Anticipate increased volume in the assisted dying discussion as the vote approaches

With the vote just days away, tensions are escalating, expressions are more charged, and critiques are more vocal, according to Amanda Akass.

Political reporter @amandaakass

Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 3

In the most recent vote concerning assisted dying, approximately 75% of Members of Parliament opposed it.

Nearly a decade on, surveys indicate that 66% of the population supports a legal amendment.

This proportion is reflected in the count of cabinet ministers who have openly expressed their stance, with 10 in favor and five opposed (of these, only nine have followed the directive from Cabinet Secretary Simon Case to remain uninvolved).

However, key members of the cabinet who oppose the bill have been among the most visible in voicing their concerns during the discussions.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood are primarily tasked with ensuring the implementation of the law effectively within the NHS and the judiciary system.

There are also worries about whether there are adequate protections to prevent patients who are at risk from feeling forced or manipulated into ending their lives.

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Debate on assisted suicide shifts tone as MPs prepare for independent vote

Ms. Mahmood strongly opposes the significant change in government responsibility from safeguarding its citizens' lives to facilitating their deaths. Her caution regarding "the slippery slope towards death on demand" may deeply unsettle numerous readers.

Former Labour leader Gordon Brown recently made a significant contribution through an article in The Guardian. In it, he shared the personal story of his infant daughter's passing, a pivotal event that underscored for him the critical need for enhanced end-of-life care. Brown advocated for the establishment of a commission dedicated to exploring advancements in palliative care services.

Will these points of contention prompt uncertainty among legislators who were initially inclined to support the opposite stance?

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Kim Leadbeater, the Member of Parliament sponsoring the bill, expressed to Sky's Trevor Phillips today her unwavering confidence, stating that existing laws are inadequate for those suffering, and her bill includes the strongest protections of any assisted dying legislation globally.

Learn more: What is the cabinet's position on assisted suicide? The Justice Secretary's involvement in assisted dying is a bombshell.

Lord Falconer, a steadfast supporter of assisted dying, sharply criticized Ms. Mahmood, who followed him as the Labour Lord Chancellor, for her stance against it. He described her objections as "completely wrong" and implied that her religious beliefs, which he argued should not influence others, were driving her position.

In her letter to constituents, Ms. Mahmood stated that her Islamic beliefs were only one element influencing her stance, while Lord Falconer's contentious statement underscores the growing polarization of the discussion.

Shadow Housing Secretary Kevin Hollinrake stated today that he supports the bill, influenced by the challenging conditions surrounding his mother's death. He also expressed his comfort with the cabinet's open discussion on this significant issue.

Numerous electorates might concur, and in a scenario where the voting is unrestricted, it's natural to anticipate such evident splits within parties rather than between them. However, following a turbulent period, Sir Keir Starmer is likely not pleased with the overt disagreements and defiance among his senior ranks regarding such a significant issue.

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The paradox lies in the fact that the prime minister, previously serving as the director of public prosecutions, possesses a deeper understanding of the issue than many others.

In 2015, he cast his vote in favor of the law's amendment. However, the numerous MPs, particularly those who are recent additions to parliament and remain undecided, will not receive any guidance from him on how to vote, due to the government's stance of neutrality.

With the vote just days away, tensions are escalating, rhetoric is intensifying, and critiques are becoming more vocal.

Anticipate that the discussions will intensify in the upcoming days.

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Training initiative launched for bar workers to handle drink spiking cases

Starting this December and continuing into spring, a new pilot program will train 10,000 employees in the nightlife sector on how to recognize and thwart drink spiking incidents.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Monday, November 25, 2024, at 7

Under new government initiatives aimed at combating violence against women and girls, bar employees will receive training on how to handle cases of drink tampering.

Number 10 has announced that a new pilot program, set to launch in December, will train workers in the night-time economy on identifying and preventing incidents, as well as assisting in evidence collection.

The strategy aims to have as many as 10,000 bar employees nationwide undergo training by the upcoming spring.

Key issues will be addressed in a discussion at Downing Street on Monday, involving the prime minister, top police officers, transport leaders, and business executives.

Sir Keir Starmer stated, "My administration came into power with a commitment to reclaim our streets, and fulfilling this promise is impossible if women and girls continue to feel unsafe after dark."

"Today, I am convening a meeting with police chiefs, industry leaders, and transportation authorities to insist on a unified approach to prevent women from being victimized, whether they're socializing or just commuting."

He emphasized: "Addressing the issue of spiking is key to our objectives.

"It's understood that coming forward to report such heinous crimes can be tremendously challenging for victims, and prosecuting these cases can be equally tough. We need to intensify our efforts to hold the despicable offenders accountable, particularly when they target young women, typically with the intent of committing sexual offenses."

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Learn More: Understanding Spiking Symptoms: Kate McCann Shares Details of a Bold Spiking Incident; Mother Issues Alert Following Footage of Daughter's Incapacitation

Jess Phillips, who holds the position of minister for safeguarding and addressing violence against women and girls, announced that a review of sentencing guidelines for spiking incidents is currently underway.

She expressed to Sky News, "I believe that when an individual intentionally aims to injure, embarrass, distress, or incapacitate someone for further criminal acts, they should face harsh penalties."

"This is also about ensuring that individuals serve adequate time behind bars."

"My hope is for women to experience security while they are on the go, without the need to constantly reassess their safety strategies with friends, a concern that currently affects everyone."

The Labour Party committed in their platform to create a new crime for spiking, however, specifics have been scarce since the announcement.

Spiking is currently categorized as a form of assault, yet advocates argue that establishing a distinct crime would demonstrate a "zero tolerance" policy and aid in its eradication.

The Metropolitan Police of London reported a 13% rise in spiking incidents in 2023, receiving 1,383 complaints.

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On Monday, Sir Keir reiterated his dedication to the manifesto commitment, which the government claims is integral to its objective of reducing violence against women and girls by 50% over the next ten years.

The timeline for the introduction of the bill remains uncertain, yet it is known that both ministers and officials are actively striving to expedite its presentation.

During Monday's session, the discussion will include strategies currently utilized by law enforcement, with 20 police units across England and Wales deploying undercover officers in the vicinity of bars and clubs to monitor for signs of predatory actions.

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British Transport Police Chief Constable Lucy D'Orsi is set to announce the reintroduction of the text-reporting service, 61016, which can now be used at no cost on all leading networks. She encourages women to use this service to report any instances of harassment they experience on trains.

Among the attendees at the meeting were Kate Nicholls, who serves as the chief executive of UKHospitality and as the chairwoman of the Institute of Licensing, along with Chief Constable Maggie Blythe, who is the National Police Chiefs' Council's lead on VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls).

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"Profit gains lead to expansion": Business slams largest tax hike in decades

The Labour government, which focused on growth in its previous election campaign, has enacted the most significant tax rise since the era of John Major in 1993.

By Claire Gilbody Dickerson, journalist, and James Sillars, commerce correspondent

Monday, November 25, 2024, at 2

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The leader of a leading UK business organization has expressed concerns that the latest budget's tax increases are more likely to burden companies instead of promoting expansion.

CBI Director General Rain Newton-Smith has added her voice to the growing number of critics regarding Chancellor Rachel Reeves's financial strategies. These measures, according to the Labour Party, are essential to address a £22 billion deficit attributed to 14 years of Conservative governance.

During the recent general election, the Labour Party focused its campaign on economic expansion. However, the business community is concerned that the £40 billion in tax hikes revealed last month — the most significant increase during a budget announcement since John Major's administration in 1993 — could hinder investment.

Ms. Newton-Smith addressed the CBI's annual conference, noting that although certain initiatives were beneficial to its members, the substantial increase in taxes on businesses was an unexpected development.

She delivered her comments merely hours after Kingfisher, the parent company of Screwfix and B&Q, issued a warning as the latest large company about a significant effect; facing a £31 million blow from increased employer National Insurance contributions (NICs) in the next year alone.

"Numerous companies are being forced to scale back their expansion ambitions," stated Ms. Newton-Smith.

In a variety of industries, profit margins are shrinking and earnings are suffering due to an increasingly challenging business climate.

"And this is the crucial point: profits aren't merely surplus funds for corporations to hoard. They are capital for reinvestment."

Ms. Newton-Smith stated, "Impacting profits affects competitiveness, investment, and growth."

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During a conversation with Sky News after her speech, she emphasized the importance of the government addressing the issues raised by her members, particularly regarding the impending overhaul of employment rights.

Ms. Newton-Smith did not confirm whether the bond between the corporate sector and Number 11 Downing Street was affected by the budget proposals. However, she cautioned that employees, particularly those earning less, would be adversely impacted by the modifications to employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs).

"She emphasized their role as a steadfast ally, always collaborating with the government to facilitate the implementation of current policies."

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), tasked with overseeing government fiscal strategies and outcomes, has indicated that the majority of the impact from the tax hike will likely be absorbed by employees in the form of reduced salaries, and by shoppers facing increased costs.

Last week, a group of retail leaders penned a letter to the chancellor, expressing grave concerns about the potential negative impact on the economy and employment should the proposed budget plans proceed.

Explore further on Sky News: What are the expenses involved in egg freezing and what are the risks? Storm Bert: Dad saves child from submerged vehicle.

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As many as 79 signatories have aligned with the British Retail Consortium's (BRC) critical reaction to the recent budget statement, asserting that the tax increases proposed by Labour could elevate their expenses by £7 billion in the forthcoming year alone.

It cautioned that rising expenses, including increased employer National Insurance contributions and hikes in the National Living Wage slated for next year, would be transferred to consumers, affecting employment and investment.

The message, supported by the head of Tesco, the UK's biggest retailer, stated: "The enormous magnitude of emerging expenses and the rapid rate at which they arise accumulate to a burden that will unavoidably lead to layoffs and assuredly result in increased prices."

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"Companies now face a decision"

Several days following the budget announcement, Chancellor Reeves acknowledged her error in previously stating that higher taxes were unnecessary during the election campaign. She cautioned that businesses might need to either reduce their profits or lower employee wages to accommodate the tax hike.

She accused the former administration of concealing a significant financial deficit, which she only realized after her party came into power.

She explained to Trevor Phillips on Sky News' Sunday Morning: "Indeed, companies will have to decide whether to offset this by becoming more efficient and productive, by accepting reduced profits, or possibly by slowing down the growth of wages."

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UK Competes with Russia in AI Military Development, Minister Says

"The UK, along with everyone present here, is keeping a close eye on Russia," Pat McFadden is set to inform NATO representatives at a cyber security summit on Monday, while revealing plans for a new AI research center aimed at addressing these challenges.

By Mickey Carroll, specializing in science and technology reporting

Monday, November 25, 2024, at 6

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On Monday, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is set to declare that the UK is engaged in a "new AI arms race" with nations such as Russia and North Korea.

Minister Pat McFadden is set to address the NATO Cyber Defence Conference at Lancaster House, alerting the UK and its partner nations that "cyber warfare has become an everyday occurrence".

"Make no mistake: the United Kingdom, along with others present here, is closely monitoring Russia. We are fully aware of their actions, and we are actively responding to their maneuvers, both openly and covertly," he will state.

"Putin is an individual who seeks devastation rather than harmony."

Explore further: Russia poised to launch a series of cyber attacks against the UK

In an effort to maintain pace with competitors, Mr. McFadden is set to unveil a new Laboratory for AI Security Research (LASR).

"He will declare that AI is transforming numerous aspects of life, notably national security."

"However, as we advance in this field, there is a risk that this technology could be turned against us. Our rivals are exploring ways to deploy AI in both physical and cyber warfare contexts."

Threats

US authorities have uncovered a significant breach in the nation's telecommunications networks by Chinese entities, according to tech investor Andrew Levi. He reported that these operatives managed to deeply infiltrate the system and access a wide array of sensitive data.

"He emphasized to Sky News that this issue extends beyond just Russia."

In May, GCHQ's Anne Keast-Butler revealed that the intelligence service allocates more resources to monitoring China than to any other specific task. This shift followed incidents where China was implicated in breaching the Ministry of Defence’s payroll system and allegedly pilfering data concerning UK voters from the Electoral Commission.

Over the past few months, Check Point, a cybersecurity company, has observed a 72% increase in cyber attacks aimed at the UK, stated Sergey Shykevitch, the head of threat intelligence research at the firm.

Speaking to Sky News, he emphasized, "With appropriate funding and a robust national cyber security strategy, we can certainly mitigate the risks posed by these attacks. However, it's crucial to understand that an attacker only needs one successful breach to meet their objectives, whereas defenders must thwart every single attempt."

AI 'just a piece of the whole picture'

The freshly established artificial intelligence lab is set to benefit from an initial government grant of £8.22 million, which will precede additional investments and partnerships from the private sector.

According to a specialist speaking to Sky News, AI represents just a single element in the broader strategy needed to enhance the UK's cybersecurity defenses.

"Stephen Kines, the CEO of UK-based cybersecurity company Goldilock, emphasized the necessity to completely transform our approach and bolster investment in our networks."

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He expressed that the UK's outdated infrastructure makes the nation susceptible, and incorporating AI security is akin to installing a modern, secure front door complete with a camera doorbell while neglecting an outdated back door.

"He pointed out the issue at hand, emphasizing that there are vulnerabilities that are completely unprotected," he noted.

Mr. Kines recommends that to safeguard against Russian threats, the UK should install manual override switches in its power systems and also limit the number of internet-connected access points.

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"When you break it down to the fundamental level, it's possible to overpower the Russians as they are unable to physically breach it from such a vast distance."

In conjunction with the unveiling of the new laboratory, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is set to reveal a new £1 million initiative aimed at enhancing incident response capabilities through the sharing of expertise, enabling allies to more effectively tackle cyber incidents.

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Ex-head of the Metropolitan Police urges government officials to pay attention to a study advocating for the cessation of non-crime hate incidents.

A recent publication by the think tank Policy Exchange recommends discontinuing the practice of non-crime hate incidents.

Monday, November 25, 2024, 5:

A previous leader of the Metropolitan Police has encouraged government officials to pay careful attention to a policy institute's recommendation that non-crime hate incidents should be eliminated.

From 2011 to 2017, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe held the position of commissioner for the United Kingdom's most extensive police service.

He has endorsed a recent study from Policy Exchange, published on Monday, which describes non-crime hate incidents (NCHI) as a diversion from core policing duties.

According to the government's definition, a NCHI is: "An occurrence or purported occurrence where an action by an individual ('the subject') is perceived by someone other than the subject to be driven – entirely or partially – by animosity or bias against people with a specific attribute."

The inquiry into Daily Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson has been discontinued.

She stated that the inquiry was initially for a non-criminal hate incident, but a spokesperson from Essex Police had earlier informed Sky News that it had consistently been approached as a probe into a suspected criminal offense of inciting racial hatred.

In the recent document, Lord Hogan-Howe remarked, "The initial purpose of Non-Crime Hate Incidents was positive – aimed at identifying early signs that could potentially escalate into racist violence and criminal activities."

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He also noted that there was "minimal discussion regarding their effectiveness."

Get further details from Sky News: Adele emotionally ends her residency; Father saves his son from a submerging vehicle; Three detained following the discovery of a rabbi's body.

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He went on to explain: "Determining if an act is criminal follows a clear, objective legal standard. In contrast, identifying a Non-Crime Hate Incident relies on subjective guidelines, leading to varied results.

It is the responsibility of Parliament, not the College of Policing, to determine if the police ought to investigate Non-Crime Hate Incidents and the method of their documentation.

"I strongly recommend that ministers carefully consider the findings of this Policy Exchange report to guide their planned course of action."

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Could Rachel Reeves Be the Next Margaret Thatcher?

Monday, November 25, 2024, 07:34, UK

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

Sky News' assistant political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard present a daily briefing on upcoming political events, all in less than 20 minutes.

As another week unfolds, Rachel Reeves is once again set to justify the tax increases proposed in her budget. Today, her focus will be on alleviating the concerns of business leaders who argue that her strategies are deterring them from expanding their workforce.

As the government unveils new welfare reforms aimed at boosting employment this week, one must question whether the budget actually counteracts these initiatives.

This week, Members of Parliament are set to cast their votes on the legalization of assisted dying. With opinions divided within the cabinet, what challenges does this pose for the government? Additionally, is it appropriate for ministers to express their personal opinions so openly?

Reach out to Jack and Sam via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or contact them through email at jackandsam@sky.uk

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Welsh government reverses stance on mandatory tree coverage for farmers

The Welsh government has abandoned its policy that mandated farmers to maintain at least 10% tree coverage on their land to qualify for government subsidies, as declared by the deputy first minister.

Welsh correspondent @TomosGruffydd

Monday, November 25, 2024, 10:

Plans for contentious tree planting quotas on Welsh farms have been abandoned.

The Welsh government has abandoned its mandate that farmers maintain 10% tree coverage on their land to qualify for governmental subsidies following consultations with agricultural unions.

However, the mandate that farmers must dedicate at least 10% of their land to natural habitats persists, with additional temporary habitat solutions under review.

The goals included in the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) led to protests by farmers at the Senedd earlier this year.

Numerous pairs of rubber boots were displayed on the steps of the Welsh parliament building during a demonstration by the National Farmers' Union (NFU) Cymru, protesting against the policies proposed by the Welsh government.

Following alarms from the agricultural sector about potential job cuts and heightened economic strain on farms, the program was postponed in May to allow more discussions with labor unions.

Under the updated guidelines, agricultural producers will have the choice to plant additional trees or shrubs on their property and will receive increased financial support for these actions.

Certain previously mandatory requirements, such as the installation of wash stations on all farms, have now been made optional.

Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies revealed the policy reversal at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells on Monday.

"He stated, 'We promised to listen – and that's exactly what we've done.'"

Agricultural workers form the backbone of numerous communities throughout Wales, significantly contributing to both the economy and the production of food.

"As guardians of our environment, they are crucial in defending and rejuvenating nature while addressing the urgent climate crisis."

Mr. Irranca-Davies expressed his dedication to both engaging with and collaborating alongside their stakeholders.

The updated plan is set to be unveiled in the coming summer.

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Explore further on Sky News: Father saves child from submerged vehicle. Has Canada's assisted dying policy gone too far?

NFU Cymru president Aled Jones described the announcement as a significant advancement, yet noted that there is still a considerable amount of effort required on numerous elements of the program.

President of the Farmers' Union of Wales, Ian Rickman, expressed that farmers are currently in a more favorable position regarding the scheme. However, he noted that this announcement merely signifies the conclusion of the initial phase.

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Starmer dismisses possibility of another general election despite petition gathering two million signatures

Members of the Conservative Party's right wing and those from Reform UK have been promoting the petition, which also caught the attention of Elon Musk upon its release.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Monday, November 25, 2024, at 1

Sir Keir Starmer has dismissed the possibility of an early general election, despite a petition demanding another vote garnering two million signatures.

The petition, initiated this past weekend, calls for a new election, merely four months following Labour's overwhelming victory, on the grounds that the party has reneged on the commitments it made prior to the previous election.

By late Monday morning, the petition had gathered over two million signatures and was rapidly gaining more.

Latest in Politics: Chancellor cautioned about potential adverse effects from budget tax hikes

The prime minister announced that he does not plan to call for another election.

He expressed that it was "expected" that those unwilling to back Labour would advocate for another referendum.

"Remember, a lot of people didn't choose Labour in the previous election," he said during an interview on ITV's Good Morning Britain.

It's understandable that a number of them are calling for a do-over. However, that's not the way our system operates. There were certainly many who were opposed to our involvement from the start.

"My attention is primarily on the daily decisions I need to address."

When a petition on the government website garners 10,000 signatures, it becomes eligible for discussion in Parliament. If the petition achieves 100,000 signatures, it receives an official response from the government.

Before Sir Keir dismissed the possibility, the chances of an early general election were already slim given Labour's significant majority and the fact that only the prime minister can request the King to initiate a general election.

Over the weekend, MPs identified with the right wing of the Conservative Party or associated with Reform UK were encouraging followers on social media to support the petition.

Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice and the Conservative Party's shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith were among the individuals promoting the petition.

Elon Musk, the billionaire head of X and associate of Donald Trump, shared a link to a post claiming it garnered 200,000 signatures in just a few hours, commenting, "Wow."

Musk has previously criticized Sir Keir Starmer, labeling him "two-tier Keir" amid claims that police were applying different standards to communities based on race.

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Several users of platform X have been encouraging individuals globally to endorse the petition and shared a series of postal codes to help them masquerade as UK voters, as this is a requirement for signing the petition.

There has been significant public opposition to various measures implemented by the government, such as the imposition of inheritance tax on agricultural estates, reductions in winter fuel subsidies, increases in the national insurance contributions for employers, and the extension of VAT to tuition fees at private schools.

Discover more: Starmer's popularity declines while Farage's surges amid criticism of the largest tax increases in years from the business community.

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Michael Westwood, who runs the Wagon and Horses pub in Oldbury, West Midlands, initiated the petition.

Speaking to the Daily Express, he said, "I believe people are fed up. Observing the events in America, it seems clear that when people unite and cast their votes, real change is possible."

The most recent Ipsos survey on political sentiment indicates that the Labour Party is currently in disfavor, receiving positive perceptions from only 28% of participants, while 49% view the party negatively.

The general performance of the Labour Party since assuming office is rated at four out of ten.

Over half (56%) of those surveyed expressed the belief that the nation is on the wrong path, and 40% of Britons feel their situation has deteriorated since the Labour Party assumed control.

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Press Conference for This Week’s Plenary Meeting

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Spokespersons from the European Parliament are set to conduct an impromptu briefing at 4:30 PM today, focusing on the plenary session scheduled from November 25th to 28th.

Date and Time: Monday, November 25th at 4

Location: Daphne Caruana Galizia Press Room and through Interactio

This week's main subjects involve:

The media briefing will have translations provided in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Polish.

Reporters who want to engage and pose questions should join through Interactio using the following link: https://ep.interactio.eu/uw5m-71vf-mi2k

You have the option to watch the event live starting at 16:30 on Monday, either by attending in person at the Daphne Caruana Galizia press room in Parliament or by tuning in through Parliament’s webstreaming service or EbS+.

Press Advisory – Submit Inquiries via Interactio

Interactio can be accessed on an iPad using the Safari browser and on Mac or Windows computers through the Google Chrome browser.

During the connection process, input your name along with the media outlet you represent in the fields designated for first and last names.

To enhance audio clarity, employ headphones alongside a microphone. Video is required for any interpretations of interventions.

Journalists unfamiliar with Interactio are requested to log in 30 minutes prior to the press conference to conduct a connection test. Technical support is available if needed.

Once you're connected, access the chat window located in the upper right corner to view the service messages.

For additional information, please refer to the instructions and advice provided for speakers participating remotely.

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Monday, November 25

Impromptu media update scheduled for 4:30 PM

The spokesperson for Parliament, along with the Press Service, is set to conduct a press briefing about this week's plenary session at 4:30 PM. You can watch the live coverage of this last-minute update.

Reporters who want to engage and pose inquiries should join through Interactio.

Legislative Body Observes Global Day to End Violence Against Women

Following the session's commencement, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and the European Commission are set to discuss the current situation and new developments in the fight against violence targeting women, both within the EU and globally. On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which falls on November 25, they are anticipated to emphasize the ongoing issue of gender-based violence. They will urge the incoming Commission to take action and highlight the importance of addressing the increasing opposition to gender equality and women's rights. Additionally, Parliament will participate in the United Nations' 'Orange the World' campaign by illuminating the European Parliament building in Strasbourg with orange lights.

Polona TEDESKO can be reached at the phone number with the country code (+32)

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Members of the European Parliament evaluate the outcomes of the G20 Leaders' Summit

Starting at approximately 6:30 PM, Members of the European Parliament will examine the outcomes of the latest G20 summit held in Rio, Brazil, alongside the Commission. During this summit, global leaders addressed critical issues such as social inclusion, reforms in global governance, shifts in energy policies, measures for climate action, and the current global economic and political landscape.

Viktor Almqvist can be contacted at the phone number +32 470 88 29 42. He is associated with

Members of the European Parliament Discuss Results of International Negotiations on Ecosystem Restoration

During the evening session, the plenary is set to engage in discussions with the Commission regarding the results of the sixteenth United Nations Biodiversity Conference held in Colombia. This conference evaluated how well national biodiversity strategies are working to safeguard global ecosystems and reviewed progress in funding the Global Biodiversity Framework.

Contact: Thomas HAAHR at phone number +32 470 88 09

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Cyprus. Later in the day, members of the European Parliament will discuss the unlawful solo announcement of independence made by the separatist group in Cyprus 41 years prior, as well as the requirement for solidarity within Europe.

You can watch the plenary session live through Parliament's webstreaming service and on EbS+.

For more in-depth details about the session, kindly refer to our newsletter.

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President Metsola urges cessation of violence against women

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As the plenary session commenced in Strasbourg from November 25th to 28th, President Metsola highlighted the International Day dedicated to eliminating violence against women.

Prior to a full session discussion on the topic, and coinciding with the lighting up of the European Parliament's buildings in Strasbourg for the “Orange the world” initiative, President Metsola emphasized that Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) “support individuals who have suffered abuse, trauma, bullying, and violence.”

She emphasized the legislative efforts in Parliament aimed at addressing and preventing violence against women and domestic violence. This includes making more types of abuse illegal both offline and online throughout Europe. She stated that the current legislative body must advance these efforts, enhancing protection across the continent and ensuring that those who target women are brought to justice.

Adjustments to the schedule

The

The statement from the Commission regarding vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and hybrid threats in the Baltic Sea, which was initially planned for Tuesday afternoon, will now be exchanged with the Commission's statement on the results of COP 29 and the challenges facing international climate policy, which was originally set for Wednesday afternoon.

On Tuesday afternoon, the title of the second debate was revised to: “Statements from the Council and Commission regarding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, focusing on the humanitarian emergency in Gaza and the West Bank, the crucial function of UNRWA in the area, the importance of freeing all captives, and the latest arrest warrants issued by the ICC.”

Mid

The subsequent documents have been included in the voting agenda:

A new discussion has been scheduled to follow the debate concerning violations of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. This session will feature statements from the Council and Commission addressing the detention of Boualem Sansal, a writer with French and Algerian nationality. The discourse will also include a demand for his immediate and unconditional release, alongside a broader examination of the suppression of free speech in Algeria.

The session will be prolonged until 11:00 PM.

Corrections

According to Rule 251(4) of the European Parliament's Rules of Procedure, six corrections will automatically gain approval unless a political faction or a sufficient number of Members, meeting at least the minimal requirement, ask for a vote. The detailed list is available on the plenary's website.

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UK at risk of 'death on demand', Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood cautions before assisted dying vote

Parliamentarians will review legislation on legalizing assisted dying via Kim Leadbeater's Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 1:

The Justice Secretary warned that the UK is heading towards a scenario where death can be requested at will, prior to a pivotal vote in the Commons on the issue of assisted dying.

In a correspondence addressed to her voters, Shabana Mahmood expressed her "deep concern" regarding the proposed law.

"Regrettably, recent controversies including Hillsborough, the infected blood crisis, and the Post Office Horizon scandal have served as reminders that government entities and their representatives can sometimes act detrimentally," she noted.

"I firmly believe that, due to this factor, the government should have a defined purpose. Its duty is to safeguard and maintain life, rather than to end it."

"The government should not provide execution as a public service."

Analysis: Action by the Justice Secretary could cause embarrassment for the Prime Minister

On November 29, Members of Parliament will deliberate on the potential legalization of assisted dying via the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill introduced by Kim Leadbeater.

Newly released specifics of the bill reveal that patients must self-administer the prescribed life-ending medication and be terminally ill with a prognosis of six months or less to live.

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Ms. Mahmood, on the other hand, stated that "estimates regarding how long people will live frequently miss the mark

"She stated that physicians are generally able to determine an exact date of death only in the last few days of a patient's life," she explained. "Consequently, decisions about eligibility for assisted suicide are likely to be based on subjective assessments and lack precision."

Learn more: Gordon Brown opposes the legalization of assisted dying.

According to the proposal put forward by the Labour MP, assisted dying would require confirmation from two independent physicians that a patient qualifies, and a High Court judge would also need to provide their approval.

The legislation also proposes penalties as severe as 14 years of incarceration for individuals who violate the statute, including those who compel another person to commit suicide.

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Find out more: What is the cabinet's position on assisted suicide?

Ms. Mahmood expressed concerns that the legislation might coerce individuals into choosing to end their lives.

"She emphasized that the introduction of assisted suicide marks a significant cultural transformation."

"In my opinion, the most significant danger lies in the burden that the elderly, vulnerable, ill, or disabled might impose on themselves."

Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, the sponsor of the bill, stated that many of the concerns highlighted by Ms. Mahmood had been addressed through the careful drafting and presentation of the legislation.

"She emphasized that the stringent eligibility requirements confirm that this only pertains to individuals who are at the end of their lives," she stated.

This is the reason the legislation is named the 'Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill'; its focus is fixed and explicitly excludes other groups.

"The proposed legislation would grant terminally ill individuals the freedom, respect, and option to hasten their passing if they choose."

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Addressing the issues Ms. Mahmood highlighted regarding patients being pressured into opting for assisted dying, Ms. Leadbeater stated that she has engaged extensively with medical professionals and judiciary members.

She mentioned, "The individuals I've communicated with assure me they possess the necessary skills to properly inquire and determine if there's any coercion, and to truly understand a person’s authentic desires. This is a fundamental aspect of their job."

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As discussions become more contentious, several MPs from the Labour Party have expressed their worries.

In a correspondence dated October 3, Cabinet Secretary Simon Case informed government officials that "the prime minister has elected to suspend collective responsibility regarding this bill," adding that the government will "maintain a neutral stance on both the bill's passage and the issue of assisted dying."

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