Former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove doubts the durability of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire

Sir Richard, who led Britain's secret intelligence service from 1999 to 2004 and was known by the code name "C," also mentioned that the UK must acknowledge that Russia perceives its interactions with the UK as being akin to a real war.

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Wednesday, November 27, 2024, 10:

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A former head of British intelligence has expressed skepticism about the durability of the truce between Israel and Hezbollah, suggesting it may not endure over time.

Sir Richard Dearlove, who headed MI6 from 1999 to 2004, expressed his apprehensions about the newly revealed agreement during his appearance on the Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge program.

In addition to discussing the Middle East, Sir Richard informed Sophy that Europe is currently in a state of war with Russia, not merely on the brink of one. He also expressed his belief that the agreement to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is likely to fail.

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The truce between Israel and Hezbollah was implemented just after midnight on Wednesday, according to local time.

As Israel starts to pull out its troops, residents are returning in large numbers to the southern areas of Lebanon.

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Sir Richard describes the agreement as a "rehashed version of the 2006 deal" intended to maintain a buffer between Hezbollah and Israel along Lebanon's northern frontier.

He added that despite being overseen by the UN and the Lebanese army, it ultimately "did absolutely nothing" over time.

According to the ex-intelligence director, the current ceasefire is mutually beneficial, at least for now. He notes that Israel has managed to distance Hezbollah from the northern frontier, a situation he believes will hold for the "short to medium term."

He further stated: "The Israelis need to understand the extent to which they have dismantled Hezbollah's infrastructure.

"It's not fully dismantled, but perhaps the Lebanese government can regain a measure of control and somewhat contain Hezbollah's influence."

"Time will tell how things unfold."

Sir Richard explained to Sophy that the conflict has made Iran, a supporter of Hezbollah, "more vulnerable" as its layers of anti-Israel proxy groups have been diminished.

This might result in a more "immediate confrontational scenario" should Iran decide to initiate another assault on Israel.

Further reading: Can the ceasefire endure? Israel enacts curfew in Lebanon

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"It seems to be a real conflict"

Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Sir Richard expressed that the UK government must acknowledge that the Russians perceive themselves as being at war with us.

The former chief intelligence officer described the situation as a "real war."

He stated, "We must confront the reality that the Russians believe they are at war with us."

"Donald Tusk, the Prime Minister of Poland, described the circumstances as akin to those before a war. I disagree with him. In my opinion, it is already a real war."

"This implies that in the perspective of Russia, it's not necessarily about traditional military engagement, but rather involves various forms of conflict across multiple areas of interest."

Sir Richard emphasizes the significance of engaging in conversations with "one's adversaries or foes," particularly during a "confined conflict" in Europe that could escalate further.

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Regarding the Chagos Islands, which the UK intends to transfer to Mauritius, the former head of MI6 expressed his doubts, stating, "I don't think it will happen."

Sir Richard states that Marco Rubio, whom Donald Trump has nominated for Secretary of State, thinks Mauritius maintains overly close diplomatic ties with China.

"He emphasized the strategic significance of the Chagos Islands, expressing his strong desire for Rubio and Trump to reject the agreement."

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David Cameron endorses assisted dying legislation, reversing his 2015 opposition

Lord Cameron has become the first ex-prime minister to endorse the assisted dying bill. He explained that he considered four key questions to decide his stance on the matter and confirmed that he would support the bill if it is presented in the House of Lords.

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David Cameron is the first ex-prime minister to publicly back the assisted dying legislation.

The previous Conservative Party leader has authored an article in The Times detailing his reasons for his stance, noting that he previously resisted efforts to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill individuals.

Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton expressed, "I have refrained from backing previous proposals primarily due to the fear that susceptible individuals might be coerced into accelerating their demise."

He mentions that he has since been comforted by the advocates supporting the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.

Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is scheduled to present her bill for a vote in the House of Commons this Friday.

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"Advocates have persuasively contended that this measure is not aimed at terminating life, but rather at reducing the duration of dying," Lord Cameron stated in The Times.

His involvement follows public criticisms of the bill by former Prime Ministers Gordon Brown, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, and Liz Truss.

Sir John Major, Sir Tony Blair, and Rishi Sunak have not disclosed their stances publicly.

In his piece, Lord Cameron explains that he posed four critical inquiries before forming his final opinion: are there adequate protections for those at risk, does this create a potential for a gradual deterioration of standards, could it impose undue strain on the NHS, and does the suggested legislation actually decrease human suffering significantly?

Regarding the initial issue, Lord Cameron states that safeguards such as the necessity for the consent of two doctors and a judge, in addition to the stipulation that individuals must administer the lethal medication themselves, suffice.

He also emphasizes the legal consequences of forcing someone to commit suicide.

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Addressing the claim by Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood that the bill represents a "slippery slope," he argues that this type of argument could be applied to any societal change.

The ex-premier states in the document that the legislation represents "a reasonable and feasible approach to public policy on this matter," and is strictly applicable to individuals with terminal illnesses, excluding those suffering from mental health issues and disabilities.

Discover further: What does the assisted dying bill include? Attorney claims Canada's assisted dying law is excessively broad.

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Ex-prime ministers David Cameron and Gordon Brown, who each suffered the loss of a child under heartbreaking conditions, have reached differing views on the issue of assisted dying.

In February 2009, Lord Cameron's six-year-old son Ivan, who had severe disabilities including epilepsy and cerebral palsy, passed away. Out of respect, then-Prime Minister Mr. Brown called off the scheduled Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs).

In 2015, during a Commons debate on assisted dying while he served as Prime Minister, Mr. Cameron opposed the measure. However, he has recently shifted his stance in a significant move that could sway opinions.

In an article for The Times, Lord Cameron expresses, "When it becomes clear that a cure is unattainable, when death is unavoidable, and when patients are in a severe and terminal phase of suffering, then certainly, if they have the means and importantly the desire to avoid this pain, we should allow them the autonomy to make that decision."

However, the ex-prime minister is among a small group of Conservatives supporting the legislation, with many prominent Tory MPs such as Kemi Badenoch, Priti Patel, and former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith standing against it.

Lord Cameron has become the first among the UK's living ex-prime ministers to support Kim Leadbeater's contentious bill, set for discussion in the Commons this Friday.

This week, it was revealed that three ex-Conservative Prime Ministers—Theresa May, Boris Johnson, and Liz Truss—are against the proposed bill. Baroness May, along with Lord Cameron, will be eligible to vote on the bill should it advance to the House of Lords.

In January 2002, Mr. Brown's newborn daughter, Jennifer, who was born prematurely at seven weeks and weighed only 2 pounds and 4 ounces, passed away after living just 11 days. She suffered a brain hemorrhage on the fourth day of her brief life.

Raised in a clergy household, where his father served as a minister for the Church of Scotland, Mr. Brown believes that experiencing personal tragedy has underscored the importance and necessity of quality care at the end of life, rather than support for assisted dying.

Regarding claims that it placed excessive strain on the NHS, Lord Cameron rejects the notion.

"He emphasizes that the bill would only be relevant in a limited number of situations, pointing out that the primary role of the NHS is to cater to the needs of patients and the public, rather than the reverse."

Addressing the fourth issue – the potential to decrease human suffering – the ex-leader states, "It's difficult to see how the response could be anything but 'yes'."

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Lord Cameron mentions that his role in the House of Lords leads him to receive correspondence from terminally ill individuals, raising important inquiries.

He expressed: "When the inevitability of death is clear, when there is no available cure, and when individuals are in severe, terminal suffering, if they desire and are able to avert this pain, then certainly, we should allow them the autonomy to make that decision.

"It's appropriate for MPs to have a free vote on this matter – continuing our tradition of free votes on moral issues is important.

"The availability of a free vote allows lawmakers to reconsider their positions and, should the data persuade them, to alter their views. This is the approach I have taken. Moreover, if this legislation progresses to the House of Lords, I intend to support it."

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Thursday, November 28, 2024 07:51, UK

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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.

Today's released figures on net migration are anticipated to show a decline, attributed partly to the constraints implemented by the Conservative Party.

Jack and Sam analyze potential responses to the statistics and their impact on upcoming immigration policies.

Additionally, they outline key points to watch for in tomorrow’s crucial vote on assisted dying.

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UK sees a 20% decrease in net migration – last year’s data adjusted to nearly one million

The ONS attributed the decline primarily to the former Conservative government’s rule that barred international students from having family members accompany them to the UK.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Thursday, November 28, 2024, 2:

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), net migration into the UK has decreased by 20% from the previous year's record high of 906,000.

The most recent statistics on net migration, which represent the balance of individuals arriving to reside in the UK versus those departing, reached an estimated 728,000 for the year ending in June 2024.

It is estimated that by June 2024, approximately 1.2 million individuals will have entered the UK, in contrast to the 414,000 who departed within the same period.

The latest figures have adjusted net migration to June 2023 upwards by 166,000, bringing the total to 906,000. This update establishes the past year as the new record holder for the highest annual migration, surpassing 2022.

ONS director Mary Gregory noted that the recent decrease was primarily due to fewer dependents on study visas arriving from non-EU countries.

She mentioned that in the first half of 2024, there was a decline in the arrival of workers on employment visas, which was largely attributed to a significant increase in the minimum salary requirement.

The number of student visas issued fell by 19% in the year leading up to September 2024, which marks the start of the academic year, in comparison to the same period the year before.

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During that period, the number of worker visas issued dropped by 33%.

Under the former Conservative administration, regulations were altered, and from January onwards, the majority of students have been prohibited from having family members accompany them, except for those pursuing doctoral studies.

In March, the Tories implemented additional modifications, prohibiting care workers and senior care workers from sponsoring dependents under the health and care worker visa scheme.

Under Rishi Sunak's Conservative government, the minimum wage threshold for the skilled worker visa was increased from £26,200 to £38,700 in April, presenting a higher barrier for entry.

Expenditure on asylum reaches unprecedented levels

Today's data from the Home Office reveals that the UK's expenditure on asylum surged to a record £5.38 billion in the year ending April 2024, marking a 36% increase from £3.95 billion the previous year.

As of September 2024, the total number of pending initial decisions on asylum applications stood at 97,170, involving 133,409 individuals. This figure marks a 22% decrease compared to the same period last year, yet shows a 13% increase from the numbers recorded at the close of the preceding quarter.

The most recent statistics on net migration, spanning from July 2023 to June 2024, detail the final year of the Conservative government, preceding Labour's electoral victory in early July.

The information was released following an admission by new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch that her party had not succeeded in addressing immigration issues.

"We made a mistake. I completely grasp and indeed feel the public's frustration," she expressed on Wednesday.

Conservatives attribute the decline to their policy measures

Former Conservative Home Secretary James Cleverly stated, "The migration statistics released today are the inaugural ones to reflect the effects of the reforms I implemented during my tenure as Home Secretary.

"Although the figures remain elevated, we are witnessing the first major decline in several years. These are changes that the Labour Party resisted and has yet to completely put into action."

Former Tory Home Secretary Suella Braverman attributed the decline in net migration to the reforms she advocated for and implemented in May 2023.

"She noted that was the moment we began to shift the momentum."

"However, an annual influx of 1.2 million is excessively high. It's unsustainable, which is precisely why drastic reforms are necessary."

Though net migration figures have declined, challenging immigration issues persist for the Labour Party.

Today's key statistic has soared and quickly caught the attention of prominent figures such as Nigel Farage.

The number of small boat arrivals, a component of the total migration numbers, has increased compared to the previous year.

Since the Labour Party came to power, approximately 20,000 individuals have made the journey across the channel in small vessels. Today's release of Home Office statistics may reveal challenging details regarding asylum costs and the utilization of hotels.

While the latest figures show a decrease in net migration, the government is still expected to face challenging inquiries about its migration policies today.

Labour has stated that recent migration statistics indicate the government has begun the substantial work of addressing the issue, and is rectifying the problems left by the Conservatives.

A spokesperson for the party stated, "According to them, the Tories have shattered the immigration system."

During their tenure, the number of immigrants increased fourfold over four years, reaching an unprecedented peak of almost one million, although they had pledged to reduce it to 100,000.

"This party advocates for unrestricted immigration and has repeatedly deceived the public. This disorder is what Labour had to take on, and any boasting from the Conservatives ought to be viewed in this context."

41% decrease in educational or employment visas

The latest revisions show an increase in the 2022 net migration numbers, adjusted from 607,000 to 754,000. Similarly, the 2021 figures were updated from 221,000 to 254,000.

The updates stem from the Office for National Statistics persistently refining its net migration estimates by incorporating more comprehensive data and enhancing the methods used to analyze the migration patterns of individuals arriving in the UK from non-EU countries.

Recent statistics indicate a slight rise in the number of people leaving the country, primarily driven by a reduction in the number of new arrivals.

The number of individuals arriving in the UK as dependents of those holding work or study visas decreased by 41% for each category.

The number of primary candidates applying for work visas fell by 7%, and those applying for study visas declined by 9%.

The Office for National Statistics noted that the decline in net migration was influenced by an increase in long-term emigration, with a significant number of individuals who had entered the UK on study visas choosing to leave.

"The increase can probably be attributed to the significant influx of students who arrived in the UK after the pandemic, who are now completing their studies," the report suggested.

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Members of the European Parliament are set to advocate for increased military support for Ukraine.

After Tuesday's discussion on the EU's ongoing aid to Ukraine, Members of the European Parliament are set to cast their votes at midday on a proposed resolution that advocates for increased military assistance to Ukraine. This includes provisions for aircraft, long-range missiles, and advanced air defense systems. The proposal highlights concerns over North Korea's participation and Russia's new ballistic missile tests in Ukraine, describing these developments as "a new phase in the war." It also calls on Beijing to cease any military or dual-purpose support to Russia.

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European lawmakers are preparing to call for fresh elections in Georgia

At midday, Members of the European Parliament are anticipated to urge a repeat of Georgia's parliamentary elections with oversight from international bodies due to the escalating democratic issues in the country. The proposal also suggests implementing EU sanctions targeting Georgia's Prime Minister and other senior officials, asserting that the current government's strategies contradict Georgia's goals for Euro-Atlantic integration.

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Enhancing the protection of EU citizens from exposure to tobacco smoke

After yesterday's discussion, Members of the European Parliament are set to cast their votes at midday on a proposal urging for heightened initiatives to reach a “tobacco-free generation” across the European Union by 2040, in alignment with Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. The proposed resolution calls for expanding restrictions on smoking and the use of aerosols in various outdoor and indoor environments, as well as promptly updating the existing tobacco legislation.

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Discussion on safeguarding the rights of minors

At 9:00 AM, Members of the European Parliament and Commissioner Dalli will engage in a discussion on enhancing the protection of children's rights within the European Union and beyond. This conversation takes place 35 years after children were initially acknowledged as legal entities with inherent human rights and essential freedoms.

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Interference and spying activities within European Union universities are on the agenda. At approximately 10:15, Members of the European Parliament and Commissioner Dalli are set to deliberate on strategies to strengthen the autonomy of academic institutions and protect research within EU universities from being influenced or undermined by foreign governments.

In the afternoon session, Members of the European Parliament and Commissioner Dalli are set to discuss the urgency of establishing a strong international legal framework to combat plastic pollution, with a particular focus on its impact on marine ecosystems.

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At midday, Members of the European Parliament are scheduled to cast their votes on three different resolutions

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

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Dame Andrea Jenkyns criticizes Kemi Badenoch's leadership of the Conservative Party, following her move to the Reform Party. Dame Andrea, who was defeated in the recent general election, attributes her switch to Nigel Farage's self-described "party of the courageous," citing the irreparable decline of the Conservative Party.

Political correspondent @alexrogerssky

Thursday, November 28, 2024, 8:

Dame Andrea Jenkyns has expressed her opinion that Kemi Badenoch is "not the suitable leader" for the Conservative Party, following her switch to the Reform Party.

Dame Andrea, who became a member of Nigel Farage's party today, also stated that she believes she would have retained her seat if she had departed from the Conservative Party sooner.

In a conversation on "Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge," the ex-Tory minister mentioned that the election of Ms. Badenoch as leader marked the decisive factor in her departure from the Conservative Party.

"She expressed doubts about her suitability as the leader of the Conservative Party," noting her disappointment with Ms. Badenoch's choice to not discard all EU laws and regulations during her tenure as business secretary.

Latest in Politics: Farage Discloses Inspiration from Ex-Lib Dem Chief

Ms. Jenkyns, who held a ministerial position during Liz Truss's tenure, has been chosen to represent the Reform Party in the race for the newly established role of Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire.

During a press conference held by Reform, Mr. Farage announced that the party's membership numbers had risen to 100,000.

Dame Andrea informed the attendees that she was "aligning herself with the courageous," noting that "our formerly illustrious nation is facing a critical juncture."

She referred to Labour's move to hand over control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, the adjustments to inheritance tax affecting farmers, and the reduction in winter fuel subsidies for the majority of retirees.

She continued, stating that her departure from the Conservative Party was "not an easy decision," but she felt the "situation is deteriorating and might, unfortunately, be irreparable."

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During her discussion on Politics Hub, Dame Andrea revealed that before the general election—where she was a Conservative candidate and did not win—Reform had reached out to her.

"She mentioned, 'The reform divided my supporters, and voter participation was weak. Had I switched sides at that time, I likely would have retained my position.'"

She mentioned that she developed relationships with Mr. Farage and another Reform MP, Richard Tice, throughout the Brexit campaign.

During the Reform press conference, it was disclosed that, according to the latest statistics, net migration to the UK has decreased by 20% from the previous year's high of 906,000.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the most recent net migration data, which measures the gap between individuals arriving to and departing from the UK, reached an estimated 728,000 for the year ending in June 2024.

The annual total up to June 2023 has been adjusted higher by 166,000, reaching 906,000, which now stands as the record high, surpassing the figures from 2022.

Mr. Farage labeled the statistics as "appalling" and expressed his skepticism that the Conservatives would be pardoned for these results any time soon.

The head of the Reform party criticized Labour because the expenses of the asylum system have escalated to £5.38 billion, a surge of 36% that doesn't account for the actions taken in the English Channel to halt small boat crossings.

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When Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby questioned if her intention was to "destroy your former colleagues" in the Conservative Party, Dame Andrea responded that her decision to join Reform was motivated by "doing what's right."

She remarked, "For me, it's about acting with integrity. The genuine friends will always remain faithful."

She commented, "Every genuine, honorable supporter of Thatcher's conservative principles was ousted from their position."

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In 2015, Dame Andrea secured a notable victory in the general elections, ousting the incumbent shadow chancellor Ed Balls from his Morley and Outwood constituency seat.

She held the position of education minister following Boris Johnson's resignation, during the leadership race, and departed from the government following the collapse of the Truss administration.

She was defeated in the July general election, even though her campaign materials featured a photograph of her alongside Mr. Farage.

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Parliament Demands Fresh Elections in Georgia

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Citing major discrepancies, Members of the European Parliament have dismissed the results of Georgia's recent parliamentary elections and are urging for a new vote to be held within the next year.

On Thursday, members of the European Parliament passed a resolution criticizing the parliamentary elections held in Georgia on October 26. The resolution states that the elections were neither free nor fair, highlighting the ongoing decline in democratic standards in the EU candidate country, with the ruling Georgian Dream party held accountable. Lawmakers pointed to numerous significant electoral violations, such as voter intimidation, vote tampering, interference with election monitors and the media, and alleged manipulation involving electronic voting machines. According to the European Parliament, the results announced by Georgia's Central Election Commission do not accurately reflect the people's will. Consequently, the Parliament refuses to acknowledge the legitimacy of the parliamentary elections and calls on the international community to do the same. MEPs are advocating for a new election to be conducted within a year, under strict international oversight and managed by an independent electoral body.

The European Union should enforce sanctions and reduce official interactions with the government of Georgia.

In response to the allegations of election fraud, Parliament is advocating for an independent international probe and is urging the European Union and its member states to apply targeted sanctions against Georgian officials and political figures accused of undermining democracy, breaching election laws, and exploiting state resources. The list of individuals includes Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Tbilisi's mayor and Georgian Dream party's Secretary General Kakha Kaladze, the Georgian Parliament's Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, and former Prime Minister and billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili. Members of the European Parliament are also pressing the EU to significantly limit formal interactions with the Georgian government and parliament at the EU level, highlighting that Georgia's EU integration process is effectively on hold due to recently enacted anti-democratic measures, such as the 'law on transparency and foreign influence.'

Georgian government's approach conflicts with Euro-Atlantic integration goals

The parliament has issued a strong rebuke against Russia for its persistent meddling in Georgia's democratic affairs, particularly through spreading misinformation like the 'Global War Party' conspiracy. This false narrative suggests that Georgia's opposition parties would allegedly lead the nation into conflict with Russia at the behest of Western powers. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have cautioned Georgian officials that any efforts to outlaw legally recognized political parties would further distance the country from the European Union and obstruct any progress towards EU membership. Additionally, they express that the strategies pursued by the ruling party, Georgian Dream, are at odds with Georgia’s aspirations for integration with Euro-Atlantic entities.

Members of the European Parliament engaged in a discussion about the results of Georgia's recent parliamentary elections alongside Margaritis Schinas, the Vice-President of the European Commission, during the plenary session held on November 13-14. You can view the debate at this link. The resolution passed with 444 votes supporting it, 72 opposing, and 82 members abstaining. The complete resolution will be accessible here on November 28, 2024.

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Net Migration: There are conflicting opinions about whether it is increasing or decreasing. What's the truth?

Sky's Ed Conway advises caution when interpreting migration data and any statistics from the ONS, as they are often revised and may vary significantly.

Economics and Data Editor @EdConwaySky

Thursday, November 28, 2024, 6:

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If you've been keeping an eye on today's news, you may have spotted something a bit unusual in how the media has been reporting the newest migration statistics released by the Office for National Statistics.

There are differing opinions about whether net migration is increasing or decreasing, leading to debates over which perspective is correct.

To put it succinctly, it's likely a mix of both, though predominantly the former. However, stick with me for a more detailed explanation, as it's quite enlightening and will assist you in understanding these figures better when they are released again. Considering we are discussing migration levels of historical significance, which have deep impacts on both the economy and the nation at large, it certainly merits a brief reflection.

To grasp the situation fully, it's important to recognize that the figures released by the ONS are always preliminary and can be significantly adjusted. This is especially true for migration data, where initial projections often differ greatly from the final numbers.

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To illustrate the point, let's examine a seemingly straightforward query: how many people migrated to and from the country in the year leading up to last June? A year ago, figures released by the ONS indicated that the net migration figure stood at 672,000 individuals.

Indeed, the figure was notably large, eliciting more than a few surprised reactions initially. Yet, it's important to note that according to ONS statistics from that period, the count of 672,000 was actually slightly below that of the earlier quarter. This suggested, in essence, a declining trend in migration numbers.

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Thus, government officials were able to announce that net migration was decreasing. This was the implication of the initial data, although it was important to note that these figures were preliminary.

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During a recent review, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that the number of individuals entering the country was higher than earlier estimates suggested. Conversely, the number of people leaving the country was lower than previously believed.

The conclusion is that the response to the same inquiry – regarding the net migration figures for the year ending last June – has changed. It is no longer 672,000 but has increased to 907,000. Contrary to earlier claims by the ONS that the numbers were decreasing, they were in fact on the rise.

What types of individuals are attending?

Several key insights emerge from the situation. Firstly, the influx of individuals into the nation is surpassing earlier estimates, which were already considered substantial. Indeed, this period marks the highest level of migration into Britain ever recorded.

It's important to emphasize that the primary focus of our discussion involves legal forms of migration. We are not referring to individuals arriving by small boats, but rather those entering the UK for educational and employment purposes.

It's wise to approach the latest figures with caution

Another key takeaway is to approach the latest migration statistics with a degree of skepticism. Analyzing the current data from the Office for National Statistics, it appears that net migration has decreased by 20% annually, dropping from 907,000 to 728,000 over the year leading up to this past June.

According to various data sources, such as Home Office visa approvals, there appears to be a decline in immigration. However, contrasting this, data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) initially indicated that net migration had decreased by 10% over the previous year, a figure frequently cited by government officials and reported in the media. Yet, the latest revision shows a much smaller reduction in net migration, now estimated at just 1% for the same period.

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This serves as a helpful prompt that data, despite its often clear appearance, typically reveals greater levels of uncertainty upon closer examination.

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Human Rights Violations in Hong Kong, Iran, and Cambodia

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The European Parliament passed three resolutions concerning human rights concerns in Hong Kong, Iran, and Cambodia on Thursday.

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have called for the immediate and unconditional release of all pro-democracy figures in Hong Kong, including politicians, activists, and journalists like Jimmy Lai and Chung Pui-Ken, who have been convicted under national security charges. They demand that all charges against these individuals be dropped. The MEPs argue that the National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance represent a severe infringement on international law, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law in Hong Kong, and they insist these laws should be abolished. Furthermore, the European Parliament denounces the extraterritorial reach of the National Security Law and the growing oppression by Chinese and Hong Kong authorities targeting diaspora communities within the European Union. MEPs are calling on the Council to reassess its 2020 stance on Hong Kong and to impose sanctions on Hong Kong and Chinese officials accountable for human rights abuses. They also criticize the misuse of Hong Kong’s strategic trade position to circumvent international sanctions placed on countries like Russia, Iran, and North Korea, particularly through the exchange of advanced technologies, oil trade, and the provision of financial services.

The group is calling for the withdrawal of Hong Kong’s special customs privileges and a reassessment of the Hong Kong Economic Trade Office's position in Brussels. The resolution passed with 473 votes in favor, 23 against, and 98 abstentions. The complete text will be accessible on November 28, 2024.

The increased and organized oppression of women in Iran has drawn strong criticism from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). They denounce the unjust imprisonment of women in the country, highlighting the case of Ahoo Daryaei, who on November 2, 2024, protested by partially disrobing at Tehran University's courtyard. Authorities deemed her "mentally unfit," leading to her confinement in a psychiatric facility—a move MEPs equate with torture. The resolution calls on Iranian leaders to abolish discriminatory laws targeting women and girls and to dismantle the 'morality police' along with other oppressive bodies. Additionally, they demand the immediate and unconditional release of all advocates for women's rights and others who have been detained without justification, including EU nationals. The MEPs also condemn the mistreatment of ethnic and religious minorities, such as Bhá’í women, in Iran. Reaffirming their request for the Council to classify the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity, the Parliament urges the Iranian government to allow unhindered access to the UN Fact-Finding Mission and the Special Rapporteur on human rights issues in Iran.

The resolution received strong approval with 562 votes in favor, 2 opposing, and 30 abstentions. The complete text will be accessible on November 28, 2024. The diminishing freedoms for civil society in Cambodia, notably concerning the labor rights group CENTRAL, have prompted Parliament to demand an immediate cessation of the crackdown on civil society and political detainees in Cambodia, along with their release, as outlined in the newly passed resolution.

Members of the European Parliament are calling for the European Union to boost its support, including financial aid, to civil society groups in Cambodia. They are pressing Cambodian authorities to revise the Trade Union Law and the Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organisations (LANGO) to bring them in line with international human rights and labor standards, ensuring the protection of workers and civil society groups. The MEPs stress that respecting human rights and protecting civil society freedoms should be essential conditions for economic collaboration, trade, and investment. They urge companies within the EU that source products from Cambodia to carry out comprehensive human rights assessments within their supply chains. The resolution also underscores the necessity of evaluating Cambodia's qualification for preferential trade tariffs under the "Everything but Arms" initiative, contingent upon the government's adherence to human rights standards.

The resolution passed with 492 votes in favor, 5 opposed, and 102 members choosing not to vote. The complete document will be accessible on November 28, 2024.

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China and North Korea's Involvement: Increased Military Aid for Ukraine

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Lawmakers are urging the global community to act quickly and decisively in response to the troubling escalation of Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine.

In einer am Donnerstag verabschiedeten Resolution kritisiert das Parlament scharf, dass Russland nordkoreanische Soldaten in den Kampf gegen die ukrainische Armee entsendet hat und in der Ukraine neue ballistische Raketen testet. Die Abgeordneten sind der Meinung, dass diese jüngsten Eskalationen einen neuen Abschnitt des Krieges einläuten und eine zusätzliche Bedrohung für die Sicherheit Europas insgesamt darstellen. Sie rufen die EU, ihre Mitgliedstaaten und die weiteren Unterstützer der Ukraine auf, angemessen darauf zu reagieren.

Lawmakers emphasize that "negotiations about Ukraine should not occur without Ukraine's involvement." They urge the European Union to actively work towards gaining extensive international backing for Ukraine and finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The parliament calls for vigorous participation from the EU and its member states in implementing Ukraine's peace plan and in establishing the necessary conditions for hosting a second peace summit, including collaboration with nations from the Global South.

Additional penalties for nations providing military aid to Russia

Das Parlament äußert Kritik an der militärischen Hilfe, die Russland von Iran, Belarus und Nordkorea erhält. Es ruft die Mitgliedsländer der Europäischen Union dazu auf, die Sanktionen gegen diese Staaten zu verschärfen. Außerdem heben die Abgeordneten hervor, dass der russische Angriffskrieg gegen die Ukraine sowie die Beteiligung Nordkoreas an dem Konflikt und dessen Atom- und Raketenprogramme eine erhebliche Gefahr für die regelbasierte internationale Ordnung darstellen.

Integrating China

The lawmakers are urging Beijing to halt any military aid or the supply of dual-use goods to Russia, warning that failing to change its stance could significantly damage relations with the EU. They suggest that China could instead leverage its considerable influence over North Korea and Russia to help reduce tensions.

Erhöhung der militärischen Hilfe für die Ukraine

The legislators are urging the Council to broaden its sanctions on Russia, with a particular focus on key sectors such as metallurgy, nuclear energy, chemical production, agriculture, banking, and Russian raw materials.

Sie drängen die Europäische Union und ihre Mitgliedsländer, ihre militärische Unterstützung für die Ukraine zu verstärken. Dies soll durch die Bereitstellung von Kampfjets, weitreichenden Marschflugkörpern wie den Taurus-Raketen, modernen Luftverteidigungssystemen wie Patriot und SAMP/T inklusive Munition, tragbaren Luftabwehrraketen (MANPADS), die von Einzelpersonen genutzt werden können, sowie Artilleriesystemen und Munition geschehen. Zudem sollen Schulungsprogramme für die ukrainischen Streitkräfte angeboten werden.

All EU countries and NATO allies should commit, both collectively and individually, to spending at least 0.25% of their GDP annually on military aid for Ukraine. The Parliament supports U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to allow Ukraine to use advanced missile systems against military targets in Russia. It urges the EU and its member states to take similar actions and collaborate with the new U.S. administration to enhance the mutually beneficial transatlantic partnership, emphasizing the shared strategic interest in supporting Ukraine.

The resolution was approved with 390 votes in favor, 135 against, and 52 abstentions.

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The European Parliament and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) Formally Agree to Strengthen Collaboration

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On November 27, the European Parliament and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) officially approved a collaborative framework aimed at improving and streamlining processes and the sharing of information.

A formal agreement was reached, outlining the terms of collaboration between Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament, and Laura Kövesi, the European Chief Prosecutor.

President Metsola stated that the newly established agreement between the European Parliament and the European Public Prosecutor's Office is set to enhance and cement their collaborative efforts. This partnership aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of combating crime and fraud. At its core, the agreement is focused on safeguarding the financial interests of EU taxpayers.

The accord stipulates that the EPPO must routinely update Parliament on both active and concluded investigations. This is to be done while ensuring the investigations' integrity and confidentiality are maintained. These updates allow Parliament to implement suitable actions, such as taking preventive steps to safeguard the Union's financial interests, participating as a civil party in legal proceedings, and initiating administrative procedures to reclaim funds owed to the Union budget.

The agreement specifies that Parliament is required to promptly send any details about criminal activities that fall under the jurisdiction of the EPPO, especially those impacting the Union's financial interests.

The complete agreement is available at this link.

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Under Article 99 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, which established the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), the EPPO is authorized to form Working Arrangements with institutions of the European Union. This is intended to enhance collaboration and the sharing of information.

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Discussions between local councils and the government suggest that council functions might be impacted by social care expenses if plans to consolidate smaller councils into larger 'super councils' move forward.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Tuesday, 26 November 2024, 3:44

Local government insiders have warned that amenities including gyms and garbage pickup might face cutbacks as a result of escalating social care expenses if the government proceeds with its proposal to eliminate smaller district councils in favor of larger, consolidated "super councils."

Sources informed Sky News that the government is contemplating the abolition of district councils, which manage services like garbage disposal, housing, recreational facilities, local economic development, and rejuvenation.

Sources indicate that district councils, often referred to as borough or city councils, are set to be combined with the larger county councils to form "super councils" or unitary councils that will oversee entire regions.

Upcoming revisions are anticipated in the forthcoming English devolution white paper, according to Chancellor Rachel Reeves who, in her October budget announcement, expressed a desire to streamline local government structures through reorganization.

There are worries that the increasing expenses of social care, a mandatory responsibility for larger county and unitary councils, might divert resources from the fundamental services that district councils offer.

Concerns are growing that these expanded councils may lose touch with community needs, although Ms. Reeves has expressed her intention for the restructuring to cater specifically to local residents.

Speaking to Sky News, Bridget Smith, the Liberal Democrat leader of South Cambridgeshire District Council and vice chair of the District Councils' Network, expressed concerns about the financial difficulties facing unitary and county councils. She highlighted that these councils are often on the brink of financial collapse due to the escalating demands placed on social care services.

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"These so-called 'super councils' will be no exception."

"The risk is that social care might consume all the funds that local areas typically allocate for community development, economic growth, health prevention, enhancing life quality, and numerous other activities."

She further stated that restructuring local government is an oversimplified and naive approach, which will lead to fresh challenges for local communities and impede the government's housing goals, given that district councils handle housing responsibilities.

There are worries that merging councils could lead to a three-year transition period, consuming all of a council's resources and possibly causing delays in various initiatives, such as housing construction.

Discover more: Increased expenses in social care and school transportation to create financial deficit. Calls intensify for the government to abolish the Right to Buy scheme.

Sam Chapman-Allen, who heads both the DCN and Breckland District Council in Norfolk, pointed out that there are various instances around England where devolution—transferring authority and resources from the national government to local governments—has been successful. A prime example is Manchester, where 10 district councils collaborate under the leadership of the Greater Manchester mayor.

In South Lincolnshire, a collaborative effort among three councils is evident as they operate with a unified team of senior leaders.

He explained to Sky News, "It's not that my members are apprehensive about change, as they are quite adaptable and dynamic organizations. However, we are eager to collaborate with the government to ensure optimal results for their communities and businesses."

He noted that district councils independently initiate numerous unconventional preventative social care programs, like promoting healthy living, which helps alleviate the burden on the standard social care system.

Speaking to Sky News, Kevin Hollinrake, the Conservative shadow secretary for housing, communities, and local government, emphasized the importance of prioritizing services. He stated, "It's crucial to ensure that these services are preserved and that social care is enhanced, especially since it represents the largest portion of the discretionary budget. This is a legitimate issue."

"Switching from a two-tier system to a single-tier system appears to offer financial benefits, however, it's important to ensure that this doesn't lead to the council or its members losing touch with the community they serve.

The concern is that this change is being enforced rather than inquiring whether councillors wish to transition to a unitary system – it's a directive approach instead of a grassroots one.

"It's contradictory, discussing decentralization while instructing local governments on their actions. There's a clear paradox in that."

Louise Gittens, the head of the Local Government Association that speaks for all English councils, expressed: "Our goal is for each region in England to achieve a devolution agreement that benefits them, their local economies, and the people living there."

"Council leaders play a crucial role in local decision-making processes and are essential components of our democratic structure, regardless of the systems implemented by the government. Additionally, we believe that the restructuring of local governments should be determined by the local communities themselves."

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A representative from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that there are currently "no intentions to dissolve district councils" and that any restructuring would be implemented "from the ground up."

He also stated, "Council restructuring decisions have yet to be made."

"Our main goal is to concentrate on shifting authority from Westminster and collaborate with local councils to develop systems that are logical and efficient for the communities they serve."

The government has declared an allocation of £1.3 billion to support local authorities in maintaining vital services. This includes an extra £233 million dedicated to combating homelessness. Additionally, authorities will benefit from increased financial stability through multi-year funding agreements, aimed at revitalizing council operations.

"Additional information will be provided in the forthcoming white paper on English devolution."

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