Lord Timpson Discusses Increasing Employment for Former Inmates in Public Sector

Lord Timpson, who has been a vocal supporter of integrating former inmates into the workforce as part of their reintegration, recently spoke with Sky News. During the interview, he recounted his mother's experience of caring for infants born to incarcerated mothers.

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Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 5:

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Prisons Minister Lord James Timpson has informed Sky News that he is engaged in discussions with parliament and public sector bodies regarding the recruitment of more former prisoners.

During his tenure as CEO of the family-owned Timpson chain, Lord Timpson actively advocated for the hiring of ex-offenders, resulting in approximately 10% of the workforce comprising former convicts. He also held the position of chairman at the Prison Reform Trust.

He resigned from both positions upon his appointment as a minister and elevation to the peerage following the recent election.

In a discussion on the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge, Lord Timpson addressed the question of whether parliament should set an example by employing more individuals who have previously been incarcerated.

Lord Timpson mentioned that he was engaging in discussions throughout the entire public sector.

He mentioned that certain agencies, including the Ministry of Justice, have already employed individuals with prior incarceration experience for particular positions.

He stated that certain positions "aren't quite suitable for that group," and noted from his two decades of experience in the private sector that employing ex-inmates "hasn't consistently been successful."

He further stated, "We discovered that by connecting with the right individuals at the right moments in their lives, they can become excellent team members and significantly transform their circumstances."

Lord Timpson discussed the government's new 10-year strategy for prison capacity on Politics Hub, highlighting the intention to construct the 14,000 prison spaces that the previous administration did not complete.

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The government official informed Sky News that despite the significance of rehabilitation and lowering rates of reoffending, the UK requires additional prison spaces.

Lord Timpson commented on the case of Reform UK MP James McMurdock, who, per judicial records, was imprisoned 18 years prior for multiple instances of assaulting his partner.

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The minister stated that he was not familiar with Mr. McMurdock's specific situation, but he emphasized, "From what I understand, effective prison systems have the potential to reform individuals."

He further stated, "It involves not only the prison's role but also the actions that the inmates themselves can take."

"The count of individuals who transition from incarceration to successful lives is noteworthy. They establish meaningful relationships, secure employment, and may very well be among your coworkers and mine."

"However, there is a significant number of individuals who continuously commit offenses repeatedly."

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Explore further: Prison infrastructure on the brink of collapse. Overburdened correctional facilities face closure of numerous cells. Inside the chaotic state of Britain's court system.

Incarcerated mothers

The interviewer also questioned Lord Timpson on the issue of incarcerated mothers who give birth during their sentence, and if their infants should remain with them behind bars.

The colleague recounted an anecdote from his early years, mentioning that his mother cared for infants born to incarcerated women, as she was a foster parent.

He mentioned, "I often found myself waiting outside Styal Women's Prison when my mom brought the little ones inside for a visit.

"It's a problem that I consider quite complicated.

"It is true that ideally, a baby should be with their mother. However, when the mother is incarcerated, it creates numerous challenges."

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Lord Timpson has mentioned that he has been to prisons for mothers and their infants, noting that there are "incredible volunteers" who take the babies out a few days each week to help them acclimate to everyday life.

"He also mentioned that a few infants are incarcerated alongside their mothers," – noting that the Women's Justice Board is addressing the matter and plans to undertake further efforts in the coming year.

The minister stated that a significant majority, 80%, of female inmates are incarcerated for non-violent crimes. He mentioned that many of these women are themselves victims and should have been redirected away from the prison system at an earlier stage.

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Lord Timpson Discusses Increasing Employment for Former Prisoners in Public Sector

Lord Timpson, a known supporter of reintegrating former prisoners into the workforce, recently spoke with Sky News about his ongoing discussions to boost public sector employment for ex-inmates. He believes this aids their rehabilitation. Additionally, he recounted an experience of his mother who fostered infants born to incarcerated mothers.

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Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 5:

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Prisons Minister Lord James Timpson informed Sky News that he is discussing with both parliament and public sector bodies the possibility of employing more former prisoners.

While serving as CEO of his family's Timpson chain, Lord Timpson championed the hiring of ex-offenders, with approximately 10% of the workforce comprising former convicts. He also held a previous role as the chair of the Prison Reform Trust.

He resigned from both positions upon his appointment as a minister and elevation to the peerage following the recent election.

During an interview on the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge, Lord Timpson faced questions about whether parliament should set an example by employing more former offenders.

Lord Timpson mentioned that he was engaged in discussions throughout the entire public sector.

He mentioned that certain agencies, such as the Ministry of Justice, have already begun employing individuals who have previously been incarcerated for particular positions.

He mentioned that certain positions are "not quite suitable for those individuals" and noted that over his two decades in the private sector, employing ex-prisoners "has not consistently been successful."

He explained, "We've discovered that selecting the appropriate individuals at the ideal point in their lives can lead them to become excellent team members and significantly change their circumstances."

Lord Timpson discussed the government's new 10-year prison capacity strategy on Politics Hub, highlighting the initiative to construct the 14,000 prison slots that the previous administration did not complete.

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The official conveyed to Sky News that although it is crucial to focus on rehabilitation and decreasing recidivism, the UK must also expand its prison capacity.

Lord Timpson was questioned regarding Reform UK MP James McMurdock, who, according to judicial records, was imprisoned 18 years prior for repeatedly assaulting his girlfriend.

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The minister stated that although he was not familiar with Mr. McMurdock's specific situation, he emphasized that "effective prison systems have the capacity to reform individuals."

He emphasized, "It's not solely the responsibility of the prison, but also of the offenders themselves."

"Many individuals who are released from prison go on to lead remarkable lives, establishing meaningful relationships, securing employment, and potentially working alongside you and me."

"However, there is a significant number of individuals who repeatedly commit offenses."

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Explore further: The prison system was on the brink of collapse. Overburdened prison system plans to close numerous cells. Inside the UK's chaotic court system.

Incarcerated Mothers

Lord Timpson was also questioned on the topic of incarcerated mothers and their newborn children – specifically, whether these babies should remain with their mothers behind bars.

The colleague recounted a tale from his younger days, explaining how his mother, a foster caregiver, often cared for infants born to incarcerated mothers.

He mentioned: "I often found myself waiting outside Styal Women's Prison as my mother brought the infants inside for a visit.

"It's a problem that I consider to be quite complicated."

It is widely recognized that an ideal environment for an infant is to be with their mother. However, when the mother is incarcerated, it creates numerous challenges.

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Lord Timpson has mentioned that he has toured facilities for incarcerated mothers and their infants, noting that there are "incredible volunteers" who spend a few days each week taking the babies out to expose them to everyday life.

"He also mentioned that a few infants are currently in prison alongside their mothers," and noted that the Women's Justice Board is examining the matter, with further efforts expected in the coming year.

The minister pointed out that 80% of female inmates are incarcerated for non-violent crimes, and many of these women are themselves victims who should have been redirected away from the prison system at an earlier stage.

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Departing hereditary peers denounce 'harsh scheme' to exclude them from the Lords

The proposal to expel aristocratic lineage holders from the senior parliamentary house has ignited claims of unkept commitments, class conflict, "guillotines," and "drive-by assassination."

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 7:

Members of the House of Lords have sharply condemned a plan to exclude hereditary peers, labeling it as "thoroughly nasty." They accused the Labour Party of initiating a "class war" and metaphorically sending them to the "guillotine."

The legislation aimed at removing individuals who gained their positions through family inheritance had its second discussion in the upper house on Wednesday.

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The statement sparked outrage among both hereditary and life peers, with Tory shadow leader in the Lords, Nicholas True, quoting the well-known line from The Apprentice TV show, made famous by Alan Sugar.

"Lord True remarked, 'As Lord Sugar would say, "You're fired,"' stressing the direct and harsh impact this legislation has on 88 members."

"By the way, I'm curious about how frequently Lord Sugar visits this place?"

The prominent entrepreneur and public figure has been criticized for his consistent absence from proceedings since being appointed a life peer in 2009.

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Lord True expressed his disapproval of the notion that the government's strategy to decrease the number of members in the House of Lords involves dismissing some of the most effective and diligent members while retaining those who are less active or frequently absent.

He contended that one rationale for the proposal was rooted in "an antiquated class warrior mentality, such as pushing 15-year-old students away from private schools" – referring to Labour's policy on imposing VAT on private school tuition fees.

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Former Conservative minister Lord Blencathra shared similar views in the upper chamber, recalling the late Labour minister Tony Banks, who was known for his opposition to fox hunting.

Further Reading: While Labour seeks to overhaul the House of Lords, the conclusion of this endeavor remains distant. Gordon Brown has criticized the current structure of the House of Lords as 'indefensible'.

He further noted: "There were several times during his fervent speeches when it appeared that his motivation stemmed not from a fondness for foxes, but rather from his disdain for those he believed were responsible – the Tory elites in their red hunting outfits."

He stated, "this bill has reignited the class conflict once more."

Lord Michael Dobbs, a Conservative member and writer of the "House of Cards" trilogy, likened the expulsion of hereditary peers from the Lords to a public execution by guillotine, describing it as a politically motivated act of malice.

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"Malicious small scheme"

Aristocratic members intensified their critique.

Thomas Galloway Dunlop du Roy de Blicquy Galbraith, who serves in parliament as Lord Strathclyde, commented, "This is a deeply unpleasant minor bill, hastily pushed through the House of Commons with scant consideration for the long-term repercussions.

"Isn't it true that this bill is overtly biased, mainly designed to decrease the opposition's representation in the Lords and to appease the far-left factions within Labour?"

Conservative hereditary peer Lord Ian Strathcarron raised concerns about whether the effort to remove hereditary members was an attempt to reduce the presence of individuals from the private sector in the House.

Self-appointed crossbench hereditary peer Lord Cromwell emphasized the urgency of overhauling the upper chamber's appointment process and advocated for the implementation of a participation mandate.

He stated: "The unchecked power of party leaders to offer peerages as incentives, and then select their friends, their supporters, and their contributors, is not only a disaster in terms of numbers but also a damaging blight on the reputation of this institution."

What are Labour's suggestions?

The legislative proposal titled the House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill, previously passed by the Commons, seeks to eliminate the 92 designated seats for hereditary members in the upper legislative body.

Presently, there are 88 hereditary peers following the temporary halt of by-elections intended to introduce new members, pending legislative action.

The legislation fulfills a commitment made in the Labour Party's campaign platform and is touted as the initial move in a series of changes.

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Supporting the administration's strategy, Labour cabinet minister Baroness Smith stated that the elimination of hereditary peers is "not an insult" to their work, but rather a continuation of the initiatives set forth in the 1999 House of Lords Act. This act established the rule that membership in the House should not be guaranteed solely based on one's familial lineage.

For years, there has been ongoing debate regarding the large number of members in the House of Lords, which currently numbers approximately 800, in contrast to the House of Commons, where the number of MPs is limited to 650.

Today, amid significant backlash against the government's proposal, some are pushing for even more extensive reforms.

The current legislative agenda does not include plans to implement a mandatory participation requirement or set a retirement age limit of 80.

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Currently, members of the House of Lords are not required to participate in proceedings in order to receive a daily allowance of £361, as well as up to £100 for overnight accommodations and reimbursement for travel costs.

It has sparked allegations that it is being utilized as an exclusive club on the taxpayer's dime.

Lord Newby, the Liberal Democrat leader in the Lords, stated that eliminating hereditary peers represents "a minor yet essential step" towards broader reform of the appointed chamber. He noted that although the bill is "narrow in focus," his party is in favor of it.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had earlier committed to dismantling the current parliamentary chamber to replace it with an elected one, though it remains uncertain if he still upholds that commitment.

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The government has issued a directive requiring local councils to submit urgent and compulsory strategies for constructing 1.5 million homes. Councils have a deadline of 12 weeks to outline their construction plans, in line with Labour's goal of creating 370,000 new homes annually. Those failing to meet the deadline will have a plan imposed on them by the government.

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Thursday, December 12, 2024, 6:

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Today, the government is calling for councils to adopt "urgent, compulsory" housing quotas as a component of its strategy to construct 1.5 million homes before the upcoming general election.

Throughout its electoral campaign, the Labour Party pledged to construct numerous new homes to tackle issues with affordability and availability.

Today, the government is set to unveil the newest update to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which outlines its strategy for housing development.

Stay updated on politics: Starmer and Rayner set to reveal new strategy

Under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), local councils are required to establish a schedule within 12 weeks for the allocation of new housing in their districts.

If they do not comply, government officials have made it clear that they will "not hesitate" to enforce a plan, following the acceptance of such plans by fewer than one-third of local councils over the past five years.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated: "Our Plan for Change prioritizes doers over obstacles, reforms the dysfunctional planning system, and aims to provide housing for working families while fueling economic growth that will increase household incomes."

"We are promptly implementing measures to transform the aspiration of owning a home into a reality by constructing 1.5 million new homes by the upcoming parliamentary session and revitalizing Britain to benefit the working populace."

Vice Premier and Minister of Housing, Angela Rayner, declared: "I am fully committed to constructing 1.5 million new homes within the next five years, aiming to provide the most significant increase in social and affordable housing that we've seen in decades.

"Each of us needs to contribute more to this effort. Every community should have a strategy in place to fulfill their housing requirements. The issue is not if homes and essential local services are constructed, but rather where they are established."

Labour intends to construct 370,000 new homes each year in England, aiming to accommodate the 1.3 million households currently awaiting social housing.

Local authorities facing the highest housing affordability issues and significant growth potential will see raised construction goals, with more rigorous measures implemented to ensure their planning strategies are current.

Exploring the Concept of the 'Grey Belt'

The strategy also assumes that development on previously used industrial sites will generally be sanctioned.

Additionally, Labour aims to focus on developing areas within the green belt, specifically those referred to as the "grey belt."

Ms. Rayner mentions that this encompasses "abandoned parking lots, gas stations, and inferior green belt areas."

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Authorities will need to reassess the boundaries of their green belt areas to achieve specific goals, focusing on and giving priority to areas of lesser quality, referred to as 'grey belt' land.

Development on the green belt must conform to Labour's established "golden rules": Prioritize brownfield sites, then grey belt areas, ensure homes are affordable, enhance public services and infrastructure, and upgrade actual green spaces.

Under the plan, local governments will receive an additional £100 million to employ personnel and consultants, along with increased resources for conducting research and evaluating sites.

This is in addition to an earlier rise in planning fees intended to fund additional planning staff.

Councilman Adam Hug, the housing representative from the Local Government Association, stated that constructing homes requires a "collaborative approach."

He advocated for the integration of "national algorithms and formulas" with "regional expertise."

Mr. Hug emphasized that efforts to reform housing should also address workforce issues and the expenses related to building construction.

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Kevin Hollinrake, the Conservative Party's shadow secretary for housing, accuses Labour of consistently falling short in their housebuilding commitments.

"He claimed that Labour will disregard the worries of local communities."

"If the Labour Party truly aims to construct housing in necessary areas, they need to reconsider their approach."

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Keir Starmer vs. The Home Counties

Thursday, December 12, 2024, 08:12 AM, UK

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Sky News’ assistant political editor, Sam Coates, and Politico's Jack Blanchard offer a daily overview of upcoming political events, all condensed into a brief 20-minute session.

Keir Starmer has unveiled a new strategy aimed at increasing the number of homes in the UK, as Kemi Badenoch expresses her opinions on the current condition of Britain and dismissively remarks that lunch is "for wimps."

Additionally, Jack and Sam will provide new details on Rachel Reeves' financial proposals.

Reach out to Jack and Sam via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633, or send an email to jackandsam@sky.uk

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Over 10,000 government employees may face layoffs in a cost-cutting effort. Sir Keir Starmer has criticized a significant number of Whitehall staffers for settling into what he describes as the "lukewarm bath of managed decline."

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Thursday, December 12, 2024, 09:

Sky News reports that over 10,000 government employees may face job cuts following directives to department heads to reduce budgets by 5%.

Officials have indicated that the size of the civil service has grown excessively large and difficult to manage, following increases related to Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic.

As of now, Whitehall employs 513,000 full-time civil servants, marking a rise of 133,000 since the figure was approximately 380,000 in 2016.

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This week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves directed government departments to cut their budgets by 5%, expressing her firm belief that they are capable of doing so.

Agencies have been informed that they are responsible for identifying the cost reductions.

According to insiders, government officials intend to reduce the central government workforce by over 10,000 positions to comply with mandated budget reductions.

During a staff announcement on Thursday, Cat Little, the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office, revealed that 400 positions would be eliminated through a voluntary departure program, reducing the agency's workforce from its present count of 6,315 full-time employees.

A spokesperson from the Cabinet Office stated that the organization is transitioning to a more streamlined and concise framework, aimed at eliminating redundancy and needless red tape. This new structure will enable teams and employees to be more creative and innovative, enhancing overall performance and execution.

A source from the government informed Sky News, stating, "We cannot continue to see a yearly rise in the number of civil servants."

"However, we won't establish a random staffing goal."

"The Conservatives attempted the same strategy but ultimately expended significant funds on pricier consultants."

Following their victory in the July election, the Labour Party abandoned the Conservative Party's objective to limit the size of the civil service to the October 2023 level of 488,000 employees.

Fran Heathcote, the chief of the PCS union representing civil servants, expressed, "Following a week of relentless and unwarranted criticism of the civil service by the new government's members, we are hopeful that these rumors are unfounded."

"Voters opted for transformation, rejecting ongoing harmful proposals to reduce positions in the civil service. We anticipate more from a Labour administration."

Earlier this week, Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden declined to confirm whether there was a specific goal for reducing staff numbers, but he expressed a desire for the workforce to implement AI technologies to enhance productivity.

He emphasized the need for a "start-up" mentality within the civil service, urging "disruptors, innovators, and creative thinkers" to join in enhancing its efficiency.

Last week, Sir Keir Starmer criticized a significant number of Whitehall officials for being content with what he described as the lukewarm waters of gradual deterioration.

Mike Clancy, the general secretary of the Prospect trade union, stated: "It's crucial to have a definitive strategy for the future of the civil service, one that moves away from the simplistic workforce reduction goals that have been unsuccessful previously.

"This strategy should be formulated collaboratively with government employees and their representative unions, and we anticipate further interaction with the authorities in the near future."

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In June, the civil service will introduce its inaugural strategic workforce plan, examining the structure and scale of Whitehall to determine its suitability for contemporary governance.

In response to a question about potential reductions in civil service staff, Cat Little, the permanent secretary of the Cabinet Office, emphasized to MPs the critical need for the civil service to enhance efficiency and productivity. She highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to reduce reliance on human personnel.

When asked if this could result in a reduced number of staff being reassigned, she confirmed, saying, "Precisely, and this must be coordinated with our efforts to cut back on consultancy and temporary labor."

Ms. Little mentioned that certain departments have initiated "voluntary exit programs," emphasizing the importance of retaining top-performing employees.

For further details, visit Sky News: Surge in crimes involving e-bikes and e-scooters; spouse of 'Coronation Street' star passes away; Trump's tariffs expected to have minimal impact on the UK.

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A spokesperson for the government stated: "With our strategy for transformation, we are committed to ensuring that all government sectors are focused on the priorities of the working population—fostering economic growth, increasing disposable income, revitalizing the NHS, reconstructing the nation, and strengthening border security during a decade dedicated to national rejuvenation."

"Our goal is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the civil service by implementing innovative strategies to boost skills and integrate advanced technologies."

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PM calls for answers in Sara Sharif case amid report of widespread child abuse

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the killing of 10-year-old Sara Sharif as "an extremely distressing incident" and emphasized that there are "questions that require answers". His comments came alongside the release of a report indicating that, over the course of a year, hundreds of children either died or suffered severe harm due to abuse.

Thursday, December 12, 2024, 4:

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Sir Keir Starmer has stated that there are unresolved issues surrounding the murder of 10-year-old Sara Sharif, highlighting that a recent report uncovered that numerous children died or suffered severe abuse over a single year.

Recent research released following the conviction of Sara's father and stepmother for her murder reveals that over 480 children in England were involved in "serious incidents" from April 2023 to March 2024.

Sara, one of the children, passed away in August of the previous year following a prolonged period of maltreatment.

Throughout her life, Sara was familiar to social services and her father had previously been accused of abuse.

Five months prior to her murder, her school reported concerns about facial bruises to social services, yet the case was dismissed by social workers shortly thereafter.

An impartial review focusing on child protection will investigate if the authorities did not adequately support her.

The prime minister referred to it as a "terrible" situation.

"Initially, my reaction is purely emotional. This is a terrible situation. It's difficult to witness and read about, and for many who come across it, it's simply startling," he stated.

"From this point, it's clear that there are several inquiries that must be addressed concerning this matter."

In the weeks leading up to her passing, Sara was restrained, assaulted with a cricket bat, scorched with an iron, and also subjected to biting, according to testimony at the Old Bailey.

She sustained over 70 wounds and was discovered deceased at her home in Woking, exhibiting fractures in 25 different areas of her body.

When queried about the possibility of prohibiting the smacking of children under the proposed Children's Wellbeing Bill, Sir Keir stated that the issue of smacking is unrelated to this case.

"He emphasized that this issue pertains to violence and abuse. It also concerns implementing protective measures for children, especially those who are being educated at home," he stated.

"So, I believe that's where the inquiries lie. However, my initial reaction is that it's an incredibly terrible situation that numerous individuals, including many of our viewers, will find extremely difficult to listen to."

Numerous youngsters impacted

Information from the Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel shows that 485 children either passed away or suffered severe harm due to abuse or neglect in the year leading up to March 31, 2024.

Panel leader Annie Hudson commented on the distressing nature of Sara's situation, emphasizing the need for reform in the child protection system and advocating for the establishment of integrated child-focused teams within local authorities.

Out of 330 critical incident reports reviewed by the committee, approximately 46% pertained to the deaths of children.

Over a third of the cases involved infants younger than one year old

Further Reading: The Crisis in Children's Social Care: A 'Heartbreaking Reminder' of Systemic Failures

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Over 50% of cases where a child under the age of five experienced death or significant injury involved a parent or significant adult who had a mental health issue.

The report stated that 16% of child fatalities were attributed to suicide, and it was noted that 92% of these children had been diagnosed with a mental health condition.

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Starmer stands up for the 'Great British institution' of sandwiches following Badenoch's critique

The prime minister's sandwich of choice is tuna, though he sometimes enjoys a cheese toastie. This detail emerges following Kemi Badenoch's dismissal of sandwiches as "not real food."

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Thursday, December 12, 2024, 5:

Sir Keir Starmer has stood up for the "Great British institution" of the sandwich following comments from Tory leader Kemi Badenoch who claimed that this common lunchtime choice does not constitute "real food."

The dispute arose after Ms. Badenoch was interviewed by The Spectator magazine.

During the conversation, they inquired whether she had taken a break for lunch.

The publication quotes her as saying, "What's a lunch break? Lunch is for the weak."

"I order meals to be delivered and continue working while I eat.

"Time is short… Occasionally, I might have a steak…

"I don't usually go for sandwiches; I don't consider them proper food. They're more of a breakfast item to me."

Ms. Badenoch expressed that she avoids bread when it is damp.

When reporters questioned what the prime minister thought about sandwiches, Sir Keir's representative responded, "It seems he was taken aback to learn that the opposition leader opts for a steak for his midday meal."

"The prime minister is quite content with a sandwich for lunch."

The representative described the sandwich as a "great British institution" and noted that, per the British Sandwich Association, it generates £8 billion annually for the UK economy.

According to his spokesperson, Sir Keir likes to eat a tuna sandwich and sometimes has a cheese toastie.

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Ms. Badenoch countered the prime minister by pointing out his availability to "reply to my humorous remarks about lunch," yet seemingly lacking the time to address issues concerning farmers.

Ms Badenoch's predecessor, Rishi Sunak, had quite distinct preferences when it came to lunch, identifying himself as "a big sandwich person" and declaring sandwiches as his "favourite meal," with a particular fondness for a club sandwich accompanied by chips and a Coke.

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In 2022, ex-Conservative MP Dominic Raab was embroiled in a controversy, which surfaced during mealtime, when he refuted claims of hurling tomatoes at an assistant.

He refuted claims that he had the same lunch daily, which was reportedly a chicken Caesar and bacon sandwich, a superfruit cup, and a vitamin volcano smoothie from Pret a Manger.

Mr. Raab admitted he has a fondness for the chicken Caesar baguette at Pret, though he mentioned being enticed by the spicy Italian baguette at Subway.

One of the most notorious sandwich-related controversies involved Ed Miliband during his tenure as leader of the Labour Party

The current Secretary of Energy was photographed at an awkward time while consuming a bacon sandwich, and the image has continued to overshadow his tenure, remaining in circulation even now.

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Baroness Catherine Meyer is facing a three-week suspension after referring to a fellow peer as 'Lord Poppadom' and for touching an MP's hair. The 71-year-old admitted to possibly consuming three glasses of wine and acknowledged that she might have used the nickname for Lord Dholakia on two occasions, though she does not recall doing so.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 4

A recommendation has been made for a baroness to be suspended from the House of Lords for three weeks after she referred to a fellow peer as "Lord Poppadom" and touched an MP's braids without consent.

Baroness Catherine Meyer faces allegations of using the term "Lord Poppadom" to describe Lord Dholakia on two occasions during a cab ride in Rwanda in February. The incident occurred while she was part of a delegation from the parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR).

On her visit, the 71-year-old widow of the late U.S. ambassador Sir Christopher Meyer admired Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy's hairstyle and inquired if she might touch it.

Before receiving a response, Lady Meyer proceeded to lift one of Ms Ribeiro-Addy’s braids, according to a conduct report.

Latest in Politics: Starmer Stands by Sandwich

Lady Meyer initially described the "Lord Poppadom" allegations as "groundless" and "without merit".

Following testimony from two witnesses, she acknowledged that the event occurred after a lengthy day and a meal during which she had consumed "perhaps three glasses of wine."

She then admitted, "It's conceivable that I mentioned it, though I can't recall doing so."

According to the report, Lady Meyer admitted to the encounter with Ms Ribeiro-Addy, claiming she meant it as a kind gesture and was "completely oblivious" to the possibility that it might be received poorly.

"She realized her mistake as soon as she noticed the MP's body language and exclaimed, "Oh gosh, I messed up,"

The document noted that Lady Meyer mistakenly referred to Lord Dholakia as "Lord Popat," who is also a South Asian member of the House of Lords, and she quickly offered her apologies.

However, other party attendees mentioned hearing her refer to him as Lord Poppadom on two occasions in the taxi, even though he himself did not catch these comments.

During the committee meeting, Lord Dholakia expressed his dismay and discomfort, stating that he felt unable to remain on the JCHR if Lady Meyer continued her membership.

Ms. Riberio-Addy, alongside another witness, lodged a complaint that included concerns about Lady Meyer touching her hair.

The committee addressing the complaints determined that although Lady Meyer's actions did not amount to bullying due to the absence of abuse or power misuse, her conduct was nonetheless unwelcome and affected Lord Dholakia, thus constituting harassment on racial grounds.

The committee noted that the enduring effects on Ms. Ribeiro-Addy from the hair incident and being called names were clearly evident in her complaint.

She expressed: "As each week passed and with every plea to simply document my grievance, my frustration and distress regarding the matter only intensified.

"Struggled to articulate the grievance without getting extremely distressed."

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The committee declared that Lady Meyer's act of touching the MP's hair without consent constituted harassment. They explained that this action was unsolicited, infringed upon her dignity, was regarded as harassment, and it was reasonable for the MP to view it as such.

They noted that Lady Meyer expressed regret and a readiness to apologize, concluding that her action of touching Ms Ribeiro-Addy's hair was not motivated by malice or racism.

The panel suggested that she be barred from the House of Lords for a period of three weeks because of the racial nature of the initial incident, and that she undergo tailored behavior training to address both occurrences.

The parliamentary commissioner for standards has proposed a six-month suspension for Lord Stone following an investigation which concluded that he engaged in bullying behavior towards two security personnel. This involved the use of "insulting and aggressive" language stemming from an incident where he was informed that he could not leave a suitcase unattended at the subway entrance to parliament, an act deemed an abuse or misuse of power.

Lord Stone, previously the managing director at Marks and Spencer, has violated the House of Lords' bullying and harassment regulations for the third time.

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Government considers fewer jury trials to tackle court delays

Critics of the suggested reforms, including the president of the Law Society, argue that they might undermine the basic right to a jury trial among peers.

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Thursday, December 12, 2024, 3:

Officials are contemplating a reduction in jury trials as a strategy to address the accumulation of cases in the judicial system.

Distinguished legal expert Sir Brian Leveson has been appointed to head a review of the judicial system.

The number of cases awaiting trial at the Crown Court, which handles all jury trials, has soared to 73,105—nearly twice the amount seen before the pandemic.

Sir Brain is considering various alternatives, such as establishing a new level of "intermediate courts" in which a judge would preside over cases together with magistrates instead of a jury.

He will also examine if certain cases that typically go to jury trials in crown courts might be more suitable for hearings in magistrate courts.

Sir Brian has been tasked with examining how potential changes might affect the avenues for appeals.

Certain factions within the judiciary have issued warnings about the potential consequences of significantly reducing the number of jury trials.

Richard Atkinson, the head of the Law Society, expressed approval for the evaluation conducted by Sir Brian.

However, he stated, "It's crucial that any review seeks not only to be efficient but also to ensure justice is both effective and fair."

"Eliminating the right to appeal and undermining the basic right to a jury trial for serious crimes represent significant alterations to the constitution that necessitate thorough deliberation."

Mr. Atkinson expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of intermediate courts in addressing case backlogs, instead advocating for broader investment throughout the entire system.

Discover further: Exploring the UK's chaotic court landscape. Legal experts caution against expanding magistrates' authority.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated: "The extent of the crisis in the Crown Court that this administration has taken on is unparalleled. Even with the hard work of judges, lawyers, and court personnel, maintaining the current situation is not feasible."

To implement the government's ambitious agenda for transformation and enhance the safety of our streets, we need a historic overhaul of a judicial system that is on the verge of collapse.

Frequently, victims endure long waits, sometimes spanning years, before witnessing their assailant stand trial, and it is a recognized truth that for many, such postponed justice equates to justice being withheld.

"We must commit to victims by discovering and implementing groundbreaking strategies that accelerate the legal process, ensure safer communities, and clearly convey to criminals that they will swiftly encounter the repercussions of their deeds."

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Sir Brian expressed his satisfaction in contributing to the vital effort of tackling the significant challenges within the criminal justice system.

"Tackling an issue as large as this demands creative solutions, and I am eager to present my suggestions to [Ms Mahmood] when the time is right."

Explore the 20 Largest Judicial Delays in England and Wales

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The government has announced that a preliminary series of suggestions will be released in the spring of the following year.

Sir Brian will also explore the potential of technology and artificial intelligence to alleviate the backlog.

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According to the Cabinet Office, ten individuals affected by the contaminated blood scandal will collectively receive approximately £13 million. Although this action has been received positively, certain campaigners argue that it is merely government "spin".

Health reporter @ashishskynews

Thursday, December 12, 2024, 4:

The government is scheduled to issue the initial compensation payments related to the infected blood scandal this week, with 10 affected individuals receiving a total of more than £13 million, according to the Cabinet Office.

The administration labeled the disbursements from the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) as a "significant historical event."

However, several advocates for those affected by the contaminated blood scandal have expressed intense anger in response to the announcement, accusing the government of manipulating the narrative and stating that many victims have still not received any compensation.

Glenn Wilkinson, who suffers from hemophilia, was contaminated with infected blood products as a child. Now at 60, he battles severe liver disease.

Mr. Wilkinson stated that he has not received any money except for an initial partial payment made earlier this year.

"He accused the government of only appearing to be productive by concentrating on a select few individuals," he stated during an interview with Sky News.

"This represents an attempt by the government to push a misleading depiction of the true events."

Further Details on Infected Blood Inquiry

Relatives of those affected by the infected blood scandal demand modifications to the compensation program

Victims of contaminated blood express outrage over insufficient compensation proposal

Former students subjected to experiments involving contaminated blood have condemned the 'offensive' compensation proposal.

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The Cabinet Office has announced that a group of ten individuals will receive a combined sum exceeding £13 million in compensation.

A representative stated that the initial group of individuals has agreed to their proposals and is expected to be paid "soon".

Individuals who received compensation were exposed to life-threatening viruses through contaminated blood and blood products.

Their names are being withheld from the public.

The Cabinet Office announced that an additional 25 individuals have been asked to submit their compensation claims.

Between the 1970s and early 1990s, over 30,000 individuals were exposed to potentially fatal viruses during blood transfusions or treatments involving blood products under NHS supervision.

Approximately 3,000 individuals lost their lives due to the incident, and those who survived face enduring health consequences.

In April 2023, Sir Brian Langstaff, the head of the Infected Blood Inquiry, issued his ultimate suggestions regarding payouts, emphasizing that sufferers should no longer endure delays in receiving compensation.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves declared that £11.8 billion would be allocated for compensating the victims of the scandal in her October budget, with implementation oversight given to the IBCA.

The Cabinet Office announced that the IBCA plans to expand its compensation services in the coming year.

Learn more from Sky News: Relatives of those affected by the contaminated blood scandal are demanding modifications to the compensation program.

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Cabinet Office Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds stated, "The government made a commitment to address compensation for contaminated blood, and today marks a crucial advancement in providing justice for individuals who have endured an excessively long wait for this compensation."

"Although no monetary compensation can completely remedy the distress caused by this scandal, it is our hope that this gesture demonstrates our commitment to providing substantial financial support to those impacted. This is the reason our government has allocated £11.8 billion to this program in the budget."

"Following years of unfairness, it is my hope that this action offers a bit of comfort to a community that has endured great hardships, showing that steps are being initiated."

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Kate Burt, the CEO of the Haemophilia Society, commented, "We are pleased to hear this encouraging update, yet it's important that it does not overshadow the substantial worries that persist throughout our community regarding the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme."

"The truth of the matter is that there's a general sense of dissatisfaction due to the sluggish distribution of compensation, coupled with resentment towards the government for apparently ignoring the community’s recommendations on how to enhance the program.

"For swift advancements in disbursing reparations to the affected and grieving individuals, it is imperative that the government earnestly addresses the issues raised by the central figures involved in this controversy."

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Parlament bestätigt von der Leyens neue EU-Kommission

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Nach einer Diskussion mit Ursula von der Leyen bezüglich ihres neuen Teams und ihrer Pläne, genehmigten die Abgeordneten durch eine namentliche Abstimmung das Kollegium der neuen Kommissionsmitglieder.

Eine Mehrheit von 370 Abgeordneten sprach sich für die Kommission aus, während 282 dagegen votierten und 36 sich der Stimme enthielten. Detaillierte Informationen über das Abstimmungsverhalten der einzelnen Parlamentarier werden in Kürze auf der offiziellen Webseite des Parlaments sowie im Protokoll der Plenarsitzung zugänglich gemacht.

According to Article 129(7) of the Rules of Procedure of the European Parliament, a majority of the votes cast was needed to confirm the college.

Ursula von der Leyen tritt nun ihre zweite Amtszeit als Präsidentin der Europäischen Kommission an. Ihr erstes Kommissionsgremium wurde im November 2019 durch das Parlament bestätigt.

Diskussion mit den Parlamentariern vor der Entscheidung durch Abstimmung

Kurz vor der Wahl präsentierte Ursula von der Leyen ihre Mannschaft und deren Pläne. Sie ging dabei auf die Anpassungen in den Zuständigkeiten der einzelnen Kommissionsmitglieder ein, die von den Abgeordneten zur Bestätigung der Kommission verlangt worden waren. „Wir sind bereit, sofort durchzustarten“, sagte sie und hob hervor, dass ihre Kommission sich kontinuierlich für Freiheit, Souveränität, Sicherheit und Wohlstand engagieren werde. Die komplette Ansprache kann auf der Website der Kommission nachgelesen werden.

Von der Leyen verkündete, dass das erste Projekt der neuen Kommission ein „Kompass für Wettbewerbsfähigkeit“ sein wird. Dieses Vorhaben soll helfen, die Innovationslücke Europas im Vergleich zu den USA und China zu schließen, die Sicherheit und Unabhängigkeit zu stärken sowie die Dekarbonisierung zu fördern. Bezüglich des Europäischen Grünen Deals sagte sie: „Wir müssen und werden die Ziele des europäischen Green Deals weiterhin verfolgen.“ Sie versprach, einen „Clean Industrial Deal“ vorzuschlagen, einen strategischen Dialog über die Zukunft der europäischen Automobilindustrie zu initiieren, die Entwicklung einer wettbewerbsfähigen Kreislaufwirtschaft zu unterstützen und eine Europäische Spar- und Investitionsunion zu etablieren.

In Anbetracht der gegenwärtigen Konflikte in der Ukraine, dem Nahen Osten und bestimmten Regionen Afrikas hob Frau von der Leyen hervor, dass Europa in diesen Bereichen eine aktivere Position einnehmen müsse. Sie betonte, dass Europa jetzt mehr denn je von Bedeutung sei. Weiterhin machte sie deutlich, dass die Erhöhung der Verteidigungsausgaben der Europäischen Union notwendig sei, und versicherte, dass die Sicherheit Europas für diese Kommission stets oberste Priorität habe.

In der darauf folgenden Diskussion forderten mehrere Parlamentarier die neue Kommission auf, zügig auf die aktuellen Herausforderungen in Europa zu reagieren. Sie betonten die Notwendigkeit, Europas Wettbewerbsfähigkeit angesichts des sich verschärfenden globalen Konkurrenzdrucks zu stärken, den Europäischen Grünen Deal umzusetzen, die Energieunabhängigkeit zu gewährleisten und als Antwort auf den Ukraine-Krieg eine Verteidigungsunion zu etablieren. Andere äußerten jedoch ihre Kritik gegenüber der neuen Zusammensetzung der Kommissionsmitglieder. Aufzeichnungen und Ausschnitte der Debatte sind im Multimedia-Zentrum des Europäischen Parlaments zugänglich.

Press Briefing

Following the announcement of the voting results, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a press conference. The press conference is also available on EbS+.

Upcoming Actions

After being formally appointed by the European Council through a qualified majority vote, the new European Commission is expected to begin its duties on December 1, 2024.

Background

The proposed team of Commission members underwent evaluation by the European Parliament through public hearings held from November 4th to 12th. During these sessions, the candidates appeared before the relevant committees to assess their qualifications and capability to handle the responsibilities related to their respective fields.

The Parliament's Conference of Presidents announced the conclusion of the hearings on November 27 and released the evaluation letters for all nominated commissioners. Additional details regarding the 2024 Commission's investiture process can be found in the briefing provided by the Parliament's Scientific Service.

Resultate vorheriger Abstimmungen zur Kommission

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Kyriakos KLOSIDIS

Armin WISDORFF

Thilo KUNZEMANN

Jakob FLOSSMANN

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