What is the cabinet's position on assisted dying?

Since the vote is free, the government does not have an official stance, and cabinet members hold differing opinions on the issue.

Political correspondent @Journoamrogers

Friday, November 22, 2024, 9:

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Toward the end of the month, Members of Parliament are set to discuss an exceptionally controversial bill that has been presented to them.

It has been since 2015 that the legislature last deliberated on the legalization of assisted dying; at that time, they decisively voted to maintain the status quo of the law

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On November 29, members of Parliament are set to revisit the issue via Kim Leadbeater's Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.

The specifics of the new bill were released last week, revealing that patients will have to self-administer the medication intended to terminate their lives and must be terminally ill with a prognosis of six months or less to live.

According to the proposals put forth by the Labour MP, assisted dying would require the confirmation of eligibility from two independent doctors, along with the approval of a High Court judge.

The legislation will also impose penalties of up to 14 years in incarceration for individuals who violate the statute, including forcing another person to commit suicide.

In an indication of the increasingly contentious nature of the discussion, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has faced accusations of attempting to sway the outcome of the vote—a matter on which the government has declared neutrality—by voicing his opposition to the bill so openly.

Sky News examines the positions of other cabinet members on assisted dying.

Casting your vote for:

Louise Haigh

The transportation minister remains undecided about the legislation, though she indicated to Sky News over the weekend that she is inclined to support the assisted dying bill.

She stated, "I openly supported it in the previous vote, and that's still my inclination."

"I'm fully aware that there are significant worries, especially from disability rights organizations and regarding end-of-life care, and I am taking those into account. I believe this is a crucial time for the entire nation to contemplate."

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Profile: Ed

The Secretary of Energy labeled the present circumstances as "harsh" for those who are terminally ill and suffering, indicating his support for the proposed legislation by stating he would cast his vote in favor of the bill.

Speaking to ITV's Good Morning Britain previously, he stated: "I believe that individuals having authority over their own life and demise is indeed the correct approach.

"Clearly, appropriate measures need to be in place, and I acknowledge the reservations expressed by some individuals regarding this matter. However, I personally intend to support this bill with my vote."

Profile: Yvette

The interior minister revealed that she supported euthanasia approximately two decades earlier, maintaining her stance that reform is necessary.

Speaking to ITV's Good Morning Britain a week prior to the vote, she said, "My stance on the core principles of this matter remains unchanged."

"However, I acknowledge that we need to engage in a thorough discussion about the specifics of the legislation, including the necessary safeguards and measures."

Lisa Nandy

Worries over insufficient respect during life's final moments have influenced the culture secretary's decision to support the proposed legislation.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Ms. Nandy expressed her concerns, stating, "I've witnessed countless situations where individuals are left without options and without any dignity in their final moments. It's clear to me that the existing system cannot continue as it is."

Peter Kyle

In 2015, the science secretary supported the legalization of assisted dying. During a speech, they expressed the following sentiment: "At the most significant point in our lives, the moment of death, we possess no control whatsoever. For individuals aware that their death is near, I believe this lack of control is unjust."

As reported by LabourList, he has communicated to his constituents that his stance remains unchanged, emphasizing that the subject is fundamentally one of "social justice."

Following a Sky News segment featuring ex-Labour MP Paul Blomfield, who supports legal reform after his father's suicide, Mr. Kyle expressed on X his hope that it "sets the stage for a respectful, informed discussion on assisted dying."

Liz Kendall

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions informed the BBC recently that she supports the proposed legislation and plans to vote for it.

"She emphasized her long-standing belief in maximizing individual autonomy and protection, asserting that with the comprehensive safeguards included, this bill represents a significant advancement in addressing a complex matter by enhancing personal choice and control," she stated.

Hilary Benn

The Secretary for Northern Ireland cast a favorable vote for the 2015 bill and stated on his website recently that he would vote in favor again.

"Ten years later, I still believe that individuals confronting their own impending death due to a terminal disease should have the right to choose when and how they pass away, in the presence of their loved ones," he expressed.

Find Out More: Critics say a 'Misjudgment' in how the government managed assisted dying issues has given opponents leverage.

Jo Stevens

Ms. Stevens, who serves as the Secretary for Wales, supported assisted dying legislation in 2015 and plans to vote in favor once more in the upcoming weeks.

Lord Alan Campbell

The LabourList website reports that Sir Alan Campbell, the chief whip, has reversed his previous stance on the assisted dying bill, now supporting it after opposing it in 2015.

In a correspondence with a community member, he stated: "Individuals should have options as they approach life's conclusion, which includes receiving the highest quality of end-of-life care. Everyone is entitled to dignity in death, and it's crucial that those nearing this stage are comforted and confident that they will be afforded the best care available."

Stephen Kinnock

Stephen Kinnock, the state minister for social care, has announced his intention to support legislation on assisted dying.

He expressed to ITV: "In my view, assisted dying represents a compassionate choice."

Opposing:

Wes Streeting

Mr. Streeting has emerged as a prominent critic of the assisted dying legislation, arguing that the current state of end-of-life care does not adequately equip individuals to make a well-informed decision.

He has raised alarms over a dangerous trend where terminally ill individuals might choose assisted suicide believing they are reducing financial burdens, either for their family members or the healthcare system.

The health secretary has issued a warning that the introduction of assisted dying could lead to reductions in other NHS services.

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Further Details: Streeting Faces Criticism for Public Stance Against Assisted Dying as Education Secretary Discloses Her Voting Intentions

Shabana Mahmood

In a recent discussion on assisted dying, the justice secretary expressed opposition to the practice during an interview with The Times, highlighting his firm stance as a Muslim on the sanctity and importance of human life.

"I believe that providing death is not a role the government should play."

Angela Rayner

The deputy prime minister, who opposed assisted dying in a 2015 vote, reportedly still holds the same position.

Profile: Bridget Phillipson

The education secretary revealed to Sky News that she opposed assisted dying in a 2015 vote and stated, "My position remains the same."

"I've been giving this a lot of thought. However, my stance remains the same as it was in 2015."

Jonathan Reynolds

On his Facebook page, the business secretary emphasized his opposition to a bill in 2015 by noting his vote against it.

"He noted that his voting record consistently shows opposition to such legal amendments. He explained his stance, citing deep worries about the safeguarding of vulnerable individuals if such changes were enacted."

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Jon Craig shares his memorable encounter with John Prescott when he was unexpectedly called onto the stage at a Labour conference to receive a pork pie from Labour's deputy leader.

Senior political reporter @joncraig

Thursday, November 21, 2024, 10:

Holding aloft a pork pie on a silver platter, John Prescott took to the stage at the 1995 Labour conference and roared: "Lies, lies! Porky pies!"

This marked the pivotal point in my tumultuous four-decade-long association with the fiery, easily angered ex-Cunard steward who rose to become the longest-tenured deputy prime minister in British history.

The focus of his ire was the lead story in today's Daily Express, headlined: "Prescott irate over latest slight. Blair's deputy overlooked for radio interview."

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The narrative opened with: "John Prescott was 'fuming' last evening over another embarrassing slight from Tony Blair and his close advisors.

It was reported that the Labour deputy was extremely angry because Peter Mandelson, a close ally of Mr. Blair, was scheduled for a prominent BBC interview at the conclusion of the conference, rather than him.

Last night, I had dinner at English's, a seafood restaurant in Brighton, with two colleagues from the Daily Express and Jack Straw, a supporter of Blair and the current shadow home secretary.

I had submitted just a few paragraphs, around six, when the office rang up urgently requesting additional content because they planned to feature the article prominently. Consequently, I dictated another 10 paragraphs over the phone from English's – a practice common in the days when reporters would relay their stories verbally to a transcriptionist.

The following day, Mr. Straw approached me and expressed concerns that observers of our dinner believed he was the informant. I quickly clarified that he was not; instead, the information came from a Labour MP who closely supported Mr. Prescott.

During his speech at the conference, Mr. Prescott tried to call me onto the stage to receive a pork pie. I managed to resist the urge. However, he had more planned.

Following his address, accompanied by television teams from Sky News and Newsnight, he entered the media room to confront me. True to his word, he handed me the pork pie.

Further reading: John Prescott passes away at 86. What lessons has Labour taken from Prescott's legacy?

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In the following day's edition of the Daily Express, the article titled "That's pie in the sky, John" included my statement: "I must first disclose a personal bias: I am an admirer of Labour's deputy leader, John Prescott.

"Throughout our interactions, he has yelled at me, used profane language, and even once jabbed me in the chest in the Commons' committee hallway."

Until his unfortunate passing, I continued to be a supporter. The final time we saw each other, at the House of Lords while his health was failing, he told me, "Jon, you always speak the truth."

Taken aback, I responded, "That wasn't always your opinion, John!" However, it seemed that the seasoned veteran had softened over the years and was ready to reconcile, even if he couldn't completely let go of the past.

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Prior to their disagreement in 1995, while Mr. Prescott served under Neil Kinnock in the opposition's shadow cabinet, I frequently contacted him to provide comments for the various newspapers I was associated with before joining the Daily Express.

Frequently behind the wheel of what was famously known as his "two Jags", he would start by scolding me and expressing his displeasure with "your damn newspaper", eventually leading to the question: "What do you need to know?"

When Bryan Gould stepped down from John Smith's shadow cabinet in 1992 due to a disagreement on policy direction between the left and right, I inquired whether Mr. Prescott was also considering resignation.

"Stop talking nonsense!" he responded sharply. Though he was known for his direct and sometimes aggressive manner, he was fundamentally a realist, which he demonstrated during his decade serving as deputy prime minister.

The final confrontation we had before he softened occurred during his failed bid to be elected as the police and crime commissioner for Humberside in 2012, an event I reported on for Sky News.

Following his loss, I inquired—quite sensibly, in my opinion—whether he planned to retire. "Retire? Retire!" he exclaimed. However, he eventually did retire as his health started to deteriorate.

It lifted my spirits when he spoke to me with such warmth during our last encounter. Unlike other high-ranking officials, he didn’t hold onto past grievances.

So, what happened to the pork pie? I returned it to the Express office and gave it to a somewhat perplexed Sir Nicholas Lloyd, the editor. However, we didn't end up eating it.

The pie was, after all, iconic. Much like John Prescott.

His kind is truly one of a kind.

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"Countless stuck in old system": Leaseholders continue as financial 'pawns' despite plans to end outdated ownership practice

The government has released a schedule for the phase-out of the leasehold system – though the announcement has been greeted positively by a few, many argue that the action is insufficient and overdue.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, November 21, 2024, 9:

The government has announced that the much-anticipated bill to end the outdated leasehold property system in England, often described as "feudal," will be introduced in the latter half of the next year. This is a significant development for the countless individuals impacted.

In a formal announcement, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook outlined the initial steps Labour plans to take to eliminate the controversial homeownership scheme, as pledged in their election manifesto.

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The minister announced that early next year, a consultation along with a white paper will be initiated to kickstart the proposed plan, with the goal of establishing commonhold as "the default tenure" by the conclusion of the parliamentary term in 2029.

The announcement has elicited varied responses from individuals entangled in the situation, with a few celebrating the approach of a resolution, while others criticize it as insufficient and overdue.

What does the term leasehold mean

Leasehold is a traditional property ownership model exclusive to England and Wales. Under this system, when individuals purchase a leasehold property, they acquire the right to occupy the home for a specified period, but they do not own the actual land on which the property sits, whether it's a standalone house or an apartment within a larger structure.

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The responsibility lies with the freeholder, who has the ability to levy hefty ground rents by virtue of land ownership, along with service fees for upkeep and insurance of the properties.

For some time, worries have persisted about the exploitation of leaseholders, particularly by unmanaged managing agents. These agents are often tasked with the daily management of property structures and are known to potentially levy substantial fees for any maintenance or repairs they coordinate.

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Scrutiny escalated following the building safety controversy that surfaced after Grenfell, as numerous homeowners were burdened with exorbitant costs for necessary repairs, trapping them in devalued properties they were unable to sell.

Further Reading: 90-year-old faces £17,000 ground rent hike; 'Purchasing a flat destroyed my life'; Over half of buildings still await cladding repairs.

"I can't find an escape"

Leaseholder Peter Batt has been unable to reside in his previously cherished apartment in Kent for the last nine months due to the building's roof, which has "utterly collapsed and is falling apart."

The resulting moisture, dark mold, and severe leaks have been so problematic that the ceiling of the neighbor living below has caved in.

The issues were brought to the attention of the building's management agents in February, yet no corrective actions have been taken.

Last week, he was informed that he must pay £18,000 as his portion of the costs for the repairs to commence, an amount the 60-year-old does not possess.

"I truly feel trapped unless I hit the jackpot; it's been a complete disaster," he conveyed to Sky News.

Mr. Batt and his fellow residents are urging for the immediate implementation of a temporary metal roof, as advised by surveyors in April, to prevent further damage which they claim has since occurred.

"Despite bearing all the expenses, they have no control over this matter," Mr. Batt noted.

Government authorities must consider comprehensive reform, as from what I've seen, all the organizations responsible for managing buildings like mine are primarily motivated by preserving their income flow.

"Presently, the system does not support the interests of leaseholders, and this needs to be addressed."

"End of the leasehold era"

In his statement to the media, Mr. Pennycook announced that the government plans to roll out an extensive new legal structure for commonhold. This will involve prohibiting the sale of leasehold apartments and transitioning current leasehold properties to this new system.

Advocates for commonhold argue that it would enhance safety measures by granting apartment owners greater authority over building upkeep and eliminating the financial motivation for developers to construct lower-quality housing, knowing that leaseholders would bear the expenses.

Sebastian O'Kelly from the Leasehold Knowledge Partnership hailed today's declaration as the "end of leasehold."

He recommended avoiding the purchase of leasehold properties, suggesting that market dynamics will naturally address this issue. He noted that some developers are now endorsing commonhold, and he expects that others, negatively impacted by the findings from Grenfell, will soon do the same.

He informed Sky News: "Given the current progress, measures to enhance the conditions of current leaseholders should accelerate. The government might anticipate a gradual process, however, developers are aware that their long-exploited leasehold strategy is no longer viable."

Setback in executing Conservatives' 'underdeveloped' changes

The National Leasehold Campaign, which has dedicated six years to reforming the system, offered a more subdued reaction.

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In addition to unveiling a plan to phase out leaseholds, Mr. Pennycook outlined a schedule for rolling out changes contained in the Conservatives' Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act (LFRA). This act narrowly survived into law during the hurried legislative session known as wash-up, prompted by Rishi Sunak's call for a July election, even after it was significantly diluted by the then housing secretary, Michael Gove.

The LFRA committed to ending leaseholds for new houses, though this does not extend to new apartments, which constitute approximately 70% of the roughly 5 million leasehold properties in England.

The legislation was also designed to enhance the rights and protections for leaseholders, yet Mr. Pennycook described the act as "half baked," indicating that some provisions would experience implementation delays.

He mentioned that this notably involves regulations concerning new valuations, set to undergo consultation next summer.

'Perpetual Money-Making Machine Persists

The National Leasehold Campaign (NLC) expressed frustration, describing it as "very disappointing" because the system was supposed to streamline and reduce the costs for individuals looking to purchase their freehold or extend their leases, thereby facilitating the sale of their properties and helping them to progress with their lives.

"The primary focus at this moment is on the plight of current leaseholders who find themselves at the disadvantage of dealing with unregulated property managers and dishonest landlords," it stated.

The government has announced plans to move swiftly, but for many members of the NLC who are on the brink of bankruptcy because of rising service fees, this response is too slow, and frustration is mounting.

"Leaseholders have been repeatedly assured by past government officials since 2018 that the exploitation would cease, yet the situation for current leaseholders remains unchanged. The practice of treating our homes as perpetual sources of revenue persists, leaving millions still ensnared."

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During the initial surge of COVID-19, the NHS nearly exhausted its supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), coming close to running out with only about six or seven hours to spare, according to Matt Hancock. The ex-health secretary also shared with the public inquiry that he thinks the government made mistakes in the implementation of funeral guidelines nationwide.

Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 7

A former health secretary has acknowledged that during the initial phase of the COVID pandemic, several hospitals in England came perilously close to depleting their supplies of personal protective equipment, with stocks dwindling to just "six or seven hours" of remaining inventory.

Former MP Matt Hancock revealed during the COVID public inquiry that during the initial outbreak in spring 2020, several hospitals were on the brink of depleting their supplies.

During his testimony at the most recent UK COVID-19 Inquiry session, Mr. Hancock, who served as the health secretary from 2018 to 2021, discussed the effects of the pandemic on healthcare systems, patients, and healthcare workers.

This morning, a protester jeered at him as he made his way to testify at the hearing.

Jacqueline Carey KC, the lead attorney of the investigation, questioned the former cabinet minister, "Do you acknowledge that the onset of the coronavirus pandemic found us unprepared, without any gowns available, significantly hindering our capacity to supply healthcare workers with safe and adequate protective gear?"

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He responded, "Certainly, the reserves we maintained were not up to the future standards required."

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When questioned about the depletion of personal protective equipment (PPE) in England, Mr. Hancock clarified, "Overall? No, but there were specific places that did.

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Discussing the gown availability in April 2020, amidst claims that nurses in a London hospital resorted to using trash bags for protection, Mr. Hancock noted: "At one stage, our stock of gowns was close to depleting, almost within six or seven hours of running out."

"Our team was putting in tremendous effort to avoid running out of inventory, and we almost did run out."

Mr. Hancock was often seen at the frequent press briefings held during the pandemic, but he had to step down in 2021 when he confessed to violating the government's COVID-19 rules by engaging in a relationship with a staff member.

The investigation, which has also taken testimonies from other political leaders such as Boris Johnson and ex-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, is scrutinizing the government's handling of the pandemic.

Mr. Hancock acknowledged in the hearing that he thought the government mishandled the implementation of funeral guidelines nationwide during the pandemic.

In the initial stages of the COVID pandemic, restrictions were placed on the number of attendees at funerals, encouraging social distancing of two meters and suggesting that only immediate family members be present.

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"He explained to the inquiry that the implementation of the funeral guidance did not align with its original intent."

"Indeed, funerals are gatherings filled with profound emotions where people unite, and this congregation was a factor that contributed to the propagation of the virus."

"These were quite challenging thoughts."

"Generally speaking, I believe their choices were appropriate, though if we examine each decision individually, you could certainly make a case for different outcomes."

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Matt Hancock, the ex-Health Secretary, revealed to the public inquiry that during the initial wave of COVID-19, the NHS was mere hours away from a severe shortage of PPE, estimating the crisis point at about six or seven hours. He also admitted that the government mishandled the implementation of funeral protocols nationwide.

Thursday, November 21, 2024, 7:

A former health secretary revealed that during the initial phase of the COVID pandemic, several English hospitals were perilously close to depleting their supplies of personal protective equipment, facing shortages within just "six or seven hours."

Former MP Matt Hancock revealed during the COVID public inquiry that during the initial outbreak in spring 2020, several hospitals were on the brink of depleting their supplies.

Mr. Hancock, who served as the Health Secretary from 2018 to 2021, provided testimony during the most recent hearing of the UK COVID-19 Inquiry, which is examining the effects of the pandemic on healthcare systems, patients, and healthcare workers.

Today, as he arrived to testify at the hearing, a protester jeered at him.

Jacqueline Carey KC, the lead lawyer for the investigation, questioned the former cabinet minister, asking, "Do you agree that going into the coronavirus pandemic without any gowns significantly hindered the provision of safe and suitable protective gear for healthcare professionals?"

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He responded, "Certainly, the reserves we maintained were not up to the standard required for future needs."

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When questioned about instances where England might have faced a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), Mr. Hancock clarified: "On a national level? No, however, there were specific sites that did.

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Addressing the situation regarding gown availability in April 2020, amidst claims that nurses at a London hospital had to resort to using bin bags for protection, Mr. Hancock commented, "At one point, I believe we were only about six or seven hours away from completely depleting our stock of gowns."

"Our team was putting in tremendous effort to prevent a situation where we'd run out of stock. We came close to that happening."

Mr. Hancock, often seen at the routine press briefings during the pandemic, stepped down in 2021 after conceding that he violated the government's COVID-19 rules by engaging in a relationship with a staff member.

The investigation, which has also taken testimonies from other political leaders like Boris Johnson and ex-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, is scrutinizing the government's handling of the pandemic.

During the inquiry, Mr. Hancock conceded that the government mishandled the implementation of funeral guidelines nationwide during the pandemic.

In the initial phases of the COVID pandemic, restrictions were placed on the number of attendees at funerals, advising family members to maintain a distance of two meters and limiting attendance to immediate family only.

Discover more: Nadine Dorries discusses the consequences of abuse by a clergyman. Increases in public sector salaries contribute to higher government debt.

"He explained to the inquiry that the implementation of the funeral guidance did not align with its original intent."

"Indeed, funerals are events where individuals congregate and experience intense emotions, creating an environment where people unite, which unfortunately also contributed to the propagation of the virus."

"These posed quite challenging dilemmas."

"Generally speaking, I believe their decisions were mostly correct, however, if we review each one individually, there's certainly room to debate either side."

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Rowdy individuals risk two-year prison sentences under new 'respect orders' aimed at curbing unruly conduct. Should these proposals be enacted, they will initially be tested prior to being implemented nationwide in England and Wales. The laws would enhance police authority to confiscate vehicles and prohibit habitual lawbreakers.

Friday, November 22, 2024, 09:

Individuals involved in hooliganism could be sentenced to up to two years in prison for violating the recently introduced "respect orders," which aim to curb anti-social activities.

Judicial authorities have the power to issue fines without a cap, mandate community service, or enforce a curfew on individuals who violate regulations.

The initiatives, outlined in Labour's campaign manifesto to "restore peace and safety to our communities," are designed to curb severe misconduct from the outset, according to the Home Office.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that "anti-social behavior is a serious problem in numerous communities," and it "can severely affect those who suffer from it."

"She emphasized that this must not go on," she added.

Speaking to Sky News, she described the initiative as an updated form of the "anti-social behaviour orders" (ASBOs) introduced by Tony Blair’s Labour administration in 1999, which were subsequently substituted by civil injunctions and criminal behaviour orders by the Conservative government in 2014.

Should the proposed measures within the Crime and Policing Bill be enacted, local authorities and law enforcement will be authorized to prohibit repeat offenders from entering city centers, and police will have the authority to detain individuals who violate these restrictions.

Perpetrators might be required to participate in anger management courses or undergo treatment for drug and alcohol abuse to tackle the underlying reasons for their actions.

Authorities would not be required to issue a warning prior to impounding vehicles, a measure the Home Office believes will assist officers in addressing the issue of off-road motorcycles in parks and e-scooters on sidewalks.

The initiatives will undergo a trial period if the legislation is approved, prior to being implemented throughout England and Wales.

Ms. Cooper informed Sky News that the introduction of respect orders will be accompanied by more neighborhood police officers, as she believes communities have been deeply disappointed by ongoing antisocial behavior.

"She argued that it was unjust, emphasizing that the government supports the community."

"We aim to assist individuals in coping with the troubles and harassment they are facing."

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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated, "From my experience as the director of public prosecutions, I personally witnessed the severe impacts of anti-social behavior and advocated for the victims' rights to justice."

"As the prime minister, I am fulfilling my commitment to address this issue through the implementation of new respect orders, ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their actions."

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Harvinder Saimbhi, the head of the victim support organization ASB Help, expressed the group’s approval for "tackling the fundamental reasons behind the anti-social behavior."

"He expressed eagerness to observe the implementation of the respect orders," he added.

Between September 2022 and September 2023, police received reports of approximately one million incidents characterized as anti-social behavior.

Assistant Commissioner Andy Prophet, spearheading the efforts against anti-social behavior for the National Police Chiefs' Council, stated that respect orders will empower police and local councils to effectively target individuals who continuously compromise the safety of our streets and public areas.

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Ruth Davidson Supports Anas Sarwar's Decision to Step Away from Winter Fuel Reduction

On the Electoral Dysfunction podcast, the Conservative peer expressed her support for the Scottish Labour leader's strategic distancing as he prepares for the 2026 Holyrood elections.

Friday, November 22, 2024, 5:

Baroness Davidson supports Anas Sarwar's decision to distance himself from Sir Keir Starmer regarding the elimination of winter fuel payments for the majority of pensioners.

The leader of Scottish Labour has vowed to defy the national party's stance and restore the universal winter fuel allowance for elderly citizens should they win the Holyrood election in 2026.

On the Electoral Dysfunction podcast with Beth Rigby, the Conservative peer explained that although it was politically essential for Mr. Sarwar to distance himself from the Westminster policy, the Scottish public recognizes the situation for what it truly is.

"She noted that the Scottish are quite discerning," she said. "They recognize it for what it truly is."

“They are aware that 35 Scottish Labour MPs chose to remove the winter fuel allowance for the elderly, and now the Scottish Labour leader is telling people, 'Ignore those 35 MPs – if you elect us in 18 months, we may potentially reimburse some of that money to you.'”

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"He's making a smart political move, I believe, though there's certainly a significant amount of skepticism surrounding his actions."

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Following their victory in the nationwide general election, Sir Keir Starmer, alongside Chancellor Rachel Reeves, declared that the winter fuel payment would be subject to means testing.

Under the new scheme, only pensioners who qualify for specific benefits will receive up to £300, impacting about 1.3 million households. Previously, up to 7.6 million households were eligible for this payment.

Officials have maintained that the move was essential to address the £22 billion deficit in the national budget, which they attribute to the financial mismanagement of the former Conservative administration.

Prior to this declaration, the strategy in Scotland, where authority over benefits is decentralized, involved substituting the existing payment with an equivalent program.

The Scottish government, led by the SNP, has announced that it will require means testing for the new initiative, citing UK policy as the reason.

At the start of the week, Mr. Sarwar announced that should he come into power in two years, he plans to implement universal payments for elderly citizens. However, he noted that these payments would gradually be adjusted so that wealthier individuals would not receive subsidies from taxpayer funds.

"He stated that a Scottish Labour government would restore the winter fuel payment for pensioners in Scotland."

This year, the winter fuel payment was expected to be managed by regional authorities, with the Scottish government receiving extra funds from the household support fund to assist with this.

"This implied that an alternative strategy could have been implemented in Scotland to assist a greater number of families this year. However, the SNP chose to return the authority to the DWP [Department for Work and Pensions]."

He stated: "Scottish Labour plans to reclaim this regional authority from the DWP, restore the winter fuel payment, and implement a more equitable system to guarantee assistance for all who require it."

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On the podcast, Baroness Harman, who previously served as Labour's deputy leader, commented that Mr. Sarwar's stance on winter fuel payments exemplifies the "reality of devolution."

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"She noted that Anas Sarwar claims he will not be dominated by the Labour leadership in Westminster."

This encapsulates the essence of devolution. He might declare, 'I will decide what I believe is best for Scotland'… however, he must then determine whether he will redistribute resources from the very wealthy, or if he chooses not to, how he will rationalize this decision.

"I believe Keir will be quite at ease with the situation. He and Anas Sarwar share a close political alignment. Their collaboration has been effective, and this situation highlights the benefits of devolution."

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What are Keir Starmer's principles?

Friday 22 November 2024 05:10, UK

👆 Tap here to stream the Electoral Dysfunction podcast on your preferred podcast app 👇

This week, as farmers rallied in Westminster, Beth, Ruth, and Harriet discuss the challenges these demonstrations pose for the authorities. They explore if the chancellor might reconsider her decision to eliminate the inheritance tax break for agricultural properties valued over £1 million, and if the Labour Party risks alienating rural voters.

Additionally, while Labour's Scottish leader Anas Sarwar takes a step back from the administration regarding winter fuel allowances, Beth, Ruth, and Harriet delve into the values and positions of the prime minister as he navigates significant internal disputes amidst his engagements with global leaders at the G20 summit abroad.

The article also pays tribute to John Prescott, who held the record as the Labour Party's longest-serving deputy leader and was a former colleague of Harriet.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with all the latest news

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

Check out this guide to learn more about the agricultural demonstrations and the controversy surrounding the estate tax.

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Downing Street suggests that following an ICC warrant, Netanyahu could face arrest in the UK

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of war crimes and crimes against humanity tied to the conflict in Gaza.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK, following the issuance of an international arrest warrant against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the former Israeli defense secretary Yoav Gallant, accusing them of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in connection with the conflict in Gaza.

The UK authorities hesitated to confirm whether Netanyahu would be detained upon his arrival in the UK. However, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would adhere to its legal responsibilities concerning the arrest warrant.

"He emphasized that the UK is committed to adhering to its legal responsibilities, as defined by both national and international law."

He mentioned that the UK has never utilized the domestic mechanism associated with ICC arrest warrants, as no one targeted by the international court has ever visited the country.

This past Friday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper refrained from discussing the procedures related to the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing its independence, despite the UK's membership in the organization.

She informed Sky News, "We have consistently upheld the significance of international law, yet in most instances they handle, these do not integrate into the British legal system.

"The UK government maintains that the priority should be to secure a ceasefire in Gaza," is the clear stance expressed.

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, who leads the foreign affairs committee for Labour in parliament, stated: "Should Netanyahu visit the UK, we would be compelled by the Rome Convention to detain him based on the ICC’s warrant.

"It's not about whether we should; it's that we must, as we are part of the ICC."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration announced its acceptance of the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated their intentions to detain Netanyahu should he visit their nations.

In response to inquiries about whether the Israeli leader would be detained in Ireland, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris affirmed, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the rulings of international courts and enforce their mandates."

Germany stated that it would decide on a course of action should Netanyahu visit, emphasizing its strong support for the ICC, a stance influenced by its historical experiences.

A spokesperson for the German government stated, "Due to Germany's historical context, we have a special relationship and significant responsibilities towards Israel."

An arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, the Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the attacks on Israel on October 7, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was eliminated earlier this year; however, the International Criminal Court has indicated that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu described the issued warrants targeting him and Gallant as "antisemitic," and stated that Israel "strongly condemns and dismisses the ridiculous and untrue measures."

Both Israel and the United States are not participants in the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel does not acknowledge the authority of the court and refutes allegations of committing war crimes in Gaza.

Discover More: Insights from Satellite Imagery on North Gaza; Hamas Open to Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

For an improved video experience, it's recommended to use the Chrome browser.

US President Joe Biden labeled the warrants issued against Israeli officials as "outrageous," emphasizing, "There is absolutely no comparison – none – between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC may suggest."

Ex-Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett described the ICC's issuance of warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain of disgrace."

The Board of Deputies of British Jews stated that the ICC's ruling conveyed a "dreadful signal."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced on Friday that he plans to extend an invitation to Netanyahu to visit Hungary, assuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court initially announced its intention to seek arrest warrants for three individuals in May, citing alleged crimes. On Thursday, the court disclosed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and had proceeded to issue the arrest warrants.

In its recent briefing, the ICC indicated that there is "sufficient evidence to suspect" that Netanyahu and Gallant "are criminally liable" for purported offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with all the latest news

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

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The court identified the charges as including "the war crime of using starvation as a tactic in conflict; along with the crimes against humanity, such as murder, persecution, and various other cruel acts."

For the first time, a current head of state from a prominent Western nation has been charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international judicial body.

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Downing Street signals that Netanyahu faces arrest in the UK following an ICC warrant

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK, following the issuance of an international arrest warrant against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the former Israeli defense secretary, Yoav Gallant, on charges of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity connected to the conflict in Gaza.

The UK administration hesitated to confirm if Netanyahu would be detained upon arrival, however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would "comply with its legal requirements" concerning the arrest warrant.

"He affirmed that the UK consistently adheres to its legal responsibilities as defined by both national and international law."

He noted that the UK has never utilized its domestic mechanism for enforcing International Criminal Court arrest warrants, as no individuals sought by the court have ever visited the country.

Earlier today, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that it would not be proper for her to discuss the procedures involved, as the ICC operates independently, despite the UK being a member.

Speaking to Sky News, she said, "While we hold international law in high regard, most of the cases they take up do not enter into the British legal system."

"I can affirm that the UK government consistently maintains that our priority is to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza."

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, the Labour chair of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, stated: "Should Netanyahu visit Britain, we would be compelled by the Rome Convention to detain him based on the ICC’s warrant.

"It's not about whether we should; as members of the ICC, we're obligated to."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration declared that it would not challenge the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated that they would detain Netanyahu should he enter their territories.

In response to a question regarding whether the Israeli leader would be arrested in Ireland, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris confirmed, stating, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the authority of international courts and enforce their mandates."

Germany stated that it would determine its course of action should Netanyahu visit, noting that it remains a major advocate for the ICC, a stance influenced significantly by its historical context.

A spokesperson for the German government stated, "Due to our historical background, Germany has a special relationship and significant obligations towards Israel."

An International Criminal Court arrest warrant has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, a Hamas leader and the alleged architect of the October 7 attacks in Israel, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was eliminated earlier this year, however, the ICC has noted that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu characterized the issued warrants against him and Gallant as "antisemitic," expressing that Israel "vehemently dismisses the ridiculous and unfounded measures" with contempt.

Israel and the United States are not part of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel does not acknowledge the authority of the court and refutes allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Further information: Insights from satellite imagery on North GazaHamas signals readiness for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza

For an optimal video viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser

US President Joe Biden strongly criticized the warrants issued against Israeli leaders, labeling them as "outrageous" and stating, "There is absolutely no comparison between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC may suggest."

Ex-Israeli leader Naftali Bennett described the ICC's issuance of warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain of disgrace."

The Board of Deputies of British Jews expressed that the ICC's ruling conveyed a "dreadful signal."

On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced plans to invite Netanyahu to Hungary, ensuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) initially announced its intention to seek arrest warrants for three individuals in May, related to alleged crimes. On Thursday, the court disclosed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and proceeded to issue the arrest warrants.

In its recent briefing, the ICC indicated that there are "reasonable grounds to believe" that Netanyahu and Gallant might be criminally responsible for the alleged offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with the latest news.

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The court identified the offenses as "the war crime of using starvation as a method of warfare, along with the crimes against humanity, which encompass murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts."

For the first time, a current leader from a major Western nation has been formally charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international tribunal.

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Downing Street suggests that Netanyahu could face arrest in the UK following an ICC warrant

The International Criminal Court, on Thursday, issued an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity connected to the conflict in Gaza.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has suggested that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK due to an international arrest warrant issued against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Netanyahu and the former Israeli defense secretary, Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the conflict in Gaza.

The UK authorities hesitated to confirm whether Netanyahu would be detained upon his arrival in the UK; however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would "adhere to its legal duties" concerning the arrest warrant.

"He stated that the UK is committed to adhering to its legal responsibilities as defined by both national and international law."

He noted that the UK has never utilized its domestic mechanism related to ICC arrest warrants, as no individual sought by the international court has ever entered the country.

On Friday morning, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper declined to discuss the procedures, emphasizing that the International Criminal Court operates independently, despite the UK's membership.

She informed Sky News: "We have consistently upheld the significance of international law, yet in most instances they handle, these do not integrate into the British legal framework.

"I can confirm that the UK government continues to maintain that our main priority is to work towards achieving a ceasefire in Gaza."

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, the Labour head of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, stated, "Should Netanyahu visit the UK, we would be compelled by the Rome Convention to detain him based on the ICC's warrant."

"It's not about whether we should; it's that we must, as we are part of the ICC."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration declared its acceptance of the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated their intentions to detain Netanyahu should he enter their territories.

When questioned whether the Israeli leader would be detained by police in Ireland, Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris confirmed, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the rulings of international courts and enforce their mandates."

Germany stated that it would reach a decision regarding Netanyahu's visit, emphasizing its strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), a stance influenced by its historical context.

A spokesperson for the German government stated, "Due to Germany's historical background, we maintain a special relationship and significant responsibility towards Israel."

An arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, a Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the attacks on Israel on October 7, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was killed earlier this year; however, the International Criminal Court has stated that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu described the issued warrants for him and Gallant as "antisemitic," and stated that Israel "vehemently dismisses the ridiculous and unfounded measures."

Israel and the United States are not participants in the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel disputes the authority of the court and denies allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Explore further: Insights from satellite imagery on North GazaHamas signals readiness for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza

For an optimal video viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser

US President Joe Biden criticized the warrants issued against Israeli leaders, labeling them as "outrageous." He emphasized, "There is absolutely no parallel – none at all – between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC suggests."

Ex-Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett described the ICC's warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain on its reputation."

The British Jewish Board of Deputies stated that the decision by the ICC conveyed a "dreadful message."

On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced plans to invite Netanyahu to Hungary, assuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) disclosed in May its intention to issue arrest warrants for three individuals accused of crimes, and on Thursday, it confirmed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and proceeded to issue the arrest warrants.

In its recent briefing, the ICC indicated there are "reasonable grounds to believe" that Netanyahu and Gallant may be criminally responsible for the purported offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay updated with all the latest news

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

According to the court, the offenses encompass "the war crime of using starvation as a method of warfare; along with crimes against humanity such as murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts."

For the first time, a current head of state from a significant Western ally has been charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international judicial body.

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Downing Street suggests that Netanyahu would face arrest in the UK following an ICC warrant.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of war crimes and crimes against humanity in connection with the conflict in Gaza.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Friday, November 22, 2024, 2:

Downing Street has signaled that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK due to an international arrest warrant issued against him.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) released arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and ex-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to the conflict in Gaza.

The UK government hesitated to confirm whether Netanyahu would face arrest upon entering the UK, however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated that the government would "adhere to its legal responsibilities" regarding the arrest warrant.

"He stated that the UK is committed to adhering to its legal responsibilities as defined by both national and international law."

He noted that the UK has never utilized its internal mechanism for enforcing International Criminal Court arrest warrants, as no individual sought by the court has ever visited the country.

On Friday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that commenting on the procedures of the ICC would not be suitable, noting its independence despite the UK's membership.

She informed Sky News, "We have consistently honored the significance of international law, yet most cases they initiate do not integrate into the UK legal system.

"I can confirm that the UK government continues to hold the view that the priority should be to secure a ceasefire in Gaza."

Speaking to Sky News, Emily Thornberry, the Labour Party's chair of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, stated, "Should Netanyahu visit the UK, we are bound by the Rome Convention to detain him pursuant to the ICC's warrant."

"It's not about whether we should; our membership in the ICC obligates us to do so."

Following their victory in the July elections, the administration announced it would not challenge the International Criminal Court's authority to issue warrants.

Ireland, France, and Italy have indicated their intention to detain Netanyahu should he enter their territories.

In response to inquiries about whether the Israeli leader would be detained in Ireland, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris confirmed, stating, "Yes, absolutely. We uphold the rulings of international courts and enforce their warrants."

Germany stated that it would reach a decision regarding Netanyahu's visit to the country, emphasizing its strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), a stance influenced by its historical experiences.

A spokesperson for the German government stated: "Due to Germany's historical background, we have a distinct relationship and significant responsibility towards Israel."

An International Criminal Court arrest warrant has been issued for Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al Masri, a Hamas leader accused of orchestrating the October 7 attacks in Israel, on charges of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel has stated that Al Masri was eliminated earlier this year; however, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has indicated that this has not been verified, prompting them to issue an arrest warrant.

The office of Netanyahu condemned the issued warrants aimed at him and Gallant, labeling them as "antisemitic." They stated that Israel "firmly dismisses the ridiculous and unfounded measures" with revulsion.

Israel and the United States do not belong to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel disputes the authority of the court and refutes allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Explore further: Satellite imagery reveals insights into North Gaza as Hamas expresses readiness for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

For optimal video playback, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

U.S. President Joe Biden strongly criticized the International Criminal Court's warrants for Israeli officials, stating, "There is absolutely no comparison between Israel and Hamas, regardless of what the ICC suggests."

Ex-Israeli leader Naftali Bennett labeled the ICC's issuance of warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant as a "stain on their reputation."

The British Jewish Board of Deputies stated that the ICC's ruling conveyed a "dismal message."

Hungarian leader Viktor Orban announced on Friday that he would extend an invitation to Netanyahu to visit Hungary, ensuring that the arrest warrant would be disregarded.

The International Criminal Court initially declared in May its intention to pursue arrest warrants for three individuals regarding alleged offenses. On Thursday, it confirmed that it had dismissed objections from Israel and had officially issued the arrest warrants.

In its latest briefing, the ICC indicated it possesses "sufficient evidence to presume" that Netanyahu and Gallant "are criminally accountable" for the purported offenses.

Subscribe to our channel to stay informed with the latest updates.

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The court identified several offenses, stating they encompass "the war crime of using starvation as a tactic of conflict; along with the crimes against humanity such as murder, persecution, and various other cruel acts."

For the first time, a current leader from a prominent Western nation has been charged with war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international judicial body.

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