UK Politics

As another lobbying scandal erupts in the Conservative party, are tougher rules finally on the horizon?

— Tory MP Scott Benton faces a 35-day suspension for alleged lobbying rule breaches, including leaking a gambling white paper. Lobbying regulations in the UK remain weak despite periodic scandals.

COMMENT

Through its immigration policies, the UK government decides whose families are ‘legitimate’

— UK proposes changes to visa rules amid migration panic. Health and care visa holders can’t bring family; British citizens need £38,700 income for non-British families. Policies suggest hierarchy in family legitimacy, impacting migrants and mixed-nationality families.

UK Politics

How the bill to declare Rwanda a ‘safe’ country for refugees could lead to a constitutional crisis

— Rishi Sunak’s bill, deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda, passes despite right-wing Tory MPs abstaining. It challenges the Supreme Court’s ruling, sparking concerns about the government’s commitment to the rule of law and constitutional principles, possibly leading to a crisis.

OPINION

The normalisation of fascism

— The Tory government enforces stringent visa rules for UK citizens bringing foreign spouses, disproportionately affecting families and increasing NHS fees. Despite this, a Tory rebellion aims for stricter immigration policies, considering Boris Johnson’s return and Nigel Farage’s involvement.

UK Politics

Steady ship: Labour maintains lead as Conservatives lag behind

— A recent YouGov survey indicates consistent support for the Labour Party, significantly ahead of the Conservatives. Labour also leads in voter preferences for the position of Prime Minister, with Keir Starmer surpassing Rishi Sunak.

UK Politics

Rishi Sunak’s Rwanda bill: How much trouble is the prime minister really in as MPs threaten a parliamentary rebellion?

— The potential significance for Rishi Sunak of losing the Rwanda bill vote, an unusual event, lies in its impact on immigration policy. However, winning the vote isn’t particularly noteworthy, as more challenges are anticipated, including the possibility of rebellion and amendments.

Long-Read

Immigration and asylum rows are another sign of Brexit’s total failure

— Brexit has not only failed to deliver on its promise of reducing immigration and controlling borders, it has also made the immigration issue worse and more difficult to manage. The government’s chaotic and ineffective immigration policies, such as the Rwanda policy, have only added to the problem.

COVID-19 Inquiry

Boris Johnson at the COVID inquiry: Sullen, evasive and a danger to democracy

— Boris Johnson’s demeanour during the COVID inquiry reveals a loss of confidence. His apology lacks clarity, reflecting his leadership style. The inquiry aims to learn, not blame, but public disillusionment may intensify, impacting future elections and anti-political sentiment.

COVID-19 Inquiry

Boris Johnson faces backlash: Outcry over Downing Street parties

— Former PM Boris Johnson faced fierce criticism for his comments about lockdown parties held in Downing Street during his testimony to the COVID inquiry on Thursday. 

COVID-19 Inquiry

Boris Johnson: “My mistakes during COVID did not lead to excess deaths”

— Boris Johnson, appearing at the COVID inquiry, denied government mistakes contributed to excess deaths, attributing them to an elderly population and high population density, and struggled to name a single mistake his government made.

COVID-19 Inquiry

COVID inquiry: How it works, and when we will know if it is successful

— The COVID inquiry delves into government actions during the pandemic, aiming to provide facts, lessons, and recommendations. However, it lacks power for sanctions or compensation. Success lies in future implementation of its recommendations.

UK Politics

Why did Keir Starmer pen the ‘Margaret Thatcher’ article for the Telegraph?

— Keir Starmer has faced criticism for publishing an article in the right-wing Telegraph and praising Margaret Thatcher. However, a study suggests that when the public perceives a party becoming more right-wing, the party gains more votes, particularly during recessions.

UK Politics

Political fallout: Poll highlights public distrust in Boris Johnson

— A new survey reveals a widespread public mistrust in Boris Johnson’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic during his premiership. The results indicate a considerable trust deficit that may have repercussions on the former PM’s political influence and potential future political endeavours.

UK Politics

From I’m a Celeb to Strictly: Public verdict on politicians in Reality TV

— The return of the debate on politicians in reality TV is highlighted by Nigel Farage’s participation in I’m a Celeb. A recent YouGov survey reflects mixed public opinions on the suitability of politicians in reality TV.

Climate Change

Net zero: The Government’s balancing act on climate credibility

— The Government’s resistance to revealing the risks in their net zero plans, including Rishi Sunak’s private jet controversy, suggests hidden flaws. The upcoming legal battle may force transparency, exposing the truth. Time for climate accountability.

Brexit

No turning back: Sunak rejects Von der Leyen’s EU rejoin speculation

— While Ursula von der Leyen recently acknowledged mistakes made by European leaders in handling Britain’s departure from the EU, in contrast, Rishi Sunak reaffirms his commitment to Brexit.