Is Love Island Beneficial for Rachel Reeves?

Friday, January 31, 2025, 05:26 AM,

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The chancellor appeared to draw inspiration from Love Island when she unveiled her economic growth strategies this week.

Will her latest proposals truly be the groundbreaking revelations her team is anticipating? Are they capable of capturing widespread interest?

Can Rachel Reeves' strategy succeed in maintaining unity among the cabinet and the Labour Party members, many of whom have historically opposed the third runway at Heathrow?

As we mark the fifth anniversary of Brexit, is Sir Keir Starmer moving towards a closer relationship with Europe?

Get in touch by emailing us at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, tweeting @BethRigby on X, or sending a WhatsApp voice note to 07934 200 444.

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Michael Matheson: Uproar over £11,000 iPad expense 'greatly exaggerated,' claims disgraced MSP

Michael Matheson resigned from his position as Scotland's health secretary last year following widespread uproar regarding an almost £11,000 bill for iPad data roaming. In a recent interview, the MSP stated that his adversaries aimed to exploit the incident for "political gain."

Scotland correspondent @Jenster13

Friday, January 31, 2025, at 2

The uproar over Michael Matheson's almost £11,000 iPad data roaming charges was "totally exaggerated," stated the embarrassed MSP.

The Scottish National Party member resigned from the position of Scotland's health secretary last year following inquiries about the exorbitant bill.

The Member of Scottish Parliament for Falkirk West initially charged the cost to taxpayers but later reversed this decision, stating that the device was used solely for parliamentary duties while on a family vacation in Morocco.

Subsequently, it was revealed that his sons, who are in their teens, had utilized the work iPad as a hotspot to watch football matches during their journey.

Mr. Matheson was subsequently suspended from the Scottish Parliament and had his salary reduced for violating the MSP code of conduct.

During an interview with the Institute for Government (IFG) think tank for their Ministers Reflect series, Mr. Matheson, who entered office as an MSP in 1999, discussed his tenure as a minister.

In his speech, which took place last October and was released this past Friday, he mentioned that his rivals aimed to exploit the situation for political gain.

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Mr. Matheson expressed, "It's important to understand that as a minister, any errors you make can thrust you into the center of a political controversy.

What really accelerated things for me was that, once the general election was announced, everything intensified greatly.

"The situation escalated significantly as people recognized a political benefit they could gain from it. In my opinion, it was exaggerated far beyond what was reasonable."

During the 2022 Christmas season, Mr. Matheson, who served as the secretary for net zero, energy, and transport in Nicola Sturgeon's administration, took a family vacation.

Before his journey, he neglected to change an old SIM card, resulting in higher charges for data usage.

Mr. Matheson, who assumed the role of health secretary in March 2023 during Humza Yousaf's tenure as first minister, informed the Holyrood that he did not know his sons had utilized the iPad for internet tethering when he first presented the bill.

He stated that his wife revealed the truth to him following a surge of public outrage over the incident.

After his wife confessed, Mr. Matheson initially did not disclose his sons' participation publicly.

He maintained that the iPad was solely utilized for legislative tasks and attributed the high charges to the old SIM card.

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When asked by reporters several days after becoming aware of the facts, he persisted in denying that the iPad was utilized for personal purposes until he issued a statement to Holyrood.

Mr. Matheson resigned from his position as health secretary before the completion of an investigation by the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body (SPCB), which found that he had violated the MSP code of conduct.

Discover further details from Sky News: Starmer and Reeves are gearing up for a battle over economic growth, a battle they must win. A recent survey reveals that most people favor a limit on political contributions.

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When questioned about takeaways for other ministers, he shared with the IFG, "Reflecting on my experiences, the key takeaway is the realization of the relentlessly harsh nature of the political arena we are involved in.

Ultimately, I was driven by a wish to keep my son's actions away from the media's attention.

"It was utterly relentless, even though when you present it, they accuse you of using it as an excuse. Truly, I'm not, but I'm just explaining that this is what occurred.

"I would suggest to ministers that the environment can be rather relentless. Incidents occur regardless of one’s experience, background, or the efforts made to keep the government out of challenging situations."

He further explained: "The consequences of a mistake as a backbencher are not as severe.

"When you hold a position as a senior minister, expect to be pursued relentlessly, and this pursuit is often quite literal."

Mr. Matheson mentioned that several individuals offered their support to him amid the controversy.

He further mentioned that the examination greatly affected his family, leading to his teenage sons being pulled out of school and his wife suffering from stress-related illness.

He stated: "It's documented publicly that our home was burglarized."

When asked about Mr. Matheson's recent statements, First Minister John Swinney responded, "The parliament has addressed all these matters and has reached its decisions, and those decisions remain in place."

"We must accept that this is the decision reached by parliament."

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The Scottish Tories voiced criticism of Mr. Matheson's comments.

MSP Rachael Hamilton, who serves as the deputy leader of her party, expressed, "Taxpayers will be incensed to learn that Michael Matheson is attempting to minimize the controversy that led to his shameful resignation."

The community was justifiably outraged when the former SNP health secretary deemed it appropriate to have taxpayers cover the cost of his iPad expenses.

He continuously deceived both them and the parliamentary body and declined to apologize for his actions.

"It's clear why many in Scotland feel let down by top SNP leaders in Holyrood, given their apparent disregard for the electorate."

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Chris Philp supports Kemi Badenoch's critique of Conservative immigration policies, following his agreement that the former Tory administration faltered on immigration issues. This comes after Dame Priti Patel stood by her tenure as Home Secretary.

Friday, January 31, 2025, 11:

The shadow home secretary has reinforced Kemi Badenoch's critique of the Conservative Party’s handling of immigration issues, acknowledging that "errors occurred."

Former Home Office minister Chris Philp teamed up with the Conservative leader to critique the past administration's immigration policies, following ex-Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel's decision not to apologize for implementing the points-based immigration system she established.

During his conversation with Anna Jones on Sky News Breakfast, Mr. Philp stated, "As Kemi and I have consistently pointed out, the former administration did make errors."

"Kemi and I have maintained full transparency on this matter. We have been truthful. However, there were some errors made."

The disagreement arises after a report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicated that the UK's population is expected to increase by five million over the next decade, even though the number of deaths is forecast to exceed the number of births during the same period.

The anticipated increase in population is solely attributed to immigration.

Dame Priti, who held the position of Home Secretary from 2019 to 2022, was a guest on The Sun's program, Never Mind The Ballots, earlier this week. During her appearance, she faced questions regarding the surge in UK immigration to 1.2 million annually after her policies were implemented in 2021.

She mentioned that the Conservatives had always claimed that Brexit would lead to increased migration from other global regions, though she confessed that the actual numbers were higher than she had expected.

Yet, the current shadow foreign secretary stood by her points-based approach, asserting it terminated free movement and permitted only the most talented and capable individuals to work in the UK.

"She noted, 'Is it the brightest and the best arriving in our nation? Individuals on skilled work pathways and visas? That's legal immigration.'"

"It's lawful. Individuals who arrive here, engage in employment, and enhance our economy are the most talented and exceptional."

When questioned once more about the figure of 1.2 million, Dame Priti responded: "How would you address the Ukrainians currently residing in our nation? What about the BNOs [British Nationals Overseas]? And what about those who have arrived here fleeing from conflict?"

She emphasized that the volume of legal migration largely consists of individuals arriving on skilled visas, notably those employed in the health and social care field, a sector that was crucial throughout the pandemic.

Mr. Philp conveyed to Sky News that the figure of 1.2 million people was "excessively high," and that the Conservative party now intends to implement a "strict, legally enforceable limit" on the issuance of visas. However, he did not specify the exact number for this cap.

Explore further: True progress in migration issues still echoes the 'stop the boats' mantra. Kemi Badenoch is navigating a risky route on immigration policies.

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After the interview, Ms. Badenoch issued a statement distancing herself from Dame Priti's remarks.

A representative for the Conservative leader stated: "Although the previous Conservative administration attempted to manage the figures, we were unsuccessful in doing so."

They noted that it is now a Conservative policy to implement a strict limit on the numbers as immigration continues to be "excessively high."

After the criticism, Dame Priti released a statement trying to soften her previous defense.

She posted on X: "Our country's immigration system is inadequate. As mentioned in my interview, I was dissatisfied with the elevated figures during the Conservative's rule.

"Our organization has transitioned to new management, and it is crucial that we understand our past errors and explore ways to improve."

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Downing Street has declared that Sir Keir Starmer fully trusts the attorney general, according to a spokesperson. This affirmation comes as Lord Hermer KC faces criticism from multiple negative media reports suggesting he is obstructing government policy.

Political journalist @alexrogerssky

Friday, January 31, 2025, at 3

Downing Street announced that the prime minister fully trusts his attorney general, regardless of unfavorable media reports.

Recently, Lord Hermer KC has been at the center of multiple unfavorable reports, among them an article in The Times highlighting worries among cabinet ministers that his alterations to legal counsel have obstructed legislative progress.

In the latter part of the previous year, Lord Hermer updated directives for government legal advisors, mandating that they inform ministers of the potential illegality of policies lacking a defensible argument should they face judicial scrutiny.

The Times has reported that cabinet ministers are annoyed because Lord Hermer is blocking policies, even when there's only a slight risk they might be overturned by the judiciary.

A source from the government informed Sky News' Deputy Political Editor, Sam Coates, that departments are apprehensive about the attorney general actually issuing decisions on matters.

"They noted that this could make decision-making more complex. "Our preference is for him to avoid making absolute decisions as much as possible."

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In response to inquiries about Sir Keir Starmer's trust in Lord Hermer, a spokesperson from Downing Street stated, "He has complete confidence in him, and I would reject any claims that he is delaying legislation."

They further stated, "It’s important to understand that when the government does not comply with legal standards, it results in financial burdens for taxpayers and impedes the development of new infrastructure."

"Adherence to legal guidelines is crucial, yet it's vital to ensure that these laws do not become obstacles. Our aim is to decrease the number of attempts from three to one, significantly cutting through bureaucratic delays. It is beneficial for all parties involved, including the attorney general, the prime minister, and the cabinet, that legal reforms are efficiently implemented."

Following his appointment as attorney general after the Labour Party's overwhelming election win, Lord Hermer, serving as the chief legal advisor to the government, revised the guidelines on legal risks, emphasizing that ministers should consider advancing cases they are likely to lose only as a final option.

The shift represents a move away from the tactics of Lord Hermer's predecessor, Suella Braverman, who contended that government attorneys were "overly conservative in their counsel," unnecessarily obstructing the goals of ministerial policy.

"In 2022, she noted that although the government typically prevails in most court cases, there's a noticeable pattern of attorneys providing pessimistic advice which later turns out to be incorrect."

In addition to worries about revised legal counsel, there are also inquiries into whether Lord Hermer's past as a barrister—particularly his work for ex-Sinn Fein chief Gerry Adams—might lead to conflicts of interest in his present position.

Lord Hermer recently disclosed that he had stepped back from advising ministers on specific issues, noting that traditional practices prevented him from sharing further details.

The Labour Party's senior official assured members of the House of Lords that a stringent process was established to handle these situations, emphasizing that his department would consistently prioritize caution.

The Conservative Party has called for an inquiry by Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald into Lord Hermer's involvement, particularly concerning how he represented Gerry Adams in issues linked to the Legacy Act.

The current Labour administration is moving forward with plans to overturn and substitute the Legacy Act. This legislation presently prevents Mr. Adams and other individuals who were detained without trial in the 1970s from seeking compensation for their wrongful imprisonment.

Belfast's high court determined that sections of the legislation violated the European Convention on Human Rights.

Further Reading: Senior Conservative Criticizes Party's Immigration Stance Alongside Kemi Badenoch; MPs Hear Arguments for Allowing Doctors to Refuse Participation in Assisted Dying Recommendations

Sir Keir has stated he will explore "every possible method" to prevent former Troubles detainees from receiving compensation, following warnings that abolishing the Act might result in Mr. Adams potentially receiving a significant financial settlement from public funds.

Last week, Lord Hermer stated that his representation of Mr. Adams was related to a matter unrelated to the Act, and he also served as legal counsel for the family of a young British soldier who was killed by the IRA in the 1970s.

Reports indicate that the attorney general was paid a fee of £30,000 for defending Mr. Adams in a compensation lawsuit filed by those affected by IRA attacks.

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Addressing inquiries regarding Lord Hermer's payment in the Commons, Solicitor General Lucy Rigby stated: "A fundamental and recognized element of the British legal framework is that she is aware that barristers must accept cases if they are free and capable of handling them. This is the famous cab rank rule.

"She is also cognizant of the fact that, in simple terms, barristers do not embody their clients."

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AstraZeneca cancels £450 million vaccine facility in Liverpool following reduced funding by Labour

The pharmaceutical company reports that the incoming Labour administration has pledged less financial support compared to the former Conservative government.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Friday, January 31, 2025, at 5

AstraZeneca has scrapped its proposal for a £450 million vaccine production facility in Liverpool, citing reductions in government financial support.

The funding, revealed during last year's Conservative spring budget, hinged on a shared accord between the Treasury and external stakeholders, as stated then.

The project has been canceled as the current Labour ministers have allocated less funding than the previous administration, according to the pharmaceutical company.

An AstraZeneca representative informed Sky News that the company has decided to halt its intended investment in Speke after talks with the existing government.

"Multiple elements played a role in reaching this decision, notably the schedule and the decrease in the final bid relative to what was previously proposed by the former administration."

The funds were intended to enlarge a current facility in Speke and were praised as a demonstration of trust in Liverpool and the UK's life sciences industry.

The representative for AstraZeneca stated that their Speke facility will maintain production and distribution of their flu vaccine to patients both in the UK and globally.

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AstraZeneca's decision impacts Reeves adversely

A representative from the government stated that modifications to the investment structure proposed by AstraZeneca resulted in a lower grant offer from the government.

The spokesperson further stated, "Each allocation of government grants must prove its worth to taxpayers. Regrettably, even after considerable effort by government staff, a viable resolution has not been reached."

AstraZeneca remains actively involved in the government's efforts to formulate a new industrial strategy. Additionally, the company continues to be a part of a flourishing life sciences sector, which contributes £108 billion to the national economy and supports more than 300,000 highly skilled positions throughout the UK.

The verdict represents a setback for Rachel Reeves's latest efforts to stimulate economic expansion.

During a speech this week where he mentioned AstraZeneca, the chancellor emphasized that life sciences are crucial for economic growth.

She unveiled a proposal for a development corridor between Oxford and Cambridge, which she stated could potentially boost the public treasury by as much as £78 billion.

Andrew Griffith, the opposition's business spokesperson, stated, "Incompetence is something you can't inoculate against. Just as they discuss growth, it appears Labour has mishandled an agreement with AstraZeneca, a major UK firm and a key player in the vital life sciences industry."

The recently established facility in Speke is designed to improve pandemic readiness in the UK.

News surfaced soon after the Labour Party's victory in the general election, indicating possible risks as government officials highlighted the necessity to reduce spending on infrastructure initiatives to address a £22 billion deficit in the national budget.

The acknowledgment follows statements by former health secretary Matt Hancock, who emphasized the importance of enhancing the UK's vaccine production capabilities as a vital element in gearing up for potential future pandemics.

Speaking at the COVID Inquiry earlier this month, Mr. Hancock stated that the UK's capabilities for producing vaccines were "insufficient."

He explained: "The importance of having manufacturing and completion processes located domestically in the UK becomes critical, a factor which is not usually the case under normal circumstances."

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Home Secretary Cautions Tech Firms Could Enable a Repeat of 'Southport Tragedy'

Axel Rudakubana, the perpetrator behind the Southport killings, had "effortlessly" accessed a terrorist training guide affiliated with al Qaeda and viewed explicit videos of a terrorist stabbing incident prior to his murder of three young girls.

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 2:

Home Secretary cautions that the extremist content accessed by Southport assailant Axel Rudakubana might incite further violence if technology firms do not intervene.

In correspondence obtained by Sky News addressed to TikTok, X, Meta, and Google, Yvette Cooper along with Technology Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted the stark risks associated with not removing harmful content from the internet.

This week, testimony revealed that Rudakubana had no trouble accessing an al Qaeda training manual and viewed violent videos of a terrorist knife assault just hours before he killed three young girls.

Despite being listed by the Home Office as illegal content that could aid someone planning a mass violence or terrorist act, the manual is still accessible on the internet, according to the letter.

Video evidence depicting the attack on Sydney Bishop Mari Emmanuel with a knife is still accessible in the UK, even though it has been taken down by officials in Australia.

The secretaries of home affairs and technology have urged the firms to "promptly eliminate any illegal content from this roster that exists on your platforms, specifically including content associated with Axel Rudakubana."

"The ministers expressed that the ready availability of such hazardous and unlawful content is intolerable."

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Starting in March, businesses will be required to eliminate unlawful content, such as violent imagery, from their sites as mandated by the newly enacted Online Safety Act.

Starting in the summer, they will be required to address materials deemed unsuitable for children.

The pair of ministers emphasized to the major technology companies that they are ethically obligated to address this issue immediately.

"They argued that it is unnecessary to delay action until laws take effect."

Explore further on Sky News: New alerts issued for high winds and possible floods throughout the UK. Tragic accident: Three teenagers killed when their vehicle collided with a tree

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On Thursday, Axel Rudakubana was given the second-most extensive life sentence ever recorded in England after he entered a guilty plea in court.

An 18-year-old has been sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 52 years, for the killings of nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar, six-year-old Bebe King, and seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe. The murders occurred in July of the previous year during a dance class themed around Taylor Swift.

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Six decades since his passing, Sir Winston Churchill's lasting impact as a revered icon continues to resonate both nationally and internationally, mirroring the extensive mourning observed at his death.

Sky News analyst @adamboultonTABB

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 4:

Sixty years ago this week, on January 24, 1965, Sir Winston Churchill passed away. His funeral was held on January 30, after his body lay in state for three days at the Palace of Westminster.

This marked the first instance since World War II that a state funeral was conducted for an individual outside of the Royal Family.

Churchill was revered at the time as the prime minister who guided Great Britain to triumph against Hitler and the Nazis. Since then, he has consistently ranked first in polls determining the "Greatest Briton."

In 1965, numerous individuals who had experienced the war were still living. To commemorate his life and passing, the Royal Mint issued a 'Churchill Crown' coin, valued at five shillings. At that time, producing such commemorative coins was uncommon.

The burial ceremony was both extraordinary and lavish, featuring the participation of thousands of military personnel from various service branches. The event had been in the works for over a decade, with the person it honored closely involved in the planning despite their declining health.

The solemn magnificence of the event solidified Britain's status as a master of ceremonial display. However, following the event, French President General Charles de Gaulle, whom Churchill had reluctantly agreed to invite, remarked, "Now Britain is no longer a great power."

The enduring legacy of Sir Winston Churchill as an iconic figure, over fifty years after his death, is as astonishing as the national and international response when he passed away.

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London's theater scene is set to unveil a new play focusing on Winston Churchill, titled "Churchill in Moscow." In this latest portrayal, Roger Allam, known for his role as Inspector Thursday in the television series "Endeavour," takes on the role of the iconic British leader. Allam joins a distinguished list of actors who have previously depicted Churchill, such as Brian Cox, Albert Finney, Timothy Spall, Timothy West, Robert Hardy, and Richard Burton.

Came back again

Amidst the swearing-in of a new US president, the placement of Sir Winston's bust has resurfaced as a point of contention, particularly within Britain's conservative news circles.

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Donald Trump has restored the bronze sculpture by Sir Jacob Epstein to a notable spot in the Oval Office. Initially loaned to President George W. Bush by the British Embassy, the sculpture was relocated within the White House by both of Trump’s immediate predecessors, Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Trump has now returned it to its prominent position for the second time.

Obama prominently displayed a bust of Martin Luther King Jr. In contrast, Joe Biden chose to highlight Irish-American Bobby Kennedy — that's the elder RFK, not his son RFK Jr., who has diverged from the family's traditional paths and was recently appointed as Trump's health secretary.

For many years, a duplicate of the Epstein sculpture has resided in the private quarters of the presidency – a present given to Lyndon Johnson in 1965.

Winston Churchill's descendant, Nicholas Soames, who previously served as a Conservative Member of Parliament and is currently a member of the House of Lords, is not swayed by the ongoing commotion. He clarifies, "It's merely on loan. Honestly, the presence or absence of Churchill's bust in the White House isn't an indicator of the robustness of the transatlantic alliance."

Trump's appreciation for Churchill seems to stem more from a personal connection than from a broader love for British culture. His strikingly formal portrait for this year's inauguration closely mimics the iconic, defiant stances often associated with Churchill, akin to his "we shall never surrender" pose. Similarly, a number of Trump's social media updates often misquote Churchill's renowned sayings. Among Trump's favorite films is "The Darkest Hour," in which Gary Oldman portrays Churchill.

Comparing Leaders

Supporters close to the president often liken him to historical figures. For instance, in 2020, after Trump forcefully made his way to St John's Church across from the White House for a photo opportunity following its damage by a firebomb, his official spokesperson described the act as conveying "a message of resilience and determination, similar to Churchill surveying the damages from the Blitz."

Following a visit with his father, who recently survived a lethal assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, Eric Trump compared his father to Churchill, citing his disregard for political correctness.

Trump isn't the sole American president to draw inspiration from Churchill. Both Eisenhower and George W. Bush also explored painting, partly motivated by Churchill’s artistic prowess.

Trump, who is fond of grand displays, might feel let down that his second inauguration, with a viewership of 24.6 million, didn't attract as many viewers as Joe Biden's or Barack Obama's initial inaugurations.

Part of the reason could be the division of audiences by new media orchestrated by tech moguls, who received personal invitations from Trump to attend the ceremony.

In 1965, the same figure of 25 million people in the UK, which was a significantly smaller nation compared to the US, tuned in to watch Churchill's funeral. At that time, viewers had the choice of only two television channels, with both BBC and ITV airing the ceremony live.

On the BBC, this state event marked the final occasion Richard Dimbleby, the founding figure of the Dimbleby broadcasting dynasty, served as host. It also drew significant viewership in the US. RTE in Ireland did not broadcast the funeral live. Additionally, neither the Irish president nor the prime minister were present at the event.

As a young child, I vividly recall two major events from the era of black and white TV that stood out. One was the coverage of a significant funeral, and the other, England's triumphant 1966 World Cup win. Live broadcasts from various sites were uncommon at the time. Interestingly, both the funeral and the World Cup final were held on a Saturday afternoon, a period when television typically offered little to no programming.

Exceptional privilege of a state funeral

The burial ceremony was a grand televised event featuring infantry and mounted troops, aerial salutes from the RAF, and transportation by boat, train, human carriers, and a hearse. Planning for these elaborate rituals began after Churchill suffered a significant stroke in 1953.

In his second tenure as the head of government, his deteriorating health was kept secret from the citizens, despite him being partially paralyzed. Royal aides and governmental staff at Westminster were mobilized to initiate Operation Hope Not.

Implementing the plan necessitated a communication from the Queen to Parliament, followed by a motion in Parliament the day after Churchill's death, to approve a state funeral.

State funerals are typically held for national leaders. In recent times, prominent figures like the Queen Mother, Princess Diana, the Duke of Edinburgh, and ex-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher received ceremonial funerals, which, while significant, did not match the grandeur or follow the international norms of a state funeral. The most recent state funeral in the UK was for Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022.

Sir Winston Churchill's preserved remains were displayed continuously in Westminster Hall for a period of three days. Over 300,000 individuals passed by to honor him. His funeral commenced at precisely 9:45 am, marked by the ringing of Big Ben, which remained silent for the remainder of the day. Meanwhile, a 90-gun salute echoed through Hyde Park, each shot representing a year of Churchill's life.

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As military personnel and onlookers filled the streets of London, the casket of Churchill was set atop a gun carriage, drawn by 98 sailors from the Royal Navy to St. Paul's Cathedral. Inside, distinguished pallbearers, among them four prime ministers—three from Britain and one from Australia—carried the coffin. Clement Attlee, who was 82, tripped on the steps and was provided a chair to sit on.

Queen deviated from traditional procedures

Following the ceremony, the funeral bier was transported to the dock near Tower Bridge and subsequently moved up the river to Waterloo Station. As the vessel moved along, the cranes at the dock bowed in a poignant display, though there is some contention over whether this act by the dock workers was entirely voluntary. Despite the fact that his last voyage would be on the Great Western Railway, Churchill deliberately chose to travel via Waterloo instead of Paddington station, a decision intended to underscore moments of British historical significance.

He was laid to rest in St Martin's Church, located in Bladon on the Blenheim estate, which is the residence of the Duke of Marlborough, his cousin. He was interred next to his parents and various relatives from the Spencer Churchill family.

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Churchill served as the initial prime minister during Queen Elizabeth's tenure. On the day of his funeral, the Queen deviated from traditional protocols to honor him. She organized a gathering for the prominent figures present, which included nine kings, 15 presidents, and 14 incumbent prime ministers.

It may be for the best that Donald Trump won't be present to witness whether his last rites surpass that.

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Trump commends Starmer on his excellent performance

The U.S. President mentioned that he has a good relationship with the Prime Minister, noting that this is the case even though the UK leader is "liberal, which is somewhat unlike me."

Journalist Samuel Osborne, Twitter handle: @samuelos

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 7:

Donald Trump expressed his approval of Sir Keir Starmer's performance, stating that he believes Starmer has been "very effective." Trump also mentioned that he and Starmer are scheduled to have a phone conversation within the next day.

The U.S. president noted that he has a good relationship with the prime minister, even though he acknowledged that Sir Keir's liberal views are somewhat distinct from his own.

"However, I believe he's a really good individual," stated Mr. Trump. "So far, I believe he has performed admirably."

"He has been an advocate for his country's ideology. While I might not share his views, I maintain a strong rapport with him."

Sir Keir had previously joined Mr. Trump for a dinner meeting at Trump Tower in New York in September, prior to Mr. Trump being elected for a second presidential term, and has conducted two calls with him before his inauguration.

Speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One, Mr. Trump indicated that his initial overseas visit might be to either the UK or Saudi Arabia, noting that Saudi Arabia was the first country he visited as president in his first term.

The U.S. President mentioned that typically the United Kingdom would be visited, but on his recent trip, he chose Saudi Arabia due to their commitment to purchasing billions of dollars in American goods.

"If the conditions were favorable, I would repeat that action," he stated.

Mr. Trump expressed positive sentiments towards Sir Keir, contrasting with the views of billionaire Elon Musk. Musk, who has been a prominent figure in Mr. Trump's second term, has consistently advocated for the replacement of the prime minister.

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Biden reverses ban on 2,000-pound bombs to Israel

Mr. Trump also mentioned that he directed the US military to overturn a decision made by former president Joe Biden to stop the delivery of heavy 2,000-pound bombs to Israel.

"Mr. Trump mentioned that the payments have been made and they have been anticipating their arrival for quite some time," regarding the munitions.

President Biden temporarily halted the shipment of munitions to Israel, citing worries about potential civilian casualties amidst the conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

Explore further with Sky News: Trump's Admiration for Churchill ExplainedMusk Encourages German Right-wing Supporters to Overcome Historical RemorseHolocaust Survivor Shares His Remarkable Story of Escape

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Trump suggests that Egypt and Jordan should accept more Palestinian refugees from Gaza

Mr. Trump additionally suggested that Egypt and Jordan should accept more Palestinians from Gaza. When questioned whether this proposal was meant as a short-term or permanent solution, he responded, "It could be either."

Discussing his recent conversation with King Abdullah of Jordan, the president remarked, "I expressed to him my desire for Jordan to increase its involvement, especially considering the current chaotic state of the Gaza Strip. It's truly in disarray. I would appreciate it if he could accommodate more people."

"He expressed his desire for Egypt to accept individuals," he continued, noting his plans to discuss the matter with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al Sisi on Sunday.

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He described the Palestinian area as being completely destroyed, noting, "It’s essentially a wreckage zone; the destruction is widespread and there are fatalities," and further mentioned, "Therefore, I prefer to collaborate with some Arab countries to construct homes in a new area where they might finally experience some peace."

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President dismisses multiple agency watchdogs

Mr. Trump affirmed that he had dismissed 17 independent oversight officials across various government bodies, stating his intention to "appoint competent individuals who will perform excellently."

Investigators typically serve as a neutral safeguard against the misuse and abuse of authority within US government agencies. Although appointed by the president, they are meant to operate impartially and often work under administrations from both major political parties.

The decision follows an executive order from Mr. Trump, leading the US State Department to halt new funding for the majority of American foreign development aid programs.

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Rachel Reeves stated that every aspect should be thoroughly investigated in the Southport inquiry. The Chancellor mentioned that the anti-terror Prevent program must reconsider its definition of terrorism, given that the Southport perpetrator lacked a clear ideology.

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 10:

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Rachel Reeves emphasized that every possible avenue should be explored in the Southport investigation to prevent such a "horrific" event from recurring.

The chancellor stated on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that the investigation launched this week into Axel Rudakubana's murder of three young girls and the wounding of 10 more last summer is "crucial".

"She emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from the event, not only to offer clarity to the families involved but also to prevent such incidents from recurring."

"Every possibility should be explored."

On Thursday, Rudakubana received a life sentence with no possibility of parole for 52 years after he abruptly entered a guilty plea to murder charges on what would have been the start of his trial.

He was reported to the Prevent anti-terrorism initiative on three occasions, confessed to bringing a knife to school repeatedly, and assaulted a fellow student with a hockey stick.

Ms. Reeves commented, "The events in Southport were horrific, and the actions of that individual were both wicked and cowardly.

The repercussions of this event will have a lasting effect on the affected families. It is appropriate that a public inquiry has been initiated to determine the failures that occurred, particularly given that the individual was reported to the Prevent program three times, was repeatedly caught with a knife, and had assaulted a schoolmate.

"Nevertheless, he managed to evade the system's controls."

She expressed her belief that the investigation must define what Prevent considers to be terrorism, given that Rudakubana lacked a clear ideology, leading to his removal from Prevent's roster.

"The chancellor emphasized that lacking an ideological motive does not preclude someone from being a mass murderer and highly dangerous."

Explore further: The terrifying quarter-hour that resulted in the deaths of three young individuals

Ms. Reeves stood by Sir Keir Starmer and other officials for not disclosing Rudakubana’s history when the incident occurred last summer.

She emphasized the necessity of cautious language when government officials, including ministers, comment on issues prior to a trial.

"If a government official of any party were to say something that could potentially bias a court case, they would face severe backlash and likely not be forgiven. Therefore, it's crucial for ministers to choose their words carefully."

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, a mother of two daughters close in age to the three victims, expressed her support for the Southport investigation, describing the event as "horrific."

She expressed to Trevor Phillips her astonishment at the involvement of numerous governmental agencies at one time.

"Why do some individuals still fall through the gaps despite the numerous plans and programs implemented by past administrations from various political backgrounds?" she questioned.

The Conservative leader further stated her belief that the government must investigate the origins of such behaviors, be they driven by any type of extremist ideology, be it based on religion or stemming from hatred towards a specific group or gender.

"She emphasized the importance of integrating more individuals into society across various issues."

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Kemi Badenoch 'definitely' supports third Heathrow runway – as Reeves suggests possible backing

The leader of the Conservative Party, representing an area that encompasses Stansted Airport, stated her previous support for enlarging the UK's biggest airport, affirming her consistent stance on the issue.

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 2:

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Kemi Badenoch expressed her definite support for the construction of a third runway at Heathrow Airport.

The leader of the Conservative Party revealed on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that she has previously backed making the UK's biggest airport larger and remains committed to that stance.

"Previously, I've cast my vote in favor of the third runway," stated Ms Badenoch, representing the North West Essex constituency that encompasses London Stansted Airport.

Stay updated: Get the latest political news live

"I understand the challenges faced by many communities situated near airports, as I represent such an area myself. I have always supported progress and development."

"My aim is to ensure that it's handled correctly."

Chancellor Rachel Reeves signaled earlier this week her intention to disregard environmental concerns in favor of economic expansion by approving a third runway at the west London airport.

The role might put her at odds with fellow workers, such as energy secretary Ed Miliband. Mr. Miliband has stated that he would not step down even if the government supports the construction of a third runway.

Ms. Badenoch stated that if the airport believes it can construct a third runway that fulfills all its established criteria, then the appropriate action should be taken.

"She emphasized the importance of planning for what's ahead, stating, 'I believe it's crucial that we commit to building infrastructure. I've supported this in the past, so there's no reason for me to shift my stance now.'"

Ms. Reeves did not definitively dismiss the possibility of supporting a third runway when questioned by Trevor Phillips.

When questioned about whether this would be included in her strategy to stimulate economic expansion, Ms. Reeves stated, "I won't respond to rumors."

"This week, what you've observed is our commitment to simplifying the process of constructing facilities in Britain, be it transportation, energy infrastructure, or housing."

"Governments have long supported those who obstruct rather than those who construct, and this will soon shift."

She also mentioned that the government will "share news about investments at the appropriate time."

Proposals to enlarge Heathrow Airport have long been a source of debate.

Though approved by parliament in 2018, subsequent plans have been hindered by legal issues and the impact of the COVID pandemic.

Earlier this week, environmental organizations strongly protested against the proposed plans.

Jenny Bates, a transportation advocate with Friends of the Earth, labeled the plan for an additional runway at Heathrow as "extremely reckless during a climate crisis."

Explore further on Sky News: Cooper cautions tech firms could lead to 'another Southport' incident, while Trump commends Starmer for his 'very good job' performance.

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Alethea Warrington of the climate organization Possible stated, "A government that professes to lead on climate issues would be making a disastrous error by allowing expansions of airports."

A representative for Heathrow earlier informed Sky News that they would not respond to discussions regarding a third runway, but mentioned, "to expand the economy, we need to increase capacity at the UK's hub airport, which is currently at maximum capacity."

The statement mentioned that it was exploring possible ways to construct a third runway at Heathrow, ensuring compliance with stringent standards related to carbon emissions, noise, and air quality.

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Tighter regulations on internet sales of knives announced

Axel Rudakubana acquired the knife from Amazon that he employed in the fatal stabbing of three young girls and the wounding of 10 other individuals, including children and adults.

Journalism on politics by @alixculbertson

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 12:

The authorities have announced that online knife retailers must verify the buyer's ID at the time of purchase and upon delivery.

Following revelations that Axel Rudakubana, a murderer from Southport, purchased the knife he utilized to fatally stab three young girls from Amazon at the age of 17, the government has expedited proposed modifications to regulations on selling knives online.

Now, anyone purchasing a knife through the internet must provide a photocopy of a valid photo identification, like a driver's license or passport, and a document verifying their address, such as a utility bill.

Upon delivery of the package, they must present identification once more.

In the latest political updates, Rachel Reeves expressed her complete willingness to consider membership in an EU customs organization.

The Home Office mentioned that online retailers may request customers to provide a recent photo or video along with their identification, but this will not be mandatory by law.

Delivery drivers can only hand over a knife to the individual who originally bought it.

Additionally, it will become unlawful for couriers to abandon packages that include bladed weapons on someone's doorstep if there is no one present to accept them.

Under existing legislation, vendors are mandated to maintain an age verification mechanism designed to inhibit the sale of knives to individuals younger than 18, though the specifics of these systems' implementation are not defined.

The upcoming Crime and Policing Bill, which is anticipated to be presented to parliament by spring, will incorporate new requirements.

After Rudakubana entered an unforeseen guilty plea earlier this week, Amazon announced that it had initiated an inquiry.

The individual responsible for the child's murder managed to bypass Amazon’s existing verification processes, which involve validating a person’s name, address, and date of birth through the credit checking agency Experian. This was achieved by employing encryption technology to purchase two 20-centimeter blade chef’s knives.

It is believed that a parent of Rudakubana accepted the package, which was addressed to him, after an Amazon delivery driver verified that they were over the age of 25.

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The globe's biggest internet-based store emphasized its deep commitment to responsibly handling the sales of all products that have age restrictions, such as items with blades.

Presently, buyers must provide their birth date when ordering a knife from Amazon.

Recipients are informed: "A legitimate photo ID showing your date of birth might also be necessary at the time of delivery.

"The operator will enter the year you were born into their system and might also ask to see your identification to finish confirming your age."

Further Reading: Reeves insists on exhaustive investigation into Southport incident. Home Secretary cautions tech firms could face another 'Southport' scenario.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed outrage, stating, "It is completely unacceptable that children can still so easily acquire dangerous weapons on the internet."

Over two years have passed since the tragic incident where Ronan Kanda lost his life to a ninja sword purchased online by a teenager, yet numerous retailers continue to lack adequate screening processes.

False birth dates are frequently entered without difficulty, and packages are regularly left at doorsteps without any verification.

"We can't continue this way. We require more stringent verifications – prior to purchase, and prior to delivery.

"The initiatives I'm announcing today are vital for tackling this issue and align with our Plan for Change, aiming to enhance street safety."

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Chancellor Reeves aims to unlock billions from corporate pension funds for expansion

Sky News has learned that upcoming proposals from the chancellor could free up over £60 billion from leading firm pension plans this week.

Urban editor @MarkKleinmanSky

Sunday, January 26, 2025, 11:

This week, Rachel Reeves is set to unveil a strategy to free up several billion pounds from corporate pension funds, aiming to stimulate economic expansion as a component of governmental initiatives.

Sky News has discovered that in an important address on Wednesday, the chancellor plans to reveal her intention to utilize what's known as surplus release to increase economic investment.

According to government officials, over £60 billion worth of excess funds in defined benefit pension plans could be accessed, although some projections indicate that the total might be closer to £100 billion.

The proposal to distribute excess funds might be featured in a forthcoming bill concerning pension schemes, anticipated to be released soon.

Sources from the city have reported that earlier in the month, a meeting occurred which included Treasury officials, members of the Number 10 Policy Unit, and representatives from the 100 Group, which consists of finance chiefs from FTSE-100 companies.

The gathering, led by Varun Chandra, the chief business advisor to Sir Keir Starmer, thoroughly reviewed the plan for surplus distribution, as described by a finance director informed about the discussions.

Ms. Reeves's initiative is a component of an expansive overhaul of pension policies, first introduced by the previous administration and currently being expedited by the Labour Party.

Further Details on Rachel Reeves

Rachel Reeves insists that 'every possibility should be explored' in the Southport investigation.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves signals her intention to dismiss environmental concerns in favor of approving a third runway at Heathrow.

Former Bank of England chief economist cautions that continuous spending reductions by Rachel Reeves could lead to a dangerous economic spiral.

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This encompasses the mandated consolidation of regional government pension funds, which together possess assets totaling approximately £400 billion.

In her inaugural address at the Mansion House in November, the Chancellor announced her commitment to overseeing the most substantial overhaul of the pension sector in many years. She aims to release scores of billions of pounds for investments in businesses and infrastructure. Additionally, the reforms are intended to enhance retirement savings and stimulate economic progress to improve conditions across all regions of the UK.

Plans are underway to revamp defined contribution (DC) pension plans that collectively handle £500 billion in assets, with expectations of further consolidation in this area over the next few years.

The Treasury has pointed to Australia and Canada as benchmarks for the UK's pension system, noting that both countries effectively use pension funds to significantly invest in local infrastructure projects.

The plan to distribute surplus funds could significantly drive economic investments, though it remained uncertain over the weekend how the allocation of these funds to stimulate growth in the UK would be assured.

There was also uncertainty about how involved pension trustees would be in strategies to distribute any excess funds.

Discover more: WH Smith reportedly in confidential discussions to divest its classic high street division. Reeves expresses openness to consider participating in a duty-free trade agreement with Europe.

For several years, the pensions sector has advocated for the implementation of surplus release in the UK, a stance officially supported by the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association prior to the previous year's election.

On Sunday, esteemed finance and pension expert Edi Truell stated, "DB pension funds need to be separated from their corresponding employers."

"Businesses ought to prioritize their primary operations, while pension funds should be supported by investment from dedicated experts in pension superfunds."

"The Pensions Regulator must revise its outdated understanding of 'risk' and acknowledge that long-term investments in productive assets lead to superior pension results."

Ms. Reeves is set to deliver a speech on Wednesday, a pivotal moment for her as recent instability in financial markets following her October Budget has sparked the first significant questions about her control over her position.

During her appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos last week, Ms. Reeves suggested she would reconsider several policies from the Budget, specifically those concerning non-domiciled residents.

After facing ongoing criticism for negatively portraying the economy following Labour's overwhelming win in the general election, she expressed this weekend her desire for Britain to more assertively promote its economic strengths.

The chancellor played a crucial role in the government's recent overhaul of economic regulation, which included last week's dismissal of the chairman of the Competition and Markets Authority.

Several weeks earlier, Sky News reported that Sir Keir had contacted regulatory authorities, pushing for the removal of obstacles that hinder economic expansion. Discussions between the Chancellor and these regulators are expected to carry on over the next few weeks.

This week, the chancellor is anticipated to announce the government's backing for significant infrastructure initiatives, notably the contentious addition of a third runway at London Heathrow Airport.

On Sunday, the Treasury opted not to comment on the details of the chancellor's speech regarding economic growth.

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