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Thursday, November 14

EU Readiness Amid Global Unpredictability: MEPs Deliberate on the Niinistö Report

At 9:00 AM, Sauli Niinistö, who previously served as the President of Finland, is scheduled to deliver a report outlining strategies for the European Union to enhance its proactive stance on preparedness and overall security. This initiative aims to shift the focus from simply responding to unexpected events to being better prepared in an increasingly unpredictable and crisis-filled global landscape. After Mr. Niinistö's presentation, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will engage in a discussion on the topic.

Janne OJAMO

Phone number: +32 470 89 21

Justice in Europe

Vote on Delaying Implementation of EU Deforestation Regulation

At 11:00 AM, members of the European Parliament will vote on whether to postpone parts of the EU's deforestation regulation. This law is designed to guarantee that products sold within the EU are not obtained from areas affected by deforestation globally. Various political groups have suggested amendments, such as introducing a new classification for countries deemed to have "no risk" of deforestation, which would entail more relaxed regulations.

Contact: Thomas Haahr, phone number: (+32) 470 88 09

EP_Environmental

Ballots

COP29. At 11:00, the Parliament is set to cast votes on its expectations for the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference, known as COP29. In their proposed document, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are urging all nations to commit to establishing a new joint climate finance target for the period after 2025. Additionally, they are advocating for the swift elimination of both direct and indirect subsidies for fossil fuels, with a recommendation to redirect these funds to initiatives aimed at combating climate change.

In relation to Russia, Members of the European Parliament are scheduled to cast their votes at 11:00 AM on a proposed resolution concerning the European Union's approach to addressing the issue of Russia's covert fleet transporting crude oil. This resolution advocates for the implementation of more precise actions against these ships, alongside increased inspections. Additionally, it calls for consistent sanctions on vessels navigating EU waters without verified insurance.

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

To find comprehensive details about the session, please refer to our newsletter.

Details about the plenary session are available here.

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EU-Regelung zur Entwaldung: Unternehmen könnten mehr Zeit zur Umsetzung erhalten

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Die Einführung des EU-Entwaldungsgesetzes könnte um ein Jahr verschoben werden. Dies würde Unternehmen die Möglichkeit geben, sicherzustellen, dass ihre in der EU verkauften Produkte nicht aus entwaldeten Gebieten stammen.

In Brüssel hat das Europäische Parlament vorgeschlagen, das Inkrafttreten der EU-Entwaldungsverordnung um ein Jahr zu verschieben. Dies geschah als Antwort auf die Sorgen von EU-Ländern, Nicht-EU-Staaten, Händlern und Wirtschaftsteilnehmern, die befürchten, dass sie die Bestimmungen der Verordnung nicht vollständig umsetzen könnten, wenn sie ab Ende 2024 in Kraft treten würde.

In Oktober 2024 stimmte das Plenum dafür, den Vorschlag der Kommission nach dem Dringlichkeitsverfahren gemäß Artikel 170 Absatz 6 zu bearbeiten. Heute genehmigte das Plenum die Vertagung mit 371 Ja-Stimmen, 240 Nein-Stimmen und 30 Enthaltungen.

Ab dem 30. Dezember 2025 sind große Marktteilnehmer und Händler verpflichtet, die Bestimmungen dieser Verordnung zu befolgen, während Kleinst- und Kleinunternehmen bis zum 30. Juni 2026 Zeit haben. Diese Fristverlängerung ermöglicht es den betroffenen Unternehmen weltweit, die Vorschriften von Beginn an effektiv umzusetzen, ohne die Ziele des Gesetzes zu gefährden.

Das Parlament stimmte ebenfalls für weitere Änderungen, die von den Fraktionen vorgeschlagen wurden. Diese Änderungen beinhalten die Einführung einer neuen Kategorie von Ländern, die als „risikofrei“ in Bezug auf Entwaldung gelten. Diese neue Kategorie ergänzt die bereits bestehenden drei Kategorien: „geringes Risiko“, „normales Risiko“ und „hohes Risiko“.

In Ländern, die als "risikofrei" bewertet werden, weil ihre Waldflächen stabil bleiben oder zunehmen, sind die Vorschriften wesentlich lockerer, da kaum ein Risiko der Abholzung vorhanden ist oder gar nicht existiert.

The commission is required to complete a country-specific benchmarking system by June 30, 2025.

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Das Parlament entschied, das Dossier für Gespräche zwischen den Institutionen an den Ausschuss zurückzugeben. Damit die Änderungen wirksam werden, muss ein informeller Kompromiss später sowohl vom Rat als auch vom Parlament genehmigt werden. Danach erfolgt die Veröffentlichung im Amtsblatt der EU.

Background

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates that deforestation has resulted in the loss of 420 million hectares of forest between 1990 and 2020, an area larger than the European Union. Consumption in the EU accounts for around 10% of global deforestation, with palm oil and soy being responsible for over two-thirds of this impact.

Am 19. April 2023 hat das Parlament eine neue Verordnung gegen Entwaldung verabschiedet, die darauf abzielt, dem Klimawandel und dem Rückgang der Artenvielfalt entgegenzuwirken. Die Regelungen sollen die Abholzung verhindern, die durch den EU-Verbrauch von Produkten wie Rindfleisch, Kakao, Kaffee, Palmöl, Soja, Holz, Gummi, Holzkohle und bedrucktem Papier verursacht wird. Diese Verordnung ist seit dem 29. Juni 2023 in Kraft, und ursprünglich war geplant, dass Unternehmen die Vorschriften ab dem 30. Dezember 2024 umsetzen müssen.

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Thomas HAAHR

Thilo KUNZEMANN

Jakob FLOSSMANN

Andreas KLEINER

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Parlament verlangt konsequente Maßnahmen der EU gegen Russlands „Schattenflotte“

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Abgeordnete des EU-Parlaments drängen auf stärkere Sanktionen der EU gegen Russlands sogenannte „Schattenflotte“, die als bedeutende Finanzquelle für Moskaus militärische Aktivitäten in der Ukraine dient.

Russlands sogenannte Schattenflotte bezieht sich auf den Einsatz von veralteten Öltankschiffen durch Moskau, deren Eigentumsverhältnisse oft unklar sind und die oft ohne Versicherung fahren, um trotz Sanktionen der EU, der G7 und anderer internationaler Gemeinschaften Rohöl ins Ausland zu liefern. Diese Operationen erhöhen das Risiko von Umweltkatastrophen, einschließlich schwerwiegender Ölunfälle. Im Rahmen der systematischen Anstrengungen, die Sanktionen der EU zu umgehen, dient die „Schattenflotte“ als entscheidende finanzielle Stütze für Russland in seinem illegalen und ungerechtfertigten Angriffskrieg gegen die Ukraine.

In einer am Donnerstag verabschiedeten Resolution hat das Europäische Parlament dazu aufgerufen, in den kommenden EU-Sanktionspaketen gezieltere Schritte gegen bestimmte Schiffe zu unternehmen. Diese Maßnahmen sollen sowohl die einzelnen Schiffe als auch deren Besitzer:innen, Betreiber:innen, Verwalter:innen, Konten, Banken und Versicherer umfassen. Die Abgeordneten verlangen zudem eine systematische Bestrafung von Schiffen, die ohne bekannte Versicherung durch die Gewässer der EU fahren. Gleichzeitig wird die EU aufgefordert, ihre Überwachungsfähigkeiten zu stärken, vor allem im Bereich der Drohnen- und Satellitenüberwachung, und gezielte Inspektionen auf See durchzuführen. Die Parlamentarier drängen die EU-Mitgliedsstaaten dazu, Häfen zu benennen, die in der Lage sind, sanktionierte Schiffe, die Rohöl und Flüssigerdgas (LNG) transportieren, abzufertigen und illegale Ladungen ohne Entschädigung zu konfiszieren.

Ende der Einfuhr russischer fossiler Energieträger in die EU

The resolution calls on the G7 countries to more effectively enforce the price cap on Russian oil transported by sea, significantly lower the oil price ceiling, and address loopholes that Russia exploits to transfer and sell its oil and petroleum products at market rates. Lawmakers emphasize that the benefits of the current sanctions against Russia, as well as the financial and military support for Ukraine, continue to be undermined as long as the EU imports Russian fossil fuels. They urge the EU and its member states to ban all imports of Russian fossil fuels, including liquefied natural gas (LNG). The legislators highlight the need for stricter enforcement of existing EU sanctions and call on the EU to seriously reassess its bilateral relations with third countries that assist Russia in circumventing these sanctions, should diplomatic efforts prove ineffective.

The proposed text will be made public on November 14, 2024. It was approved through a show of hands.

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Viktor ALMQVIST

Michaela FINDEIS

Andreas KLEINER

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COP29: Parlamentarier fordern weltweite finanzielle Beteiligung am Klimaschutz

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In Straßburg hat das Europäische Parlament entschieden, auf der COP29-Klimakonferenz der Vereinten Nationen ein gemeinsames Finanzierungsziel für Klimaschutzinitiativen zu etablieren.

Die vom Ausschuss für Umweltfragen, Volksgesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit erarbeitete Entschließung wurde am Donnerstag mit 429 Stimmen dafür, 183 dagegen und 24 Enthaltungen verabschiedet. Sie fordert alle Nationen auf, ein neues gemeinsames Ziel für die Klimafinanzierung nach dem Jahr 2025 zu vereinbaren. Dieses Ziel sollte sozial gerecht sein, das Verursacherprinzip berücksichtigen und sich auf unterschiedliche öffentliche, private und innovative Finanzierungsquellen stützen.

The lawmakers are calling for all major and developing economies with significant emissions and high GDPs to financially contribute to global climate protection efforts. They urge the EU to strengthen its green diplomacy to establish equal competition on an international scale, prevent the shifting of carbon emissions, and boost public support for climate action.

The European Union ought to encourage and assist other nations in setting up or enhancing carbon pricing systems, such as the EU Emissions Trading System and the new tool designed to prevent the shifting of CO2 emissions.

The COP29 climate conference should send a "clear message" following the COP28 commitment to move away from fossil fuels, the lawmakers urge. This includes the gradual elimination of all direct and indirect subsidies for fossil fuels as soon as possible.

Background

The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) is scheduled to occur in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to November 22, 2024. A parliamentary delegation is set to attend the event from November 18 to November 22.

Die COP29 hat das Ziel, den aktuellen Stand der Umsetzung des Pariser Abkommens zu bewerten und sich auf zusätzliche finanzielle Ressourcen zu verständigen, um weltweite Klimaschutzmaßnahmen zu fördern.

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Dana POPP

Thilo KUNZEMANN

Jakob FLOSSMANN

Andreas KLEINER

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Sue Gray has turned down Starmer's job proposal following her resignation as chief of staff

Sources close to Ms. Gray informed Sky that she is not interested in the position of envoy for the nations, which was proposed to her after she resigned from her role as chief of staff amid several weeks of adverse reports.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 4:

Sky News has learned that Sue Gray has turned down a recent job proposal from Sir Keir Starmer following her resignation from her role as his chief of staff, a position she held for only a few weeks after he assumed office.

The ex-chief political advisor has declined the position as representative for the countries and "will concentrate on different pursuits," a source close to her informed Sky News political editor Beth Rigby.

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The source mentioned: "She has spent time carefully considering it and discussing it with interested parties, but in the end, she has chosen not to proceed."

Ms. Gray resigned from her position as Sir Keir's chief assistant last month following several weeks of unfavorable reports about her, including disputes regarding her pay.

Officials revealed that she had accepted the position of the prime minister's envoy for nations and regions, a role she expressed eagerness to embark on.

Despite her responsibilities, she failed to attend an important initial meeting pertinent to her latest role. Cabinet minister Pat McFadden explained to Sky News that she "had endured quite a bit" and was "on a brief hiatus."

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A representative from Downing Street stated that Ms. Gray chose not to accept the position following her hiatus, and she "remains appreciated by the PM for the assistance she offered."

Previously, an official informed Sky News, stating, "I believe it's the correct choice."

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Ms. Gray gained national attention following her investigation into gatherings at Downing Street amid the pandemic.

Her switch to the Labour Party immediately garnered media attention, with the Conservatives questioning the extent of her discussions with the party regarding a leading position while she was still employed as a civil servant.

An internal dispute ultimately led to her departure from the chief of staff position, as Labour's initial quarter in power was overwhelmed by a series of unfavorable news stories concerning her.

The conflict surrounding Ms. Gray's position intensified after her earnings, which at £170,000 surpassed the prime minister's by £3,000, were disclosed to the BBC, seemingly to undermine her politically.

The media outlet noted that lower-level employees expressed dissatisfaction over their salaries, which had not increased from the time Labour was in opposition, even though they now held higher positions in the government.

On stepping down on October 6, Ms. Gray stated that although serving as the chief of staff was a privilege, the growing scrutiny concerning her role threatened to overshadow the government's crucial agenda for reform.

"For this reason, I've decided to step down, and I am eager to keep supporting the prime minister in my new capacity," she stated.

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Prime Minister unveils fresh communication approach with environmental declaration in Azerbaijan

Sir Keir Starmer is transitioning his focus from discussing his five governmental objectives to two main "priorities" – enhancing the economy and securing national borders.

Assistant Deputy Political Editor @SamCoatesSky

Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 6:

This week in Azerbaijan, Keir Starmer demonstrated his skill in tailoring his messages to suit various audiences.

Navigating the complexities of politics is crucial, and it appears that the latest team at Number 10 is starting to gain their footing as they tackle the difficult political terrain in their favor.

Live Politics Update: Starmer's Ex-Assistant Declines New Position

A fresh strategy was unveiled at the COP climate change conference in Baku.

The prime minister appeared, making a startling declaration that directly challenges the current mainstream political beliefs. Sir Keir showed up ready to unveil a more aggressive goal for tackling climate change in the UK, following two years in which the Tories scaled back their environmental commitments, assuming such actions aligned with the views of the British populace.

In a striking move, while Donald Trump dismissed climate change as a "hoax," a British prime minister took a more aggressive stance, pushing for the UK to cut 81% of its emissions by 2035. This target marks a considerable escalation from the earlier Conservative commitment to lower emissions by 67% by 2030.

This positions the UK among the leading nations in terms of demanding climate action goals. In Baku, this shift from one of the top leaders attending the conference marks a notable change and was immediately praised by environmental organizations.

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Similar to a financial promise without allocated funds, there appears to be no defined strategy to achieve these increased goals. Sir Keir emphasized that he did not plan to dictate lifestyle changes to the public. Is he suggesting a hastened push for the public to abandon gas boilers, greater encouragement for the adoption of electric vehicles, or possibly some form of motivation to reduce meat consumption?

This message was complex to communicate. Therefore, Downing Street arrived with a unique strategy to present it to the domestic audience.

In conversations and public speeches, he shifted focus from setting new objectives and challenges to highlighting the "green opportunity." He emphasized that ambitious climate goals are propelling the shift toward renewable energy, which aligns with his economic agenda to stimulate growth.

It seems to be a component of a broader plan from Downing Street.

As he departed, Keir Starmer aimed to connect much of his ongoing initiatives to two central themes – enhancing economic development and securing the UK's borders. Consequently, environmental policies are now being framed in terms of promoting economic expansion to appeal more to voters.

This is part of a broader transition.

Instead of the five "missions" of the election campaign, which some top Labour officials acknowledged as obscure, all of Starmer's additional objectives are now encompassed within these two "priorities." These priorities, which are to enhance economic growth and strengthen border security, are topics we will frequently hear about moving forward.

The alignment of these two key concerns with the central messages of Donald Trump's campaign is certainly not accidental, though it would be an oversimplification to suggest they were directly taken from it.

Efforts to revamp the public discourse surrounding the missions have been underway since before the Labour conference in September.

This represents the newest attempt to streamline the Prime Minister's communication with the electorate. It remains to be seen how effective this strategy will prove to be in this region.

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Government health reforms include NHS rankings and halted salary increases for managers

The NHS played a pivotal role in the latest general election, with the Labour Party accusing the Conservatives of "destroying" it. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has expressed his desire to cut waiting times from "18 months to 18 weeks".

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Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 7:

Rankings that expose underperforming NHS trusts, along with halted salary increases or termination for managers who fail to implement improvements, are included in strategies to enhance the healthcare system.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has announced new initiatives aimed at improving underperforming hospital trusts while also rewarding those that are doing well.

The modifications are a component of the Labour government's plan to cut down waiting times from 18 months to 18 weeks.

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Mr. Streeting stated on Sky News, "I offer no apologies for wanting to address and remove the worst performers, as we would in any other workplace, where subpar performance is too frequently accepted within the NHS."

Throughout this year's general election, voters frequently prioritized health and the condition of the NHS, with Labour accusing the Conservatives of causing its deterioration.

Since healthcare is managed regionally, any changes suggested in Westminster would specifically impact England.

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Key Points:

A central feature of Mr. Streeting's suggestions includes a ranking system for NHS trusts.

The Department for Health and Social Care has declared that NHS England is set to conduct an exhaustive and unrestricted evaluation of NHS performance nationwide, resulting in providers being ranked in a league table.

"This information will be released to the public and updated consistently, allowing leaders, decision-makers, and patients to understand which enhancements require immediate attention."

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The plan includes provisions to substitute "consistently underperforming managers" with "recovery teams" tasked with enhancing the performance of trusts that are managing significant deficits or providing substandard care to patients.

According to the government, "senior managers" who do not demonstrate progress will be disqualified from receiving salary increases.

Top executives, including chief executives, could face financial consequences if their organization's trustworthiness does not enhance.

Conversely, trusts that are considered "high-performing" will receive more autonomy regarding their funding and operational flexibility.

Top executives at these organizations will also receive incentives.

Authorities state that the existing framework fails to encourage trusts to generate a budget surplus, since they do not stand to gain from such surpluses.

Explore further on the NHS: Changes won't start immediately, says Streeting. Government seeks suggestions to 'repair our NHS.' PM cautions that NHS needs to 'reform or perish.'

Mr. Streeting commented, "The budget illustrates the government's prioritization of the NHS by allocating the necessary funds to revamp the health service."

"Today, we are unveiling changes aimed at ensuring that every additional dollar invested is effectively utilized to reduce the wait times for patients."

"Turning a blind eye to shortcomings is no longer an option. We are committed to propelling our health service forward, ensuring that patients receive greater benefits relative to the investments made by taxpayers."

"Our healthcare system needs to draw in the best professionals, increase its openness to the taxpayers who fund it, and operate with the efficiency of leading international corporations.

"Through a blend of funding and changes, we aim to transform the NHS and reduce waiting periods from 18 months to 18 weeks."

Stay updated on the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Worries expressed by public health officials

Amanda Pritchard, the CEO of NHS England, stated, "NHS leaders are in favor of being held accountable, but it is essential that such responsibility is accompanied by adequate support and development opportunities."

"The comprehensive set of reforms, crafted in collaboration with the government, will equip all NHS leaders with the essential resources required to deliver top-notch services to patients."

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The government announced that details about the monitoring strategies will be released by April 2025, coinciding with the beginning of the new fiscal year.

Matthew Taylor, the head of the NHS Confederation which encompasses all NHS trusts, expressed that healthcare leaders are supportive of the "government's ambition."

He expressed concern that focusing on league tables and cutting salaries might oversimplify the underlying issues.

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

Mr. Taylor stated, "NHS personnel are striving to deliver optimal care to patients despite difficult conditions, and it's important they don't feel singled out for blame."

"Simply publishing rankings won't enhance performance; it's crucial to recognize and assist healthcare organizations facing ongoing challenges, which often stem from factors like the health of the local community and lack of staff, to help them improve."

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Labour Party's latest campaign proposal includes imposing a £10,000 penalty on social media executives who fail to eliminate advertisements for knives. As part of its goal to cut knife crime by 50% over the next ten years, outlined in its election manifesto, the party aims to decrease the online sale of knives and is considering legal adjustments concerning the sale of ninja swords as well.

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Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 1

The government is contemplating imposing penalties of up to £10,000 on social media executives who fail to take down advertisements for illegal knives.

The initiatives are efforts by the Labour Party to achieve their goal of reducing knife crime by 50% over the next ten years.

The Home Office is proposing new regulations aimed at halting the "inappropriate promotion of illegal weapons and the glorification of violence on social media and online marketplaces," ensuring such content is promptly taken down.

According to the proposed measures, law enforcement authorities would have the authority to caution high-ranking personnel at digital firms and require the removal of certain advertisements and materials, possibly within a 48-hour timeframe.

If no measures are taken following the initial warning, a subsequent notification may be issued, holding top officials personally responsible for a substantial penalty.

Although the precise amount of the fine has not been finalized, discussions indicated that severe violators could face penalties up to £10,000, as reported by the PA news agency.

Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his intention to toughen the regulations on purchasing knives via the internet.

In September, he convened a gathering for a newly formed coalition aimed at combating knife crime, which included actor Idris Elba and families who have lost loved ones, among other participants.

Elba emphasized during the meeting, "Discussion is valuable, yet it's crucial that we take action."

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In addition to curbing online knife sales, the government is also looking to amend legislation concerning the ownership of ninja swords.

Efforts are currently underway to establish a definition for the weapons.

This follows efforts by Pooja Kanda, who is the mother of 16-year-old Ronan Kanda.

In 2022, Ronan lost his life in Wolverhampton after being attacked by two 17-year-olds. The weapon used in the incident was bought online using a fake name and picked up from a Post Office.

Read further: Reducing knife violence is a 'moral mission' for LabourElba teams up with Starmer at anti-knife campaign gatheringMother of slain child 'feels acknowledged' with new legislation

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Home Secretary Yvette Cooper declared that offenders "will encounter the full severity of the law," as she unveiled "stringent new penalties." She noted, "The surge in knife crime over the past ten years is shattering families and communities throughout the nation."

"This administration is committed to an ambitious goal of reducing knife crime by 50% in the coming ten years, and today we are taking decisive steps to remove dangerous knives from the streets of Britain."

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Commander Stephen Clayman, who is at the forefront of the National Police Chiefs' Council's efforts to combat knife crime and is also overseeing a review of online weapon sales for the Home Office, stated: "Deadly weapons have been readily available online for an excessively long time, with numerous platforms frequently featuring content that advocates their use for protection and combat, and it appears that minimal effort is being made to eliminate this content.

"We are pleased to participate in the consultation and investigate the best ways to accomplish this goal, including considering insights from the current review of online sales."

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Has Blairism Returned?

Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 07:33, UK

🎧 Tune into the Politics At Jack And Sam's podcast on your favorite podcast platform 🎧

Sky News’ assistant political editor, Sam Coates, alongside Politico’s Jack Blanchard, deliver a concise daily overview of upcoming political events in less than 20 minutes.

Wes Streeting has unveiled proposals to overhaul the NHS. The conversation between Jack and Sam focuses on his league table initiative, which is receiving mixed reactions from various sectors of the health care system. They also ponder whether aspects of this plan echo the approaches of Tony Blair.

Donald Trump has announced his intention to appoint Fox News presenter and critic of progressive culture, Pete Hegseth, as his next defense secretary. What will be the reaction to this decision within the UK's Ministry of Defence and internationally?

To contact Jack and Sam, you can either message them on WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or send an email to jackandsam@sky.uk.

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Has Blairism Returned?

Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 07:33, UK

🎧 Dive into political discussions on the "Politics At Jack And Sam's" podcast available on your favorite podcast platform

Sky News' Assistant Political Editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard provide a daily briefing on political events, all in less than 20 minutes.

Wes Streeting has introduced proposals for NHS overhaul. In their conversation, Jack and Sam examine his idea of implementing league tables, a concept that's meeting resistance from various sectors within the healthcare system. They question whether some aspects of the plan echo those of Tony Blair.

Donald Trump has announced his intention to appoint Fox News presenter and critic of "woke" culture, Pete Hegseth, as his Secretary of Defense. What will be the reaction of the UK's Ministry of Defence (MOD) and international counterparts to this nomination?

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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Has Blairism Made a Return?

Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 7:33

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

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

Wes Streeting has introduced new proposals for NHS reform. Jack and Sam are analyzing his league table initiative, which hasn't been universally well-received across the healthcare sector. Are there echoes of Tony Blair in some aspects of this plan?

Donald Trump has announced his intention to appoint Fox News presenter and critic of "woke" culture, Pete Hegseth, as his next defense secretary. What reactions can we expect from the UK's Ministry of Defence and internationally?

To get in touch with Jack and Sam via WhatsApp, message them at 07511 867 633, or you can email them at jackandsam@sky.uk.

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Rail operators to undergo scrutiny regarding their enforcement of ticket fare rules

The scrutiny will likely assess the transparency of ticketing terms and the clarity with which they are communicated to travelers.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 11:36

Rail operators are due for an evaluation concerning their methods of pursuing and penalizing fare evasion, following concerns about excessive measures being used against travelers.

Sky News has learned that Transport Secretary Louise Haigh will request that the Office of Rail and Road, the agency in charge of overseeing the economic and safety aspects of Britain's railways and highways, conduct a review of the methods used to handle fare evasion.

Currently, train operators have several methods at their disposal for handling passengers who either fail to purchase a ticket or who underpay. In the most severe cases, these passengers could face legal proceedings and potentially receive a criminal record.

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Reports indicate that the government has no plans to strip train companies of the power to prosecute individuals who intentionally evade paying fares.

Criticism has been increasing regarding the measures implemented against individuals who have unintentionally erred, frequently attributing these mistakes to the complex nature of ticket pricing.

The forthcoming independent analysis will assess the clarity of ticketing terms and conditions and their communication to travelers.

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Ticket prices on Eurostar and Southeastern railways may be reduced following a review by the regulatory body.

Employee of internet service provider detained following the distribution of anti-Islamic texts to train commuters

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A primary focus will be to determine the criteria for initiating legal action.

In August, a legal decision determined that four railway operators, among them Northern Rail and Greater Anglia, had improperly initiated legal action against thousands of travelers using the single justice procedure (SJP), even though they were not authorized to employ this method.

Since its introduction in 2015 for minor offenses in magistrates' courts, the SJP has enabled companies to expedite legal proceedings and conduct them privately.

Chief Magistrate for England and Wales, Senior District Judge Paul Goldspring, stated that the cases "should never have been brought through" and described the prosecutions as "probably unlawful," a sentiment concurred with by the train companies.

Judge Goldspring stated that while the precise count of SJP prosecutions remains uncertain, it likely exceeds 74,000.

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In October, Northern Rail, which is owned by the government, ceased all legal proceedings against engineering graduate Sam Williamson after previously threatening to prosecute him, a move that could have led to a hefty fine and a criminal record.

He accidentally purchased a £3.65 anytime day single ticket with his 16-25 railcard and boarded a train just after 7am, unaware that it was only valid after 10am since all tickets before that time must cost a minimum of £12.

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The Department for Transport has instructed the company to reassess its ticketing procedures to guarantee transparency and fairness for travelers.

Northern subsequently canceled all ongoing legal actions against individuals in comparable situations and pledged to reassess past cases.

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