Upcoming Press Briefing for February Plenary Meeting

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On Friday at 11:00, representatives from both Parliament and its political factions will conduct a press briefing regarding the plenary session scheduled for February 10th to 13th. This event will take place in the Anna Politkovskaya press room within Parliament.

Media update regarding the upcoming full assembly meeting next week

Representatives from Parliament and various political factions are scheduled to conduct a briefing regarding the plenary session set for February 10th to 13th. This briefing will take place on Friday at 11:00 AM in Parliament's Anna Politkovskaya press room.

Date and Time: Friday, February 7th at 11

Location: Anna Politkovskaya press room in Brussels and accessible through Interactio

Main subjects for the upcoming week comprise:

The press briefing will be translated into both English and French.

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

The event can be watched live starting at 11:00 on Friday, either in the Anna Politkovskaya press room at Parliament or through Parliament's webstreaming service and EbS.

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The Conservatives have committed to stricter immigration regulations, responding to Reform's recent surge in popularity. This decision was revealed shortly after Reform led a Sky News/YouGov poll, marking a significant shift in the UK political landscape.

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 11

The Conservative Party has committed to stricter immigration policies following Reform's lead in a key poll earlier this week for the first time.

In her inaugural significant policy declaration as the leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch has committed to extending the required residency period for immigrants to qualify for indefinite leave to remain in the UK, increasing it from five years to ten years.

To be granted permanent residency after a decade, the person must fulfill stricter, newly imposed requirements.

This entails not having applied for welfare benefits or lived in public housing throughout the entire eligibility period, having a clean criminal history, and showing that their family would provide a positive fiscal contribution.

Ms. Badenoch criticized the Labour Party for their lax stance on immigration issues, asserting that a fresh strategy is necessary.

"She emphasized, 'This country is our home, not just a place to stay.'"

"Only individuals who have shown genuine dedication to the UK should be granted citizenship or permanent residency. Therefore, the period required to be eligible for indefinite leave to remain should be extended from five years to ten years."

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"The Conservative Party has embraced a new leader. We are set to reveal the tough realities concerning immigration.

"Immigration has been occurring too rapidly and with too many individuals arriving for effective assimilation. We must decelerate the process toward citizenship. Holding a UK passport should be considered a privilege, not a guaranteed entitlement."

"Contrary to decreasing the influx of individuals into Britain, the Labour government is overseeing a looming catastrophe.

"The proposed Border Security Bill could potentially simplify the process for unauthorized immigrants to remain in the UK, not to mention those who are here legally. Labour's reliability on immigration issues is questionable."

The news arrives shortly after Reform led a Sky News/YouGov poll for the first time, signaling its growing impact on UK politics.

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A recent survey conducted on February 2nd and 3rd indicates that Nigel Farage's party has slightly overtaken the others, polling at 25%, followed closely by Labour at 24%, and the Conservatives at 21%.

The text also indicated that the Liberal Democrats were polling at 14% and the Green Party at 9

This week, even though the latest polls show Reform UK leading for the first time, their lead falls within the margin of error, indicating that there hasn't been a significant change in the overall political landscape. The UK continues to experience a three-party dynamic in political polling.

According to the survey, 20% of individuals who previously voted Conservative would currently support Reform.

According to a Sky News/YouGov survey, Kemi Badenoch now ranks below Nigel Farage in terms of favorable versus unfavorable opinions among voters regarding the leaders.

In the previous month, Badenoch's net favorability was at -25, yet this month it has fallen further to -29.

Her ratings are lower than Farage's, who improved from a net favorability of -32 last month to -27 this month.

Labour's minister for border security, Dame Angela Eagle, commented: "As the Conservatives desperately seek to remain pertinent, this Labour administration is focused on addressing the chaos they created. We've escalated deportations, returns, and removals to the peak levels seen in the last six years, amplified the raids on illegal employment, and reduced the expenses associated with the asylum process."

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Starmer proposes cutting bureaucracy to construct nuclear reactors

Government officials and labor groups believe that the initiative could generate employment and provide clean, cost-effective energy, although environmental advocates raise concerns about the eco-friendliness of nuclear energy.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, February 6, 2025, 12:

The government has declared that regulations will be overhauled to simplify the process of constructing new nuclear reactors, which will generate thousands of high-skilled job opportunities.

The latest reforms, aimed at stimulating economic growth by "getting Britain building," follow a series of proposals that have eliminated the ability of environmental groups to hinder infrastructure projects.

The UK pioneered the development of nuclear reactors globally, but it hasn't constructed a new power station since 1995.

Officials have attributed this to "overwhelming" bureaucratic hurdles, which have caused the UK to fall behind in the international competition for cleaner, more cost-effective energy.

Today's announcements reveal that small modular reactors (SMRs), a type of mini-nuclear power station, will now be incorporated into national planning policies, paving the way for their construction in the UK for the first time.

SMRs are viewed as more cost-effective, faster to build, and safer compared to traditional nuclear reactors, leading experts in the field to regard them as crucial in initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

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Additional changes involve:

• Eliminating a policy that restricts nuclear expansion to only eight designated locations

• Eliminating the expiration date for nuclear project regulations to prevent timelines from lapsing

• Creating a new Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce aimed at exploring additional methods to construct nuclear facilities more rapidly and cost-effectively, which will provide its findings directly to the prime minister

Labor organizations and corporate associations have expressed their approval of the recent announcement, while environmental advocates have voiced their concerns.

The adjustments are being made in the context of ongoing difficulties in completing two current nuclear initiatives.

Currently, the UK has just one nuclear power facility, Hinkley Point C in Somerset, being built. Its completion has been postponed for several years. The French firm behind the project cites inflation, a lack of skilled workers, and complications arising from Brexit as reasons for the delay.

The administration highlighted that obtaining planning approval necessitates a 30,000-page environmental evaluation, noting in today's announcement that excessive regulations are stifling Britain and negatively impacting investments.

The Sizewell C project in Suffolk is facing setbacks and escalating expenses, even though construction has yet to begin.

In contrast, China is currently building 29 nuclear reactors, while the European Union has 12 reactors in the planning phase.

UK 'neglected and overlooked'

Sir Keir Starmer stated, "It has been decades since this country constructed a nuclear power station. We've been neglected and forgotten.

"I'm putting a stop to it – I'm altering the regulations to support the builders of our country, and rejecting the obstructers who have long stifled our opportunities for affordable energy, economic growth, and employment."

The statement expands on a pledge from Labour's manifesto to "stop ten years of indecision" regarding nuclear energy, as a component of wider initiatives aimed at establishing the UK as a leader in clean energy by 2030, which would result in lower energy costs and improved energy security.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband stated that nuclear energy will generate "thousands of skilled jobs" and will help protect the UK from future volatility in international energy markets.

"He emphasized that Britain's clean energy goal focuses on construction and development."

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Several environmental organizations challenge the notion that nuclear power is an eco-friendly option. They argue that despite its lack of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, it should not be considered a viable substitute for renewable energy sources such as wind and solar.

Dr. Doug Parr, the policy director at Greenpeace UK, commented, "It appears that the Labour government has completely accepted the nuclear industry's perspective, without even a slight degree of critical examination or a request for any supporting evidence."

Labor organizations expressed support for the announcement due to its job creation potential and its alignment with achieving net zero objectives. However, they emphasized that this should be paired with full approval for Sizewell C.

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Tom Greatrex, the head of the Nuclear Industry Association, commented, "The prime minister has sent his clearest message so far that new nuclear is essential for both economic development and the pursuit of clean energy."

"A simplified planning process will provide assurance to investors, the supply chain, and local communities, allowing us to accelerate the construction of new nuclear facilities across additional locations, thereby ensuring a cleaner and more reliable energy infrastructure."

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'Appalling and inexcusable': Criticism mounts over plan to tear down Grenfell Tower

Nearly eight years have passed since the Grenfell Tower tragedy claimed 72 lives, marking the deadliest domestic blaze in the UK since World War II.

Thursday, February 6, 2025, 1:

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Critics have charged that the government has disregarded the concerns of those who lost loved ones in the Grenfell Tower disaster in its choice to tear down the structure.

Grenfell United, representing certain survivors and bereaved families, condemned the government's actions as "shameful and inexcusable."

The announcement was made at a gathering which Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner attended on Wednesday evening.

Grenfell United stated, "Angela Rayner was unable to provide a rationale for her choice to tear down the tower."

"She declined to specify the number of grieving individuals and survivors consulted during the brief four-week period recently.

"Based solely on the reactions in the room, predominantly filled with grieving individuals, there was no apparent support for her choice. Yet, she asserts that her decision was informed by our opinions."

The gathering highlighted the deep frustration felt by survivors and the bereaved over their opinions being overlooked and disregarded in this decision.

"Overlooking the opinions of grieving families regarding the destiny of their relatives' burial sites is shameful and inexcusable."

The authorities stated that the choice pertains closely to the individuals impacted by the disaster, emphasizing that Ms. Rayner is dedicated to ensuring their perspectives remain central to the issue.

Nearly eight years have passed since the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the most lethal home fire in the UK since World War II, claimed the lives of 72 individuals.

Over time, there has been ongoing debate about the most appropriate ways to honor the memory of the tragedy in the years ahead.

Engineering specialists have confirmed that the tower is currently stable and poses no danger to nearby residents, workers, or students. However, they also cautioned that the structure's condition is expected to deteriorate over time, making its future usability highly unlikely.

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Grenfell Next of Kin, the group speaking for several grieving families, characterized the decision to tear down the building as "profoundly sensitive… following extensive direct engagement," which came after "a difficult discussion filled with harsh realities."

In a statement, the group expressed: "The absence of resolution, ongoing talks, and repeated consultations only serve to retraumatize and perpetuate a divisive and distressing debate, contributing nothing but pain and deepening divisions."

"We are calling for a conversation on what should replace the Tower to ensure it remains visible and memorable indefinitely. It’s essential to envision a new future and mend our fractured lives and families."

Councilor Elizabeth Campbell, head of Kensington and Chelsea Council, stated that the fate of Grenfell Tower rests in the hands of the government.

"This moment is undoubtedly tough for the grieving families, survivors, and the nearby community. It's crucial that government officials collaborate with the impacted individuals to grasp their worries and proceed with the decision."

A representative from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated, "The Deputy Prime Minister is prioritizing meetings and correspondence with the families of the victims, survivors, and the local community to inform them of her decisions regarding the future of Grenfell Tower."

"This issue profoundly impacts everyone involved, and the deputy prime minister is dedicated to making their concerns central to this matter."

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In September of the previous year, the official investigation into the Grenfell tragedy determined that pervasive deceit played a part in the devastating blaze.

Commission head Sir Martin Moore-Bick stated that the undeniable fact was that all the fatalities could have been prevented, and the residents of the tower were significantly let down by the officials, often due to ineptitude and, occasionally, due to deceit and avarice.

The report revealed multiple instances over several years where actions could have been taken to avert the disaster, highlighting how commercial pressures may have jeopardized the integrity of those in charge of fire safety.

The Metropolitan Police indicated that decisions regarding criminal charges related to the fire are anticipated to be made by the end of 2026.

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Starmer opts for drastic measures

Thursday, February 6, 2025 07:48,

Sky News' assistant political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Anne McElvoy preview the upcoming events in UK politics.

Sam and Anne explore Sir Keir Starmer's initiatives to ease the construction of nuclear reactors in the UK, and examine Kemi Badenoch's latest suggestions for tougher immigration policies as a strategy to regain supporters leaning towards Reform.

In other news, Jonathan Powell, the national security adviser to the prime minister, is traveling to Washington to talk about future strategies for the Chagos Islands.

Feel free to reach out via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633, or you can email us at jackandsam@sky.uk.

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The Foreign Office has ousted a Russian envoy following reciprocal actions stemming from espionage disputes. Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the UK remains "unyielding in safeguarding our national interests" and cautioned Russia, saying, "Any actions taken against us will be met with a response."

Thursday, February 6, 2025, 2:

The Foreign Office has withdrawn the credentials of a Russian diplomat following the expulsion of a British official from Moscow the previous year.

A spokesperson from the Foreign Office stated that Andrei Kelin, the Russian ambassador to the UK, was called to a meeting with a high-ranking British official to withdraw the diplomat's accreditation.

"They stated this was a reaction to Russia's unjustified and unwarranted move to revoke the credentials of a British diplomat in Moscow in November."

The spokesperson stated: "The UK will not tolerate such intimidation of our personnel, therefore we are responding in kind.

"Any additional measures implemented by Russia will be viewed as an escalation and will be met with appropriate responses."

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Shortly following the declaration, Foreign Secretary David Lammy shared on X: "In response to Russia's recent expulsion of a British diplomat, we have revoked the accreditation of a Russian diplomat."

"We make no apologies for safeguarding our national interests."

"I want to make it absolutely clear to Russia: any actions taken against us will be met with a response."

Last year, following allegations of espionage, a staff member at the British Embassy in Moscow had their diplomatic credentials revoked and was expelled from Russia.

According to TASS, the Russian state news agency, he was deported in November for "knowingly giving incorrect details upon his entry into Russia."

The report indicated that there were findings suggesting the diplomat engaged in espionage and disruptive activities, posing a threat to the security of the Russian Federation.

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According to TASS, the British diplomat recently expelled from Russia had taken the position of one of the six British intelligence officers who were ousted in August.

The Foreign Office dismissed Russia's allegations as "without foundation."

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In May of the previous year, the United Kingdom expelled Colonel Maxim Elovik, the Russian defense attaché in London, accusing him of being an "undeclared military intelligence officer."

The state has revoked the diplomatic recognition of multiple properties owned by Russians and imposed limitations on visas for Russian diplomats.

In retaliation, Russia ordered the expulsion of the British defense attaché in Moscow, Captain Adrian Coghill.

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Starmer reaffirms commitment to reduce home energy costs by £300 annually

In a conversation with Sky's political editor Beth Rigby, the prime minister stated that his plan to reduce bureaucratic hurdles to facilitate the construction of additional nuclear reactors would support his promise to lower annual energy expenses by several hundred pounds.

Thursday, February 6, 2025, 2:

Sir Keir Starmer has reaffirmed his pledge to cut annual household energy costs by £300 by the year 2030.

The prime minister informed Beth Rigby from Sky News that this number is their target, and his strategy to construct additional nuclear reactors will contribute to achieving it.

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Throughout the general election campaign, the promise was made multiple times and is now facing scrutiny after Juergen Maier, the head of Labour's GB Energy, described the green initiative as a "long-term project" and declined to provide a timeline for when domestic energy costs would be reduced.

When questioned about his adherence to the commitment, Sir Keir stated, "Yes, that remains our goal. We are actively working towards it."

He announced on Thursday that the proposal would be "accelerated" by his decision to cut through bureaucratic hurdles, facilitating the construction of additional nuclear energy projects.

Addressing an audience at the UK National Nuclear Laboratory close to Preston, he mentioned that this approach would shield the UK from global market fluctuations and enhance our ability to manage prices.

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"The target was to hit £300, perhaps even up to £300. That’s the goal I’m committed to," the prime minister emphasized.

"I'm also seeking stability. I desire consistently low bills over an extended period. It’s clear that many businesses and families have struggled with fluctuating expenses, and we need to eliminate that instability," he further stated.

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The declaration regarding nuclear power is a component of a wider strategy to transform the UK into a leading nation in clean energy by 2030, aiming to reduce energy costs and enhance energy security.

Discover more: Automotive sector urges tax reductions to boost electric vehicle purchases – Details on the Great British Energy initiative.

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At the heart of this commitment is the creation of a government-operated energy company named GB Energy, which will be based in northeast Scotland and will focus on creating and investing in new low-carbon energy projects.

Earlier in the week, the chairman of the start-up company indicated that achieving the goal of creating 1,000 jobs in Aberdeen might span over two decades, and he declined to provide a timeline for when costs would be reduced.

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In his initial televised interview, Mr. Maier said to Sky News, "I understand you're looking for a specific timeline for when we can achieve that, but GB Energy is newly established, and we will reduce energy bills."

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Starting in October, social landlords will be mandated to address hazardous mold issues under Awaab's Law, named after a two-year-old boy whose death from a respiratory illness was linked to extended mold exposure. This comes as a charity expresses frustration over the postponement.

Political journalist @fayebrownSky

Thursday, February 6, 2025, 7:

The government has declared that starting in October, a new regulation will be implemented requiring social landlords to address and rectify safety issues within a specified timeframe.

The bill is titled in honor of Awaab Ishak, a two-year-old boy who passed away in December 2020 due to a respiratory illness linked to extended exposure to mold in his family's social housing unit in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

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The incident led to a public outcry for reforms following a hearing that revealed the failure to address and mitigate the mould issue, despite the boy's father consistently bringing it to the attention of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH).

In reaction, the previous Conservative administration promised to enact Awaab's Law to ensure social landlords were held responsible. The Labour Party committed to adopting and expanding this law to include the private sector should they triumph in the general election, which they indeed did last July.

Outlining the upcoming actions, Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner announced that the new policy will be implemented in the social housing sector starting from October this year.

This stipulates that social housing providers must tackle issues of dampness and mold that pose a serious risk to tenants' health within specified deadlines.

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Ms. Rayner's statement did not specify the timelines.

A review by the Conservative Party suggested mandating landlords to address issues within two weeks and resolve them within an additional week. However, it remains uncertain whether these measures will be implemented, as further information is anticipated in the future.

Ms. Rayner announced that starting October 2025, social housing providers must attend to all urgent repairs, including issues like damp and mold, immediately and no later than 24 hours after they are reported.

What unfolds post-2025?

Starting in 2026, the regulations will expand to cover additional non-emergency risks such as extreme temperatures, both cold and hot, along with dangers from falls, building failures, fires, electrical issues, and sanitation concerns.

Starting in 2027, Awaab's Law will broaden to include additional risks identified by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, with the exception of overcrowding issues.

This pertains to matters such as safeguarding a property from unauthorized entry, poor illumination, and susceptibility to loud sounds.

'Postponements endanger individuals'

Ms. Rayner emphasized that the staged implementation does not give social landlords any room to compromise on their current obligations to ensure tenant safety, despite objections from housing advocacy groups.

She explained that implementing sequencing allows measures against dampness and mold to be put in place sooner than if the government attempted to address all hazards at once under Awaab's Law.

Shelter’s Chief Executive, Polly Neate, stated: "Four years following Awaab's passing, and almost two years since the Social Housing Regulation Act was approved, today's statement indicates that social housing residents will face a prolonged delay before this crucial safeguard is implemented.

"The postponement of these measures poses a significant threat to the well-being and safety of residents, endangering lives."

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Awwab's Law was enacted following advocacy by his parents, who expressed their desire to prevent other families from experiencing their ordeal.

A study by the Home Builders Federation highlights that homes in England suffer from significant problems like dampness, mold, and general deterioration, ranking them as the poorest in condition across Europe, yet they remain pricier to purchase.

According to Sky News, grievances related to social housing surged by more than 300% in 2024. Additionally, it was reported that nearly 50% of individuals renting privately are experiencing issues with dampness or mold in their homes.

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The timeline for implementing Awaab's Law across the private sector remains uncertain, despite its inclusion in Labour’s party platform. The government has indicated that this expansion will be facilitated by the Renters' Rights Bill, which is presently making its way through the legislative process.

Government officials are currently seeking input on a proposed Decent Homes Standard that would establish baseline requirements for the quality of social housing. Additionally, there will be separate legislation introduced to mandate that social housing providers conduct electrical safety assessments and inspect appliances.

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Lords committee criticizes 'hasty' and 'ill-conceived' grey belt planning policy

A report from a Lords committee has raised concerns about the clarity of the government's consideration of environmental issues and access to essential infrastructure such as public transportation, schools, and parks in its grey belt planning policy.

Business and economics journalist @taaffems

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 11:

A Lords committee report criticizes the government's strategy to achieve housing construction goals through development on areas referred to as the grey belt, describing the plan as "hasty" and "lacking in careful planning."

The report from the House of Lords cross-party Built Environment Committee suggests that the grey belt policy will probably not have a substantial impact on the construction of new homes.

The government has proposed constructing on what it refers to as the grey belt, which includes less appealing sections of green belt spaces, abandoned parking lots, and old gas stations, as a strategy to meet its goal of constructing 1.5 million homes by the conclusion of the current parliamentary session in 2029.

The strategy was perceived as a method to enable construction within the green belt—a zone of undeveloped or farmed land established to separate urban areas and subjected to stricter planning regulations—by identifying specific parts of it that could be developed.

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Over thirty residential construction firms endorsed a declaration advocating for the reinstatement of compulsory housing quotas and the relaxation of planning regulations on grey belt land.

The committee of Lords noted that the government seemingly does not grasp the full consequences of implementing several overlapping planning policies simultaneously.

This undermines the government's capacity to implement "any of its strategies effectively," it stated.

The document indicated that it was uncertain to what extent considerations regarding environmental issues and the availability of amenities like public transportation, educational institutions, and recreational areas had been factored in.

"Additionally, the government appears to lack a strategy for tracking progress or evaluating the effectiveness of this policy," stated Lord Daniel Moylan, head of the Built Environment Committee.

"Sound policy should be grounded in solid evidence and show clear effectiveness. Unfortunately, that is not what we're seeing in this instance."

The government has pinpointed increasing housing construction as a primary strategy to bolster economic expansion, its top objective.

Explore further: How property developers might sidestep planning boardsThe construction worker deficit complicating government expansion strategies

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Lord Moylan described the implementation of the grey belt policy as "somewhat rushed and incoherent."

Following the release of the report, a representative from the Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that they are "transforming the dysfunctional planning system."

"The spokesperson stated that the revisions to the green belt policy have been shaped by extensive feedback and aim to free up additional space for the essential housing and facilities that communities urgently require. These changes will facilitate the creation of sustainable, affordable, and well-planned projects on underutilized grey belt areas."

"This represents just one of the bold initiatives we've launched to address the housing shortage and stimulate economic expansion."

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Lords Committee Criticizes Hasty Grey Belt Policy, Questions Environmental and Infrastructure Considerations

A report from a Lords committee has expressed concerns about the clarity of the government's consideration of environmental issues and infrastructure accessibility, such as public transportation, schools, and parks, in their grey belt planning policy.

Journalist specializing in business and economics @taaffems

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 11:

A report from a Lords committee has criticized the government's strategy to achieve housing construction goals by developing the so-called grey belt, describing the plan as "hasty" and "ill-conceived."

The report from the House of Lords cross-party Built Environment Committee indicated that the grey belt policy is probably not going to substantially impact the construction of new housing.

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The government has identified potential construction sites on underutilized spaces, including less attractive green belt sections, abandoned parking lots, and old gas stations. These areas, collectively referred to as the grey belt, could help achieve the goal of constructing 1.5 million new homes by the conclusion of the current parliamentary session in 2029.

The strategy was regarded as a method to facilitate construction within the green belt—a zone of undeveloped or farmed land meant to serve as a protective barrier between cities, subject to stricter planning regulations—by identifying specific portions of it that could be developed.

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Over thirty residential construction firms have endorsed a declaration advocating for the reinstatement of compulsory housing quotas and the relaxation of planning regulations on grey belt land.

The committee of Lords stated that the government seemingly does not grasp the full consequences of implementing several overlapping planning policies simultaneously.

This undermines the government's capacity to implement "any of its strategies effectively," it continued.

The report indicated uncertainty regarding the extent to which environmental issues and the availability of facilities like public transportation, educational institutions, and recreational areas were taken into account.

"Additionally, the government appears to lack a strategy for assessing progress or evaluating the effectiveness of this policy," stated Lord Daniel Moylan, the chair of the Built Environment Committee.

"Sound policy should rely on solid evidence and clearly show its effectiveness. Unfortunately, that is not what's happening in this instance."

The government has pinpointed increased housing construction as a primary strategy to achieve economic expansion, its top objective.

Discover further: How property developers might sidestep planning boards. The construction worker deficit impacting the government's expansion strategies.

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Lord Moylan described the implementation of the grey belt policy as "somewhat rushed and incoherent."

Following the release of the report, a representative from the Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that they are "reforming the flawed planning system."

"The spokesperson stated that the revisions to our green belt policies have been shaped by extensive feedback and are aimed at freeing up additional land for essential housing and community infrastructure. These changes will facilitate the creation of sustainable, affordable, and attractively planned projects on areas previously considered low-quality grey belt."

"This represents just one element of the comprehensive housing strategies we've implemented to address the housing shortage and stimulate economic expansion."

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Stricter regulations for unlicensed drivers are being contemplated following a Sky News investigation. The proposed legislation would introduce a new criminal charge for causing fatalities while driving without a license or insurance, replacing outdated laws.

Political reporter @amandaakass

Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 7:

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According to sources at Sky News, the government plans to implement stricter regulations for unlicensed drivers in its upcoming road safety initiative.

The news follows a Sky News report about Harry Parker, a 14-year-old boy who tragically died after being struck by a vehicle while en route to his school in Swindon in November 2022.

The individual operating the vehicle lacked a valid driver's license, was uninsured, and failed to remain at the scene.

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Two years following the passing of their son Harry, his parents were informed by the Crown Prosecution Service that it would no longer be pursuing the charges.

The statement read, "After a thorough investigation of this incident, which involved consulting with a specialist in forensic collision analysis, it has become evident that there is insufficient proof to establish that the collision was preventable. Consequently, we cannot assert that the driving was reckless."

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On Tuesday, the local MP for his parents, Will Stone, was granted approval by the Commons to present the Road Traffic (unlicensed drivers) Bill, which he dubbed the "Harry Parker Bill" during his address in the chamber.

The proposed legislation aims to establish a new criminal offense specifically for causing fatalities while operating a vehicle without a valid license or insurance, following the obsolescence of prior laws.

On Tuesday, Labour MP Mr. Stone delivered a speech in parliament advocating for a legal amendment as he introduced a Ten Minute Rule Bill, which is a procedure used to propose new legislation and seek the consent of fellow MPs.

"He asserted that the existing legislation is inadequate," he remarked. "Driving a car without a proper license is irresponsible and endangers lives when it occurs."

"I am unable to resurrect Harry, nor can I provide Adam and Kelly with the justice they are owed. No law, no address, nor any judicial decision can truly mitigate their suffering. Our obligation is to prevent any other family from suffering as they have."

"The proposed Harry Parker Bill aims to address critical loopholes in our legal framework, implementing tangible repercussions for individuals who opt to operate vehicles without a valid license. Under this bill, driving without a license will be officially classified as reckless behavior."

Lawmakers have agreed to advance the legislation to the next phase of discussion in Parliament.

Sky News has learned that the government plans to incorporate the Harry Parker Bill into its upcoming Road Safety Strategy, despite the unusual success of a Ten Minute Rule Bill proposed by a backbench MP in becoming law.

Harry's mom and dad, Adam and Kelly Parker, journeyed to Westminster to view the Ten Minute Rule Bill proceedings from the public gallery.

"Quite unreal," Mr. Parker commented. "As he read it aloud, tears just started flowing. It suddenly felt incredibly tangible, the extent of our efforts, and it was evident that our message is truly being heard. It's reassuring."

Current nationwide statistics regarding the prevalence of unlicensed drivers are unavailable. However, historical studies conducted by the Department for Transport suggest that such drivers are responsible for approximately 9.3% of all driving-related violations, which translates to almost one in every ten incidents. Estimates indicate that there might be up to 470,000 unlicensed drivers operating vehicles on the roads.

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In 2006, the Labour administration established a law that penalizes causing a death while driving unlicensed or uninsured with a sentence of up to two years in jail.

In 2013, the Supreme Court determined that because of the specific language used in the legislation, prosecutors were still required to establish that the driving was at fault. This decision effectively made the new law somewhat superfluous, as drivers could already be prosecuted for careless or dangerous driving.

The judges expressed worries that blameless drivers without licenses might be unfairly penalized if, for instance, an intoxicated pedestrian stumbled into their path, or if an individual tried to commit suicide by leaping into the street.

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The Transportation Authority stated: "Each loss of life on our roads is deeply tragic, and our hearts go out to the loved ones of Harry Parker.

"The administration is dedicated to enhancing road safety and is firmly committed to lowering the rates of fatalities and injuries on our roadways."

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During his trip to Ukraine, Foreign Secretary David Lammy pledged £55 million in aid. This announcement arrives just two weeks following the Prime Minister's commitment that the UK will fully engage in efforts to establish enduring peace.

Defense and Security Editor @haynesdeborah

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 5

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The UK's top diplomat has arrived in Ukraine, following the prime minister's announcement less than two weeks ago that Britain is committed to fully supporting efforts to achieve enduring peace, which may involve sending military personnel.

As the conflict with Russia continues, David Lammy's visit today coincides with Kyiv's anticipation of learning the strategy the new US president intends to use to fulfill a personal commitment to resolve the war.

During his most recent statement on Monday, Donald Trump announced his ongoing support for Ukraine in exchange for access to the country's abundant rare earth minerals, including lithium, uranium, and titanium.

Mr. Lammy, set to engage in discussions with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and key cabinet members, stated that the UK's backing of Ukraine is "unwavering."

"He stated that they are committed to ensuring Ukraine is as strong as possible, during its conflict with Russia and afterwards."

He is set to declare a £55 million aid package targeting sectors including energy, grain, and social services, yet it's expected that Russia's ongoing extensive military conflict will dominate the conversations.

As 24 February approaches, marking the beginning of the fourth year of conflict, there is increasing expectation for the commencement of negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire.

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The foreign minister stated: "Our commitment is to foster a forward-looking relationship with our partner nation while concurrently aiding Ukraine currently, as Russia persists in its brutal and incessant assaults on essential infrastructure, local populations, and enterprises."

The UK and France are in discussions with fellow NATO members regarding the potential deployment of a security team on Ukrainian soil to oversee the enforcement of any future peace agreement that might be reached between Moscow and Kyiv.

Taking on this task would pose a significant challenge, necessitating the deployment of at least thousands of soldiers and increasing the likelihood of a direct clash between Russia and NATO countries. Despite its repeated requests to join, Ukraine is not a part of the alliance.

Concerns persist regarding the capability of European NATO members to establish an effective surveillance force, raising doubts about whether the involvement of the United States might be necessary.

During an interview with Beth Rigby of Sky News in Kyiv, Sir Keir Starmer was questioned about the possibility of sending British troops to Ukraine in the context of potential peace talks. He responded by stating that the UK would "play its full part."

He also stated, "We must not get too ahead of ourselves. This must be sustainable and enduring. It should be adequate to prevent any further aggression from Russia."

Further reading: Father honors British teenager who died in Ukraine; North Koreans 'detonate grenades on themselves'

On Wednesday, Mr. Lammy presented modest proposals for non-military support, which pale in comparison to the substantial need for reliable security commitments—a goal experts believe the UK will find challenging to achieve unless it significantly boosts its defense budget and enlarges its military resources and capabilities.

The Foreign Secretary has allocated £3 million to enhance grain distribution to Syria in the wake of the downfall of Bashar al Assad's regime, a known supporter of Mr. Putin.

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The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office previously indicated that Russia probably utilized Ukrainian grain taken from areas under occupation to deliver to the Assad regime.

Mr. Lammy is set to reveal a funding allocation of £17 million dedicated to energy initiatives aimed at aiding the restoration and resilience of Ukraine's energy network, which often comes under attack from Russian forces.

An additional £10 million is set to be channeled into the reconstruction of Ukraine's economy, with another £25 million earmarked for social services.

Mr. Lammy is making his second official trip to Ukraine since assuming his position.

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