladesh, who tragically lost his life in a military coup in 1975, an event that also claimed the lives of the majority of his family members.

Her mother and aunt were spared as they were overseas when the incident occurred – her mother subsequently sought and received political asylum in the UK, which is where the Labour MP was born.

Ms. Siddiq resided in south London until the age of five, after which she spent a decade in various Asian locations, such as India and Bangladesh.

She moved back to the capital of the UK as a teenager and has resided there ever since.

Ms. Siddiq has spoken about experiencing a "unique upbringing," during which she encountered prominent figures such as Bill Clinton and Nelson Mandela.

She explained that her membership in the Labour Party was motivated by the NHS, and her experiences in Bangladesh emphasized the pervasive role of politics in daily life, making it difficult to remain apolitical.

Her connections to the nation's ruling family ultimately led to her downfall.

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Ms. Siddiq has faced scrutiny since December, following her mention in legal documents that alleged her family diverted billions of pounds from a nuclear energy initiative in Bangladesh.

It is claimed that she assisted in arranging discussions with the Russian government about the Rooppur nuclear project in 2013.

She has faced scrutiny following reports that she resided in London properties connected to her aunt's allies.

The Tories demanded Ms. Siddiq's dismissal, while Bangladeshi leader Muhammad Yunus suggested that London properties utilized by the MP be scrutinized and returned to his government, should they have been obtained by outright theft.

What accusations are being made about Ms. Siddiq?

The claims focus on potential financial connections between Tulip Siddiq and supporters of her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, who previously served as Bangladesh's prime minister.

Ms. Siddiq is currently leasing a north London property valued at £2 million, which is owned by a businessperson reportedly connected to Ms. Hasina's Awami League party.

She possesses an apartment in the heart of London, which, according to the Financial Times, was presented to her by a supporter of her aunt.

She was listed at a different property in London, which was passed on to her sister in 2009 through an attorney who has worked for Ms. Hasina's administration.

Ms. Siddiq maintains her innocence, yet recently she sought the guidance of the prime minister's ethics committee.

At that moment, Sir Keir Starmer affirmed that she had "behaved completely appropriately" by referring her own case to Sir Laurie Magnus, the independent ethics advisor, and declared he had "complete trust" in her.

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Ms. Siddiq has moved back to a less prominent parliamentary role, only half a year after securing a position within the government.

Following Labour's triumph in the July elections, she was named the economic secretary to the Treasury.

As the urban minister, commonly referred to as the anti-corruption minister, she was in charge of overseeing financial misconduct and illegal financial activities.

Prior to the national elections, she served in opposition roles related to the Treasury and education under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer.

She also served in Jeremy Corbyn's shadow cabinet from 2016 to 2017, but stepped down due to a disagreement with his directive not to obstruct the legislation that would initiate Article 50, setting in motion Britain's departure from the EU.

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Increased scrutiny for Sir Keir Starmer as Rotherham representative supports widespread grooming investigation

Sarah Champion, the MP for the Yorkshire town since 2012, states that child sexual abuse is pervasive and must be acknowledged as a critical national issue.

Political journalist @alexrogerssky

Monday, January 13, 2025, 10:

The Labour representative for Rotherham is urging a nationwide investigation into the grooming gangs controversy, increasing the scrutiny on Sir Keir Starmer.

Sarah Champion described child sexual abuse as pervasive throughout Britain and emphasized that it should be treated as a matter of national importance.

She has joined other Labour politicians in demanding a national inquiry into child sexual exploitation (CSE), following Dan Carden, the Labour representative for Liverpool Walton, who was the initial Labour MP to support such a call over the weekend.

Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has expressed his openness to another review, while Paul Waugh, the Labour MP for Rochdale, has endorsed an additional inquiry, provided it is supported by the victims and survivors.

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Ms. Champion, who stepped down from her position in Jeremy Corbyn's shadow cabinet in 2017 following her controversial comments about the involvement of British Pakistani men in the abuse and exploitation of white girls, recently released a five-point strategy to combat child sexual exploitation (CSE) on X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk. Musk himself has shown a growing concern for this issue.

Her involvement is likely to intensify scrutiny on the prime minister, who has until now dismissed the Conservatives' demands for a nationwide investigation into "rape gangs", claiming that such an inquiry would hinder the introduction of initiatives aimed at assisting victims.

Sir Keir, who previously held the position of Director of Public Prosecutions in England and Wales, highlighted the existence of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse conducted by Professor Alexis Jay. However, detractors have claimed that the inquiry was not thorough enough.

At last week's Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir stated that a new inquiry would postpone the implementation of Prof Jay's suggestions until 2031.

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He criticized the Conservatives for not putting into action any of the 2022 suggestions, stating: "They've been busy on social media and giving speeches. We've been getting things done."

Last week, officials declared that following a suggestion from Prof Jay, it will now be compulsory for child welfare professionals to report allegations of sexual abuse, with failure to do so resulting in criminal penalties.

Last week, Members of Parliament rejected a Conservative proposal to initiate a new national investigation into the grooming gangs scandal, with 364 votes against and 111 in favor, resulting in a majority of 253.

Even if the Commons had approved the measure, it wouldn't have compelled the government to initiate the sought-after inquiry because of the rules governing parliamentary procedures.

Rather, this would have defeated the government's proposed laws, which are designed to overhaul aspects like the child care system and improve academic standards in educational institutions.

Ms. Champion, who had earlier expressed opposition to an additional investigation, suggested a nationwide inquiry similar to the one in Telford, emphasizing that it should be funded nationally and focus on the victims.

She expressed that local investigations lacked the authority to mandate witness testimonies, which would not quell public worries about potential concealments.

Telford is among several towns and cities where, over a decade ago, groups of men predominantly of Pakistani descent preyed on and abused young girls. This pattern of exploitation also occurred in other locations such as Oldham, Rochdale, Newcastle, and Bristol.

Ms. Champion, a long-time advocate against child sexual exploitation, stated on X: "Child sexual abuse is rampant across the UK and must be acknowledged as a major national concern," she expressed.

"There is a noticeable lack of confidence among the public towards governments and official bodies in addressing and legally pursuing cases of child abuse, particularly child sexual exploitation."

She stated: "Drawing from my extensive experience with victims, survivors, and frontline workers, I've consistently held that a deep comprehension of the crime's dynamics and the shortcomings in how public institutions react is crucial for the genuine protection of children.

"It is evident that only a nationwide investigation into the shortcomings of those in power to prevent, and take responsibility for their inadequacies, concerning grooming gangs will reestablish trust in our protection mechanisms."

In her suggestions, Ms. Champion also proposed conducting a "national audit" to investigate whether grooming gangs are currently active or if any incidents have been overlooked.

Discover more: Understanding child sexual abuse and grooming gangs: Insights and gaps from current data. A timeline of the grooming gangs scandal: Key events explored.

She emphasized the importance of delving deeper into the reasons behind the actions of grooming gang members.

She mentioned that potential initiators for these investigations in local regions could include local councils or police choosing to refer themselves, or an independent panel voicing worries.

According to Ms. Champion, accounts from victims or survivors may prompt an investigation under the proposed framework.

When inquired if Ms. Champion's opinions on the issue are influential due to her background, the spokesperson for the prime minister confirmed, "Definitely. There are a variety of opinions."

"However, we have also received differing opinions from various groups, including those representing victims and survivors. Therefore, our actions and decisions will be directed and influenced by the victims and survivors themselves."

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Reform Party nearly equals government in latest survey, hinting at a 'new era' in UK politics

A recent YouGov survey for Sky News shows Nigel Farage's party trailing the current administration by just one percentage point.

Assistant Political Editor @SamCoatesSky

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 9:

A recent Sky News poll conducted by YouGov indicates that Reform UK's popularity is now just one percentage point behind Labour, signaling a shift towards a tripartite political landscape in Britain.

Sir Keir Starmer appears poised for a prolonged parliamentary battle with two conservative parties following a significant decline in Labour's backing, as indicated by the first YouGov survey since the general election.

According to a recent survey, the Conservative Party has fallen to third position since Kemi Badenoch assumed leadership two months ago.

Recent polling results from the weekend show Labour leading with 26%, closely followed by Reform UK at 25%. The Conservatives are currently at 22%, with the Liberal Democrats at 14% and the Greens at 8%.

In a significant shift from the general election results, Labour secured 35% of the votes, while the Conservatives trailed at 24%. Meanwhile, Reform UK captured 15%, the Liberal Democrats garnered 13%, and the Greens received 7% of the vote

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This marks the debut of YouGov's weekly polls on voting intentions for Sky News, which is also being shared with The Times.

The data indicates a decline in public approval of the government, an increase in backing for Reform UK, and illustrates the dispersion of the Labour vote into various factions post-election.

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In the recent general election, the Labour Party maintained 54% of its voter base. Of the remaining votes, 7% shifted to the Liberal Democrats, 6% moved to the Green Party, 5% switched to Reform UK, and 4% went to the Conservative Party. Additionally, 23% of respondents were undecided, chose not to disclose their preference, or decided not to vote.

Reform UK has seen an increase in its voter base since the last general election, drawing support from various parties. Notably, 16% of those who previously voted for the Conservatives now indicate they would vote for Reform UK.

Explore further: Is there hope for a Labour comeback? Survey suggests Musk's influence is detrimental to UK politics.

The verdict on Sir Keir's initial half-year tenure is harsh, nonetheless.

Around 10% of individuals believe the government has been effective, whereas 60% consider it ineffective.

Support among senior citizens for the Labour Party has diminished. Currently, only 14% of individuals aged 65 and older support Labour, a decrease from 22% during the election period.

Indications suggest that the Conservative Party continues to struggle with its image. Reform UK emerges as the least disliked, holding a net favorability score of -32. Labour is slightly less favored at -34, while the Conservatives lag significantly behind with a -45 rating.

YouGov conducted interviews with 2,279 British voters on Sunday, January 12, and Monday, January 13.

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Tulip Siddiq steps down from her role as Treasury minister

Ms. Siddiq, whose aunt is ex-Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, resigned following her aunt's ousting and subsequent exile last year. Sheikh Hasina is currently under investigation for corruption.

Political journalist @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 5

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Tulip Siddiq has stepped down from her position as a Treasury minister following scrutiny regarding her connections to her aunt's deposed political faction in Bangladesh.

In a written communication addressed to Sir Keir Starmer, the Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate stated that although she had "not violated the ministerial code," remaining in her position would divert attention away from the government's activities.

Live Coverage: Responses to Cabinet Member's Departure

Ms. Siddiq is facing scrutiny due to claims concerning real estate connected to her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted from her role as the prime minister of Bangladesh in August after a revolt against her two-decade rule, and is currently under investigation for corruption.

Previously, she maintained her innocence but last week, she took the step of referring herself to Sir Laurie Magnus, the prime minister's ethics advisor.

In a communication addressed to Sir Keir, the independent advisor expressed disappointment that Ms. Siddiq did not pay greater attention to the possible reputational hazards linked with her immediate family's ties to Bangladesh.

He referred to this "deficiency" as not constituting a violation of the ministerial code, adding, "however, you may want to evaluate her continuing duties in view of this situation."

Sir Laurie examined the financial dealings and property history of Ms. Siddiq, finding no signs of misconduct in her activities.

In his response, Sir Keir stated that he has received Ms Siddiq's resignation "with regret." He emphasized, "I want to make it clear that Sir Laurie Magnus, the Independent Adviser, has confirmed to me that there was no violation of the ministerial code and no proof of financial wrongdoing by you."

He commended her for choosing to resign despite it being a tough choice, and mentioned that "the door remains open for you" in the future.

Ms. Siddiq has served as a Member of Parliament since 2015, gaining notable recognition for her advocacy efforts to secure the release of her constituent, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was imprisoned in Iran for six years.

Downing Street has confirmed that Wycombe MP Emma Reynolds will take over a new position in the Treasury, succeeding her predecessor. Torsten Bell is set to fill Ms. Reynolds' former position at the Department for Work and Pensions.

Ms. Siddiq served as the city minister, a position that tasked her with addressing illegal finance and corruption issues.

Earlier this week, the UK Anti-Corruption Coalition urged Ms. Siddiq to step down, alleging a significant conflict of interest, irrespective of Sir Laurie's determination regarding any breach of the ministerial code.

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In a message shared on X, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch charged Sir Keir with "hesitation and procrastination in defending his close associate," asserting that it became evident over the weekend that Ms. Siddiq's role "was absolutely unsustainable."

Sarah Olney, the spokesperson for the Cabinet Office from the Liberal Democrats, commented: "Following numerous years of Conservative corruption and controversy, the public rightfully anticipated more from the current administration."

What accusations have been made against Ms. Siddiq?

Reports suggest that Ms. Siddiq resided in London homes associated with supporters of Ms. Hasina, who is currently under scrutiny by a corruption watchdog in Bangladesh.

This encompasses a property in Finchley valued at £2.1 million, leased by the MP and owned by businessman Abdul Karim Nazim, who serves as an executive in the UK branch of her aunt’s Awami League party.

In submitting herself to Sir Laurie for scrutiny, Ms. Siddiq stated that a lot of the coverage about her financial dealings and connections with Bangladesh was incorrect, emphasizing, "I am confident that I have not committed any wrongdoing."

Court documents in Bangladesh have named Ms. Siddiq as allegedly assisting her aunt in negotiating a deal with Russia for the Rooppur nuclear power plant in 2013, a claim she denies.

The anti-corruption agency in Bangladesh has accused her of participating in the unlawful distribution of land plots in the diplomatic area of a development close to Dhaka to her family members, including her mother, sister, and brother.

A source from the Labour Party has completely denied the allegations, stating that she has not been approached by anyone regarding the issue.

Ms. Siddiq was scheduled to be part of a group traveling to China last week, however, she remained in the UK to defend her reputation.

Additional scrutiny arose when Sky News uncovered archived blog entries in which she recounted her experiences helping her aunt campaign during Bangladesh's general election and celebrating her win.

Ms. Siddiq had earlier mentioned that political discussions were never a topic between her and her aunt.

According to The Times, flyers from the MP's Labour Party and a thank-you note addressed to local party members following her election were discovered in a palace in Dhaka owned by her aunt.

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Kemi Badenoch has labeled abusers in grooming gangs as 'peasants' from 'sub-communities' abroad. The Conservative leader has advocated for a fresh nationwide investigation into grooming gangs, focusing on the cultural backgrounds of the offenders and the prevailing "culture of silence."

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10:

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described individuals involved in grooming gangs as "peasants" and stated that they come from "sub-communities" abroad.

She recently met with survivors, following her admission last week that she hadn't previously met any while advocating for a fresh national investigation into the scandal involving the abuse of predominantly white girls by mostly Pakistani-origin men.

Ms. Badenoch expressed her astonishment at the accounts she heard and emphasized the need for an investigation to address "cultural issues."

Latest in Politics: New Allegations of Corruption Surface Against Tulip Siddiq

She explained to GB News, "We're seeing a consistent trend of conduct that spans across not just one nation, but also various sub-groups within those nations, characterized by specific cultural, social, and professional backgrounds."

"You see, individuals from extremely impoverished, essentially peasant backgrounds, are profoundly rural and often isolated from even their native countries."

"They aren't always from the first generation. The nature of their employment enabled them to engage in this exploitative conduct."

She further mentioned a different problem related to a prevailing "culture of silence, a 'computer says no' attitude, a tendency to dismiss issues with 'move along, nothing to see here', and a 'not our problem' mindset, all of which are reflective of the state's approach."

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The leader of the Conservatives stated that a nationwide investigation should simultaneously examine issues related to culture.

She has consistently been at odds with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, advocating for a fresh national investigation.

The government has stated that there is no need for a new national investigation following the completion of a seven-year study released in 2022 by Professor Alexis Jay.

The emphasis, it is argued, should be on executing the 20 suggestions put forth by Professor Jay, with a preference for inquiries conducted at the local level.

Learn more: Scandal involving grooming gangs – the details. Rotherham's Labour MP supports investigation into gangs. Starmer states that the Treasury will take a 'ruthless' approach during market instability.

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Tech mogul Elon Musk has spotlighted the matter globally by criticizing Sir Keir for his role in addressing grooming gangs during his tenure as chief prosecutor from 2008-2013. The prime minister has countered Mr. Musk's allegations.

Ms. Badenoch stated that a national inquiry would reveal the truth and ensure accountability.

"She emphasized that this concerns the victims who are owed justice."

"The victims seeking justice require our commitment to apprehend and prosecute every identifiable offender, and those who neglected their responsibilities to safeguard their children must be held accountable and revealed."

Her statements were made in conjunction with Rotherham's Labour MP, Sarah Champion, advocating for a nationwide investigation into grooming gangs, with oversight managed at a local level.

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Kemi Badenoch has labeled abusers in grooming gangs as 'peasants' from 'sub-communities' abroad. The Conservative leader has advocated for a comprehensive national investigation into grooming gangs to explore two key issues: the culture of the offenders and the prevailing "culture of silence."

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 10

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch described the individuals behind grooming gangs as "peasants" from "sub-communities" abroad.

She has since met with survivors following her disclosure last week that she had not previously met any, despite advocating for a new national investigation into the scandal involving the abuse of predominantly white girls by primarily Pakistani-origin men.

Ms. Badenoch expressed her astonishment at their narratives and emphasized the need for an inquiry to examine "cultural issues."

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She explained to GB News, "We're seeing a consistent trend of behavior that spans not only across various countries but also among specific subgroups within those nations, influenced by their unique cultural, socioeconomic, and occupational backgrounds."

"Individuals from extremely impoverished, rural backgrounds are often so isolated that they become detached from even their countries of origin."

"They aren't always from the first generation. The nature of their employment enabled them to engage in this aggressive conduct."

She further pointed out the existence of a pervasive "culture of silence, a reflexive 'computer says no' attitude, an inclination to dismiss concerns with 'move along, nothing to see here', and a tendency to abdicate responsibility with 'this is not our problem', all of which are attitudes found within state institutions.

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The leader of the Conservative Party stated that a nationwide investigation should simultaneously examine issues related to culture.

She has consistently been at odds with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as she advocates for a fresh national investigation.

The government has stated that there is no need for an additional national investigation following the publication of a seven-year inquiry in 2022 led by Professor Alexis Jay.

The emphasis should shift towards putting into action the 20 recommendations suggested by Professor Jay, with a preference for inquiries led at the local level.

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Tech mogul Elon Musk has spotlighted the matter globally by criticizing Sir Keir over his role in dealing with grooming gangs during his tenure as the chief prosecutor from 2008 to 2013. The prime minister has countered Mr. Musk's allegations.

Ms. Badenoch stated that a national inquiry would reveal the truth and ensure accountability.

"She emphasized that this concerns the victims who are owed justice."

"Those who survived deserve justice, which entails apprehending and prosecuting every perpetrator within our reach, and holding accountable and revealing those who neglected their responsibility to safeguard their children."

During a discussion, Sarah Champion, the Labour representative for Rotherham, advocated for a nationwide investigation into grooming gangs, with the inquiry to be conducted at the local level.

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Initiative aimed at decreasing female incarceration rates set to commence soon

The Women's Justice Board is to be established under the auspices of the Ministry of Justice, featuring continuous discussions and sustained efforts.

Political reporter @serenabarksing

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 12:

Officials are anticipated to reveal plans for a new Women's Justice Board aimed at decreasing female incarceration rates, potentially as early as next week.

The sentencing reform introduced by the justice secretary at last year's Labour conference was a forward-thinking measure that initially received little attention.

The concept aims to decrease the female prison population by addressing the underlying reasons for criminal behavior at an early stage and emphasizing non-custodial sentences such as community-based alternatives.

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Sources have informed Sky News that the composition of the Women's Justice Board has been finalized, comprising specialists from the criminal justice sector, various charities, and governmental bodies.

Lord Timpson, serving as the prisons minister, will preside over the justice board, which will be positioned within the Ministry of Justice.

Lady Edwina Grosvenor, a distinguished aristocrat and philanthropist, is recognized for her innovative contributions to the criminal justice sector. Her organization, Hope Street, which is partially supported by her personal trust fund, provides a community-based alternative for women who are vulnerable to incarceration.

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Next week's announcement is a recognition by the government that the current prison system is failing women. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has stated that the primary objective of the taskforce is to ultimately decrease the number of women's prisons.

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The existing problem of prison overcrowding is widely recognized, and this innovative strategy would open up much-needed room for other uses within the system.

Lord Timpson has previously expressed the opinion that incarceration isn't necessarily the most appropriate penalty for everyone, remarking that prison can be particularly detrimental for women as it tends to perpetuate their cycle of offending.

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The initiative has received widespread approval from organizations in the field. The Prison's Reform Trust described the new measures as a "historic moment for women's justice reform."

"The report highlighted that most women incarcerated are found guilty of non-violent crimes and often face incarceration periods of six months or shorter."

"Self-harm incidents in female correctional facilities significantly surpass those in male prisons, with rates over eight times higher. A large number of these incarcerated women are the main caregivers for their children, leading to severe consequences for both the children who remain outside and the women themselves."

The committee will convene within the Ministry of Justice, holding frequent meetings and continuous activities. It plans to present a comprehensive outline by spring.

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A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats on justice issues stated, "The Conservatives pushed our already overpopulated prisons to the brink of failure.

"Women in the justice system are alarmingly ten times more prone to self-harm, compelling the government to urgently address this serious issue."

"It's encouraging that the government responded to our demands by establishing a Women's Justice Board, but we have yet to see any significant advancements."

"The administration needs to promptly initiate the board's activities to address the issue of overcrowded prisons, effectively rehabilitate former inmates, and ensure community safety."

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The UK has prohibited the importation of cattle, pigs, and sheep from Germany to halt the spread of foot and mouth disease. This decision follows the discovery of the disease in a water buffalo herd near Berlin, marking Germany's first occurrence in 36 years.

Journalist focused on politics, @alixculbertson

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 14:

Great Britain has imposed a ban on the importation of cattle, pigs, and sheep from Germany to avoid the transmission of foot and mouth disease.

The prohibition follows the detection of the disease in a group of water buffalo located in Honow, on the periphery of Berlin, this past Friday.

Germany is experiencing its first foot and mouth disease outbreak in 36 years, leading to the preventative culling of 55 goats, sheep, and cattle on a Brandenburg state farm that acquired hay from the implicated buffalo farm.

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Numerous wildlife parks, such as Berlin Zoo and Tierpark, another zoo in Germany's capital, have shut down as a preventive measure.

The British government has announced a ban on the import of live cattle, pigs, and sheep from Germany, extending also to products derived from these animals.

This encompasses raw meats, dairy, and additional products derived from animals.

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The issuance of health certificates in Great Britain for animals vulnerable to foot and mouth disease, as well as their derivatives, has been discontinued.

The infectious illness presents no threat to humans or the safety of food, but it spreads rapidly among animals with split hooves like cattle, sheep, and pigs.

Currently, the UK is free of any cases, but the UK's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Christine Middlemiss, emphasized that the country will implement "all possible measures to minimize the risk of introduction and spread of this devastating disease."

In 2001, an outbreak resulted in the slaughter of millions of livestock across the UK and financial losses amounting to billions of pounds, triggering a significant crisis in the British agricultural sector.

The outbreak resulted in 2,000 reported instances, each of which required a farm to cull and incinerate all of its animals, totaling over six million sheep, cattle, and pigs destroyed.

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Dr. Middlemiss stated, "We are continuously liaising with our counterparts in Germany to stay informed about the recent developments after they reported a solitary case of foot and mouth disease."

"Strong emergency strategies are established to mitigate the threat of this illness, ensuring the safety of farmers and the food supply in Britain. This involves implementing comprehensive measures to curb the risk of entry and proliferation of this destructive disease."

"I strongly recommend that animal caretakers remain highly alert for any symptoms of illness, adhere strictly to biosecurity measures, and immediately report any suspected diseases to the Animal and Plant Health Agency."

Wales's top animal health official, Richard Irvine, has called on livestock owners to maintain the utmost alertness to prevent the spread of animal diseases into Wales.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) noted that foot and mouth disease can lead to substantial economic harm for farmers due to lower milk production and export bans from other nations.

The alert advised farmers that symptoms can differ among animals.

In cows, the primary symptoms include ulcers and vesicles on the hooves, mouth, and tongue, and they may also exhibit a fever, difficulty walking, and a reduced appetite.

Sheep and pigs often exhibit symptoms of limping, which may include blister formation.

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces criticism for not acknowledging her shortcomings during recent market instability

As markets plummeted last week, Chancellor Reeves was on a trip to China.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 3:

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing criticism for allegedly avoiding accountability for her mistakes by traveling to Beijing amidst a week of market instability.

Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride criticized the Chancellor for avoiding tough inquiries, claiming that the "government was mishandling the economy" during Ms. Reeves' recent trip to China. She was accompanied by a delegation that included the Governor of the Bank of England and the leaders of HSBC, Standard Chartered, and Schroders.

On Monday, the yields on government bonds for both 30-year and 10-year terms increased, with the 30-year bond yield climbing to 5.47%, a level last observed in the middle of 1998.

The British pound dropped to its lowest level in 14 months, raising concerns about the chancellor's job security.

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On Tuesday morning, she experienced a minor relief when the pound regained some of its lost value, rising marginally to $1.22, and the cost of government borrowing decreased slightly.

In recent discussions, the Conservatives capitalized on Ms. Reeves's lack of presence last week to criticize her, as Mr. Stride pointed out in the Commons, questioning, "As the government struggled with economic instability, where was the chancellor?"

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"Her visit to China hadn't started by the time my pressing inquiry was addressed in the House last week; she was still domestically present. Instead of confronting her shortcomings, she delegated the chief secretary to respond.

Could I inquire why Rachel Reeves opted not to reply personally? Naturally, the Chancellor avoided the challenging inquiries by flying out to Beijing.

"It seems that among members of the Labour Party, they're referring to it as the Peking duck."

Ms. Reeves brushed aside the criticism and pledged to adhere to the financial guidelines she established in the October budget, which aim to fund daily expenditures through tax revenue and reduce debt relative to the size of the economy.

"She affirmed their dedication to the financial regulations, promising adherence at all times."

She justified her visit to China, claiming that interacting with nations globally will "promote economic expansion," and mentioned that she addressed human rights concerns with Chinese officials.

"Leadership involves stepping up to challenges, not avoiding them," she declared to the Commons.

"The challenging economic conditions we're currently experiencing underscore the urgency to accelerate and expand our strategies to stimulate economic growth, which sharply declined during the previous administration."

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The chancellor stated that her visit to China has expanded market opportunities for British companies and enhanced the UK's national security.

She stated that new deals on vaccine certifications, fertilizer, whisky labels, legal professions, automobiles, and accounting are set to "release £1 billion in value for the UK economy."

Ms. Reeves mentioned that during her meetings with every Chinese minister, she brought up the situation of Jimmy Lai, the detained British citizen and media mogul.

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She mentioned that she voiced concerns regarding Russia's conflict in Ukraine, human rights issues, limitations on freedoms in Hong Kong, and the entirely unwarranted sanctions imposed on British lawmakers.

"In the discussions, a significant achievement was obtaining China's agreement to enhance the communication pathways allowing for open conversations on delicate matters and their effects on our economy. She emphasized the importance of this engagement, noting that without it, addressing our genuine concerns directly with China would be impossible," she stated.

"This conversation represents a segment of our ongoing interactions with trade allies globally."

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