Sir Keir Starmer announces a new collaboration with private healthcare to reduce NHS backlog. As of the end of October last year, approximately 7.54 million medical procedures were pending.

Monday, January 6, 2025, at 4

Sir Keir Starmer announced that collaborating with the private healthcare sector is expected to cut waiting times down to 18 weeks within five years.

The prime minister announced that a new deal has been finalized with private companies to enhance the availability of private hospital spaces, facilities, and resources for the NHS.

He referred to it as a "collaboration for the national good," noting that it would enhance the integration of private healthcare services currently utilized by the NHS.

The Prime Minister dismissed claims that he was covertly aiming to privatize the NHS, stating that he places "no interest in prioritizing ideology over patients, nor in adhering to a timeline dictated by excuses."

The government aims to provide an additional two million appointments by the end of next year, enhancing access to community diagnostic centers (CDCs) which are expected to facilitate up to 500,000 more appointments. This expansion also includes the establishment of 14 new surgical hubs and the enlargement of three current ones.

The government claims that offering patients the option to opt out of automatically scheduled follow-up appointments could make up to a million appointment slots available.

The goal of the changes is to ensure that by March 2026, an additional 450,000 patients receive treatment within an 18-week timeframe.

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Conservative opposition health spokesperson Ed Argar has criticized the government for re-introducing health initiatives initially unveiled by Sir Sajid Javid, a Tory health minister, in 2022.

He stated that the Conservatives established 160 Community Diagnostic Centres, adding nine million extra appointments, and constructed 18 surgical hubs. They also collaborated with the private sector to address patient backlogs and enhanced both technology and equipment through an investment of £76 billion. Moreover, the NHS app was developed amid the pandemic and later updated continuously.

Data released by NHS England last month indicated that approximately 7.54 million medical procedures were pending as of the end of October, marking the smallest backlog since March 2024.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies reports that the NHS last achieved its goal of treating 92% of patients within 18 weeks back in 2015.

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The changes in England will include updating the NHS app, enabling patients to have more options regarding their appointment locations. Additionally, the app will offer more comprehensive information, including details about their medical results and expected wait times.

According to government announcements, by March 2025, more than 85% of acute trust patients will have the capability to access their appointment information through the NHS app as part of the initial phase of the digital transformation.

Patients will have the ability to reach out to their healthcare provider and obtain updates, such as the expected wait time for their treatment.

In a bid to make one million appointments available, patients will have increased options regarding non-essential follow-up visits, and general practitioners will receive additional funds to consult with specialists prior to making referrals.

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The CDC facilities aim to operate daily from morning to evening, throughout the week whenever feasible. This schedule allows patients more flexibility and variety in choosing appointment times and locations, potentially accelerating their treatment process.

The administration is confident that its strategy will enable it to provide an additional 40,000 appointments weekly in its initial year, fulfilling one of Sir Keir’s six major promises.

In her October budget announcement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves committed £22 billion for the coming two years to reduce NHS waiting times. However, there are concerns within the industry that a shortage of staff could hinder the prime minister's goals from being realized.

Discover more: Drastic changes in NHS could pose challenges for an already overwhelmed staff. The number of single women opting for IVF has tripled over ten years.

There are worries that allowing patients to choose where they receive medical treatment might lead to certain hospitals being more sought after than others. However, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has described this as a fundamental issue.

"After receiving my kidney cancer diagnosis, I was overwhelmed by inquiries from fellow parliamentarians. They were eager to know who my surgeon would be, if I was seeking treatment at a top facility, and if I was utilizing my choice privileges within the NHS," he explained.

It turns out that I was fortunate enough to have one of the nation's top kidney cancer surgeons appointed to me by the NHS.

"However, it’s only fair that a cleaner, like my mother, should hold as much influence and decision-making ability within the NHS as her son, who serves as the health secretary."

NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard described the government's strategy as a "bold framework."

"The groundbreaking changes outlined in this strategy will enable us to provide countless additional tests, consultations, and procedures. Moreover, they will transform our approach, enhancing accessibility and granting patients greater control, particularly via the NHS app."

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Amid a falling out with Farage, what approach should politicians take towards Elon Musk?

According to Sky's Tamara Cohen, Nigel Farage's relationship with president-elect Donald Trump, which dates back to his initial presidency term, appears unaffected. However, the Labour Party may feel some relief as the criticism shifts towards the leader of Reform UK.

Political reporter @tamcohen

Monday, January 6, 2025, 3:

For UK lawmakers, the pressing issue is managing Elon Musk.

The billionaire at the helm of X and Tesla, set to assume a position as an efficiency expert in the Trump administration, has been frequently posting provocative comments about UK politics on his social media platform, capturing major media attention.

The content largely consists of provocative allegations against Keir Starmer and his administration, even though they have attempted to foster positive ties with Donald Trump.

As of today, there continues to be strong support for Nigel Farage, who, as recently as mid-December, discussed financial matters with Musk at the luxurious Mar-a-Lago, amidst speculation that he was pondering a $100 million contribution to Reform.

Suddenly, the situation took a sharp turn. Previously, Farage had consistently praised Musk, calling him a "hero" who added a touch of flair to Reform and eagerly anticipated a conversation at Trump's inauguration.

Musk expressed on Twitter that Farage lacks the necessary qualities to head the party, suggesting that Reform should seek a different leader.

His shift in attitude follows several days during which Musk actively posted on Twitter about grooming gangs in the UK, along with expressing support for the imprisoned far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who has also focused on this topic.

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Elon Musk stated that Nigel Farage lacks the necessary qualities, a remark which the Reform UK leader called 'unexpected'.

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Throughout his career, Farage has largely sought to keep his distance from Robinson. He believes this is the cause of their disagreement, noting his surprise but also stating, "I maintain that Tommy Robinson is not suitable for Reform and I will not compromise my principles."

Last week, Musk took to Twitter to advocate for the release of Robinson, whose legal name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, from jail. Robinson is currently serving an 18-month term for contempt of court after he reiterated untrue claims about a Syrian refugee.

Read further: Deputy from Reform commends 'well-liked' Musk, while Labour denounces his meddling with grooming gangs issue. With a schedule as packed as his, what draws Elon Musk to focus on British political affairs? It appears improbable that Badenoch will retract her erroneous claim about Reform party membership.

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How does this conflict impact Reform?

In the immediate future, Reform would likely prefer to avoid any sudden disagreements, especially at a time when they are celebrating an increase in members and Farage is set to have a meeting in Washington.

Farage views Robinson as damaging to his image and a hindrance to his goal of creating a strong campaign for the upcoming UK general election, even at the risk of alienating influential allies.

The possibility of receiving a contribution from Musk, known for his substantial donations to Donald Trump's campaign, would have been appealing. However, there were considerable legal concerns under UK election regulations.

Farage's relationship with Trump, dating from his initial presidential term, appears to remain intact, potentially keeping open a direct line to the White House.

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How does this affect Starmer and the Labour Party?

There's no clarity on Trump's views regarding Musk's intense focus on British politics, especially his continuous criticism of Keir Starmer and other US allies. It remains to be seen if this behavior on social media will continue to be accepted once he assumes his role in the White House.

Labour representatives are keenly anticipating a resolution to this query, and there might be a sense of respite now that the focus of critique has shifted towards Farage.

Recently, Musk has unleashed a barrage of provocative and baseless claims about Starmer. He has accused him of being "involved in the rape of Britain", committing "horrendous crimes", and as the former director of public prosecutions, he has raised doubts about whether Starmer permitted rape gangs to abuse young girls without any legal repercussions.

Today, in an interview, Health Secretary Wes Streeting described Musk's comments as "utterly misinformed and misplaced," emphasizing that Starmer has significantly contributed to supporting victims and securing convictions in grooming cases. The government, for the most part, is attempting to disregard the commotion.

Kemi Badenoch faced criticism for seemingly aligning with Musk's perspective by demanding a countrywide investigation into grooming gangs, despite the Conservatives having dismissed such an inquiry while in power merely two years earlier.

An American billionaire, who holds no elected position, is stirring controversy among British political groups by highlighting problems that none can easily overlook.

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Sir Keir Starmer Responds to Elon Musk's Criticisms Over Handling of Grooming Gangs

Elon Musk has demanded the imprisonment of Sir Keir Starmer, citing his role as the top prosecutor during the grooming gang crisis. However, the Prime Minister has defended him, stating that he altered legislation to support the victims.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Monday, January 6, 2025, 4:

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Sir Keir Starmer has charged individuals with "propagating falsehoods" regarding grooming gangs, stating that these individuals show no concern for the victims. This comes in the wake of allegations by Elon Musk, who claimed Starmer was "complicit" in the controversy.

"Those disseminating falsehoods and misinformation extensively are not concerned with the victims; their focus is on their own interests," Sir Keir stated.

"I appreciate the energy in political discussions, the vigorous exchanges that are essential. However, these must be grounded in reality and honesty, not falsehoods. We should not tolerate those who, in their quest for visibility, are willing to demean both themselves and their nation."

He stated that he would refrain from responding to individual allegations, but was addressing a query regarding Mr. Musk's assertion that safeguarding minister Jess Phillips "should be imprisoned" and labeling her a "rape genocide apologist" for dismissing a proposal for a nationwide investigation into past child grooming incidents in Oldham.

The Prime Minister charged the Conservatives with "climbing aboard a trend" and "echoing far-right rhetoric" regarding child sexual abuse, after neglecting the issue for "14 prolonged years."

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch is pushing for a comprehensive national investigation into grooming gangs and plans to propose an amendment to the Children's Wellbeing Bill this Wednesday, aiming to prompt a vote on the matter.

On Monday, Mr. Musk accused Sir Keir of being "profoundly involved in widespread sexual assaults in return for electoral support."

In a different message, he claimed that the Prime Minister would prevent a government investigation as it would reveal how Starmer consistently overlooked the appeals of numerous young girls and their families to gain political backing.

Sir Keir highlighted his tenure as the Director of Public Prosecutions from 2008 to 2013, emphasizing the transformative changes he implemented in handling cases of child sexual abuse. He noted that these changes facilitated a greater willingness among victims to come forward, leading to an unprecedented number of prosecutions during his leadership.

He mentioned that he reopened investigations he believed were inadequately handled and was in charge of the initial prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in Rochdale.

Sir Keir additionally stated that he advocated for compulsory reporting, which the Conservatives did not implement.

The Prime Minister stated, "I will not accept politicians exploiting situations just to garner publicity."

"For 14 years, those politicians were part of the government, constantly tweeting and talking but failing to take action. Now, they seem desperate for attention, echoing the sentiments of the far right."

The Prime Minister stated that Ms. Phillips has significantly outperformed her critics in protecting victims of sexual abuse, accomplishing far more than they could have even imagined.

Discover more: Musk believes Farage lacks necessary qualities. Given Musk's hectic schedule, what draws his attention to British political affairs?

Allegations against Musk

Sir Keir has now addressed a series of allegations made by Mr. Musk against him over the previous week for the first time.

Mr. Musk has taken to X, the social media platform under his ownership, to criticize Sir Keir and Ms. Phillips following revelations last week that she suggested Oldham Council should conduct its own investigation rather than a national one.

The billionaire has alleged that the prime minister played a role in the scandal, pointing out that he was the head of the DPP when groups of primarily Pakistani men were abusing predominantly white young girls, some as young as 11, in various towns throughout the UK.

The world's wealthiest individual has asserted that Sir Keir deserves to be incarcerated and, on Monday morning, he conducted a survey questioning whether "America should free the British people from their oppressive government."

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Opposition criticizes Prime Minister's remarks

Both the Conservative and Reform parties have expressed disapproval of Sir Keir's characterization of those requesting a government inquiry as "far-right." Leaders from these parties have insisted on the need for an inquiry.

On X, Tory leader Ms. Badenoch expressed that the scandal should lead to introspection rather than accusations of far-right extremism against those concerned about the issue.

She expressed her intention to push for a vote on a nationwide investigation.

"She emphasized her commitment to seeking justice for victims in her message."

On Wednesday, the Conservatives plan to introduce a modification to the Children's Wellbeing Bill that will call for a comprehensive national investigation into the scandal involving gangs that groom and sexually exploit minors.

"If the amendment passes, I hope members of parliament across all political factions will back the investigation, enabling us to properly address the victims' needs and put an end to the pattern of concealments."

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Reform leader Nigel Farage stated that Sir Keir was incorrect, addressing him as "prime minister," in claiming that those demanding a comprehensive public inquiry were merely aligning with the extreme right's agenda.

"He stated, 'The overwhelming number of citizens in this nation are completely appalled by the recent events.'"

"Moreover, the concealment by the police, social services, and the administrations of both the Conservative and Labour parties has been even more appalling."

"The investigations conducted to date have merely served to cover up the true issues. What is necessary is a comprehensive public investigation. We need to uncover the full extent of what has happened."

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The disagreement with Musk has ignited an unusual fervor in the Prime Minister as he condemns the extreme right's toxicity. This was a significant moment for Sir Keir Starmer who, after several days of quiet, fervently defended his and Jess Phillips’ decisions, and also vehemently criticized Kemi Badenoch.

Political journalist @amandaakass

Monday, January 6, 2025, 1:

The prime minister displayed an unusual level of emotion in responding to Sky journalist Beth Rigby's inquiry regarding Elon Musk's harsh remarks about Minister for Safeguarding Jess Phillips, whom Musk labeled a "witch" and suggested should be incarcerated.

At a press conference after delivering a major New Year's address on strategies to reduce NHS waiting times, Sir Keir Starmer was anticipated to respond to Elon Musk's controversial tweets regarding grooming gangs. However, he emphatically clarified his stance, pulling no punches.

Following several days of minimal public comment, a period during which online spaces were awash with increasingly outrageous and slanderous remarks, Sir Keir delivered a fervent justification of both his and Ms. Phillips' conduct, while also vigorously criticizing Kemi Badenoch. This marked a significant moment for the Prime Minister.

He characterized child sexual exploitation as "profoundly disturbing" and stood by his actions as the lead prosecutor addressing the issue directly. He revisited previously dismissed cases, led the "first significant prosecution of an Asian grooming gang," and altered the approach of the CPS to handling this matter.

Stay updated: Prime Minister responds to Musk's comments

He commended Ms. Phillips for her dedicated advocacy on behalf of child victims of sexual abuse, saying she had far surpassed her detractors in her efforts, and criticized the harmful influence of extreme right-wing groups that had resulted in significant threats against her.

Instead of concentrating his criticism on Musk personally, his actual anger was aimed at the Conservative party.

"He stated, 'A boundary has been breached,' condemning politicians who are 'climbing aboard the bandwagon merely to capture the spotlight… they are so starved for attention that they are echoing the sentiments of the extreme right.'"

He subsequently focused his criticism on the "leader of the opposition," asserting that just a short while ago, it would have been unimaginable for a person in Ms. Badenoch's role to not condemn and dissociate themselves from the remarks directed at Ms. Phillips.

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The Tories have been facing mounting challenges from Reform UK following the recent elections.

Proponents praised Ms. Badenoch's recent tweet advocating for a nationwide public inquiry into what she termed the "rape gang scandals," but critics viewed it as an attempt to keep pace with the agenda driven by Musk and Reform UK.

The prime minister appeared quite incensed as he condemned what he termed the "toxic influence of extreme right-wing ideologies" on politics. He urged for a dialogue rooted in "facts and reality, not falsehoods."

He consistently criticized the Conservatives for not acting on the 20 recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, noting that Labour has also yet to implement them. He emphasized that they are swiftly working towards fulfilling these recommendations.

Discover further: Musk expresses doubts about Farage's capabilities. With Musk's packed schedule, what draws his attention to UK political affairs?

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It's rare to catch Sir Keir so passionately animated, marking a significant shift from his previous, more utilitarian address, especially given that this was his key opportunity at the start of the year to lay out his primary focus—the NHS.

Sir Keir spoke at length about his commitment to the NHS, labeling it as the "foundation" of his efforts to "reconstruct our nation." He expressed his deep appreciation for the national health service and discussed his proposals to increase community diagnostic centers, enhance the NHS app, harness the transformative potential of AI, and broaden the involvement of the private sector.

The address focused on strategies that have the potential to significantly impact the well-being of citizens nationwide.

In the future, what will likely be recalled is his reaction to the digital uproar instigated by Musk and Reform UK, which was then leveraged by the Conservative Party.

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Minister for Anti-Corruption Tulip Siddiq has voluntarily approached the ethics committee concerning her connections with her aunt, a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh who resigned last August following widespread protests. Her aunt had held the position for two decades.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Monday, January 6, 2025, 1:

Minister for Anti-Corruption Tulip Siddiq has voluntarily submitted herself for review by the Prime Minister's ethical oversight committee concerning purported connections to a Russian transaction involving her aunt, who is the ex-Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and assets associated with her political party.

Sir Keir Starmer stated that the economic secretary to the Treasury, tasked with overseeing financial crime and illicit finance, "acted entirely properly" by self-referring to the independent adviser on ministerial standards, Sir Laurie Magnus.

There have been demands for a probe into a Labour MP after allegations surfaced that she resided in London homes connected to supporters of her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Bangladeshi prime minister.

Her name, along with her aunt's, appears in legal documents from a Bangladesh court concerning discussions with the Russian government.

Sir Keir stated, "Tulip Siddiq has conducted herself appropriately by self-referring to the independent adviser, which she has now done. This is precisely why we implemented the new code.

"The purpose is to enable ministers to request that the adviser determine the facts, and indeed, I trust her, and that's the procedure that is now underway."

Ms. Siddiq maintains her innocence, stating she has not committed any wrongdoing.

She was scheduled to be part of a group traveling to China this week, but will remain in the UK to focus on exonerating herself.

Her aunt was removed from her position in August after a rebellion against her two-decade-long rule and escaped to India.

Ms. Hasina is under scrutiny by a commission dedicated to combating corruption.

In legal documents presented to the High Court of Bangladesh, which were accessed by Sky News, Ms. Siddiq and her aunt are accused of facilitating a deal with Russia in 2013 for the Rooppur nuclear power station.

The papers, provided by an opponent of Ms. Hasina, reference an online article from August, alleging that Ms. Siddiq benefited from misappropriated money arising from the exaggerated expenses connected with building a power station predominantly financed by the Russian government.

It is claimed that $5 billion (£3.9 billion) was embezzled from the project's funds in cooperation with Russian authorities.

Ms. Siddiq has chosen to seek a review by the ethics overseer for government officials following reports by The Sunday Times and Financial Times that she resided in homes connected to her aunt's administration.

According to The Sunday Times, Ms. Siddiq resided in a Hampstead flat in North London that her younger sister received from Moin Ghani, a lawyer affiliated with the Hasina administration.

She had also occupied an apartment in King's Cross provided to her by Abdul Motalif, who was connected to members of the Awami League party, as reported by the Financial Times.

Discover more: Starmer responds to Musk's allegations about grooming gangs. New partnership with private healthcare to reduce NHS wait times.

In her correspondence with Sir Laurie, Ms. Siddiq stated: "Over the past few weeks, there has been considerable media coverage concerning my financial situation and my familial connections to Bangladesh's previous administration, a lot of which has been misleading.

"I am confident that my actions were appropriate."

"Nonetheless, to ensure clarity, I urge you to personally verify the details concerning these issues."

"Clearly, I'll make sure you're equipped with all the necessary information to handle this."

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Matt Vickers, the Conservative shadow Home Office minister, expressed his dismay, stating, "It's unfortunate that scandals under Keir Starmer's leadership have eclipsed today's news regarding NHS waiting times."

"His friend and anti-corruption minister, Tulip Siddiq, must address the serious allegations that have been raised against her."

"It is essential that she is subject to the same criteria as other cabinet members, but early signs suggest this might not happen."

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Sir Keir Starmer's proposed changes to the NHS are being described as radical, with aspirations that the government will achieve its goals. He has unveiled a strategy to collaborate with private healthcare providers aiming to cut NHS wait times down to 18 weeks within five years, though there is skepticism about the feasibility of these plans.

Health reporter @ashishskynews

Monday, January 6, 2025, 3:

Millions of additional booking slots, cutting-edge diagnostic facilities on main streets, around-the-clock surgical centers, and a sophisticated NHS app providing users with a "consumer-like experience."

This outlines Sir Keir Starmer's proposed changes for electoral reform. It seems almost revolutionary in its approach.

This is why there's skepticism regarding the feasibility of the government's NHS objectives, particularly because of the ambitious target they've set to have 92% of patients attended to within 18 weeks, ahead of the forthcoming 2029 elections.

Community diagnostic centers are set to operate for 12 hours daily, throughout the week, which will considerably decrease the waiting time for tests and diagnoses for approximately 1.6 million people currently in line.

Establishing these centers in high street locations, rather than on deteriorating NHS properties, significantly improves patient accessibility. However, these facilities must be integrated into already existing structures rather than being constructed anew.

The most significant hurdle facing the government is the lack of sufficient trained personnel. It is impossible to instantly increase the number of skilled workers; it will take several years for the workforce plan to produce the staff required by the NHS.

The intention is positive—every NHS worker aims for patients to receive prompt care, yet there are boundaries to their capabilities.

Discover further details from Sky News: Implementing 'radical' changes will be challenging for the already burdened workforce. What is the flat head syndrome impacting as many as 40% of infants?

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Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledges the challenges regarding staff shortages but emphasizes that these must not hinder the process of reform. He asserts that the NHS must operate more "efficiently."

All individuals, including both patients and healthcare workers, are eagerly anticipating that the government achieves its goals for elective procedures, so that it can then focus on other areas of the health system that are in urgent need of support.

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Will placing physicians in malls help salvage the NHS?

Monday, January 6, 2025, 17:32, UK

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With the NHS grappling with winter illnesses, Sir Keir Starmer has revealed the government's strategy to aid the healthcare system through a fresh collaboration with the private sector.

The Labour Party aims to reduce the waiting periods for non-urgent medical treatments to the established goal of 18 weeks within the next five years. Sir Keir Starmer expressed that under the new plan, the facilities of private hospitals will be more accessible to the NHS.

The strategy involves establishing new "community diagnostic hubs". Our health correspondent, Ashish Joshi, discusses the initiative with Niall at one of these new hubs located in a mall in Wood Green, North London.

Niall is accompanied by Dr. Rob Findlay, who writes for the Health Service Journal and is an expert in NHS demand and capacity planning and waiting times, to explore if the proposed measures will truly benefit the service and its employees.

Producer: Soila Apparicio

Promotions Producer: David Chipakupaku

Editor: Philly Beaumont

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Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced on Sky News' "Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips" that the government intends to cut NHS waiting times to 18 weeks by the end of their term to prevent a decline similar to that of Woolworths.

Sunday, January 5, 2025, 10:

The health secretary has announced that the prime minister will introduce initiatives aimed at cutting NHS waiting periods to 18 weeks by the end of the parliamentary term, in a bid to prevent the health service from suffering a fate similar to the defunct retailer Woolworths.

On the program "Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips," Wes Streeting stated that Sir Keir Starmer plans to introduce a comprehensive array of reforms aimed at modernizing the faltering healthcare system.

This development follows the news that the NHS app will undergo a significant update, enabling all users to access their test results, schedule additional appointments, and select their treatment location.

The revamp is a component of the government's strategy to reduce both the length and duration of waiting lists. It will "provide working-class patients with the same options, control, and convenience that the affluent enjoy," according to Mr. Streeting.

Mr. Streeting conveyed to Sky News, "Our goal is to bring waiting times down to 18 weeks by the close of this parliamentary term, in line with the NHS constitutional standards."

"This is a significant and difficult task that the nation has assigned to us, and both the prime minister and the citizens are expecting me to be responsible for its execution."

The undertaking is a challenging one, and acknowledging the difficulty ahead, the prime minister will outline his strategy in today's and tomorrow's newspapers. The plan includes a comprehensive array of reforms aimed at updating the National Health Service (NHS). These reforms are designed to equip the NHS with the necessary tools to operate efficiently and prevent it from suffering a demise similar to Woolworths. The goal is to transform the NHS into a service that is suitable for the demands of the 21st century.

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Sir Keir Starmer Unveils Proposal to Increase NHS Appointments by Two Million

Sweeping NHS changes may prove challenging for an already stretched staff to implement

Demands increase for further studies on flat head syndrome in infants and the effectiveness of helmet therapy

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"And I truly believe the situation is that critical for the NHS, which is why, both while in opposition and now in power, we have focused so intensely on reform as well as investment."

Expanded selection of services available through the application

According to the Department of Health, although patients are legally entitled to select their treatment provider, less than 25% remember being given that option.

The announcement indicated that patients will have access to a broader range of service providers, and an application will be introduced to facilitate an easier appointment scheduling process.

Individuals seeking non-urgent elective procedures can utilize the application to oversee their appointments, select from a range of providers, including private sector options, and schedule diagnostic examinations.

Patients will have the ability to obtain their test outcomes and decide on their subsequent treatment steps, ranging from virtual consultations to surgical interventions, if necessary.

Currently, only 8% of appointments following a referral are scheduled through the NHS app or the Manage Your Referral website. However, under proposed changes, these digital platforms are set to become the primary method for patients to select their healthcare provider.

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According to the government, by March 2025, the initial phase of the digital upgrade will ensure that patients at more than 85% of acute care hospitals can access their appointment information through the NHS application.

Patients will also have the ability to communicate with their healthcare provider and get updates, such as the expected wait time for treatment.

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The initiatives are components of the elective reform strategy, detailing the government's approach to reduce waiting lists and achieve a maximum waiting period of 18 weeks by the conclusion of the current parliamentary session.

The complete proposal for transformation is scheduled to be revealed this week.

Sky News Update: Exploring Flat Head Syndrome and the Effectiveness of Helmets; Healthcare Professional Raises Concerns About 'Quad-Demic'

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Mr. Streeting stated: "The option to select the timing and location of their medical treatment should be available not just to the affluent but also to working-class individuals. This administration is committed to providing them with that opportunity."

"Our strategy will overhaul the NHS to ensure that patients are thoroughly informed throughout their treatment process, have the option to select an alternative provider if it means a shorter waiting time, and are empowered to manage their own healthcare."

The Conservatives claimed that Labour has only made "incomplete statements" regarding NHS changes.

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"Shadow Health and Social Care Secretary Ed Argar stated, 'The Conservatives established the groundwork for enhancing patient options, initiating and transforming the NHS App to advance services, treatments, and patient accessibility. It's encouraging to see Labour expanding on our robust groundwork.'"

"We are prepared to collaborate with the government to enhance our public services once they present a detailed and thorough strategy. Unfortunately, up to this point, Labour has only made fragmented declarations and continued to initiate more reviews and consultations, even though they had 14 years in the opposition to formulate their plans."

"Labour pledged changes — now that patients have voiced their clarity, it's time for them to truly fulfill those promises."

Catch Wes Streeting on the "Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips" program, airing on Sky News starting at 8:30 AM.

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James McMurdock: Sky News Questions Reform Party MP, Formerly Incarcerated for Assaulting Girlfriend, at Conference

James McMurdock, a member of parliament for the Reform Party, faced imprisonment nearly 20 years ago following his conviction for attacking his girlfriend in 2006 while intoxicated outside a nightclub.

Political reporter @serenabarksing

Saturday, January 4, 2025, 9:

Reform UK is actively seeking the spotlight and is unapologetic about its methods for gaining attention.

This week, Elon Musk has boosted the visibility of Reform UK by echoing their messages on his platform X, helping the party gain traction as the new year begins and ahead of governmental activities.

This month, the party has organized two conferences over two consecutive days. Given the small number of MPs, each has the chance to address the gatherings. However, one MP, James McMurdock, stands out as the sole exception.

Although he represents South Basildon and East Thurrock in Parliament, he is not listed to appear at the East of England conference. Initially, Sky News was informed that he had no plans to attend.

The politician has been embroiled in scandal following revelations that he was imprisoned almost twenty years ago for assaulting his girlfriend in 2006 by kicking her multiple times while intoxicated outside a nightclub, a fact that was not disclosed during his campaign for parliament.

In July, it was revealed that he had been imprisoned for assaulting another individual, but he dismissed the occurrence as a mere "youthful mistake."

When seen walking at the conference on Saturday, Sky News questioned Mr. McMurdock on whether he regretted using that term.

The Member of Parliament refused to apologize for his remarks, maintaining that he had not lied or altered his account in any way.

"He expressed his intention to minimize harm to others while acknowledging that he had been in the wrong previously."

"I'm trying hard to come to terms with the reality that an unfortunate event did occur."

For more coverage, visit Sky News: Nigel Farage disassociates from Tommy Robinson following Elon Musk's endorsement. Is Badenoch struggling to keep pace with Farage while aligning with Musk's strategies?

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The Member of Parliament declined to comment on whether his party was aware of his criminal record before he was nominated, though party leader Nigel Farage has admitted that he "wasn't vetted".

Mr. McMurdock has yet to face suspension despite the inconsistent stories surrounding the event, and the party remains silent on whether he would meet the criteria of their recently implemented screening process for prospective council candidates.

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A Labour MP has called on both parliament and the government to implement compulsory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for all potential parliamentary candidates moving forward.

During an interview with Sky News, Mr. McMurdock expressed his backing for the proposal, despite the fact that not a single Reform Party MP supported it during the preliminary discussions in parliament.

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Elon Musk certainly has a full plate, yet he seems remarkably focused on UK political matters. The world's wealthiest individual's repeated involvement in British issues indicates a clear intent to leverage his significant clout to disseminate his views broadly.

Sky News analyst @adamboultonTABB

Sunday, January 5, 2025, 4:

It's clear that Elon Musk, recognized as the world's wealthiest individual and close confidant of the incoming U.S. president, has a lot on his plate. This was especially true after a Tesla truck detonated outside the Trump hotel in Las Vegas on January 1.

Musk spent the evening energetically dancing at Donald Trump's lavish New Year's Eve celebration at Mar-a-Lago. Additionally, he oversees a slew of prominent firms such as Tesla, SpaceX, Starlink, The Boring Company, Neuralink, and OpenAI.

Despite his busy schedule, he managed to begin the year by sharing his thoughts on British politics on X, the social media site previously known as Twitter, which he acquired for $44 billion in 2022. His posts usually garner views from tens of millions of people.

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Musk's recent involvement in British politics lacks a clear justification. He has previously attracted attention with his comments on German politics, sparking controversy during the holiday season by openly supporting the far-right Alternative für Deutschland party before the February elections.

Born in South Africa, Musk comes from a background of English and Dutch ancestry. He moved to Canada, acquiring citizenship there before he obtained American citizenship in 2002. As Trump has noted, Musk, being naturally born abroad, is constitutionally ineligible to become the President of the United States.

The regularity with which the billionaire shares his views indicates a strong intent to leverage his significant clout to disseminate his perspectives broadly. Lately, he has focused on pressing political issues in Britain, notably addressing the problem of grooming gangs at the onset of 2025.

In the UK, Elon Musk is being warmly received. He was a highlighted attendee at the Artificial Intelligence summit hosted by the former Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in November 2023. Following that, he shifted his political interactions toward the Reform UK party. Ahead of the Christmas holidays, Musk hosted Nigel Farage, a member of Parliament, and Nick Candy, the newly appointed treasurer for Reform who is also a billionaire, at his current residence in Mar-a-Lago. The group was photographed beneath an aged, complimentary painting of Trump, though it was not confirmed if they had a meeting with him.

Further Insights on Elon Musk

Elon Musk claims 'Farage lacks the necessary qualities,' while the leader of Reform UK calls the remark 'unexpected'

Reform party member commends the 'well-liked' Elon Musk, while Labour slams his 'absurd' involvement with grooming gangs issue.

Military personnel who detonated a Tesla at a Trump hotel left behind messages stating the blast should serve as a 'wake up call'.

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Elon Musk's recent visit has fueled rumors that he might contribute a substantial sum to Reform UK, echoing the immense financial support he provided to Trump’s successful campaign. However, the tech mogul has refuted these claims, noting that there are laws preventing foreign contributions to political entities. Although Nigel Farage has joked about receiving a large donation from Musk, he emphasized that only contributions adhering to legal standards would be accepted.

In the midst of speculation regarding Musk's financial involvement, the UK government has opted not to amend existing legislation. Interestingly, during the US elections, Musk was proactive in criticizing the situation when Labour Party volunteers supported the Democratic Party. He charged Labour’s campaign leader Morgan McSweeney with breaching US laws pertaining to foreign election interference.

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The 2023 Online Safety Act in the UK could be a factor in why the tech entrepreneur is stepping up his attacks against the UK government, which he accuses of governing like "a tyrannical police state". Platforms including X could be hit with substantial penalties — either £18 million or up to 10% of their global revenue, whichever is higher — if they allow content that spreads false information or promotes racial or religious hatred, leading to public disorder or inciting violence.

Elon Musk's attention towards the UK has intensified following the Labour Party's win in the general election last summer and subsequent disturbances sparked by the tragic deaths of three young girls at a dance class in Southport. Misinformation regarding the perpetrator spread on X, some of which involved accounts Musk had reinstated. In response to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer's caution to major tech firms about the criminality of inciting violence online, Musk dismissed the comments as "Insane" on X and later suggested that a "civil war" in Britain was unavoidable.

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Over 19 million individuals watched Musk talk about the issue of overcrowded prisons in the UK on Joe Rogan's podcast. He also participated in a discussion titled "What on earth is going on in the UK?" which addressed an American conservative's hyperbolic comments on a government report concerning Islamist extremism in the UK.

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Musk has humorously dubbed himself the "Chief Troll Officer" for X. Notable individuals from this nation he has connected with online are Liz Truss, the populist scholar Matt Goodwin, and Winston Marshall, whose father, Paul Marshall, owns GB News.

Despite advocating for extended incarceration periods, Musk has taken to X to call for the release of Tommy Robinson, suggesting that a prohibited video from the co-founder of the English Defence League is "worth watching". Robinson, legally named Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is presently serving an 18-month sentence for breaching a court order by reiterating defamatory statements—originally made in the prohibited video—about a young Syrian refugee.

Within the initial day and a half of 2025, Musk's activity on X featured several provocative statements including demands for a fresh election in the UK, endorsements for the Reform party, and harsh criticism of Jess Phillips, calling for her removal. This backlash was in response to reports by GB News that Ms. Phillips, the minister responsible for safeguarding and addressing violence against women and girls, refused to commission a nationwide investigation into the grooming gangs in Oldham.

Ms. Phillips stated that the responsibility for such an investigation should fall to the local government; Musk retorted that she "belongs behind bars." His involvement has brought the prolonged controversy to the forefront once again. On January 2nd, Kemi Badenoch, the newly appointed leader of the Conservative Party, called for "a comprehensive nationwide investigation into the rape gangs scandal."

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Ms. Badenoch's reactions to Mr. Musk's ongoing meddling appear inconsistent. In a session of Prime Minister's Questions last November, she confronted Starmer using an internet campaign that Musk had endorsed, which demanded a new general election. However, when she appeared on the Today programme on Radio 4 in December, her tone changed as she expressed concerns about external influences on British politics, stating, "I think we need to ensure that foreign states, undue influences, or malicious entities do not affect our political landscape," yet she did not suggest any specific legal reforms.

The leader of the Conservative Party has reportedly expressed frustration that GB News is overly accommodating to Mr. Farage's Reform party. However, Ms. Badenoch has refuted these allegations, originally reported by a major newspaper, labeling them as "nonsense."

Further details: Is there a role for Musk in mediating between China and Trump? Allegations surface that Musk is limiting right-wing voices on X. Musk reportedly contributed over $250 billion to Trump's election campaign.

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Amid ongoing disputes, Elon Musk remains at odds with the Labour-led administration. As the previous year drew to a close, he openly criticized the government's expectations for heightened UK investment, including from Tesla, stating on X that companies are hesitant to invest in the UK under the current leadership. In response, Downing Street staunchly defended its stance, declaring that Starmer's government is decidedly pro-growth.

For a number of people, particularly young males, Musk is viewed as a legendary figure. However, a recent poll in the UK revealed that 66% of respondents believe Musk "should not have influence" in British politics. This sentiment was shared by a slight majority, 51%, of Reform UK backers. Yet, despite opposition to external influence, Musk has already made significant inroads into the national discourse.

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It's clear that Elon Musk has a profound grasp of emerging technologies like AI, which he describes as "the most disruptive force in history." During a conversation with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, he expressed that "one of the future challenges will be discovering purpose in life," because "there will come a time when jobs are obsolete… AI will handle all tasks."

As we step into another demanding year, Musk is poised to significantly increase his clout as Trump’s chief advisor on efficiency. The wealthiest individual in the world is likely to emerge as a major political figure. It’s unclear whether his involvement in national issues will leave him any time to maintain his confrontations with international authorities. His new superior might try to curb his influence, worried about being eclipsed, but for now, he’s capturing more media attention than any local political figure.

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Reform party member commends 'beloved' Elon Musk, while Labour denounces his 'absurd' involvement in grooming gangs issue

Richard Tice expresses satisfaction with support from the billionaire owner of X – however, Labour's Wes Streeting dismisses any interest in Musk's opinions regarding the UK's longstanding grooming scandal.

Political journalist @alexrogerssky

Sunday, January 5, 2025, 4:

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The deputy leader of Reform has commended Elon Musk, describing him as well-liked and valued among Britons. This comes as a government official has attacked the tech mogul for making what they called "ridiculous" and "poorly researched" remarks about the UK grooming scandal.

On the program "Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips," Richard Tice praised the proprietor of X and Tesla, describing him as "one of the most outstanding entrepreneurs of all time."

He expressed his satisfaction with Mr. Musk's potential financial support for Reform UK, noting, "He is deeply interested in the politics and economic growth of this country."

In a differing viewpoint, Health Secretary Wes Streeting expressed his disinterest in Elon Musk's comments regarding the grooming scandal that affected numerous towns and cities across the UK over ten years ago.

Over ten years ago, girls as young as 11 fell victim to grooming and sexual assault in several English towns such as Oldham, Rochdale, Rotherham, and Telford, a shocking reality that came to light nationally in 2013.

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In a subsequent report by Professor Alexis Jay, it was disclosed that approximately 1,400 girls suffered abuse in Rotherham from 1997 to 2013. The report also highlighted the lack of action from police and social services during this period.

The mandatory Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), led by Prof Jay, revealed in its conclusive report in 2022 that across all regions of England and Wales, children continue to suffer sexual exploitation by networks in extremely harmful and demeaning manners.

Elon Musk has proposed that Jess Philips, the safeguarding minister, should face imprisonment for declining Oldham council's call for a countrywide investigation into the child sexual exploitation incidents that occurred in the town.

Ms. Phillips, representing Birmingham Yardley as a Labour MP, acknowledged the intense emotions surrounding the issue but expressed her view that the responsibility to initiate an investigation into local child sexual exploitation should rest with Oldham Council, not with central government intervention.

The technology magnate has also directed criticism towards the prime minister, accusing him of neglecting to prosecute the "rape gangs" during his tenure as the director of public prosecutions.

He shared on X: "The true motive behind her [Ms. Phillips] reluctance to probe into the rape gangs is clearly because it would implicate Keir Starmer (who was the head of the CPS then)."

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When questioned on the remarks, Mr. Streeting stated that both Ms. Phillips and Sir Keir do not require "lectures" from Mr. Musk.

"He mentioned that the prime minister and Jess Phillips share a specific similarity as politicians," he stated.

"Prior to their entry into the political arena, they had a proven track record of successfully prosecuting rapists, pedophiles, and sex offenders. Therefore, they are not in need of guidance from anyone, especially not the Conservatives."

He described Mr. Musk's remarks as "absurd," "poorly informed," and "unjust to both of their reputations."

"He doesn't hold my interest with his opinions," he stated. "I'm focused on our actions as an administration."

Why has an American businessman become a central figure in British political discussions once more?

Political correspondent

Do you recall the intimate AI discussion by the fireplace featuring Rishi Sunak and Elon Musk from a while back?

Reflecting on the transformations that have occurred since that

This morning, politicians were vocally aggressive from various angles regarding the topic of Elon Musk.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated he has no interest in the opinions of the tech billionaire, describing him as "poorly informed."

Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, described him as "well-liked and valued by a large number of people across the nation."

Opinions vary, but why has an American business magnate once again become the center of political discourse in Britain?

He consistently demonstrates an eagerness to criticize the British government, addressing various topics to his 210.8 million followers on X.

Forecasting Mr. Musk's next move is challenging, complicating matters for everyone involved, including Reform UK.

He has expressed support not only for Nigel Farage but also recently for Tommy Robinson, an individual whom Mr. Farage has consistently tried to dissociate from throughout the years.

The leader of Reform UK tactfully handled inquiries regarding Mr. Musk on Friday, yet any financial arrangement between the Tesla chief and Reform UK is not expected to be entirely simple.

The controversy surrounding Jess Philips indeed centers on a gravely significant issue — the sexual exploitation and grooming of young women by gangs, particularly noted in areas such as Rochdale.

Once more, the discourse in British politics centers around the comments made by Elon Musk.

Both Reform UK and the Conservative Party have demanded a nationwide investigation into the controversy, with Mr. Tice alleging that there has been an extensive cover-up of a severe scandal involving grooming gangs, predominantly by individuals of Pakistani descent.

"He explained to Sir Trevor that it has unfolded over many years involving authorities, care workers, police staff, the British establishment, and high-ranking politicians."

"I must point out that mainstream media outlets are seemingly looking the other way. There appears to be an attitude of, 'this topic doesn't align with our preferences for substantial immigration and diversity, so it's inconvenient for us.' Thus, they choose not to delve into it."

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Mr. Streeting stated, "the rationale for not initiating a new national inquiry is due to the fact that one has already taken place."

He referred to the investigation conducted by Prof Jay, which concluded in 2022, emphasizing that victims are entitled to the "complete enactment" of its findings. The report suggested that it should be mandatory for organizations dealing with children to legally report any suspicions of child sexual abuse.

Discover more: Calls intensify for mandatory criminal background screenings for incoming MPs and Lords. Reform Party MP, previously imprisoned for assaulting partner, faces Sky News inquiry.

In addition to his critiques of government officials, Mr. Musk has openly expressed support for Tommy Robinson, a far-right activist who is presently incarcerated for an 18-month term due to a contempt of court conviction.

Mr. Musk expressed support for the far-right activist, asserting that Robinson was being honest about grooming gangs. He posted on X: "Free Tommy Robinson".

At a party conference yesterday, Reform leader Nigel Farage made it clear that he does not see imprisoned activist Robinson as a beneficial addition, stating he is "not what we need."

In a discussion on GB News about Mr. Musk's backing of Robinson, Mr. Farage explained, "He views Robinson as someone who took a stand against grooming gangs. However, the reality is that Tommy Robinson is incarcerated not for this activism, but rather for contempt of court."

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Tory frontbencher suggests Kemi Badenoch probably won't say sorry for alleged false Reform Party membership assertion

Deputy leader of Reform, Richard Tice, suggests his party won't pursue legal action against the Conservative leader, claiming her actions have actually benefited rather than hurt the opposition.

Political correspondent @alexrogerssky

Sunday, January 5, 2025, 12:

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Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp mentioned that it is improbable that Kemi Badenoch will retract her statement about the alleged falsity of Reform UK's membership numbers.

Last month, the leader of the Conservative Party engaged in a heated debate with Nigel Farage, the head of Reform, who claimed that his party had surpassed the Tories in membership numbers and positioned itself as "the true opposition" to Labour.

As of noon on Boxing Day, a digital tally on the party’s website indicated a membership count of 131,680, matching the number previously reported by the Conservative Party prior to its leadership vote in the fall.

The figure listed on its website has now surpassed 173,000.

Ms. Badenoch, who succeeded Rishi Sunak as the Conservative leader in November, quickly challenged the accuracy of the statistics last month, writing on X: "Trying to deceive your own followers during Christmas, Nigel? It's not genuine. It's fabricated… [the website is] programmed to increase numbers on its own."

Latest in Politics: Minister Dismisses Elon Musk Grooming Gang Allegations as 'Absurd'

Subsequently, Reform has warned that it will pursue legal action against Ms. Badenoch unless she issues an apology.

Sky News has confirmed the accuracy of the data released by Reform.

In response to inquiries about issuing an apology after recent revelations, Mr. Philp said on Sunday Morning with Trevor Philips, "I don't believe so. She made her remarks based on the information available to her."

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He emphasized, "I want to clarify some key points.

"Following the general election, it appears there have been around 175 local council by-elections. In these contests, we've secured victories in approximately 50, significantly outperforming Reform, who have managed to win only about seven. We are successfully gaining seats from Labour, who are in turn losing seats to us."

Richard Tice, the deputy head of Reform, later stated on Sunday Morning with Trevor Philips that his party probably wouldn't take legal steps against Ms. Badenoch.

"He pointed out that with legal proceedings, demonstrating damage is essential."

"It's a fact that Kemi Badenoch has been of assistance to us, which is why we're expressing our gratitude."

He also mentioned: "However, what we really want is an apology – it seems from Chris Philp's confirmation that we're not going to receive one."

He stated that without receiving an apology, they plan to focus their efforts on turning her constituency into a primary battleground for the Reform Party in the upcoming general election.

"He suggested that this could actually concentrate the opposition leader's attention on the issues of real importance," he added.

Further reading: Nigel Farage distances himself from Tommy Robinson following Elon Musk's endorsement. Insight: Given Musk's hectic schedule, what draws his attention to British political affairs?

Mr. Philp was also asked to comment on the language used by Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary who was defeated by Ms. Badenoch in the Conservative leadership race.

Mr. Jenrick shared on X: "In order to maintain harmony in a diverse British society, the government deemed it essential to enforce the law in a selective manner.

"For years, serious offenses committed mainly by men of British Pakistani descent were not only legalized but also deliberately concealed to avoid unrest."

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In response to inquiries about whether he thought the former Conservative government "concealed scandals," Mr. Philp stated, "I don't believe the government itself concealed any scandal, however, I do think that certain local authorities might have."

"The local governments in areas such as Oldham were predominantly controlled by the Labour Party.

There have been instances where certain police departments have failed to probe into severe criminal allegations, such as the gang rape of young girls, due to concerns about potential unrest within the community.

"Everything about that was utterly incorrect and ethically reprehensible, devoid of any moral integrity."

When asked if he would echo Mr. Jenrick's comments, which attributed the grooming scandal to Britain's practice of "importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures," Mr. Philp responded, "He will select his language. I will select mine. I have not used those terms."

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