Government pledges action against producers of non-consensual sexual deepfakes and intimate content

This initiative is included in a series of legislative proposals concerning sexually explicit materials, following statements from victims' advocate Alex Davies-Jones regarding the online harassment experienced by one in three women.

Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 4:

Individuals who produce explicit deepfake content featuring adults may face legal consequences under newly proposed legislation aimed at safeguarding women and girls.

Currently, the production of these images involving minors is prohibited. However, the legal protections are set to extend to adults, following the Ministry of Justice's announcement regarding the rapid and concerning increase of these highly realistic images.

Deepfakes consist of manipulated photographs designed to convincingly depict events that never actually occurred.

Typically, they're generated by AI technologies that react to user inputs.

Individuals involved in producing and distributing sexually explicit deepfake content may face legal consequences under the forthcoming legislation.

The authorities have not disclosed the potential penalties for those convicted of the crimes.

The Labour administration pledged in its manifesto for the 2024 general election to outlaw the production of sexually explicit deepfake content.

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Jess Phillips leaves open the possibility of a fresh nationwide investigation into grooming gangs

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This initiative is included in a series of legislative measures concerning private images, following statements from Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones, who reported that one out of every three women has experienced online abuse.

Under the new regulations, taking private photos without permission could lead to a maximum of two years in jail.

Currently, it is against the law to distribute or even threaten to distribute a private image without permission. Yet, the act of capturing such an image without consent is only criminalized under specific conditions, like in cases of upskirting.

In related news, under a newly enacted statute, individuals who set up devices to secretly record sensitive visuals without permission could be subjected to a maximum of two years incarceration.

Ms. Davies-Jones stated, "It is intolerable that a third of women have experienced online harassment."

This repulsive and degrading type of sexism must never be accepted as normal. As a component of our agenda for transformation, we are intensifying our efforts to combat violence against women in all its manifestations.

"These updated laws are designed to shield individuals from online harassment. We are warning perpetrators that they will be subjected to the stringent application of legal consequences."

The upcoming crime and policing bill from the government will incorporate the new regulations, though the timeline for their introduction remains unspecified.

Discover further: Surge in AI-generated fake explicit images. UK officials cautioned about the dangers of counterfeit audio clips. Spread of manipulated photos featuring Taylor Swift.

"It felt as if I was staring at my own reflection."

In 2022, Cally Jane Beech, a 33-year-old social media influencer and ex-Love Island star, was shocked to find out that an image of her modeling for an underwear campaign had been digitally altered using artificial intelligence to appear nude, and was circulating on the internet.

The original photo was posted on a platform that employs technology to alter images of individuals clothed to appear as though they are nude.

She explained to Sky News: "It was incredibly lifelike, as if I was the only one who could tell the difference. It appeared to be me, yet it also didn't."

She continued, "This shouldn't exist. It's not a simple coloring book, nor is it a trivial matter. This involves people's identities and the unwarranted removal of their clothing."

Ms. Beech faced difficulties in persuading the police to recognize the incident as a criminal act when she reported the events.

"They were unsure of how to handle the situation, and since the website displaying the image operated worldwide, they claimed it was beyond their legal authority."

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Sky News has learned that a man has been charged after allegedly making threats against Jess Phillips. The 39-year-old faces three charges of malicious communications, which reportedly involve three individuals, among them the MP for Birmingham Yardley.

Monday, January 6, 2025, 7:

Authorities have filed charges against an individual accused of making threats toward Jess Phillips, the Labour Party's safeguarding minister, according to information obtained by Sky News.

Devon and Cornwall Police have reported that 39-year-old Jack Bennett faces three charges related to malicious communications.

The communications took place from April 2024 to January 2025 and involved three individuals, one of whom was the MP for Birmingham Yardley.

It has been reported that the individual from Seaton, located in East Devon, was formally charged this past weekend.

He has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear at Exeter Magistrates' Court on February 18, 2025.

On Monday, Sir Keir Starmer addressed an overstepped boundary concerning remarks made about Ms. Phillips, noting that she had been subjected to threats.

As the minister responsible for safeguarding, along with addressing violence against women and girls, Ms. Phillips' role encompasses combating domestic violence, sexual assault, and the sexual abuse and exploitation of children.

She secured her ministerial role in July following the Labour Party's victory in the general election.

Ms. Phillips is widely recognized for her advocacy against violence towards women. Annually on International Women's Day, she is known for reciting the names of all the women in the UK who have been murdered by men over the past year in a parliamentary session.

She formerly served as the shadow minister for domestic violence and safeguarding from 2020 to 2023 under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer. However, she stepped down from her prominent position due to disagreements with the party's policies on the Middle East conflict.

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It is understood by Sky News that a man has been charged after allegedly making threats towards Jess Phillips. The 39-year-old faces three charges of malicious communications, involving threats directed at three individuals, one of whom is the MP for Birmingham Yardley.

Monday, January 6, 2025, 7:

According to Sky News, charges have been filed against an individual accused of making threats against Jess Phillips, the Labour Party's safeguarding minister.

Devon and Cornwall Police have reported that 39-year-old Jack Bennett faces charges on three counts of malicious communications.

The communications were exchanged from April 2024 to January 2025 and involved three victims, one of whom was the MP for Birmingham Yardley.

It has been reported that the individual from Seaton, in eastern Devon, was formally charged this past weekend.

He has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear at Exeter Magistrates' Court on February 18, 2025.

On Monday, Sir Keir Starmer addressed an overstep concerning remarks directed at Ms. Phillips, noting that she had been subjected to threats.

As the minister responsible for safeguarding and addressing violence against women and girls, Ms. Phillips' portfolio includes addressing issues such as domestic abuse, rape, and the sexual abuse and exploitation of children.

She secured her ministerial role in July following the Labour Party's victory in the general election.

Ms. Phillips is widely recognized for her activism against female violence. Annually, on International Women's Day in Parliament, she makes it a point to recite the names of all the women who have been fatally victimized by men in the UK over the past year.

She formerly served as the shadow minister for domestic violence and safeguarding from 2020 to 2023 under Sir Keir Starmer. However, she stepped down from her senior party position due to disagreements with the party's policy on the Middle East conflict.

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Not reporting child sexual abuse will soon be illegal in the wake of controversy over grooming gangs, according to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. She has introduced new initiatives to tackle child sexual exploitation, yet has not agreed to a public inquiry despite calls from the Conservative Party and Elon Musk.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 2:

The Home Secretary has declared that professionals dealing with children will be subject to criminal penalties if they do not report allegations of sexual abuse.

Yvette Cooper committed to adopting the principal suggestion from Professor Alexis Jay's inquiry into child sexual abuse, following Sir Keir Starmer's rejection of demands from Elon Musk, the Conservatives, and Reform UK for another probe into child exploitation rings.

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Ms. Cooper announced that the compulsory reporting requirement will be included in the Crime and Policing Bill, scheduled for presentation to parliament this spring. There will be professional and criminal penalties for non-compliance.

She criticized the Conservative Party for not implementing the legislation during their time in power, noting that she initially advocated for it in 2014 following revelations that approximately 1,400 girls had been abused in Rotherham from 1997 to 2013.

"Ten years ago, in reaction to the incidents and shortcomings reported in Rotherham, I initially advocated for this," Ms. Cooper informed the MPs.

"The prime minister initially advocated for this 12 years ago, drawing from his time as the director of public prosecutions. The argument was compelling at that time. However, we've wasted ten years, and it's crucial to act immediately."

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Ms. Cooper stated that this was among three "principal suggestions" from the Jay report that the government planned to adopt. This includes designating grooming as an aggravating element in child sexual offense sentencing and establishing a new performance framework for police to ensure these crimes receive the attention they warrant.

She additionally unveiled a new panel dedicated to victims and survivors, aimed at aiding efforts against child sexual exploitation and abuse.

Ms. Cooper announced that the committee will be introduced in conjunction with a comprehensive set of initiatives to be detailed next week, which will include enhancements to legislation regarding AI-generated child sexual abuse imagery.

Established in 2015 by the Conservative government at the time, Prof Jay's Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) conducted 15 investigations covering various areas, such as grooming gangs, and abuse occurrences in schools and religious institutions.

The final report of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), released in 2022, outlined 20 essential recommendations aimed at diminishing child abuse. However, two years on, The Survivors Trust has indicated that none of these recommendations have been completely put into action.

Musk criticizes Starmer

The topic has resurfaced due to a series of posts on social media by Mr. Musk, the wealthiest individual globally. He has charged Sir Keir Starmer with playing a part in "the rape of Britain" during his tenure as the director of public prosecutions (DPP) from 2008 to 2013, concerning his handling of grooming gangs.

The billionaire proprietor of X has also implied that Jess Phillips, the minister responsible for safeguarding, should be incarcerated for rejecting pleas for the Home Office to conduct a public investigation into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, Greater Manchester.

Over a decade ago, numerous towns in England, such as Oldham, Rochdale, Rotherham, and Telford, were the sites where girls, some as young as 11, were subjected to grooming and sexual assault. The widespread abuse came to light in 2013, revealing a shocking scandal across the nation.

In correspondence with Oldham Council from last October, which only came to light recently, Ms. Phillips expressed her understanding of the deep emotions surrounding the issue. However, she maintained that the decision to initiate an investigation into local child sexual exploitation should rest solely with Oldham Council, rather than involving government interference.

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The controversy stirred by Mr. Musk's remarks has led Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch to demand a comprehensive nationwide investigation into rape gangs. She also supported shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick, who faced backlash for his tweet stating that the influx of "hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who have medieval attitudes towards women," contributed to the grooming crisis.

Reform UK is demanding a nationwide investigation, and the Conservatives aim to bring the matter to a vote this coming week.

Shadow policing minister Chris Philp stated that the focus of the earlier investigation was primarily on different aspects of child sexual abuse and exploitation, emphasizing the necessity of uncovering the specific truths about grooming gangs.

Yvette Cooper attributed the establishment and significant financial backing of the IICSA inquiry to the Conservative Party, noting they were responsible for defining its scope.

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During the discussion in the House of Commons, Paul Waugh, the Labour representative for Rochdale, voiced his concern that certain individuals were using the serious issue of child rape as a means of political maneuvering instead of addressing it as the heinous crime it truly is. He accused them of capitalizing on the tragedies that occurred in his constituency.

The discussion followed Sir Keir's allegations that the Tories were echoing far-right rhetoric and capitalizing on these views to attract notice. He criticized the party for not putting into action the suggestions from Prof Jay's report while they were in power towards the end of their term.

He also criticized "those who are disseminating falsehoods and misinformation" following the assaults on Ms. Phillips, stating that they are "solely concerned with their own interests, not the victims'."

Discover More: Analyzing the Prime Minister's Decision to Tackle Musk's 'Hazardous' Misinformation

European officials respond to Musk

The prime minister is not alone among European leaders in criticizing Mr. Musk.

During a Monday address, French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted his support for Germany's far-right AfD party and his growing involvement in European political affairs, presenting it as a threat to the principles of democracy.

"Who would have thought, a decade ago, that the proprietor of one of the biggest global social platforms would directly interfere with elections, including those in Germany?" Mr. Macron stated.

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz has maintained a composed demeanor following criticism from Mr. Musk subsequent to the disintegration of his coalition in November.

The head of Tesla expressed support for the AfD in a commentary published in a German newspaper.

On Saturday, in an interview with Stern magazine, Mr. Scholz stated that the critiques from "wealthy media moguls who are critical of social democratic policies and freely express their views" offered "nothing new".

He expressed greater concern about Musk endorsing the AfD party than the insults being exchanged.

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Is a Fresh Approach in the Cards for Starmer This Year? The Prime Minister's Bold Move Against Musk's 'Harmful' Misinformation

Since his tenure at Number 10 began, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has faced constant challenges. As 2025 dawned, he found himself the target of a barrage of criticism from the wealthiest man on the planet and his supporters on X, prompting him to respond decisively.

Political correspondent @BethRigby

Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 7

For several days, Elon Musk and his followers have relentlessly criticized Keir Starmer, Minister for Safeguarding Jess Phillips, and the broader government regarding their management of past sexual abuse incidents.

The agreed stance within Downing Street, echoed by another of Mr. Musk's critics, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, was to "not feed the troll."

Thus, while Mr. Musk repeatedly shared posts concerning sexual grooming rings in Northern England and labeled Ms. Phillips as a "rape genocide apologist" and a "wicked witch", the government remained uninvolved in the controversy.

On Monday, the situation took a dramatic turn as the Prime Minister delivered some of the most fervent comments I've ever heard him make in response to my question about Mr. Musk's disparaging treatment of Ms. Phillips on social media.

He claimed that the discussion surrounding child sex exploitation was rooted in falsehoods, accusing politicians of "climbing aboard the bandwagon just to garner publicity". He responded not only to Mr. Musk but also to the opposition leader, Kemi Badenoch.

"Time and again, we've observed this strategy—stirring up threats and intimidation, with the expectation that the media will give it more attention," he explained during a visit to Epsom Hospital.

"When the harmful influence of the extreme right results in significant dangers to Jess Phillips and others, it's clear to me that a boundary has been overstepped.

Further Insights on Elon Musk

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Timeline of the grooming gangs controversy: Key events, investigations, and Keir Starmer's involvement – following allegations by Elon Musk

Elon Musk's Entry into UK Political Arena

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"I appreciate the dynamic and challenging nature of politics, the vigorous discussions that are essential. However, these should be grounded in reality and honesty, not falsehoods. Not on individuals so eager for the spotlight that they would degrade both themselves and their nation."

In a surprising shift, the usually deliberate and cautious prime minister, known for his lawyer-like precision in choosing words, responded abruptly and unexpectedly to inquiries.

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For an extended period, the office of the Prime Minister and the Labour administration have consistently dismissed ongoing criticisms from Mr. Musk, a strategy that has largely been justified.

The technology magnate is a close associate of Donald Trump and is poised to take on a formal position within his administration.

He might be concerned that challenging Mr. Musk could upset President Trump, complicating an already sensitive relationship on vital matters like tariffs and aid for Ukraine. So, what prompted him to respond on Monday?

I've learned that the Prime Minister is upset by the online harassment and misinformation that have resulted in threats against Ms. Phillips, culminating in the arrest and charging of an individual for sending harmful messages to the MP this past weekend.

"A Number 10 insider mentioned that it encroaches on the safety of MPs."

"Some individuals might advise to 'ignore the provocateur,' and it appears that Keir Starmer shares this sentiment, preferring not to engage in that aspect," they commented.

At certain moments, the duty of a Prime Minister involves attempting to mold these concerns, they further noted.

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"He believes that now is the time when he must express his willingness to engage in discussion and defend his actions. However, he also emphasizes that as a nation, there are certain things we cannot tolerate, such as the spread of false or misleading information about people."

Starmer is concerned about the false information that Mr. Musk is disseminating on the internet, viewing it as a threat not only to individual MPs but also to the democratic process in the UK.

On Monday, he condemned the supporters of far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whom the Prime Minister accused of almost causing a grooming case to collapse by his actions that led to his imprisonment.

"These individuals seek an indirect excitement from the urban unrest that figures such as Tommy Robinson encourage."

Starmer stood by his performance as the top prosecutor, while Mr. Musk charged the prime minister with being "profoundly involved in widespread sexual assaults for electoral gains."

Many accusations circulating online about Starmer appear to stem from his tenure at the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), specifically pointing to shortcomings over a decade ago in prosecuting grooming gangs: In 2009, a decision was made not to pursue charges against suspected offenders in Rochdale because attorneys felt the victim might not be perceived as believable.

Further Reading: Badenoch Demands a Much-Needed National Investigation into Grooming Scandal; Musk Believes 'Farage Lacks the Necessary Qualities' to Lead Reform Party.

"Over decades, countless victims have been failed—failed due to misguided notions of community relations or the belief that institutional integrity is paramount. They have been ignored and their voices have gone unheard," Starmer stated on Monday.

"When I served as the chief prosecutor for five years, I directly addressed the issues I observed. This is why I decided to reopen cases that were previously considered closed and resolved. I initiated the first significant prosecution of an Asian grooming gang, which, in this instance, occurred in Rochdale. It was unprecedented at the time."

He stated that his record was "open" and mentioned that during his tenure at the CPS, he advocated for "compulsory disclosure of child sexual abuse," an issue he claims the Conservatives ignored.

The third point concerns ethical conduct among public officials, as the prime minister expressed frustration with Ms. Badenoch and others for their management of the situation, criticizing politicians for their failure to condemn the attacks on Ms. Phillips.

"According to an aide, he believes that truth is essential in politics, and despite the trickery often found there, it should be an arena grounded in fact and honesty, not defamation," said the aide.

On Wednesday, the Conservative party plans to propose changes to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill, aiming to mandate a comprehensive national investigation into grooming gangs. Ms. Badenoch expressed on platform X that her party's initiative would "serve justice to the victims and put an end to the culture of concealment."

Debate continues over the necessity for a more extensive investigation into past sexual abuse, including the pervasive issues highlighted by Professor Alexis Jay in her 2022 inquiry.

In light of recent actions by Musk, Ms. Badenoch has made her first significant move since assuming leadership two months ago.

On Monday, the Prime Minister stood by his choice to forego further reviews, arguing that the 2022 Jay Report offered a "thorough examination" of child exploitation and required "action rather than additional discussion or study."

Today, the Home Secretary declared in the Commons her intention to fortify legislation concerning child sexual exploitation, aligning with Professor Jay's suggested reforms.

However, these measures are not expected to resolve the dispute, as Ms. Badenoch calls for a nationwide investigation into the matter. She is using the issues of grooming gangs and past abuses as a point of contention with Labour, positioning herself to confront Starmer and compete directly with Reform.

The beginning of the new year did not go as planned for the prime minister.

Indeed, after months of evading Musk's criticisms, Number 10 has made a conscious decision not to back down, with the Prime Minister opting to start the new year by confronting these challenges head-on.

He appeared more genuine than he has in recent months while addressing critiques of his previous tenure as a prosecutor and condemning the harsh treatment directed at his fellow MP.

Since taking office at Number 10, the prime minister has faced numerous challenges, but in 2025, he has emerged

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Elon Musk's Infiltration into UK Politics

Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 07:39

👉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 correspondent Jack Blanchard return in 2025, offering a quick overview of the day's political events, all in less than 20 minutes.

As the prime minister lashed out at individuals disseminating false information on the internet regarding child grooming gangs, what continuation can we expect from the reaction of his critics?

The Conservative Party is pushing for a vote on establishing a new national investigation into child sexual exploitation. However, it's uncertain if this effort will gain traction. Meanwhile, the government is set to strengthen legislation in the forthcoming Crime and Policing Bill.

How do you tackle a challenge like Elon Musk?

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

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Why are parliamentarians urging England to skip the cricket game against Afghanistan?

Several MPs and members of the House of Lords are advocating for the boycott as a protest against the Taliban's oppressive policies towards women.

Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 15:

Numerous UK lawmakers have urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to skip the upcoming Champions Trophy game against Afghanistan.

Members of Parliament and Lords from various political spectrums, such as Nigel Farage, Jeremy Corbyn, and Lord Kinnock, have urged the England men's one day international cricket team to boycott their upcoming match scheduled for February 26 in Lahore, Pakistan.

Under the guidance of Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, numerous voices in Westminster are advocating for the boycott as a method to protest the Taliban regime's attacks on women's rights.

What have members of Parliament commented?

In a recent update on X on Monday, Ms. Antoniazzi, the Member of Parliament for Gower in southwest Wales, revealed that she has penned a forceful letter to the ECB, calling on it to publicly denounce the Taliban's egregious suppression of women and girls.

She noted that the letter has received over 160 endorsements from individuals spanning various political affiliations and from both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

The communication, directed at ECB chief executive Richard Gould, expressed: "We emphatically encourage the players and officials of the England men's team to publicly condemn the appalling treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan by the Taliban.

"We also implore the ECB to contemplate a boycott of the forthcoming game against Afghanistan… to deliver a definitive message that such heinous violations are unacceptable.

"We need to oppose gender segregation, and we urge the ECB to send a strong message of unity and optimism to the women and girls of Afghanistan, assuring them that their plight has not been ignored."

England previously encountered Afghanistan in the 2023 One Day International Cricket World Cup, and also competed against them in the 2022 Twenty20 World Cup.

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Taliban-im

Following their resurgence to governance in 2021, the Taliban have imposed severe limitations on the rights of women and girls, curtailing their opportunities for education and employment, restricting their mobility, and mandating that they conceal their faces and bodies.

Women and girls have been prohibited from participating in sports and accessing gym facilities, violating the International Cricket Council's (ICC) regulations. These rules stipulate that all test-playing countries must promote and finance women's cricket.

The women's team from Afghanistan has been dissolved, and numerous members have left the country following the events of 2021.

The nation's male squad remains eligible to participate in competitions without facing any penalties.

Ms. Antoniazzi characterized the regime as a "sinister dystopia."

In 2022, Australia canceled a T20 cricket series with Afghanistan due to worsening women's rights conditions in the country.

What did the European Central Bank announce?

In his reply, Mr. Gould reiterated the ECB's core values but indicated a preference for a coordinated response across all member countries instead of taking independent action.

"He expressed strong disapproval of how the Taliban regime is treating women and girls in Afghanistan," he stated.

He stated that in accordance with ICC regulations, the ECB has continued its policy of not arranging any bilateral cricket series with Afghanistan.

"Mr. Gould emphasized that although there is no agreement on additional global initiatives within the ICC, the ECB remains committed to promoting these actions. He noted that a unified strategy across the ICC would have a much greater effect than actions taken independently by separate members."

"We recognize and honor the variety of viewpoints regarding this worldwide matter. We are aware of the apprehensions expressed by individuals who argue that boycotting men's cricket might unintentionally aid the Taliban in curtailing liberties and distancing Afghan society.

It's essential to understand that cricket serves as a beacon of hope and positivity for numerous Afghans, both within and outside their homeland.

"The European Central Bank is dedicated to identifying a strategy that protects the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, while also taking into account the overall effects on the Afghan population."

He mentioned that the ECB plans to collaborate with the UK government, various involved parties, the ICC, and international cricket boards worldwide to investigate every potential path for significant reform.

Mr. Gould's comments elicited a response from Downing Street, where the prime minister's spokesperson indicated on Tuesday that the ICC still held responsibility.

"The spokesperson stated that Afghanistan’s decision to ban women's sports directly violates the conditions of ICC membership, potentially leading to suspension. Despite this, the Afghan men's teams have been allowed to participate in three international tournaments over the last 18 months."

"The ICC must enforce its regulations effectively and ensure they are backing women's cricket just as the ECB does."

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What is the Champions Trophy?

The Champions Trophy features eight teams competing in 15 matches across a span of 19 days.

This year, the event is scheduled to be held in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates from February 19 to March 9.

For the first time since 2017, the tournament is taking place, as noted by the ICC. Pakistan, the reigning champions, are hosting an international cricket event for the first time since 1996.

For further details, visit Sky News: China earthquake claims at least 95 lives; Donald Trump’s election win officially confirmed

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The inaugural game features host nation Pakistan facing off against New Zealand.

England is set to face off against their major adversaries, Australia, on February 22 in their opening match

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Jess Phillips responds to Elon Musk, urging him to focus on his Mars mission

The Labour safeguarding minister dismissed Elon Musk's comments about her as "absurd" and stated her refusal to be muted.

Wednesday, January 8, 2025, 10:

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Jess Phillips has expressed that she has "more important matters to consider" than Elon Musk following his claim that she is a "rape genocide apologist".

The minister responsible for safeguarding responded to the billionaire's critique for the first time in an interview with Sky's political editor Beth Rigby on the Electoral Dysfunction podcast. She described his accusations as "ridiculous" and emphasized that her guidance will come from the victims' voices, not his.

Politics Live: Elon Musk Criticizes 'Wicked' Starmer

Mr. Musk responded following Ms. Phillips' rejection of a proposal for the Home Office to oversee a public investigation into child sexual exploitation in Oldham, stating that such an inquiry should be conducted locally.

A town in Greater Manchester emerged as one of several locations where, over ten years ago, girls as young as 11 were subjected to grooming and sexual assault, a situation that became widely known in 2013 after a national uproar.

Remarks made by Mr. Musk have ignited a political controversy, leading to demands from both the Conservatives and Reform UK for a fresh public inquiry into grooming gangs.

Ms. Phillips suggested that the billionaire owner of SpaceX and CEO of Tesla focus on his Mars colonization project rather than involving himself in British political affairs.

Further Insights into Electoral Challenges

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Exploring the Internal Collapse of the Conservative Government – Part 1

Syria, Nobility, Yuletide – Solve the Puzzle Edition

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"You know, Elon Musk will continue being Elon Musk. I have more significant issues to consider," she remarked.

She expressed that she has devoted her career to fighting child exploitation and found it "distressing" to see it turned into a "political tool."

A national investigation into child abuse in England and Wales, initiated by the Conservative government in 2015, has been underway for seven years. This inquiry has scrutinized grooming gangs and cases of abuse within institutions such as schools and churches.

The inquiry led by Professor Alexis Jay wrapped up in 2022, yet none of its suggested actions have been put into effect.

Child exploitation is increasingly being used as a tool for

Ms. Phillips, who has accompanied groomed girls in court, expressed her frustration towards individuals who are now presenting themselves as the righteous advocates for these victims, despite having previously remained silent on the matter.

"She expressed her distress, saying, 'The abrupt requests from the Conservatives, along with the absurd remarks directed at me and my administration from someone so far away, truly hurt, especially given my knowledge on the matter.'"

"It's distressing to see it tossed around as a political tool instead of a genuine effort to effect change."

She explicitly criticized Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch for stating that victims would receive justice in 2025, despite her party being in power for the last 14 years.

Interestingly, it all began with an investigation in Oldham, which a government she participated in also recommended handling at the local level.

"The situation involves Kemi Badenoch responding to comments made by Elon Musk… My responses are to what victims share with me."

Addressing other high-ranking Conservatives advocating for a nationwide investigation, she continued, "Kemi Badenoch, Chris Philp, Robert Jenrick have never been present at any of the meetings I've attended over the years that were focused on progressing policy in this area."

A meeting of council leaders has been scheduled.

Ms. Phillips revealed that the Labour government intends to convene a meeting with council leaders from regions contemplating local investigations into child exploitation, similar to the inquiry that took place in Telford.

The MP for Birmingham Yardley stated that this would "guarantee the successful methods I observed in Telford are implemented nationwide."

"My priority is the safety of our children in the future, not the security of my political position," she stated.

Following the government's declaration of a new panel for victims and survivors to be established under the Home Office, Ms. Phillips mentioned that the creation of this panel was always intended, but the uproar surrounding Musk has brought it into prominence.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper introduced a series of initiatives on Monday, one of which includes criminalizing the failure of professionals working with children to report allegations of abuse.

The implementation of this measure is set for the spring within the Crime and Policing Bill, following a major suggestion from the Jay Review.

Discover more: Musk doubts Farage's capabilities. What draws Musk to UK political affairs?

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The review also recommends that grooming be considered an aggravating element in sentencing for child sexual offenses and suggests the establishment of a new performance framework for monitoring exploitation in policing.

Number 10 acknowledged today that it remains unclear when all 20 recommendations will be implemented.

The spokesperson for the prime minister stated that the previous administration did not implement the recommendations of the 2022 report. Consequently, the current government is making rapid progress and will announce further developments when appropriate.

Professor Jay earlier informed the BBC that victims are in favor of decisive measures and do not see the necessity for another national inquiry into grooming gangs, as she also criticized the political manipulation of child sexual exploitation issues.

On Monday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer charged Mr. Musk and others with disseminating falsehoods and misleading information about grooming gangs. He declared that "a line has been crossed" following the attacks on Ms. Phillips, who has been threatened.

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In a later segment of the podcast interview, Ms. Phillips expressed concerns that Mr. Musk's remarks endangered her safety, distinguishing between "robust debate" and the dissemination of misinformation.

"When dealing with misinformation, it's crucial to consider its impacts. Among these impacts is the potential threat it poses to parliament members."

Tune in for Beth's complete conversation with Jess Phillips in an exclusive episode of Electoral Dysfunction, set to be released this Thursday.

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Title: Elon Musk Mocks Global Leaders

Date: Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 18:17

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Elon Musk, recognized as the wealthiest individual globally, a South African-born American inhabitant and proprietor of X (previously known as Twitter), is already integrated into the sphere of U.S. politics and the incoming administration of President-elect Trump.

Lately, his focus has shifted towards Europe, where Mr. Musk has expressed backing for Germany's right-wing AfD party, Nigel Farage's Reform UK, and the controversial figure Tommy Robinson.

Niall Paterson delves into Elon Musk's intentions regarding European political landscapes. Sam Coates, our deputy political editor, accompanies Niall to analyze the tycoon's messages on X and the response they've elicited from politicians.

Additionally, Sarah Manavis, who covers culture, technology, and society, teams up with Niall to delve into Mr. Musk's keen interest in global politics and the possible advantages he seeks.

Producer: Rosie Gillott

Editor: Philly Beaumont

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Sir Keir Starmer announces a new collaboration with private healthcare to reduce NHS backlog. As of the end of October last year, approximately 7.54 million medical procedures were pending.

Monday, January 6, 2025, at 4

Sir Keir Starmer announced that collaborating with the private healthcare sector is expected to cut waiting times down to 18 weeks within five years.

The prime minister announced that a new deal has been finalized with private companies to enhance the availability of private hospital spaces, facilities, and resources for the NHS.

He referred to it as a "collaboration for the national good," noting that it would enhance the integration of private healthcare services currently utilized by the NHS.

The Prime Minister dismissed claims that he was covertly aiming to privatize the NHS, stating that he places "no interest in prioritizing ideology over patients, nor in adhering to a timeline dictated by excuses."

The government aims to provide an additional two million appointments by the end of next year, enhancing access to community diagnostic centers (CDCs) which are expected to facilitate up to 500,000 more appointments. This expansion also includes the establishment of 14 new surgical hubs and the enlargement of three current ones.

The government claims that offering patients the option to opt out of automatically scheduled follow-up appointments could make up to a million appointment slots available.

The goal of the changes is to ensure that by March 2026, an additional 450,000 patients receive treatment within an 18-week timeframe.

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Conservative opposition health spokesperson Ed Argar has criticized the government for re-introducing health initiatives initially unveiled by Sir Sajid Javid, a Tory health minister, in 2022.

He stated that the Conservatives established 160 Community Diagnostic Centres, adding nine million extra appointments, and constructed 18 surgical hubs. They also collaborated with the private sector to address patient backlogs and enhanced both technology and equipment through an investment of £76 billion. Moreover, the NHS app was developed amid the pandemic and later updated continuously.

Data released by NHS England last month indicated that approximately 7.54 million medical procedures were pending as of the end of October, marking the smallest backlog since March 2024.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies reports that the NHS last achieved its goal of treating 92% of patients within 18 weeks back in 2015.

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The changes in England will include updating the NHS app, enabling patients to have more options regarding their appointment locations. Additionally, the app will offer more comprehensive information, including details about their medical results and expected wait times.

According to government announcements, by March 2025, more than 85% of acute trust patients will have the capability to access their appointment information through the NHS app as part of the initial phase of the digital transformation.

Patients will have the ability to reach out to their healthcare provider and obtain updates, such as the expected wait time for their treatment.

In a bid to make one million appointments available, patients will have increased options regarding non-essential follow-up visits, and general practitioners will receive additional funds to consult with specialists prior to making referrals.

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The CDC facilities aim to operate daily from morning to evening, throughout the week whenever feasible. This schedule allows patients more flexibility and variety in choosing appointment times and locations, potentially accelerating their treatment process.

The administration is confident that its strategy will enable it to provide an additional 40,000 appointments weekly in its initial year, fulfilling one of Sir Keir’s six major promises.

In her October budget announcement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves committed £22 billion for the coming two years to reduce NHS waiting times. However, there are concerns within the industry that a shortage of staff could hinder the prime minister's goals from being realized.

Discover more: Drastic changes in NHS could pose challenges for an already overwhelmed staff. The number of single women opting for IVF has tripled over ten years.

There are worries that allowing patients to choose where they receive medical treatment might lead to certain hospitals being more sought after than others. However, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has described this as a fundamental issue.

"After receiving my kidney cancer diagnosis, I was overwhelmed by inquiries from fellow parliamentarians. They were eager to know who my surgeon would be, if I was seeking treatment at a top facility, and if I was utilizing my choice privileges within the NHS," he explained.

It turns out that I was fortunate enough to have one of the nation's top kidney cancer surgeons appointed to me by the NHS.

"However, it’s only fair that a cleaner, like my mother, should hold as much influence and decision-making ability within the NHS as her son, who serves as the health secretary."

NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard described the government's strategy as a "bold framework."

"The groundbreaking changes outlined in this strategy will enable us to provide countless additional tests, consultations, and procedures. Moreover, they will transform our approach, enhancing accessibility and granting patients greater control, particularly via the NHS app."

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Amid a falling out with Farage, what approach should politicians take towards Elon Musk?

According to Sky's Tamara Cohen, Nigel Farage's relationship with president-elect Donald Trump, which dates back to his initial presidency term, appears unaffected. However, the Labour Party may feel some relief as the criticism shifts towards the leader of Reform UK.

Political reporter @tamcohen

Monday, January 6, 2025, 3:

For UK lawmakers, the pressing issue is managing Elon Musk.

The billionaire at the helm of X and Tesla, set to assume a position as an efficiency expert in the Trump administration, has been frequently posting provocative comments about UK politics on his social media platform, capturing major media attention.

The content largely consists of provocative allegations against Keir Starmer and his administration, even though they have attempted to foster positive ties with Donald Trump.

As of today, there continues to be strong support for Nigel Farage, who, as recently as mid-December, discussed financial matters with Musk at the luxurious Mar-a-Lago, amidst speculation that he was pondering a $100 million contribution to Reform.

Suddenly, the situation took a sharp turn. Previously, Farage had consistently praised Musk, calling him a "hero" who added a touch of flair to Reform and eagerly anticipated a conversation at Trump's inauguration.

Musk expressed on Twitter that Farage lacks the necessary qualities to head the party, suggesting that Reform should seek a different leader.

His shift in attitude follows several days during which Musk actively posted on Twitter about grooming gangs in the UK, along with expressing support for the imprisoned far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who has also focused on this topic.

Further Discussion on Elon Musk

Has Starmer Changed with the New Year? The Prime Minister's Decision to Confront Musk's 'Harmful' Misinformation

Is Starmer Capable of Muting Musk

Elon Musk stated that Nigel Farage lacks the necessary qualities, a remark which the Reform UK leader called 'unexpected'.

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Throughout his career, Farage has largely sought to keep his distance from Robinson. He believes this is the cause of their disagreement, noting his surprise but also stating, "I maintain that Tommy Robinson is not suitable for Reform and I will not compromise my principles."

Last week, Musk took to Twitter to advocate for the release of Robinson, whose legal name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, from jail. Robinson is currently serving an 18-month term for contempt of court after he reiterated untrue claims about a Syrian refugee.

Read further: Deputy from Reform commends 'well-liked' Musk, while Labour denounces his meddling with grooming gangs issue. With a schedule as packed as his, what draws Elon Musk to focus on British political affairs? It appears improbable that Badenoch will retract her erroneous claim about Reform party membership.

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How does this conflict impact Reform?

In the immediate future, Reform would likely prefer to avoid any sudden disagreements, especially at a time when they are celebrating an increase in members and Farage is set to have a meeting in Washington.

Farage views Robinson as damaging to his image and a hindrance to his goal of creating a strong campaign for the upcoming UK general election, even at the risk of alienating influential allies.

The possibility of receiving a contribution from Musk, known for his substantial donations to Donald Trump's campaign, would have been appealing. However, there were considerable legal concerns under UK election regulations.

Farage's relationship with Trump, dating from his initial presidential term, appears to remain intact, potentially keeping open a direct line to the White House.

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How does this affect Starmer and the Labour Party?

There's no clarity on Trump's views regarding Musk's intense focus on British politics, especially his continuous criticism of Keir Starmer and other US allies. It remains to be seen if this behavior on social media will continue to be accepted once he assumes his role in the White House.

Labour representatives are keenly anticipating a resolution to this query, and there might be a sense of respite now that the focus of critique has shifted towards Farage.

Recently, Musk has unleashed a barrage of provocative and baseless claims about Starmer. He has accused him of being "involved in the rape of Britain", committing "horrendous crimes", and as the former director of public prosecutions, he has raised doubts about whether Starmer permitted rape gangs to abuse young girls without any legal repercussions.

Today, in an interview, Health Secretary Wes Streeting described Musk's comments as "utterly misinformed and misplaced," emphasizing that Starmer has significantly contributed to supporting victims and securing convictions in grooming cases. The government, for the most part, is attempting to disregard the commotion.

Kemi Badenoch faced criticism for seemingly aligning with Musk's perspective by demanding a countrywide investigation into grooming gangs, despite the Conservatives having dismissed such an inquiry while in power merely two years earlier.

An American billionaire, who holds no elected position, is stirring controversy among British political groups by highlighting problems that none can easily overlook.

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Sir Keir Starmer Responds to Elon Musk's Criticisms Over Handling of Grooming Gangs

Elon Musk has demanded the imprisonment of Sir Keir Starmer, citing his role as the top prosecutor during the grooming gang crisis. However, the Prime Minister has defended him, stating that he altered legislation to support the victims.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Monday, January 6, 2025, 4:

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Sir Keir Starmer has charged individuals with "propagating falsehoods" regarding grooming gangs, stating that these individuals show no concern for the victims. This comes in the wake of allegations by Elon Musk, who claimed Starmer was "complicit" in the controversy.

"Those disseminating falsehoods and misinformation extensively are not concerned with the victims; their focus is on their own interests," Sir Keir stated.

"I appreciate the energy in political discussions, the vigorous exchanges that are essential. However, these must be grounded in reality and honesty, not falsehoods. We should not tolerate those who, in their quest for visibility, are willing to demean both themselves and their nation."

He stated that he would refrain from responding to individual allegations, but was addressing a query regarding Mr. Musk's assertion that safeguarding minister Jess Phillips "should be imprisoned" and labeling her a "rape genocide apologist" for dismissing a proposal for a nationwide investigation into past child grooming incidents in Oldham.

The Prime Minister charged the Conservatives with "climbing aboard a trend" and "echoing far-right rhetoric" regarding child sexual abuse, after neglecting the issue for "14 prolonged years."

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch is pushing for a comprehensive national investigation into grooming gangs and plans to propose an amendment to the Children's Wellbeing Bill this Wednesday, aiming to prompt a vote on the matter.

On Monday, Mr. Musk accused Sir Keir of being "profoundly involved in widespread sexual assaults in return for electoral support."

In a different message, he claimed that the Prime Minister would prevent a government investigation as it would reveal how Starmer consistently overlooked the appeals of numerous young girls and their families to gain political backing.

Sir Keir highlighted his tenure as the Director of Public Prosecutions from 2008 to 2013, emphasizing the transformative changes he implemented in handling cases of child sexual abuse. He noted that these changes facilitated a greater willingness among victims to come forward, leading to an unprecedented number of prosecutions during his leadership.

He mentioned that he reopened investigations he believed were inadequately handled and was in charge of the initial prosecution of an Asian grooming gang in Rochdale.

Sir Keir additionally stated that he advocated for compulsory reporting, which the Conservatives did not implement.

The Prime Minister stated, "I will not accept politicians exploiting situations just to garner publicity."

"For 14 years, those politicians were part of the government, constantly tweeting and talking but failing to take action. Now, they seem desperate for attention, echoing the sentiments of the far right."

The Prime Minister stated that Ms. Phillips has significantly outperformed her critics in protecting victims of sexual abuse, accomplishing far more than they could have even imagined.

Discover more: Musk believes Farage lacks necessary qualities. Given Musk's hectic schedule, what draws his attention to British political affairs?

Allegations against Musk

Sir Keir has now addressed a series of allegations made by Mr. Musk against him over the previous week for the first time.

Mr. Musk has taken to X, the social media platform under his ownership, to criticize Sir Keir and Ms. Phillips following revelations last week that she suggested Oldham Council should conduct its own investigation rather than a national one.

The billionaire has alleged that the prime minister played a role in the scandal, pointing out that he was the head of the DPP when groups of primarily Pakistani men were abusing predominantly white young girls, some as young as 11, in various towns throughout the UK.

The world's wealthiest individual has asserted that Sir Keir deserves to be incarcerated and, on Monday morning, he conducted a survey questioning whether "America should free the British people from their oppressive government."

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Opposition criticizes Prime Minister's remarks

Both the Conservative and Reform parties have expressed disapproval of Sir Keir's characterization of those requesting a government inquiry as "far-right." Leaders from these parties have insisted on the need for an inquiry.

On X, Tory leader Ms. Badenoch expressed that the scandal should lead to introspection rather than accusations of far-right extremism against those concerned about the issue.

She expressed her intention to push for a vote on a nationwide investigation.

"She emphasized her commitment to seeking justice for victims in her message."

On Wednesday, the Conservatives plan to introduce a modification to the Children's Wellbeing Bill that will call for a comprehensive national investigation into the scandal involving gangs that groom and sexually exploit minors.

"If the amendment passes, I hope members of parliament across all political factions will back the investigation, enabling us to properly address the victims' needs and put an end to the pattern of concealments."

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Reform leader Nigel Farage stated that Sir Keir was incorrect, addressing him as "prime minister," in claiming that those demanding a comprehensive public inquiry were merely aligning with the extreme right's agenda.

"He stated, 'The overwhelming number of citizens in this nation are completely appalled by the recent events.'"

"Moreover, the concealment by the police, social services, and the administrations of both the Conservative and Labour parties has been even more appalling."

"The investigations conducted to date have merely served to cover up the true issues. What is necessary is a comprehensive public investigation. We need to uncover the full extent of what has happened."

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