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Thursday, January 23

Members of the European Parliament are set to urge measures to counteract Russian misinformation regarding Ukraine.

At midday, members of Parliament are set to cast their votes on a resolution addressing Russia's distortion of historical facts and its use of misleading narratives to legitimize its aggressive actions against Ukraine. The proposed document dismisses the Russian government's assertions as ineffective efforts to rationalize an unlawful act of aggression. It calls for the extension of sanctions against Russian media organizations that disseminate false information and expresses the worries of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) regarding the choice of some social media platforms to ease their fact-checking policies.

Viktor Almqvist

Phone number: +32 470 88 29

Foreign Affairs Committee of the European

Legislature set to denounce Nicolás Maduro's unlawful rule in Venezuela

At midday, MEPs are set to vote on a resolution addressing the urgent circumstances in Venezuela following President Maduro's inauguration. They are anticipated to call for an extension of sanctions to include Nicolás Maduro and his close associates, in addition to seeking the cancellation of the baseless arrest warrant against President-elect Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. The proposal further emphasizes that the Venezuelan government lacks democratic legitimacy and labels Maduro's presidency as an illegal effort to retain power through coercion.

Snjezana Kobescak Smodis

Phone number: +32 470 96 08

EP_ForeignAffairs

European lawmakers discuss the necessity for international regulations on digital currencies

Starting at approximately 10:15, Members of the European Parliament will engage in a dialogue with Commissioner Brunner regarding regulations for cryptocurrency assets worldwide. The discussion will focus on ways to safeguard investors, combat financial crime, and maintain the European Union's competitive edge. Additionally, the conversation will touch on advancements in digital finance within the EU and how it measures up against international competitors.

Dorota Kolinska can be reached at the phone number +32 498 98 32 80, and is associated with economics at the European Parliament

Summary

Desertification talks at the United Nations. Starting at 9:00 a.m., Members of the European Parliament will engage in a discussion with Commissioner Roswall regarding the outcomes of the 16th UN Conference of the Parties (COP16) that focused on fighting desertification. The conference emphasized the importance of making land restoration and drought resilience key components in national strategies and global collaboration, aiming to ensure food security and adapt to climate change.

Ballots

At midday, Members of the European Parliament are set to cast their votes on various

– The situation involving Jean-Jacques Wondo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

– The organized violation of human rights in Iran, particularly illustrated by the situations involving Pakhshan Azizi and Wrisha Moradi, along with the detention of European Union nationals as captives

– The situation involving Boualem Sansal in Algeria

You can watch the live broadcast of the plenary session on the official Parliament webstream and EbS+.

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Violations of Human Rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iran, and Algeria

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The European Parliament passed three resolutions on Thursday concerning human rights issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iran, and Algeria.

The European Parliament has issued a strong condemnation of the death sentences handed down in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including the one given to Jean-Jacques Wondo. They have raised serious concerns about violations of fair trial rights and expressed alarm over Wondo's worsening health condition. The Parliament is urging for his immediate release and access to essential medical care. Firmly opposing the death penalty, the Parliament is pressing the DRC government to reintroduce a halt on executions and work towards completely abolishing the practice. Additionally, they are calling for comprehensive reforms to make the judicial system independent, just, and efficient, ensuring due process and safeguarding fundamental rights. This resolution was passed through a show of hands.

The complete version is set to be accessible here on January 23, 2025. The ongoing and systematic violation of human rights in Iran, particularly involving individuals such as Pakhshan Azizi and Wrisha Moradi, as well as the detention of EU citizens as hostages, are major concerns. In a resolution that was passed with 556 votes in favor, 6 against, and 42 abstentions, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) declared their firm opposition to the death penalty in Iran. They called for an immediate halt on its application, leading to its eventual elimination. The resolution strongly denounces the death sentences imposed on human rights advocate Pakhshan Azizi and humanitarian worker Wrisha Moradi and insists on their immediate and unconditional release. Additionally, it demands the release of at least 56 other political prisoners who are currently facing the death penalty.

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have vehemently criticized the killing of German-Iranian citizen Jamshid Sharmahd, demanding that Iran's Islamic regime disclose details about the circumstances surrounding his death. They have condemned the Iranian government's severe crackdown on human rights and its persecution of minority groups. MEPs are advocating for increased financial aid to support Iranian civil society and have expressed strong solidarity with the Iranians involved in the "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement, which has been awarded the 2023 EP Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. Furthermore, the text harshly criticizes Iran's use of hostage diplomacy, with MEPs calling on the Iranian authorities to release, repatriate, and dismiss all charges against EU citizens, including French nationals Olivier Grondeau, Cécile Kohler, and Jacques Paris, as well as Swedish-Iranian national Ahmadreza Djalali. MEPs have also reiterated their appeal to the Council to classify the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization and to expand EU sanctions to include all individuals responsible for human rights abuses in Iran. The complete text will be accessible here (23.

In 2025, the situation of Boualem Sansal in Algeria has drawn attention as Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) call for his immediate and unconditional release. This demand extends to journalist Abdelwakil Blamm, writer Tadjadit Mohamed, and all other individuals, including activists and human rights defenders, who are imprisoned for exercising their rights to freedom of opinion and expression in Algeria. MEPs urge the Algerian authorities to revise all restrictive laws that curb freedoms and compromise the independence of the judiciary, aiming to safeguard press freedom in accordance with Article 54 of Algeria’s Constitution. They emphasize that renewing the EU-Algeria Partnership Priorities should hinge on Algeria making consistent and significant strides in upholding the rule of law. This is crucial for strengthening freedom of expression in the country and underscores the importance of these democratic advancements in influencing any future allocations of EU financial support to Algeria.

The measure was approved with 533 votes in favor, 24 opposing, and 48 choosing not to vote. The complete document will be accessible on January 23, 2025.

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Membership details for Parliament's revamped and newly formed committees have been disclosed

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On Thursday, the European Parliament unveiled the list of individuals appointed to serve on two enhanced committees and two newly established special committees.

The European Parliament's plenary homepage now features the rosters of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) designated by political groups and independent members. These lists can also be accessed on the individual committee websites.

On December 18, 2024, members of the European Parliament decided to elevate the subcommittees for Security and Defence (SEDE) and Public Health (SANT) to the status of full committees. Additionally, they approved the establishment of two new special committees. One of these will focus on the "Democracy Shield" initiative, as outlined in the Commission's political guidelines for 2024-2029 (EUDS), while the other will address the ongoing housing crisis within the EU (HOUS).

Future actions

The initial gatherings for the SEDE and SANT groups are planned for Monday, January 27, and Wednesday, January 29. Meanwhile, the EUDS and HOUS special committees are set to convene for their first meetings on either Thursday, January 30, or Monday, February 3, marking the beginning of their one-year mandate.

In the initial gatherings, every committee will select its leadership team, consisting of a Chair and Vice-Chairs, according to the regulations set by Parliament.

Context

President Metsola, along with the heads of political factions within Parliament, suggested modifications to the structure of Parliament's committees. These alterations aim to tackle the present issues facing Europe and align with Parliament's priorities, while also considering the worries of citizens and the outcomes of the European elections.

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Kyriakos KLOSIDIS

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EU lawmakers assert that backing Venezuela's opposition is an ethical responsibility. They passed a resolution on Thursday declaring that Nicolas Maduro's government lacks legitimacy and that his presidency represents an illegal effort to cling to power through coercion.

Criticizing Nicolas Maduro's seizure of the presidency in Venezuela with utmost severity, Members of the European Parliament praise the determination of the democratic opposition and acknowledge the Venezuelan people's dedication to democracy despite facing oppression.

The European Parliament has acknowledged Edmundo González Urrutia as the rightful victor of the presidential race, criticizing the Venezuelan government for failing to honor the electorate's decision and facilitate a clear, democratic transfer of authority. The current administration, led by Nicolás Maduro, is deemed to lack both democratic and political legitimacy by the Parliament. Members of the European Parliament have called on the Venezuelan authorities to cancel the unwarranted arrest order against Edmundo González Urrutia and demanded the release of the election results from the July 28, 2024 vote.

Broaden the sanctions against Nicolás Maduro and back the democratic opposition.

Members of the European Parliament have expressed approval of the Council's recent move to impose specific sanctions on 15 more people. They are urging for these sanctions to be intensified and broadened to encompass Nicolás Maduro, his close associates, and their families. Additionally, the MEPs believe the sanctions should target Jorge Rodríguez and Vladimir Padrino López, along with anyone involved in human rights abuses, unlawful claims to power, misuse of official roles, and acts of oppression in Venezuela.

Demonstrating strong backing for the International Criminal Court's probes into the widespread crimes committed by the Venezuelan government, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) call on the European Union, its member countries, and all democratic entities at both regional and international levels to unequivocally support Venezuela's democratic movements. They emphasize that this support is a "moral duty" and urge these actors to make every possible effort to reestablish democracy in Venezuela.

Members of the European Parliament contend that when it comes to choosing between democracy and dictatorship, there is a clear-cut decision to be made. One must either support the democratic forces and those who endure oppression or align with the authoritarian rulers.

The resolution passed with a tally of 374 supporting votes, 53 opposing, and 163 abstentions.

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Viktor Almqvist

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Lawmakers Condemn Russia's Use of Misinformation to Justify the War in Ukraine

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A resolution passed on Thursday denounces the Russian regime's systematic distortion of history to legitimize its aggressive war against Ukraine.

In dem hypothetischen Text lehnt das Parlament die historischen Ansprüche Russlands ab, die darauf abzielen, die kulturelle und historische Eigenständigkeit der Ukraine zu zerstören. Zudem kritisiert das Parlament, dass Russland sich nicht für die Verbrechen der Sowjetunion verantwortlich zeigt und absichtlich die historische Forschung behindert. Diese Vorgehensweisen haben es dem aktuellen russischen Regime ermöglicht, erneut eine imperialistische Politik zu verfolgen und die Geschichte für seine illegalen Ziele zu nutzen.

The European Union needs to intensify its efforts against Russian misinformation.

The parliament strongly urges the EU and its member countries to immediately enhance and coordinate their efforts, in collaboration with like-minded partners, to counteract disinformation, information manipulation, and influence from Russia. This is to protect the integrity of their democratic processes and to bolster societal resilience within member states. The legislators emphasize the importance of actively promoting media literacy, supporting quality media and professional journalism, and exploring new technologies used for hybrid influence.

The resolution urges the European Union to broaden its sanctions against Russian media outlets that back and justify Russia's war on Ukraine through misinformation campaigns. It calls on EU member states to implement these sanctions swiftly and diligently, ensuring sufficient resources are allocated to effectively combat this form of hybrid warfare. Additionally, the lawmakers aim to increase their backing for independent Russian-speaking media in exile, to ensure a diversity of voices is heard within the Russian-speaking media landscape.

Growing Concerns Over Social Media Companies' Relaxation of Fact-Checking Policies

Das Parlament ist äußerst besorgt darüber, dass einige führende Social-Media-Firmen planen, ihre Richtlinien zur Faktenprüfung und Moderation zu lockern. Dies könnte dazu führen, dass russische Desinformationskampagnen weltweit noch mehr Unterstützung erhalten. Die Abgeordneten fordern die Europäische Kommission und die EU-Mitgliedstaaten auf, als Antwort auf die Ankündigungen von Meta und zuvor von X das Gesetz über digitale Dienste strikt anzuwenden. Sie sehen dies als einen wichtigen Aspekt im Kampf gegen russische Desinformation.

The resolution was approved with 480 votes in favor, 58 against, and 48 abstentions.

The complete resolution will be accessible here on January 23, 2025.

To find out how each member of parliament voted, please click this link.

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Armin WISDORFF

Philipp BAUER

Jakob FLOSSMANN

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Lawmakers Condemn Russia's Use of Disinformation to Justify the War in Ukraine

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A resolution passed on Thursday denounces the Russian regime's systematic distortion of history to legitimize its aggressive war against Ukraine.

In einem angenommenen Dokument lehnt das Parlament die historischen Ansprüche der russischen Regierung ab, die darauf abzielen, die einzigartige kulturelle und historische Identität der Ukraine zu zerstören. Das Parlament kritisiert außerdem, dass die Russische Föderation keine Verantwortung für die Verbrechen der Sowjetunion übernommen hat und die historische Forschung absichtlich blockiert. Diese Vorgehensweisen hätten dazu geführt, dass das aktuelle russische Regime erneut eine imperialistische Politik verfolgen und die Geschichte für seine kriminellen Absichten nutzen kann.

The European Union needs to intensify its efforts to combat Russian disinformation.

The parliament strongly urges the European Union and its member countries to enhance and coordinate their efforts, in collaboration with like-minded partners, to promptly and decisively combat misinformation, information manipulation, and Russian influence. This initiative aims to safeguard the integrity of democratic processes and bolster societal resilience within the member states. Lawmakers emphasize the importance of actively promoting media literacy, supporting quality media and professional journalism, and investing in the exploration of new technologies related to hybrid influence tactics.

The resolution calls on the EU to broaden its sanctions on Russian media outlets that back and legitimize Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine through disinformation campaigns. It urges EU nations to swiftly and meticulously enforce these sanctions and allocate adequate resources to effectively combat this hybrid warfare. Additionally, the lawmakers aim to bolster their support for independent Russian-language media operating in exile, ensuring diverse voices are heard within the Russian-speaking media space.

Erhebliche Bedenken über die Reduzierung von Faktenprüfungsrichtlinien durch Social-Media-Firmen

Das Parlament zeigt große Besorgnis über die Ankündigungen einiger Social-Media-Firmen, ihre Richtlinien zur Faktenprüfung und Moderation zu lockern. Dadurch könnten russische Desinformationskampagnen weltweit noch mehr Aufwind erhalten. Die Abgeordneten drängen die Europäische Kommission und die Mitgliedsländer dazu, das Gesetz über digitale Dienste strikt anzuwenden, um auf diese Ankündigungen von Meta und zuvor von X zu reagieren. Dieses Vorgehen soll ein wesentlicher Bestandteil im Kampf gegen russische Desinformation sein.

The resolution was passed with 480 votes in favor, 58 votes against, and 48 abstentions.

The complete resolution will be accessible here on January 23, 2025.

To find out how each member of parliament voted, click here.

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Viktor ALMQVIST

Armin WISDORFF

Philipp BAUER

Jakob FLOSSMANN

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Ex-interior minister advocates for a limit on political contributions while the government declares it 'not a priority'

Amidst concerns about foreign meddling, there are calls for the government to disclose its plans, particularly as reports suggest Elon Musk might donate substantially to Reform UK.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 01:

Ex-Interior Minister Lord Blunkett has advocated for a limit on political contributions from corporations and tougher regulations regarding the sources of funding.

The veteran Labour figure, now serving in the House of Lords, expressed to Sky News that he supports the ability of companies and trade unions to donate to political parties, but he believes it would be wise to impose a maximum limit on the amount they can contribute.

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He further urged for measures to block the clever tactics through which foreign funds infiltrate British politics.

Critics argue that despite the prohibition on political parties receiving funds from foreign sources, existing "loopholes" allow overseas donors to channel contributions through companies established in the UK.

The topic has gained attention following claims that X's owner, Elon Musk, might donate millions to Reform UK.

The wealthiest individual globally, originally from South Africa and now a U.S. citizen, is restricted from making direct contributions. Nevertheless, he has established a new entity in the United Kingdom, named X.AI LONDON, which was officially incorporated and listed with Companies House in December.

—

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Addressing peers in the House of Lords recently, Lord Blunkett called on the government to take immediate action to "protect our future" and "counteract those — be they harmful state entities or wealthy tycoons — who attempt to disrupt our democratic processes."

During discussions in the upper house, there were suggestions to completely prohibit corporate contributions. Additionally, figures such as Lord Dubs from the Labour Party supported measures to restrict overseas contributors from funding British advocacy organizations.

When questioned about which policies he would endorse, Lord Blunkett expressed to Sky News his worries regarding foreign financial contributions influencing not just the financing of political parties, but also the broader political system.

The Labour peer stated, "I have no objection to companies or trade unions making donations; however, it appears prudent to establish a maximum limit on the amount they can contribute."

"Furthermore, there is a pressing need for more stringent regulations concerning the sources of funds, verifying the authenticity of claims that they are 'locally produced,' and curtailing clever methods of significant foreign contributions."

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What are the existing regulations?

Individuals or corporations can contribute unlimited amounts to political parties provided that the funds originate from an allowable source.

Included in this are individuals listed on the UK electoral roll, UK-based corporations and labor unions, along with UK-registered informal groups.

There has been ongoing worry regarding the origins of funds received from corporations, especially since they can contribute money sourced from foreign or unclear origins.

Transparency International has revealed that nearly 10% of all funds declared by political parties and their affiliates since 2001 have originated from undisclosed or dubious sources.

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Stay informed about the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

The advocacy group, among others, contributed to a report last year highlighting that regulations intended to block questionable funds and foreign influence from infiltrating UK politics are "full of gaps."

The panel of impartial specialists suggested implementing a limit on contributions, cutting down the spending limit for party campaigns, and legally mandating that political parties disclose the actual origins of their funding.

Organizations such as the Electoral Commission have advocated for a cap on corporate donations to ensure they do not surpass the net profits these companies have made in the UK over the previous two years.

Headgear 'not a main focus'

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The matter is being advanced in the House of Lords, where members express that they can speak more openly compared to Members of Parliament, who might hesitate to pose challenging questions to their government.

The Labour Party pledged to tighten donation regulations in its platform, though specific details on the proposed measures and their implementation timeline remain uncertain.

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Addressing the Lords on Wednesday, junior minister Lord Khan of Burnley stated that imposing a limit on donations is not presently a main focus for the government. However, he emphasized that enhancing the regulations concerning donations is a priority, and that plans to do so will be announced in the near future.

A spokesperson from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government spoke to Sky News, stating, "It's crucial that we safeguard our democracy against harmful forces aiming to disrupt UK elections via unauthorized political contributions.

"This is the reason the administration pledged in its platform to enhance regulations concerning contributions to political parties, and efforts are continuously being made to fulfill this promise."

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Under proposed changes, members of the Senedd might be ousted if they break the code of conduct. Currently, unlike the situation at Westminster, the Welsh parliament lacks a procedure for removing members who violate ethical guidelines.

Welsh journalist @TomosGruffydd

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 1:

Under proposed changes, members of the Senedd might be at risk of losing their positions, as advised in new recommendations to the

At present, there is no established procedure for removing a Senedd member (MS) from their position if they violate the code of conduct for members.

In 2015, Westminster introduced laws to oust Members of Parliament convicted of specific crimes.

Initiating a by-election requires the signatures of 10% of the voters on a recall petition, collected over a span of six weeks.

Plans are underway to implement a recall mechanism in the Scottish parliament, with the proposed legislation currently under discussion at Holyrood.

However, the suggested method in Wales would involve a voting process instead of a petition, allowing voters just a single day to decide whether to retain the incumbent representative or to appoint the subsequent nominee from the party’s roster.

Should the standards committee suggest a recall as a disciplinary measure, it must then be approved through a voting process in the Senedd.

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The conduct standards committee discussed worries about the possibility of an unfilled seat if a non-affiliated, independent Senedd member were to be recalled.

The study urges the government of Wales to implement laws that would allow for recall procedures following the upcoming Senedd elections in May of the next year.

The committee is also examining the issues of political contributions and the prohibition of intentional deceit in Welsh politics as components of a broader investigation.

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At the upcoming election, the total count of Senedd representatives will rise from 60 to 96.

The electoral process is set to be modified, allowing for the election of six members who will represent 16 different regions throughout Wales.

Learn More: Wales decides to prohibit lies among Senedd members; Proposed gender quotas for the Senedd abandoned.

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Hannah Blythyn, the head of the standards committee, emphasized that politicians need to conduct themselves with honesty and decency, and be held responsible by the public when they fail to do so.

"She emphasized the necessity of establishing a strong system to ensure that Members of the Senedd (MSs) are fully accountable to the Welsh populace."

Ms. Blythyn stated that enacting new laws would enhance the system and bolster public trust in Senedd members.

A spokesperson for the Welsh government stated, "We will carefully review the recommendations from the committee and will provide a response in the appropriate timeframe. We are eager to see the committee's additional report on intentional deceit."

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The Church of England has expressed worry following the government's decision to significantly reduce the financial aid dedicated to the maintenance of registered historic religious sites. Initiated in 2001, this program assists various religious buildings such as churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples in covering the 20% VAT incurred on repair works.

Journalism professional @alixculbertson

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 10:

The Church of England has expressed concerns over the government's decision to cut funding for repairs of heritage worship sites, stating that it will offer only "temporary relief" and is worried about how a funding cap will impact major projects.

Former Anglican priest and current Heritage Minister, Sir Chris Bryant, has declared that the funding for the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme will be reduced to £23 million for the fiscal year 2025/26, down from £42 million allocated in the current year.

For the first time in nearly a quarter-century, an annual limit of £25,000 per building will be set to help adhere to budget constraints.

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The program offers financial support by reimbursing the 20% VAT incurred on repairs and renovations exceeding £1,000 at numerous registered religious sites such as churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples.

Initiated by Gordon Brown in 2001, this program has been consistently upheld by successive administrations, each ensuring its financing often extends for multiple years.

Since that time, close to £350 million has been allocated to maintain buildings that are not only historically and culturally important but also serve as venues for community events, preventing them from deteriorating.

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Amidst anxiety that the Labour administration might discontinue the program after its current term concludes in March, Sir Chris has assured its extension.

He did not verify whether the program would be extended past March 2026, a timeline that churches indicate complicates scheduling for maintenance.

'Short-term respite' and 'difficulties'

The Church of England expressed approval for the renewal, however, they voiced worries that bigger initiatives might suffer due to the imposed cap, and noted that funding was assured for only one more year.

The Heritage Alliance, speaking on behalf of institutions like English Heritage and the National Trust, voiced similar worries.

The Bishops of Bristol, Viv Faull, and Ramsbury, Andrew Rumsey, who oversee church buildings for the Church of England, expressed their approval of the "12-month extension," noting that it offers only "short-term respite for numerous minor initiatives either in progress or expected soon."

"Implementing a cap on the program will create obstacles for bigger initiatives," they noted.

They expressed their appreciation for the government's efforts in implementing the program, noting, "Since its introduction in 2001, the program has been essential for the sustenance of our buildings."

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Labour MP Marsha de Cordova, who also serves as the Second Church Estates Commissioner, emphasized: "It is crucial that we find a sustainable resolution for some of the nation’s key communal structures and make this program a lasting one."

Carole Souter, the head of The Heritage Alliance, expressed her approval of the announcement, stating that the initiative "has been a crucial support for thousands of ancient places of worship."

She also mentioned, "Given the limits on funding and the uncertainties that lie beyond March 2026, we worry that it might become more difficult to pursue bigger projects in the future."

She expressed the group's eagerness to collaborate with the government on establishing a lasting and successful plan after 2026.

Conservative shadow culture secretary Stuart Andrew charged Labour with concealing "their intentions to significantly reduce the funding for the program for months, leading to churches delaying essential renovations and initiatives due to concerns about facing a substantial tax invoice."

"He added that Labour needs to acknowledge that their choice to cut the budget for the scheme, effectively introducing a tax on worship, will severely impact historic churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious sites that play a central role in communities."

The majority of projects cost less than £5,000.

Sir Chris informed members of Parliament that although £42 million was allocated for the program last year, only £29 million was utilized.

He noted that since the introduction of the program, 94% of the applications received were for less than £25,000, and over 70% were for less than £5,000.

In the period before the announcement, churches informed Sky News that they had been reserving funds typically allocated for community support, concerned they might have to cover VAT on essential repairs if the program was discontinued.

Members of Parliament faced significant pressure from constituents to extend the program, with church members actively corresponding with their representatives, detailing the crucial role that churches play in their communities, especially since they make up almost half of the UK's registered historic buildings.

This falls short of flawless

Sir Chris informed members of parliament: "This challenging choice was made in the context of a difficult financial situation and considering various pressing spending priorities within the department."

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He confessed, "The sum is quite modest, to be honest.

Traditionally, cathedrals are built without perfect symmetry, as it is believed that only God can attain perfection.

"I understand this might not be ideal for everyone, but I hope it meets a satisfactory standard."

Financial support for maintenance is also provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which allocates a £15 million fund aimed at assisting religious sites including their repair needs. Additionally, the Churches Conservation Trust contributes to the upkeep and repair of over 350 churches.

Historic England’s Heritage At Risk program extends aid to several religious structures that are critically in need of restoration.

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Sir Keir Starmer pledges to confront 'NIMBYs' and accelerate major construction initiatives

The term NIMBYs, an acronym for "not in my back yard," describes individuals who resist local development. The Labour leadership promises to challenge this opposition.

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Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 2

Sir Keir Starmer is pledging to confront "the NIMBYs" by curtailing legal obstacles to infrastructure development – introducing strategies to prevent "newts and bats" from hindering building projects.

The Labour administration has prioritized economic expansion, focusing heavily on the construction of new infrastructure such as highways and energy facilities.

Recent efforts to finalize these projects have repeatedly been mired in legal disputes, an issue the government is now aiming to resolve.

NIMBYs, an acronym for "not in my back yard," describe individuals who resist development projects in their local vicinity.

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Sir Keir Starmer stated, "Blockers have dominated the legal system for too long, exploiting court procedures to hinder progress."

"We are putting a stop to this culture of challenge by confronting the NIMBYs and a dysfunctional system that has hindered our national advancement.

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"The government's strategy for transformation is unfolding through this initiative, which accelerates the UK's progress by overhauling the planning framework to support expansion and infrastructure development."

According to the government, over 58% of decisions regarding significant infrastructure projects end up facing legal challenges, which they say hinders their primary objective of economic expansion.

The text indicates that each issue typically requires about eighteen months to address.

Under the government's new proposals, cases deemed "unarguable" will be limited to a single court appeal, as opposed to the existing allowance of three.

The initial phase, known as the "paper permission stage," will be eliminated, and under new legislation, a High Court judge will have the authority to declare a case "completely without merit," thereby blocking any further appeals.

The government has expressed a desire to "eliminate the obstacles and postponements in the construction of homes and infrastructure caused by existing environmental commitments."

Learn more: Boris Johnson’s swimming pool at risk due to newts; HS2’s unused ‘bat shed’ costs £100 million

In a novel approach, developers will now contribute to a unified "nature restoration fund" aimed at safeguarding the environment. This central fund replaces the previous requirement for each project to implement its own environmental mitigations.

"The government stated that the practical new strategy prioritizes the construction of essential housing, roads, and hospitals over the protection of newts and bats."

The proposed modifications to the planning process are the result of a review conducted last year by the planning attorney, Lord Charles Banner, who suggested a more efficient system.

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Conservative opposition spokesperson for levelling up, Kevin Hollinrake, commented: "We are pleased that the government is adopting Conservative strategies to simplify the planning process. However, Labour's resistance to reducing EU-inherited bureaucratic hurdles, like nutrient neutrality, in their quest to maintain ties with the European Union, will impede UK's progress."

Labour ministers have remained inactive regarding the execution of policies set by the Conservatives aimed at reducing red tape and enhancing predictability for both community members and developers. Additionally, the strategy of dismantling numerous local councils and requiring all their staff, including planning officials, to reapply for their positions does not seem conducive to speeding up the decision-making process.

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Baroness Claire Fox, formerly an MP with the Brexit Party, reported to the House of Lords that ADHD diagnoses have risen by 18% from April 2023 to March 2024.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 10:

A member of the peerage has described ADHD as a "trendy condition," suggesting that numerous individuals identified with the disorder are "either not very sick or not sick in the slightest."

In a discussion in the House of Lords, Baroness Claire Fox, formerly of the Brexit Party, addressed the topic of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

She reported an 18% increase in ADHD medication prescriptions from April 2023 to March 2024.

Numerous NHS trusts have ceased both the diagnosis of ADHD and the provision of medication to adults, while children face extended delays in securing appointments.

In certain instances, private clinics are capable of providing both diagnosis and treatment under the NHS, yet concerns have surfaced regarding the reliability of their procedures.

Baroness Fox commented, "It’s quite sad how many individuals seek out these medications for their children or for themselves, believing it’s necessary to manage when, in fact, they are not very sick or not sick at all. Instead, they've been labeled as such."

Members of the legislature were discussing the Mental Health Bill.

Further Details on House of Lords

Sue Gray, Previously Chief of Staff to Sir Keir Starmer, Recommended for Peerage

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Baroness Catherine Meyer could be suspended for three weeks after referring to a fellow peer as 'Lord Poppadom' and for touching an MP's hair.

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The peer stated that "therapeutic professionals, advisors, and mental health practitioners" are too quick to diagnose individuals as sick.

She noted that there has been a significant "outcry," particularly among the youth, for "medications to assist them in managing life's challenges."

Baroness Fox reported observing a discussion in which young individuals displayed "quite aggressive" behavior, according to her, with demands for certain treatment.

"ADHD has become a trendy diagnosis," noting that "it is frequently given out too liberally."

Baroness Bennett, who previously headed the Green Party, stated: "I believe it's crucial that we don't underestimate the mental health crisis that is prevalent throughout our society."

"There is a significant lack of services that address the distinct and pressing needs of individuals."

The remarks follow the publication of statistics by Ofqual in November, which revealed an increase in the number of students receiving additional time for their examinations—a provision often made for those diagnosed with conditions such as ADHD. The data indicated a 42% increase in students granted an extra 15 minutes from the 2018/19 academic year to 2022/23. The trend was more pronounced in private schools, where 39% of pupils were afforded this accommodation in 2022/23, compared to 24% in non-selective public schools.

Learn more about the ADHDOnline tests endorsed for use by the NHS. Why is there an increase in ADHD diagnoses among adults? The NHS struggles to handle the overwhelming demand for autism and ADHD services.

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Independent peer and former psychiatrist Baroness Elaine Murphy addressed the Lords, stating, "It's clear that many conditions labeled as mental disorders are actually forms of distress requiring a different kind of intervention."

She commented: "Many websites are completely worthless, enticing individuals to spend money on psychotherapy and consultations with psychotherapists and other counselors to discover their issues, while merely serving to line the pockets of those offering little in return."

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Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall discussed the increasing trend of employees taking leave due to mental health concerns during an interview on the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge.

The government official noted the complexity of the situation but expressed approval of the decreased stigma surrounding mental health concerns.

Ms. Kendall remarked, "daily life naturally comes with its own pressures and challenges."

She recounted her trip to a supermarket where the management noted that the crowd was a mix of individuals with legitimate health issues and others who needed to realize the realities of the professional environment.

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Starmer Against the Obstructionists

Thursday, January 23, 2025, 08:40

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

Sky News' assistant political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Dan Bloom preview the upcoming day in UK politics.

Today, Sir Keir Starmer is actively challenging NIMBYism to stimulate economic expansion, proposing measures that limit the frequency of legal challenges against infrastructure projects.

The administration is optimistic that initiatives such as nuclear power plants, wind farms, and rail networks could be constructed faster. However, the question remains whether this is achievable and effective.

Amid recent borrowing figures exceeding expectations, Rachel Reeves faces continued pressure to adhere to her financial regulations. However, Sam argues that reductions in welfare spending will not be beneficial for her upcoming spring statement.

Today's headline story is undoubtedly the sentencing of Axel Rudakubana for the Southport murders. As more information about his appalling actions comes to light, Sam and Dan will explore the ongoing political repercussions.

Reach out to us via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or drop us an email at jackandsam@sky.uk

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