UK Competes with Russia in AI Military Development, Minister Says

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

By Mickey Carroll, specializing in science and technology reporting

Monday, November 25, 2024, at 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Threats

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

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

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

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

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

AI 'just a piece of the whole picture'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monday, November 25, 2024, 5:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Could Rachel Reeves Be the Next Margaret Thatcher?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Welsh government reverses stance on mandatory tree coverage for farmers

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

Welsh correspondent @TomosGruffydd

Monday, November 25, 2024, 10:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Press Conference for This Week’s Plenary Meeting

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

Date and Time: Monday, November 25th at 4

Location: Daphne Caruana Galizia Press Room and through Interactio

This week's main subjects involve:

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

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

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

Press Advisory – Submit Inquiries via Interactio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Monday, November 25

Impromptu media update scheduled for 4:30 PM

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

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

Legislative Body Observes Global Day to End Violence Against Women

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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President Metsola urges cessation of violence against women

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

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

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

Adjustments to the schedule

The

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

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

Mid

The subsequent documents have been included in the voting agenda:

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

The session will be prolonged until 11:00 PM.

Corrections

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

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

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

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 1:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood's stance on assisted dying sparks controversy and could cause discomfort for the Prime Minister

In a significant move, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has aligned with former Prime Minister Gordon Brown in opposing the assisted dying legislation, which faces a crucial vote this Friday.

Senior political reporter @joncraig

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 3:

As the crucial vote on assisted dying approaches this Friday, those against the measure are intensifying their efforts.

Shabana Mahmood's vehement criticism of the legislation came after Gordon Brown's heartfelt and individual appeal to members of parliament to oppose the bill.

It's well-known that the justice secretary is against the bill, having openly expressed her opposition. However, her vehement criticism of it, which she articulated in a letter to her constituents, was exceptionally harsh.

Further reading: UK Justice Secretary cautions against a gradual progression towards 'death on demand'

She discusses the dangers of progressing towards an easily accessible euthanasia. Harsh words. According to her, the government should "never provide death as a service". It's a stark warning.

Sir Keir Starmer's efforts to deescalate tensions in the dispute by calling on cabinet ministers to refrain from exacerbating or swaying the discussion, regardless of their personal stance, seem to have had little effect.

Ms. Mahmood discusses, like previous critics, the stress felt by the elderly, ill, or disabled individuals who believe they are "too burdensome for their family."

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She criticizes the bill for its "insufficient legal protections" and the potential for individuals to be coerced into ending their lives by those with harmful motives.

Accusations of harmful motives? Wow! It's a bold claim coming from a secretary of state for justice and lord chancellor, especially after the Prime Minister has advised her to moderate her rhetoric.

It is reported that Sir Keir scolded Wes Streeting, the health secretary, for his public criticism and cost analysis of the proposed bill.

Discover more: What is the cabinet's position on euthanasia?

Is the justice secretary set to face a reprimand from the leader? Some might say it's already too late for such measures. Furthermore, detractors are likely to argue that Sir Keir's hesitation regarding the legislation has allowed cabinet ministers to act independently.

Shabana Mahmood has made history as the first Muslim woman to be appointed to a cabinet position. Since her election to Parliament in 2010, she has been among the initial group of Muslim women to serve as MPs.

In her correspondence with residents, she expressed deep concerns about the proposed law, highlighting that her apprehensions stem not only from religious grounds but also from its implications for governmental involvement.

Certainly, she isn’t the sole high-ranking official with strong religious beliefs to voice firm opposition to Kim Leadbeater's bill over the weekend.

Gordon Brown, raised in a religious household by his father, a minister of the Church of Scotland, expressed his dissent in a deeply passionate piece for The Guardian.

He shared the heartache of his newborn daughter Jennifer's death, who was born prematurely at seven weeks, weighing only 2 pounds and 4 ounces, in January 2002. Just four days into her brief life, she experienced a brain hemorrhage.

Discover further: Gordon Brown opposes the legalization of assisted dying

Mr. Brown expressed that the incident solidified his belief in the importance of quality care at the end of life, rather than support for assisted dying. His influential stance is likely to sway numerous Labour MPs.

What is the current situation for Kim Leadbeater? There are growing concerns that she is being abandoned by the government, following their initial encouragement for her to opt for assisted dying, after she secured the top spot in the private members' bill ballot.

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This situation provides ammunition for Sir Keir's detractors to portray him as lacking strength. Given that it's a private members' bill subject to a free vote, the results of Friday's vote remain uncertain.

The forceful actions taken by the present Lord Chancellor and a previous Labour Prime Minister are tremendously impactful, possibly pivotal, and could be quite awkward for a Prime Minister who seems to be struggling to maintain grip on the assisted dying discussion.

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The United Kingdom isn't required to appoint a deputy prime minister, yet the role has been filled by some notably impactful figures in recent history, such as Clement Attlee, Nick Clegg, and possibly Angela Rayner in the future.

Sky News pundit @adamboultonTABB

Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 5

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"Colossal", "behemoth", "the Labour Party's trio of successive victories would have been impossible without John's contribution".

The accolades bestowed upon John Prescott, who passed away on Wednesday, underscore the significance of the role of deputy prime minister.

The role might hold more sway than that of the U.S. Vice President, which John Nance Garner, one occupant of the position, infamously described as "not worth a bucket of warm piss."

The U.S. Constitution requires the existence of a vice president, who is immediately next in line to become president if the current president passes away unexpectedly—like when Lyndon Johnson took over following John F. Kennedy's assassination—or steps down, as occurred with Richard M. Nixon's resignation and Gerald Ford's subsequent presidency.

There's no certainty that serving as a vice president who has often felt ignored or sidelined will lead to being elected president later. While George H.W. Bush and Joe Biden successfully ascended to the presidency in later elections, Al Gore and Kamala Harris did not achieve the same outcome.

The United Kingdom is not required to appoint a deputy prime minister (DPM). In the history of British politics, only nine individuals have officially held this title.

Despite this, some of the most significant political figures in recent history have held the position of Deputy Prime Minister, such as Clement Attlee, Michael Heseltine, John Prescott, Nick Clegg, and possibly now Angela Rayner.

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Moreover, there are prominent individuals who have been key to their administrations' achievements, essentially serving as Deputy Prime Ministers without officially holding the title. These include Herbert Morrison, Anthony Eden, Rab Butler, Geoffrey Howe, and Willie Whitelaw.

It is often quoted that Margaret Thatcher stated, "Every prime minister requires a Willie."

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In keeping with the prestigious role that Labour's Prescott held with notable distinction, the initial appointed Deputy Prime Minister was Labour's celebrated figure, Attlee.

The Conservative leader Winston Churchill was keen for his Labour deputy in the wartime coalition government to receive formal recognition.

Attlee was listed as Deputy Prime Minister in Hansard, the official record of Parliament, but King George VI objected, stating that the constitution did not recognize such a position.

Kings and queens may often guard their perceived privilege to appoint the prime minister jealously. Attlee secured his position as prime minister by defeating Churchill in the 1945 General Election.

The position of Deputy Prime Minister lay dormant for half a century until it was revived by Prime Minister John Major, who appointed Michael Heseltine to the role in recognition of his support during a leadership contest.

"Hezza," who had long been an experienced member of the cabinet and had previously attempted to become the leader of the Conservative Party without success, embraced his new role as the first secretary of state. He enjoyed presiding over cabinet committees and advocated for stronger relationships with the European Union.

During the 1990s, the Labour Party began the practice of electing its leader and deputy leader. Prescott ran for each of these positions.

Although he was decisively beaten by Tony Blair in the race for prime minister, he managed to outpace Margaret Beckett in the contest for deputy. Upon Labour's ascension to power in 1997, Prescott seamlessly assumed the role of Deputy

He remained in his position for a decade, serving as a counterbalance to Blair's polished approach. He played a vital role in transitioning from the traditional, union-heavy Labour politics to the inclusive New Labour era, and acted as a mediator in the conflicts between Blair and Gordon Brown.

Prescott stepped down alongside Blair in 2007. Although Harriet Harman succeeded him as the deputy leader of the Labour Party, she was not granted the official title of Deputy Prime Minister.

Discover further insights on John Prescott: John Prescott, a Pork Pie, and My Experience with Him—The Tenacious Veteran of Labour Who Spoke Frankly. What Lessons Has Labour Drawn from Prescott's Tenure?

The concept gained significant momentum when Conservative leader David Cameron established a coalition government with the Liberal Democrats in 2010.

Nick Clegg held a decisive role due to his control over the crucial swing votes required for passing legislation, making him arguably the most influential Deputy Prime Minister to date. He described the situation as necessitating a "two-headed, bicephalous approach to decision-making."

The Conservative Party secured a solo victory in 2015 and did not appoint any Deputy Prime Ministers until 2021. During this period, David Cameron relied on George Osborne, who served solely as the First Secretary of

During the turmoil following the Brexit vote, Theresa May appointed Damian Green with a role analogous to hers. After Green stepped down amid controversy, David Lidington, who was then the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, was often referred to as "the de facto deputy prime minister," although he never officially held the titles of First Secretary of State or Deputy Prime Minister.

Amidst the rapid changes in Conservative leadership, Boris Johnson appointed Dominic Raab as First Secretary of State, later promoting him to Deputy Prime Minister.

Liz Truss briefly named Therese Coffey as her Deputy Prime Minister. Later, Rishi Sunak reinstated Raab to the position, before Oliver Dowden took over the role.

These deputies received no additional compensation beyond their standard ministerial pay. They held no extra authority or powers, nor was there any assurance they would step in if the prime minister became unable to serve or was absent. However, Raab did temporarily assume the role when Boris Johnson was hospitalized due to COVID.

The chance to fill in during Prime Minister's Questions when the prime minister is absent has been diminished now that the opposition leader also opts to send a deputy.

Rayner and Dowden appeared to relish their frequent "Battle of the Gingers" exchanges. Kemi Badenoch has stated her intention to rotate the substitutes she deploys to confront the Deputy Prime Minister.

Since the 1950s, no Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary, or unofficial acting leader, following the examples of Attlee and Eden, has ascended to the position of Prime Minister.

Discover further details on Sky News: Who is Alex? Are the Conservatives uncovering an emerging talent? Hancock reveals: NHS nearly ran out of PPE within 'hours'

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The most effective Deputy Prime Ministers, like Heseltine and Prescott, were often more vibrant and recognizable figures compared to their leaders, gaining widespread public recognition and providing essential support to their administrations.

They successfully advanced their key political agendas: Both Heseltine and Clegg were instrumental in preventing the Conservatives from pursuing a referendum on EU membership.

Prescott played a pivotal role in advocating for modernization within the Labour Party, supported the devolution of power, and was instrumental in the UK's commitment to the Kyoto Protocol on climate change.

Interestingly, the Labour Party now boasts a deputy leader and Deputy Prime Minister who appears to share many similarities with Prescott.

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Rayner ascended from a challenging working-class upbringing through her involvement in the trade union movement.

She originates from Northern England and exhibits a straightforward and unique manner of communication, distinct from the polished style typical of her leader from North London.

She also sees herself as part of a trio consisting of the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chancellor of the Exchequer. She has humorously characterized herself as "John Prescott in a skirt."

Rayner has an excellent example to follow in the Deputy Prime Minister role, potentially even outshining him in significance with enough time and opportunity.

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UK Minister to Alert on Potential Russian Cyber Attacks

A UK minister is set to announce that the nation is vigilant of Russia's actions, as he cautions that Moscow is poised to initiate cyber warfare and will readily target UK enterprises.

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 11:

A minister is set to issue a warning that Russia is ready to initiate a series of cyber attacks against the UK, potentially capable of disrupting power for millions.

At a NATO conference scheduled for next week, Pat McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, will emphasize to allies the importance of fully recognizing the risks associated with Moscow's covert operations.

Before the address, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall informed Sky News that she agreed with her peer's assessment that "not only is there an overt military conflict with Russia as the aggressor, but there is also a covert cyber conflict occurring."

During her appearance on the Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips program, she stated that Russia "will exert all its efforts to create instability not only in Ukraine but also among NATO allies."

She emphasized: "It's crucial that as a government, along with businesses and the broader community, we remain extremely alert to defend against cyber hacktivists.

"For several months now, we have concentrated our efforts on ensuring that all necessary safeguards, including cybersecurity measures, are in place due to the threats posed by Russia, encompassing both covert cyber attacks and overt military hostility."

In his address, Mr. McFadden will state that Russia has aimed at British energy facilities and will not hesitate to target companies, in an effort to weaken nations that back Ukraine.

"In his upcoming speech, as initially highlighted by The Sunday Telegraph, he will discuss how Russia has the capability to launch a cyber attack that could potentially leave millions without electricity by disrupting power grids."

Make no mistake: the United Kingdom, along with others here, is keeping a close eye on Russia.

"We are fully aware of their actions, and we are actively responding to their assaults in both open and covert ways."

He will further assert that Britain's historical experiences have shown that placating dictators when they act aggressively toward neighboring countries merely emboldens them.

"He will express our backing for Ukraine in its battle for self-determination," he is set to announce at the NATO Cyber Defence Conference at Lancaster House.

Putin seeks destruction rather than peace, using threats to undermine our support for Ukraine.

"He is unlikely to achieve success."

Further reading: The absence of a defensive barrier should be a cause for concern as Putin warns the West of an 'unstoppable' missile.

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He will caution that the danger is genuine and that no one in NATO should downplay the cyber threat posed by Russia.

Mr. McFadden is anticipated to explicitly mention Unit 29155, a Russian military unit that is alleged by authorities to have orchestrated several attacks in the UK and Europe.

He will assert that "unofficial hacktivists," who are not directly controlled by the Kremlin, are permitted to operate freely as long as their actions do not conflict with Putin's objectives.

The statement follows an incident where South Korea, an Indo-Pacific partner of NATO, faced repercussions for observing the movement of North Korean soldiers to Russia.

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Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris is bracing for potential economic turbulence during Donald Trump's term in office. Speaking to Sky News, Harris also expressed that the reunification of Ireland within his lifetime could definitely happen, though he is not in favor of setting specific timelines.

Chief Ireland Reporter @skydavidblevins

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 10:

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Ireland's Prime Minister Simon Harris has announced the allocation of substantial financial resources to safeguard the nation's economy from potential turbulence during Donald Trump’s term as president.

However, the leader of Fine Gael, aiming for an unprecedented fourth straight victory in the upcoming Friday general election, continues to be optimistic about maintaining favorable trade ties.

President-elect Trump has warned of potential tariffs on European Union imports and selected a commerce secretary committed to luring American multinationals away from Ireland.

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During Sky News' initial interview with political leaders before the election, Mr. Harris stated, "I believe President Trump is sincere about his stance on trade and tariffs."

"It seems that President Trump has been given a significant endorsement based on the results of the US presidential election."

"This is the reason I am getting my nation ready and collaborating with fellow EU members to ready the EU for this transition."

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Ireland can tackle this with assurance. Numerous factors attract companies to Ireland, one key reason being its access to the European Union.

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"However, we must always remain vigilant, which is why my party is allocating a substantial amount to reserves, future reserves, to safeguard our nation against any potential economic turmoil."

At 39, Mr. Harris ascended to the position of Ireland's youngest prime minister following Leo Varadkar's resignation seven months prior, motivated by a desire to champion causes in his political career.

He committed to resolving the nation's housing issue by constructing 300,000 homes over five years, noting that it's uncommon to possess both "the funds and the strategy."

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Regarding the other significant topic of immigration, he pledged to adopt a "just yet stricter" stance, enhancing the procedures based on Ireland’s latest practices in handling processing durations and execution of deportation mandates.

Mr. Harris emphasized that the downfall of the Celtic Tiger is well-known, stating that his party plans to allocate "billions of euros" for contingency purposes.

He expressed that Irish unity is his goal, as well as that of his party, yet he emphasized his commitment to "ensuring the success of the Good Friday Agreement."

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"He emphasized that genuine unity isn’t achieved through setting random dates or deadlines for voting. Instead, it comes from capturing the hearts and minds of individuals."

When questioned about his anticipation of witnessing unity in his lifetime, he responded, "I believe it's completely achievable… however, I'm not prepared to set a timeframe for it."

"By doing so, you push individuals apart instead of bringing them closer."

Simon Harris's complete interview was broadcast on the Sky News program "Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips." Tune into Politics Hub next week for more interviews with leaders.

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