Labour MP Calls on Government to Denounce Trump's Harsh Remarks on Gaza

Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, previously the shadow minister for mental health, has called on the foreign secretary to urgently act to stop the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza, a move proposed by Donald Trump.

Journalist in politics @alexrogerssky

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 6:

An ex-shadow cabinet member from the Labour Party has called on the government to denounce Donald Trump's "barbaric" proposal for a U.S. annexation of Gaza, labeling it as "ethnic cleansing". This action could potentially reopen old wounds within the party regarding its stance on the Middle East conflict.

Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, who previously served as the shadow mental health minister and also vied for the position of deputy leader, emphasized that the government must unequivocally condemn the proposal that residents of Gaza be relocated to neighboring nations.

In correspondence with Foreign Secretary David Lammy that was obtained by Sky News, the Labour representative for Tooting expressed concerns that remarks made by the US president could potentially signal the definitive end to the globally endorsed two-state resolution, advocating for a sovereign Palestinian state coexisting with Israel.

"She conveyed her strong displeasure and urgently requested that immediate action be taken, including a clear condemnation from the government," she stated in her message.

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"She added that this action is not driven by humanitarian or compassionate motives, but rather represents a deliberate attempt to forcibly expel a population and ethnically cleanse Gaza."

Dr. Allin-Khan, among the 56 Labour MPs who defied party lines to support a contentious SNP ceasefire motion last year, referred to the definitions of ethnic cleansing provided by the United Nations and the European Union as the act of "employing force or coercion to expel individuals of a different ethnic or religious group from a specific area."

"She further stated, 'In the 1990s, the international community stepped in regarding the situation in the former Yugoslavia and strongly denounced the ethnic cleansing occurring in Rwanda. We need to confront these strategies aiming to displace millions of Palestinians from their homes, as blatant as they are, with equal vigor.'"

She inquired, "Is the government prepared to firmly denounce President Trump's declared intention to seize control and expel the Palestinian residents of Gaza?"

"Additionally, could you verify whether the UK will abstain from supporting or participating in this shameful strategy? Lastly, are you prepared to collaborate with global partners to back UN resolutions that condemn the ethnic cleansing in Gaza?"

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Concerns arose globally following Mr. Trump's recent disclosure of his Middle East strategy during a press briefing at the White House, where he was joined by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The U.S. President described Gaza as a "site of destruction" and mentioned that the two million residents could relocate to "different areas".

He left open the possibility of deploying US forces to the area, and stated that the US plans to "develop" Gaza and generate "thousands of jobs."

"Everyone I've talked to is enthusiastic about the U.S. acquiring that territory and generating thousands of employment opportunities," Mr. Trump stated, further suggesting that Gaza could transform into "the Middle East's Riviera," a place where "people from all over the globe" could reside.

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Mr. Trump proposed the idea of moving Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan. This suggestion has been met with opposition from both of those countries, other Arab states, and Palestinian authorities.

The remarks made by the US president arrive at an inconvenient moment for Sir Keir Starmer, who is aiming to forge a strong bond with the US and avoid the harsh tariffs that have been applied to China, Mexico, and Canada – though the latter two have recently received a 30-day suspension while discussions are ongoing.

The UK administration has made efforts to separate itself from Mr. Trump's comments, with Mr. Lammy stating that the UK has "consistently maintained the position that we need to pursue a two-state solution."

"He emphasized the importance of Palestinians thriving in their native lands of Gaza and the West Bank."

In a conversation with Kay Burley on Sky News today, Environment Secretary Steve Reed expressed that it is the UK's stance that Palestinians should have the opportunity to go back to their homes and begin reconstruction efforts.

Discover further: The Gaza strategy is so extreme, it could signal a larger agenda. Navigating ties with the US, EU, and China is likely challenging.

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Yet, he refrained from condemning Mr. Trump for his comments, stating that he will "not continually comment on the president's statements."

When questioned about whether his comments were meant to belittle, Mr. Reed responded with a definitive "not at all." He insisted that Mr. Trump deserves recognition for his part in initially facilitating the ceasefire.

A spokesperson from Downing Street subsequently stated that the UK government intends to discuss all of President Trump's suggestions with him and his staff, following inquiries about the UK's stance on his plans to assume control of the Gaza Strip.

When questioned if Sir Keir thought that Mr. Trump's suggestions might contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza, his spokesperson stated: "As you would anticipate, we will discuss all of his proposals with President Trump.

"The UK insists that there needs to be a situation in which Palestinians can go back to their homes."

The truce between Israel and Gaza was reached last month, concluding over a year of conflict triggered by Hamas's terror attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of another 250.

Local officials report that over 47,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza following an attack by Hamas.

UN authorities report that approximately 200,000 Palestinians have relocated to the northern part of the Gaza Strip following Israel's removal of restrictions in the area, in accordance with the recent ceasefire agreement.

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Labour MP Calls on Government to Denounce Trump's Controversial Remarks on Gaza

Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, former shadow mental health minister, is pressing the foreign secretary to act promptly to avert the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, following suggestions made by Donald Trump.

Political correspondent @alexrogerssky

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 6:

A previous Labour Party official has called on the government to denounce Donald Trump's "savage" proposal for a US annexation of Gaza as "ethnic cleansing," a stance that could potentially rekindle divisions within the party concerning the Middle East dispute.

Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, who previously served as the shadow mental health minister and also contended for the position of deputy leader, emphasized that the government must clearly and firmly reject the proposal to relocate Gazans to adjacent nations.

In a communication addressed to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, which Sky News had access to, the Labour representative from Tooting expressed concerns that the remarks made by the US president could potentially signal the end of the globally endorsed two-state solution. This solution envisages a sovereign Palestinian state coexisting with the state of Israel.

She expressed her indignation, urging immediate action to address the issue, and requested that the government clearly condemn these actions in her message.

Live at PMQs: Prime Minister goes head-to-head with Badenoch

"She emphasized that this act is not about showing kindness or compassion; rather, it's a coerced eviction of people aimed at the ethnic cleansing of Gaza."

Dr. Allin-Khan, among the 56 Labour MPs who defied party lines to support a contentious SNP ceasefire motion last year, referred to definitions of ethnic cleansing from the United Nations and the European Union, which describe it as "employing force or intimidation to expel individuals of a different ethnic or religious group from a specific area."

"She added, 'The international community stepped in during the 1990s in the former Yugoslavia and strongly denounced the ethnic cleansing in Rwanda. We must confront these proposals to forcibly displace millions of Palestinians from their homes with an equally vigorous reaction.'"

She inquired, "Is the government prepared to firmly denounce President Trump's declared intention to seize control and forcefully expel the Palestinian residents of Gaza?"

"Additionally, could you verify that the UK will neither support nor participate in this deplorable scheme? Lastly, will you collaborate with global partners to endorse UN resolutions that condemn the ethnic cleansing in Gaza?"

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Global concern was ignited when Mr. Trump unveiled his Middle East strategy during a press conference at the White House, flanked by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The President of the United States described Gaza as a "wreckage zone" and mentioned that its two million inhabitants might relocate to "different areas."

He didn't dismiss the possibility of deploying US forces to the area, and mentioned that the US would "develop" Gaza, generating "thousands of jobs".

"Everyone I've talked to is enthusiastic about the U.S. acquiring that territory and generating a plethora of job opportunities," Mr. Trump remarked. He further suggested that Gaza could transform into "the Middle East’s Riviera," a place where people from all over the globe could reside.

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Mr. Trump proposed the idea of transferring Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan, a suggestion that was met with opposition from these countries, other Arab states, and Palestinian authorities.

The remarks from the US president coincide with an inconvenient moment for Sir Keir Starmer, who is attempting to foster a strong bond with the US and avoid the harsh tariffs that have been applied to China, Mexico, and Canada. However, Mexico and Canada have recently received a thirty-day suspension while discussions are underway.

The UK authorities have made efforts to separate themselves from Mr. Trump's comments, with Mr. Lammy stating that the UK has consistently upheld the principle of supporting two states.

"He emphasized the importance of Palestinians thriving and building their lives in their native lands of Gaza and the West Bank."

In a conversation with Kay Burley on Sky News today, Environment Secretary Steve Reed expressed that the UK believes Palestinians should have the opportunity to return to their homes and begin reconstruction efforts.

Further reading: The Gaza strategy is so extreme, it could be a component of a larger scheme. Navigating ties with the US, EU, and China could prove challenging.

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Nevertheless, he refrained from condemning Mr. Trump for his comments, stating that he would "not continuously comment on the president's statements."

When questioned about whether his comments were meant to belittle, Mr. Reed responded with a firm "not at all," and stated that Mr. Trump deserves recognition for his part in initially facilitating the ceasefire.

A spokesperson from Downing Street later indicated that the UK government intends to discuss all proposed plans with President Trump and his team when queried about Britain's stance on his ideas for assuming control of the Gaza Strip.

Inquired about whether Sir Keir thought Mr. Trump's suggestions might contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza, his official spokesperson stated: "We intend to discuss all his proposals with President Trump, as one would anticipate.

"The UK's stance is that there should be a provision allowing Palestinians to return to their homes."

The truce between Israel and Gaza was established last month, ending over a year of conflict that began with a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. This assault resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of another 250.

Local officials report that over 47,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in Gaza following an assault by Hamas.

United Nations representatives have calculated that approximately 200,000 Palestinians have traveled to the northern region of the Gaza Strip since Israel ended its blockade of the area in accordance with the ceasefire agreement.

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Labour Party MP calls on the government to denounce Trump's 'inhumane' remarks on Gaza

Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, previously the shadow mental health minister, is pressing the foreign secretary to act swiftly to stop the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, a proposal made by Donald Trump.

Political journalist @alexrogerssky

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 6:

An ex-Labour Party official has called on the government to denounce Donald Trump's "barbaric" proposal for a U.S. takeover of Gaza, labeling it "ethnic cleansing," a stance that could potentially reopen old divisions within the party regarding the Middle East conflict.

Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, who previously served as the shadow mental health minister and also vied for the position of deputy leader, emphasized that the government must clearly condemn the proposal to relocate Gazans to surrounding nations.

In a correspondence addressed to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, which Sky News had access to, the Labour representative for Tooting expressed concerns that the U.S. president's remarks could potentially signal the definitive end to the globally endorsed two-state proposal. This proposal advocates for the coexistence of an autonomous Palestinian state and the state of Israel.

"She conveyed her strong displeasure and urged immediate action to address the issue, including a clear condemnation from the government," she penned.

Live PMQs: Prime Minister goes head-to-head with Badenoch

"She emphasized that this act is not about compassion or humanitarianism. It's a deliberate act aimed at the ethnic cleansing and forced expulsion of the population in Gaza," she added.

Dr. Allin-Khan, among the 56 Labour MPs who defied party lines to support a contentious SNP ceasefire motion last year, referenced the United Nations and European Union definitions of ethnic cleansing as the act of "employing force or intimidation to expel individuals of a different ethnic or religious group from a specific area."

"She pointed out that during the 1990s, the international community took action in the former Yugoslavia and strongly denounced the ethnic cleansing in Rwanda," she continued. "We need to confront these schemes to displace millions of Palestinians from their homes, as blatant as they are, with an equally forceful reaction."

She inquired, "Is the government prepared to firmly denounce President Trump’s declared intention to seize control and forcefully expel the Palestinian residents of Gaza?"

"Additionally, could you verify whether the UK will refrain from supporting or participating in this shameful strategy? Lastly, are you willing to collaborate with global partners to back UN resolutions that condemn the ethnic cleansing in Gaza?"

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Global concern was ignited when Mr. Trump detailed his Middle East strategies during a press briefing at the White House, where he was joined by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The President of the United States referred to Gaza as a "site of destruction" and noted that the two million residents could relocate to "different areas."

He didn't dismiss the possibility of deploying US forces to the area and stated that the US plans to "develop" Gaza and generate "thousands of jobs."

"Everyone I've discussed this with is enthusiastic about the U.S. acquiring that territory, which would lead to development and the creation of thousands of jobs," Mr. Trump commented, further noting that Gaza has the potential to transform into "the Middle East's Riviera," a place where "people from all over the globe" could reside.

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

Mr. Trump proposed that Palestinians might be moved to Egypt and Jordan, an idea met with opposition from those countries, other Arab states, and Palestinian authorities.

The remarks made by the US president arrive at an inconvenient moment for Sir Keir Starmer, who is actively working to forge a strong alliance with the US and avert the harsh tariffs that have been levied on nations like China, Mexico, and Canada. However, Mexico and Canada have recently received a temporary 30-day exemption while discussions are ongoing.

The UK government has attempted to disassociate itself from Mr. Trump's comments, with Mr. Lammy stating that the UK has consistently maintained that two states are necessary.

"He emphasized the importance of Palestinians thriving in their native territories of Gaza and the West Bank."

In a conversation with Kay Burley on Sky News today, Environment Secretary Steve Reed expressed that the UK believes Palestinians should have the opportunity to return to their homes and begin reconstruction.

Learn more: The Gaza strategy is so extreme, it could be a component of a larger scheme. Navigating relationships with the US, EU, and China is challenging.

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Yet, he refrained from condemning Mr. Trump's comments, stating that he wouldn't constantly comment on the president's statements.

When questioned about whether he was making negative remarks, Mr. Reed responded with a firm "not at all." He contended that Mr. Trump deserves recognition for his part in initially facilitating the ceasefire.

A spokesperson from Downing Street subsequently stated that the UK government plans to discuss all of President Trump's suggestions with him and his staff, following inquiries regarding the UK's stance on his ideas to assume control of the Gaza Strip.

Inquired if Sir Keir thought that Mr. Trump's suggestions might contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza, his authorized representative stated, "We intend to discuss all his proposals with President Trump, as one would anticipate.

"The UK insists that there should be conditions allowing Palestinians to return to their homes."

A truce was established between Israel and Gaza last month, concluding over a year of conflict that erupted after Hamas launched a terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. The assault resulted in the death of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 250 others.

Local officials report that the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 47,000 Palestinians following an attack by Hamas.

According to UN sources, approximately 200,000 Palestinians have relocated to the northern region of the Gaza Strip since Israel reopened the area after a ceasefire agreement was reached.

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At Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir Starmer addressed inquiries regarding Donald Trump's views on the Middle East, specifically his ideas about transforming Gaza into a 'Riviera' and the displacement of Palestinians. Additionally, he reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to backing UNRWA.

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Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025

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Sir Keir Starmer has expressed a differing view from President Donald Trump regarding Gaza, stating that residents of Gaza "need the opportunity to reconstruct" in pursuit of a two-state resolution.

During Prime Minister's Questions, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey inquired about the president's unexpected declaration, addressing the prime minister.

Sir Keir expressed his position after Foreign Secretary David Lammy had earlier made statements distancing himself from Mr. Trump.

Live Politics: Prime Minister and Badenoch at Odds Over Chagos Issue

Mr. Trump expressed intentions to relocate Palestinians from Gaza with an aim to transform it into the Middle East's "Riviera."

Addressing the House of Commons, Sir Keir stated: "Clearly, the critical aspect of the ceasefire is that it is maintained and that we navigate it through its various stages.

"This signifies that the remaining captives are released, and the essential aid swiftly reaches Gaza in the necessary quantities."

Over the past several weeks, two pictures have stayed with me: One is the heartwarming scene of Emily Damari embracing her mother after being apart.

The scene depicted thousands of Palestinians on foot, navigating through debris as they searched for their homes and neighborhoods in Gaza.

"They should be permitted to return. They should be permitted to reconstruct. And we ought to support them in that reconstruction, as we work towards a two-state solution."

Discover further: Trump's strategy reveals a lack of historical understanding. The Gaza suggestion is so extreme, it could signify something more significant.

At a press briefing held later that day, Reform Party leader Nigel Farage expressed a contrasting view to that of the Prime Minister, commending what he described as the U.S. President's "ambition" regarding Gaza.

Speaking to Sky News' political correspondent Ali Fortescue, he expressed enthusiasm about the concept, saying, "The idea of a prosperous, vibrant location filled with high-paying jobs, casinos, and lively nightlife really appeals to me."

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In the recent Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir faced an inquiry from Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, about whether the UK would halt its contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This question followed an admission from Ms. Damari that she was held captive by Hamas within the premises of the UN agency.

Recently, Mr. Trump halted financial contributions to UNRWA, a move also previously taken by the former Conservative administration.

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Israel has prohibited UNRWA operations within occupied East Jerusalem and Israel, alleging that the agency maintains strong connections with Hamas in Gaza—a claim that UNRWA refutes.

The Reform Party MP inquired, "Does the prime minister concur that it's time to cease financial support to Hamas, emulate the actions of other countries, and reroute our assistance to more reliable organizations?"

Sir Keir mentioned that he had communicated several times with Ms. Damari's mother, "including during periods when she was uncertain about her daughter’s survival."

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The prime minister clarified, stating, "But just to be perfectly clear, and he is aware, we are not providing financial support to Hamas – and we never will."

"We denounce Hamas, and everyone here should also denounce Hamas."

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Labour reinstates whip for seven MPs after half a year, three still under suspension

In July 2024, seven Labour MPs were suspended for supporting an SNP-proposed amendment to the King's Speech that aimed to eliminate the two-child cap on benefits.

Political journalist @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 5:

Sky News has learned that four Labour MPs previously suspended for defying the party on the two-child benefit limit have now been reinstated.

Richard Burgon, Ian Byrne, Imran Hussain, and Rebecca Long-Bailey have rejoined the parliamentary Labour Party following a six-month period where they served as independent MPs in the Commons.

Latest in Politics: Nine regions postpone local elections for one year

Nevertheless, three individuals who also resisted continue to be on suspension, with their status set to be reassessed later on.

The list features ex-shadow chancellor John McDonnell, along with Apsana Begum and Zarah Sultana.

The reasons for the ongoing suspension of the three members from the parliamentary group remain unclear.

In her post on X, Ms. Sultana revealed that she learned of the situation through a news article, attributing her discovery to her vocal criticism of the government's stance on the conflict in Gaza.

"It seems that voicing support for Palestine remains a sanctionable act," she stated.

In related news, former shadow chancellor, Mr McDonnell, who held the position during Jeremy Corbyn's tenure, remarked that he does not anticipate being reinstated to his parliamentary role until he receives confirmation on whether he will face charges related to his recent interview under caution after a pro-Palestinian demonstration.

As Sky News earlier highlighted, he and Mr. Corbyn participated in voluntary interviews concerning the rally that took place last month, where police alleged that protesters intentionally violated the stipulated conditions of the event.

The organizers of the protest and the two experienced Members of Parliament refuted these claims initially, stating that the group had calmly proceeded to place flowers in memory of the children who died in Gaza, with police support.

Mr. McDonnell shared on X: "Happy that my colleagues have been reinstated, though it's disappointing that Zarah and Apsana haven't been yet."

"I'm not worried about my status since, as I've stated, I don't anticipate regaining the whip until it's determined whether the police will charge me after the recent Palestinian demonstration where I was interviewed under caution."

In July 2024, seven Members of Parliament were stripped of their party affiliation after they supported a Scottish National Party amendment to the King's Speech that aimed to eliminate the two-child cap on benefits.

The policy limits parents from receiving Universal Credit or child tax credits for a third child, except in certain specific circumstances.

Further Reading: Starmer Challenges Trump's Vision of a Middle East 'Riviera' in Gaza, While Labour MP Calls for Official Denouncement of Trump's 'Barbaric' Remarks on Gaza

The policy, initiated by ex-Conservative Chancellor George Osborne in 2017, has been associated with increasing child poverty rates in the UK.

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Numerous Labour Party members urged the newly elected government to abolish the policy following their victory in the general election last July.

Despite rumors that numerous members might defect, only seven ultimately aligned with the SNP after the possibility of suspension was raised.

When they were suspended, Labour stated that the decision would be reassessed after six months.

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A review determined that the anti-terror case involving Southport murderer Axel Rudakubana was terminated too soon. The investigation revealed that during Rudakubana's second assessment by the Prevent program, his name was misspelled compared to the initial referral. This led to a Prevent coordinator failing to locate the earlier case file, potentially resulting in the premature closure of the investigation based on limited data.

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Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 6:

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The investigation into Southport murderer Axel Rudakubana, related to terrorism, ought to have remained active, according to findings from a review of his violent acts.

In the wake of the Southport murders last summer, a swift investigation was initiated to examine Rudakubana's interactions with Prevent, a government initiative designed to deter individuals from engaging in terrorism.

Addressing the House of Commons, Home Office Minister Dan Jarvis reiterated that there were three instances of communication from Rudakubana prior to his assault at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class, an attack that tragically took the lives of three young girls.

Latest Political Update: Regional Voting Postponed

He also noted that the report indicated Rudakubana ought to have been directed to Channel, a different counter-terrorism program.

Mr. Jarvis stated, "The evaluation determined that there was an excessive emphasis on the lack of a clear ideology, which overshadowed the need to assess the offender’s vulnerabilities, complaints, and intricate requirements."

"The importance of his frequent referrals and the overall risk, especially considering his violent past, was not fully examined."

"Some investigative leads might have been insufficiently pursued, placing the suspect in an ambiguous or uncertain classification for Channel, given his possible inclination towards large-scale violence."

The final assessment of the review indicates that he ought to have been guided through the Channel multi-agency approach, instead of being dismissed from the Prevent program.

He stated that the assessment determined Rudakubana's case was prematurely dismissed by Prevent, and there were adequate grounds to maintain an active status while more data was gathered.

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The report highlighted that Rudakubana was flagged to Prevent three times: initially in December 2019 at age 13, subsequently in February 2021 at age 14, and lastly in April 2021.

The initial alert was raised because he was suspected of possessing a knife and looking up school shootings on the internet.

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The second instance involved internet engagement concerning Libya and Colonel Gaddafi, while the third pertained to online searches about the London bombings, the IRA, and the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

"Mr. Jarvis stated that on each instance, it was decided not to advance the perpetrator into the Channel multi-agency process."

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The document noted a discrepancy in the spelling of Rudakubana's name between the first and second referrals.

The text indicates that a supervisor from Prevent was unable to locate an earlier referral, which likely led to the case being prematurely closed based on limited information.

In the course of the evaluation, Mr. Jarvis acknowledged that they had agreed to and would be putting into action 14 proposed changes aimed at enhancing the Prevent program.

Mr. Jarvis stated that the government is swiftly moving to organize an investigation into the incident, but he noted that it would not initially have statutory authority.

For further details: Rudakubana's relatives relocated to undisclosed place; Convicted killer declines to exit jail cell for trial session

Sir Peter Fahy, who previously spearheaded Prevent, acknowledged that the report highlights "the intricacies of our current challenges."

He stated: "The complexity involved trying to determine whether this individual held particular ideological beliefs. While this may seem a nuanced detail to the public, it is fundamental to the framework of the Prevent strategy, which focuses on counterterrorism."

The report suggests that for an act to be considered terrorism, it must be driven by a specific ideology. It criticizes the oversight in closely examining the ideological motives, suggesting that the act could be better described as having an ambiguous or varied ideological basis.

"The document additionally highlights the difficulties associated with the intersection of mental health issues and autism. The sole encouraging aspect is the forthcoming public investigation aimed at a more thorough examination of these concerns."

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He noted: "The study illustrates the challenges involved in evaluating individuals and determining if they will escalate their deviant thoughts and problems into more severe acts of violence.

"This is a devastating event, and I understand that the officers involved, as well as the broader counter-terrorism community, are deeply distressed that this individual slipped through their grasp and they were unable to stop the terrible act he committed."

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Millions of local elections delayed while Nigel Farage criticizes the government

The government claims that devolution will enhance community services and increase personal income, although opposition MPs argue that these proposals effectively "deprive people of a vote."

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 18:

Angela Rayner has declared that local elections in nine regions will be postponed for a year to facilitate a restructuring of the council system.

The deputy prime minister, who also serves as the housing, communities, and local government secretary, announced that the elections planned for May will be delayed in several areas including East Sussex, West Sussex, Essex, Thurrock, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Surrey.

Politics Update: Labour Party Reinstates Whip to Four Dissenting MPs

The restructuring is a key element of the Labour Party's pledge to expand regional governance.

The political group is advocating for the elimination of the existing dual-layer structure of county and district councils, proposing instead to consolidate them into broader, singular unitary authorities. Additionally, they are pushing for an increase in regions governed by regional mayors.

Ms. Rayner stated that conducting elections for organizations slated for dissolution would be "a costly and reckless misuse of public funds."

However, the Conservatives criticized her for developing structures that sounded "Orwellian" and were "more aligned with her personal interests and more connected to Whitehall."

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Authorities require councils to urgently submit compulsory schemes for constructing 1.5 million residences.

Angela Rayner argues that the protection for newts should not outweigh the housing needs of people.

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The postponed elections are scheduled for May 2026 following the anticipated restructuring.

Ms. Rayner informed the Commons that these nine regions represent half of the 18 councils that had expressed interest in January to participate in the initial restructuring phase.

Ms. Rayner stated that the government's default position is to proceed with all elections unless there is a compelling reason to delay them, noting that the threshold for postponement is quite stringent.

She stated: "Following thorough deliberation, I have consented to delay elections only in areas where it is essential to our commitment to implementing devolution as promised in our manifesto.

"We don't conduct elections for organizations that are going to be dissolved and for which future replacements are unclear. Doing so would be a costly and reckless misuse of public funds."

In addition to consolidating local councils, the government is advocating for the expansion of regional mayoral positions, similar to the role held by Andy Burnham in Greater Manchester.

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"Higher disposable income for individuals"

In her announcement, Ms. Rayner introduced six regions slated for devolution, anticipating the election of new mayors by May 2026. These regions include Cumbria, Cheshire and Warrington, Greater Essex, Hampshire and Solent, Norfolk and Suffolk, and Sussex and Brighton.

Ms. Rayner noted that Lancashire, the seventh region, is currently evaluating its choices for mayoral devolution. The government plans to review the proposals from leaders there alongside the main priority program this coming fall.

She mentioned that the locations identified in her declaration would be swiftly propelled toward significant local transformations.

"Though the term 'devolution' may seem technical, the concept is straightforward – it’s a strategy aimed at increasing individuals' income, enhancing and economizing transportation with the needs of local residents at its core, and a strategy dedicated to ensuring politics serves the interests of the working population."

In May, not every council is scheduled to conduct elections. The government has reached out to councils in two-tier regions, encouraging them to create proposals for single-tier governance, which, according to officials, will reduce inefficiencies and enhance responsibility.

Further Reading: Reinstatement of Labour Party Whip to Dissenting MPs, Three Still Under Suspension – Starmer Disagrees with Trump's Proposal for a 'Riviera' in Gaza

"Countless Disenfranchised Voters"

The County Councils Network expressed approval of the announcement made on Wednesday, but noted that several regions might feel let down for not being chosen for the key initiatives.

"Councillor Tim Oliver, the group's chairman, noted that a significant number of county and unitary councils are eager to expedite and implement devolution during this Parliament session."

Opposition members of parliament, ranging from the left to the right, criticized the proposals.

Sir Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, described the situation as a "stitch-up" involving Labour and the Conservatives, following his party's success at the polls where they took seats from the Tories.

He stated, "Conservative-led councils that are underperforming are fearful and are preventing voters from having the opportunity to remove them from office in May."

Speaking on behalf of the Conservatives, shadow communities secretary Kevin Hollinrake countered, "Despite the Deputy Prime Minister's claims, she isn’t eliminating a two-tier system; rather, she’s introducing a fresh layer of what could be described as Orwellian strategic authorities that are more aligned with her and closer to Whitehall."

Reform UK, aiming to advance in the upcoming local elections, was the most vocal in its critique. Party leader Nigel Farage claimed that the situation resulted in "five and a half million people in this country being disenfranchised."

"He claimed, 'I used to believe that only dictators would cancel elections, yet here we see the Labour Party, clearly frightened, doing just that.'"

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Grieving parents push for stricter regulations on unlicensed driving

Legislators are set to discuss a proposal that would classify causing a deadly road accident while driving without a valid license as automatically constituting death by careless driving.

Political reporter @amandaakass

Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 7

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Fourteen-year-old Harry Parker tragically lost his life in a car accident while heading to school in Swindon.

"Harry was such a delightful boy, always so vibrant," shared his father, Adam. "He was passionate about soccer and had a knack for brightening everyone's day. He truly was my go-to guy. A real daddy's boy."

Kelly, his mother, vividly recalls the events of that day in November 2022.

"I vividly recall entering that room; he was in the emergency section, on a stretcher, completely unresponsive. I moved the medical staff aside, cleared a path through the crowd, approached him, and pleaded, 'Harry, please, hang in there, you have me. We're in this together.'"

"Thirty minutes afterward, the medical team approached us with the heartbreaking update that there were no available options left for him. Being a nurse, I spend each day at the hospital assisting others, which I deeply enjoy—it's my profession. Yet, in my own son's case, I was powerless. So was everyone else."

"The most difficult moment came when it was time to part ways with him. We were faced with the heart-wrenching choice to switch off his life support. Harry lay between us, with both his dad and I by his sides, embracing him firmly and sensing his heartbeat, until the final one ceased."

The motorist was unlicensed, uninsured, and failed to remain at the scene.

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Two years following the death of Harry, his parents were informed by the Crown Prosecution Service that they would no longer be pursuing the charges.

Officials stated, "After a thorough review of the case, which involved consulting with a forensic collision expert, it has been determined that there is insufficient evidence to prove that the collision was avoidable, and as such, we cannot conclude that the driving was reckless."

Adam and Kelly were deeply affected.

"I was furious, really upset," Adam expressed. "My initial reaction was to retaliate. However, that accomplishes nothing. The only effective way to handle this is to follow the legal steps and approach this the right way. It’s shocking how the law is so forgiving towards those without a license."

Current nationwide statistics on the prevalence of unlicensed drivers are unavailable. However, previous studies conducted by the Department for Transport suggest that these drivers are responsible for approximately 9.3% of all driving-related offenses, which is almost one out of every ten. Estimates indicate that there could be up to 470,000 unlicensed drivers operating vehicles on the roads.

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In 2006, the Labour government established a law that penalizes causing a fatality while driving without a valid licence or insurance, with a possible sentence of up to two years in jail.

In 2013, the Supreme Court determined that the language of the legislation required prosecutors to demonstrate that the driving was culpable, essentially making the new law superfluous since a driver could be prosecuted for either careless or dangerous driving.

The panel of judges expressed concerns regarding the possibility of blameless drivers facing penalties in cases where an intoxicated pedestrian stumbled onto the roadway, or in instances where an individual tried to commit suicide by leaping into traffic.

The Parkers' regional Member of Parliament, Will Stone, is of the opinion that current statutes should be updated to better align with the original goals and meaning of the legislation passed in 2006.

Today, he is presenting a Ten Minute Rule Bill – a proposal requesting the consent of MPs to introduce legislation advocating for a new law.

Labour MP Mr. Stone is optimistic that the government will incorporate his bill into their upcoming road safety plans.

He explained, "The main goal of the Harry Parker Bill is to ensure that any unlicensed driver who causes a fatal accident is automatically considered to have driven carelessly."

"It's evident that there's a gap in the regulations. A driving license is mandatory for operating a vehicle. Thus, deciding to drive without one inherently shows a lack of responsibility. If you're not meeting the necessary criteria to drive, it's a hazard for you to be on the road, as it compromises safety."

The Transportation Authority stated: "Each loss of life on our highways is deeply tragic, and our hearts go out to the loved ones of Harry Parker.

"The administration is dedicated to enhancing road safety and is determined to decrease the incidents of fatalities and injuries on our streets."

Adam Parker dedicates each morning to patrolling the street in front of Harry's school, ensuring that every student crosses securely. Together with Kelly, he is actively working to promote road safety awareness, with the aim of safeguarding other children in memory of Harry.

"Sending your child to school while you're thinking about what to make for dinner or what to do for their birthday in a few days, only for those plans to be shattered because someone harms them, is something no parent should experience," Kelly stated. "We hope no other parents ever have to endure such a thing."

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Reform UK Leads in Significant Poll for the First Time

Twenty percent of previous Conservative voters from the last general election in July now support Reform, according to the survey.

Assistant Political Editor @SamCoatesSky

Monday, February 3, 2025, 19:

Reform has taken the lead in a Sky News/YouGov survey, marking a significant milestone as the party makes waves in the UK political landscape.

Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has taken a slight lead at 25%, nudging Labour into second place with 24%, while the Conservatives trail at 21%.

According to a YouGov survey conducted on Sunday and Monday, the Liberal Democrats received 14% of the support while the Green Party secured 9%.

Stay updated with live reactions and analysis in the Politics Hub.

This week, all shifts in polling that have placed Reform UK at the forefront for the first time fall within the margin of error, indicating that the broader landscape remains stable. This suggests that Britain is currently experiencing a new era of three-party politics in survey results.

The significance of Reform UK leading the poll is expected to be highlighted by members of parliament across all political parties.

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Twenty percent of individuals who voted for the Conservative Party in the previous election would currently cast their vote for Reform.

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The Conservatives are expected to suffer the most from the survey results, remaining in third position since YouGov resumed its polling following the general election.

The survey conducted by Sky News and YouGov revealed that Kemi Badenoch's popularity has declined compared to Nigel Farage, based on whether voters have a positive or negative view of these leaders.

In the previous month, Badenoch's net favorability stood at negative 25, which has since declined to negative 29 this month.

This positions her beneath Farage, who previously held a net favorability score of -32, now improved to -27 this month.

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Keir Starmer currently ranks below both Farage and Badenoch in terms of popularity, holding a net favorability score of -36.

Liberal Democrat chief Ed Davey has seen a rise in his approval, now sporting a net favorability score of -9. However, this improvement does not necessarily correlate with an increase in voter support.

These statistics are expected to reignite discussions within the Conservative Party regarding a potential merger with Reform UK, a proposal that Badenoch has consistently dismissed.

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Among former Conservative voters from the last general election, 43% favor a merger, while 31% are opposed.

Support among Reform UK voters leans towards opposition, with 40% against and 31% in favor.

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Millions to see council tax increase exceeding 5% following government approval for larger increments

Over two million residents are set to experience hikes in council tax ranging from 5 to 10%, while one local authority has sought approval for a 25% increase.

Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 10:

Millions are set to see their council tax bills rise beyond typical limits as the government has permitted six regions to increase their rates higher than the standard 5%.

Over two million individuals are set to experience rate hikes ranging from 5% to 10%.

The council in Windsor and Maidenhead had proposed a 25% hike in council tax, however, this proposal was not approved. As a result, the council tax will rise by 9% instead.

Newham Council's taxes will increase by the same rate, whereas Bradford Council will raise their taxes by 10%, and Birmingham, Somerset, and Trafford councils will each hike their rates by 7.5%.

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In a discussion with Kay Burley on Sky News, Karin Smyth, the minister for health and social care, justified the higher-than-usual tax rises by noting that while numerous councils had sought approval for tax increases, many were denied permission.

She stated that those approved are especially in dire need and require the funds to maintain essential services.

The Labour MP swiftly accused the Conservatives of leaving local government in a "very dire situation" as a result of the previous administration's actions.

How do local authorities hike taxes?

To meet growing needs, local authorities can boost council tax by a maximum of 5%, comprising 3% for general expenditures and an extra 2% specifically for social care funding.

Currently, there is a rule in place that caps council tax hikes at 5% unless a referendum approves a higher raise, primarily to shield residents from significant tax surges.

If a council is engaged in discussions with the government about extraordinary financial assistance, and if the government consents to let the council increase taxes beyond the established limit, then it is not mandatory for the council to seek approval through a local referendum.

On Monday, Angela Rayner, who serves as both the deputy prime minister and the secretary of state for local government, verified the action.

She stated that this year's national average rise in council tax would not exceed the previous year's increase of 5.1%.

She added that regional authorities would receive over £69 billion in central government funds, marking an increase of 6.8% from the 2024-25 period. Additionally, nearly £4 billion has been reserved to assist councils in managing social care.

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The Conservatives charged Labour with shifting the financial load onto taxpayers, despite their pledge to keep council tax unchanged.

Shadow Secretary for Communities Kevin Hollinrake stated, "The Local Government Finance Settlement will necessitate councils increasing council tax to manage the costs imposed by Labour's employment tax.

This implies that residents will face higher costs for reduced services, particularly in rural locations that are no longer receiving the Rural Services Delivery Grant, which has been discontinued by Labour.

The Labour Party has been accused of misleading the community by pledging to keep council tax unchanged, despite the fact that numerous councils are now compelled to increase it, a decision influenced by Labour's political strategies favoring a hike in council tax.

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The County Councils Network, representing 37 local authorities, has expressed concerns about the strain caused by the government's move to raise employer national insurance contributions and the minimum wage.

Barry Lewis, the finance representative for the network, stated, "Over 80% of CCN members report being in a poorer financial state than prior to the autumn budget and this financial settlement, with a third indicating that their service cuts next year will be significant."

"Given that many of these services are already operating on minimal fat, any additional cuts will significantly affect our residents."

Ms. Rayner announced funding of £502 million to help local authorities deal with the effects of rising employer national insurance contributions.

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The Treasury Committee is seeking explanations from HMRC regarding its sanctions enforcement following a Sky News report. HMRC has admitted that it does not disclose the identities of companies under sanctions and is unaware of the exact number of ongoing investigations into violations of these sanctions.

Economics and data editor @EdConwaySky

Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 1:

The Treasury Select Committee has issued an official request for information to HM Revenue & Customs, seeking explanations regarding its enforcement of trade sanctions against Russia. This action comes in the wake of an investigative report by Sky News focused on the governmental agency.

In a recent report by Sky News, it was revealed that since 2022, HMRC has levied six penalties against entities for violating sanctions, but declined to disclose the identities of these entities or elaborate on their specific offenses. Additionally, HMRC acknowledged its lack of precise information regarding the number of ongoing investigations into breaches of sanctions.

The statements sparked inquiries into the effectiveness of the UK's trade sanctions system, which government officials have previously claimed to be the most stringent ever implemented in Britain.

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The UK has implemented regulations to halt the export of specific products to Russia, yet these prohibited items continue to reach Russia through intermediary nations in the Caucasus and Central Asia. There are suspicions that this ongoing movement is partly due to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) not applying these regulations with sufficient stringency.

After an inquiry by Sky News, Dame Meg Hillier, who leads the Treasury Select Committee (TSC), has penned a letter to HMRC's chief executive, Sir Jim Harra, posing 10 queries regarding the agency's approach to sanction enforcement.

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In the inquiry, the chair of the TSC raises the following point: "Why does HMRC not disclose details about sanctions violations similar to the Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), which provides information on the offending company, the nature of the violation, and the penalty imposed?"

Numerous nations globally, with the United States being a prime example, regularly engage in publicly identifying and denouncing individuals who violate sanctions. This strategy serves both as a preventive measure and as a means to educate other companies on the consequences of non-compliance. However, in contrast, HMRC opts to safeguard the confidentiality of those who breach these sanctions.

Recently, the TSC has been closely reviewing the effectiveness of the sanctions system, focusing on gaps in both the laws and their implementation. HMRC is required to reply to the inquiry by February 17.

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Metsola urges EU leaders to prioritize Europe's security

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During a casual meeting of the European Council focused on defence, European Parliament President Metsola expressed her views on the necessity for Europe to bolster its security and defence measures.

She contended that the EU should focus on increasing its efforts, funding, and collaboration.

"Initially, we must increase our efforts to safeguard Europe."

"Russia is capable of manufacturing more armaments in three months than we are able to in a year. It's imperative that we significantly boost our defense production capabilities and enhance our preparedness in the defense industry. This can be accomplished while honoring the unique constitutional aspects of the Member States. Supporting Ukraine's security is the most effective way to invest in the security of Europe."

"Secondly, we must increase our efforts to fund these protective measures."

Putting money into security isn't solely for safeguarding purposes; it's also a means to enhance Europe's competitive edge, stimulate economic expansion, generate high-quality, skilled employment opportunities, and fuel daily innovations that enhance our living standards, work environments, and connectivity.

While public funding can significantly advance our efforts, it alone is insufficient. Therefore, attracting private investment becomes crucial. The European Parliament has consistently highlighted the importance of maximizing the European Investment Bank's (EIB) ability to attract private capital, particularly for the security and defense industries.

The true motivation is in tackling the divisions present in our markets. Various regulations, standards, and frameworks are creating obstacles and could potentially hinder our progress. It's illogical for Europe to maintain 178 separate weapons systems, especially when the United States operates with just 30.

"Lastly, it's essential that we improve our coordination."

"Disjointed systems lead to immense financial losses, ranging from 25 to 75 billion Euros, caused by redundant efforts and inefficiencies. The solution is clear and within our reach. We must advance towards establishing a unified defense market now."

Military cooperation, commerce, and political dynamics are crucial. There is significant pressure on us to meet these expectations. We need to be prepared to act decisively and strongly, even if it means taking extreme measures. Europe must take charge of its security because no other entity will handle this responsibility on our behalf.

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