Deputy Leader of the Labour party Harriet Harman has issued the following statement:
"In recent days I have been the subject of a politically-motivated smear campaign by the Daily Mail. They have accused me of being an apologist for child sex abuse, of supporting a vile paedophile organisation, of having a relaxed attitude to paedophilia and of watering down child pornography laws. These are horrific allegations and I strongly deny them all of them.
This is not the first time the Daily Mail has made this horrible and untrue allegation. And, this is not the first time the Daily Mail has attacked me. The editor and proprietor of the Daily Mail are entitled to their political views and they are of course entitled to oppose what I stand for but they are not entitled to use their newspaper to smear me with innuendo because they disagree with me politically and hate my values.
I sincerely hope people won't believe these smears - I suspect even the Daily Mail doesn't believe them to be true. But given the seriousness and the aggression with which the Daily Mail are pursuing me, I feel that I need to put the facts in the public domain."
Monday, 24 February 2014
Labour MP Calls on UKIP to Remove MEP Candidate
The Labour MP John Mann has today called on the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) leader Nigel Farage to remove East Midlands MEP candidate Nigel Wickens from the Party following a number of incredibly offensive tweets. On the 10th February Nigel Wickens tweeted: "Congratulations to Switzerland regarding the free movement of people. You defied nazi germany, now defy the equally disgusting EU."
John Mann, who chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group on Anti Semitism condemned the comment saying "How can any decent human being compare the European Union to Nazi Germany. You don't have to like the EU but to compare it to a regime that orchestrated the deaths of 6 million Jews and others is beyond belief."
This is not the only thing the UKIP candidate has tweeted which is suggested has caused offence. On the 19th February Mr Wickens tweeted: "Interesting thought. People who seriously get in Tony Blair's way seem to end up dead. John Smith, Robin Cook, Dr David Kelly. Coincidence!"
John Mann commented "These comments clearly show that Nigel Wickens is not fit for public office. I suggest he visits Beth Shalom Holocaust Centre to see what the Nazi regime did and get a true sense of perspective regarding the European Union. I am calling on Nigel Farage to remove him from his party immediately. The voters of the East Midlands deserve better than this."
John Mann, who chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group on Anti Semitism condemned the comment saying "How can any decent human being compare the European Union to Nazi Germany. You don't have to like the EU but to compare it to a regime that orchestrated the deaths of 6 million Jews and others is beyond belief."
This is not the only thing the UKIP candidate has tweeted which is suggested has caused offence. On the 19th February Mr Wickens tweeted: "Interesting thought. People who seriously get in Tony Blair's way seem to end up dead. John Smith, Robin Cook, Dr David Kelly. Coincidence!"
John Mann commented "These comments clearly show that Nigel Wickens is not fit for public office. I suggest he visits Beth Shalom Holocaust Centre to see what the Nazi regime did and get a true sense of perspective regarding the European Union. I am calling on Nigel Farage to remove him from his party immediately. The voters of the East Midlands deserve better than this."
Nick Clegg announces clean energy deal
The Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey have announced a ground-breaking deal with Shell today which could generate enough clean energy to power half a million homes, and capture 1 million tonnes of CO2 each year. They made the announcement on a visit to Peterhead Power Station today along with Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael.
What they're describing as a revolutionary multi-million pound project is the first of its kind in the world. The signing of the deal is for the first stage of a project to retrofit the gas-fired power plant with carbon capture and storage technology. The Peterhead project is the second of two projects to be funded under the UK's CCS competition marking a significant milestone for the programme. Over the next two years, the Government is investing around £100 million from our £1 billion CCS budget, with additional industry investment, to plan, design and engineer the UK's first two CCS projects.
Along with the White Rose CCS Project in Yorkshire, the projects will be supported by around £100m of Government money and are worth 2,000 jobs including construction, and technical and operational jobs. Peterhead will be the first gas plant in the world to capture carbon dioxide on an industrial scale and pipe it under the sea where it can be stored safely. This means the plant can produce clean energy.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, said: "The innovation of the UK's energy industry is something we should be really proud of and the fact that we are a world leader in carbon capture and storage is a great example of our country's ingenuity. Today's multi-million pound deal with Shell will help to safeguard thousands of jobs and power half a million homes with clean electricity. It shows we can build a stronger economy and do it fairly by protecting our environment for future generations."
Currently, harmful carbon dioxide emissions are pumped out into the atmosphere as a by-product of electric energy production. The Peterhead CCS project is being awarded a multi-million pound contract after Shell put forward an innovative proposal to develop carbon capture technology at SSE Peterhead Gas power station in Aberdeenshire.
The Coalition Government says it is committed to tackling climate change and is supporting Scotland's flourishing low carbon sector and providing hundreds of millions of pounds a year to this industry. The UK is a global leader in CCS, which is the only technology that can help large factories reduce their carbon emissions. This helps to protect them against rising carbon costs and safeguards their competitiveness.
Fossil fuels form 60% -70% of our energy mix now, and will continue to be important in the future, but if we are to meet our carbon targets and fight climate change, we need to move away from dirty fuels. CCS is a key part of our future energy mix and allows us to reduce carbon emissions while benefitting from the energy security of using domestic gas. It offers a new future for the North Sea by turning old oil and gas fields into valuable CO2 stores.
What they're describing as a revolutionary multi-million pound project is the first of its kind in the world. The signing of the deal is for the first stage of a project to retrofit the gas-fired power plant with carbon capture and storage technology. The Peterhead project is the second of two projects to be funded under the UK's CCS competition marking a significant milestone for the programme. Over the next two years, the Government is investing around £100 million from our £1 billion CCS budget, with additional industry investment, to plan, design and engineer the UK's first two CCS projects.
Along with the White Rose CCS Project in Yorkshire, the projects will be supported by around £100m of Government money and are worth 2,000 jobs including construction, and technical and operational jobs. Peterhead will be the first gas plant in the world to capture carbon dioxide on an industrial scale and pipe it under the sea where it can be stored safely. This means the plant can produce clean energy.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, said: "The innovation of the UK's energy industry is something we should be really proud of and the fact that we are a world leader in carbon capture and storage is a great example of our country's ingenuity. Today's multi-million pound deal with Shell will help to safeguard thousands of jobs and power half a million homes with clean electricity. It shows we can build a stronger economy and do it fairly by protecting our environment for future generations."
Currently, harmful carbon dioxide emissions are pumped out into the atmosphere as a by-product of electric energy production. The Peterhead CCS project is being awarded a multi-million pound contract after Shell put forward an innovative proposal to develop carbon capture technology at SSE Peterhead Gas power station in Aberdeenshire.
The Coalition Government says it is committed to tackling climate change and is supporting Scotland's flourishing low carbon sector and providing hundreds of millions of pounds a year to this industry. The UK is a global leader in CCS, which is the only technology that can help large factories reduce their carbon emissions. This helps to protect them against rising carbon costs and safeguards their competitiveness.
Fossil fuels form 60% -70% of our energy mix now, and will continue to be important in the future, but if we are to meet our carbon targets and fight climate change, we need to move away from dirty fuels. CCS is a key part of our future energy mix and allows us to reduce carbon emissions while benefitting from the energy security of using domestic gas. It offers a new future for the North Sea by turning old oil and gas fields into valuable CO2 stores.
Friday, 21 February 2014
Cameron says "money is no object" - really?
Last week, David Cameron insisted that, when it comes to dealing with the recent storms and the flooding, "money is no object."
His exact words were: "Nothing is more important than dealing with these floods. Money is no object in this relief effort. Whatever money is needed for it, it will be spent. We will take whatever steps are necessary.”
It is to be welcomed that central government has allocated an additional £130 million to deal with the damage caused by the bad weather.
And the speed with which repairs are being carried out on the damaged railway line at Dawlish must also be welcomed, with the Prime Minister promising investigations into further rail improvements.
The announcement of changes to the Bellwin scheme (which partially recompenses councils after they have carried out emergency repairs following exceptional weather) will also mean extra resources to local authorities, though much of the detail is still quite sketchy.
There certainly appears to be a willingness to cover “costs incurred during the current emergency response and recovery,” but there is less certainty about the level of Government support for capital works to repair structural damage in the long-term.
Indeed, less than 24 hours after the Prime Minister pledged "money is no object," sources from Number 10 stated that his comments “did not mean extra money would be found.” They stated that, instead, “Whitehall departments would be expected to find money … from their existing budgets.” His Transport Secretary said that there would be no "blank cheque.”
It is my view that central government needs to clear up this uncertainty as a matter of urgency, and to put its money where its mouth is.
Further to this, in my column last week, I was extremely critical of the Government’s failure prior to the floods to invest in rail improvements for Cornwalland the wider South West.
Following on from my comments, my attention was drawn to a report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (North). The thinktank has calculated the regional impact of central government’s planned expenditure spending on large-scale transport projects. It showed that Londoners are receiving public investment in transport of £2,596 per head while, by comparison, in the North East of England it is only £5 per person. In the South West, the investment is just £17.58 per head.
Such inequity in investment simply cannot be allowed to continue.
His exact words were: "Nothing is more important than dealing with these floods. Money is no object in this relief effort. Whatever money is needed for it, it will be spent. We will take whatever steps are necessary.”
It is to be welcomed that central government has allocated an additional £130 million to deal with the damage caused by the bad weather.
And the speed with which repairs are being carried out on the damaged railway line at Dawlish must also be welcomed, with the Prime Minister promising investigations into further rail improvements.
The announcement of changes to the Bellwin scheme (which partially recompenses councils after they have carried out emergency repairs following exceptional weather) will also mean extra resources to local authorities, though much of the detail is still quite sketchy.
There certainly appears to be a willingness to cover “costs incurred during the current emergency response and recovery,” but there is less certainty about the level of Government support for capital works to repair structural damage in the long-term.
Indeed, less than 24 hours after the Prime Minister pledged "money is no object," sources from Number 10 stated that his comments “did not mean extra money would be found.” They stated that, instead, “Whitehall departments would be expected to find money … from their existing budgets.” His Transport Secretary said that there would be no "blank cheque.”
It is my view that central government needs to clear up this uncertainty as a matter of urgency, and to put its money where its mouth is.
Further to this, in my column last week, I was extremely critical of the Government’s failure prior to the floods to invest in rail improvements for Cornwalland the wider South West.
Following on from my comments, my attention was drawn to a report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (North). The thinktank has calculated the regional impact of central government’s planned expenditure spending on large-scale transport projects. It showed that Londoners are receiving public investment in transport of £2,596 per head while, by comparison, in the North East of England it is only £5 per person. In the South West, the investment is just £17.58 per head.
Such inequity in investment simply cannot be allowed to continue.
Thursday, 20 February 2014
Cameron announces details of flood support packages
Details of new funding schemes for homeowners and businesses in floods hit areas have been announced today by the Prime Minister David Cameron. The new schemes were launched last week by the Prime Minister as part of a comprehensive package to help homeowners and businesses in flood affected areas get back on their feet and make their properties more resilient to flooding in the future.
Support for businesses:
The government will be announcing details of the £10 million fund for farmers to help restore their waterlogged land shortly.
Support for businesses:
- Businesses that have been flooded since December 2013 will qualify for 100% business rate relief for three months, regardless of how long they were flooded.
- Government will guarantee to reimburse councils' costs of providing 100% rate relief, enabling local authorities to start providing this relief immediately.
- The initial funding allocations to councils in flood affected areas from the new £10 million Business Support Scheme have also been set out today.
- These funding allocations will enable councils to start identifying affected businesses straight away and provide emergency hardship funding.
- Business Support Scheme funding is being provided on top of business rate relief, and allows local councils to help both flooded businesses and those who have been indirectly affected through loss of trade, for example by being cut off.
- As announced by the Prime Minister yesterday, the Government will provide up to £4 million to councils to help provide people whose properties are flooded with a council tax rebate of at least three months.
- This funding guarantee to local authorities means that they can start providing this council tax relief immediately.
- The new Repair and Renewal Grants will go live from 1st April and will provide financial support for households and businesses to contribute to work that improves a property's ability to withstand future flooding.
- Grants of up to £5,000 will be paid to flooded homeowners and businesses, once a survey to identify appropriate resilience measures has been completed. The cost of the survey is part of the grant.
The government will be announcing details of the £10 million fund for farmers to help restore their waterlogged land shortly.
Nick Clegg challenges Nigel Farage to EU debate
Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has used his weekly radio call-in show 'Call Clegg' on LBC this morning to challenge the Leader of the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) Leader Nigel Farage to a head-to-head debate on Britain’s membership of the European Union.
Nick Clegg says that the real question at stake in this May’s European elections is: should Britain be in our out of the European Union? The Liberal Democrats are the party of IN – the only party prepared to unambiguously make the case that Britain is better off in the EU. UKIP are the party of OUT, with leaving the EU as their defining policy.
Speaking in response to a question from host Nick Ferrari on Call Clegg this morning, Nick Clegg said: “I’ll tell you what I’ll do. I will challenge Nigel Farage to a public, open debate about whether we should be in or out of the European Union. That’s the choice facing the British people. He is the leader of the party of OUT, I am the leader of the party of IN. It’s time for a proper public debate so that the public can listen to the arguments and decide for themselves.”
Nick Clegg says that the real question at stake in this May’s European elections is: should Britain be in our out of the European Union? The Liberal Democrats are the party of IN – the only party prepared to unambiguously make the case that Britain is better off in the EU. UKIP are the party of OUT, with leaving the EU as their defining policy.
Speaking in response to a question from host Nick Ferrari on Call Clegg this morning, Nick Clegg said: “I’ll tell you what I’ll do. I will challenge Nigel Farage to a public, open debate about whether we should be in or out of the European Union. That’s the choice facing the British people. He is the leader of the party of OUT, I am the leader of the party of IN. It’s time for a proper public debate so that the public can listen to the arguments and decide for themselves.”
LBC reported after the show was over that Nigel Farage is "holding counsel" for today and would not be commenting. A UKIP spokesperson has responded by saying: “Mr Farage would like to thank Mr Clegg for his kind invitation to a debate on the great issue of Britain’s membership of the European Union. Perhaps he could also let us know whether he has invited David Cameron and Ed Miliband too in order that the British people can see all their main political leaders argue their positions.
“If this challenge means that Mr Clegg is going to restore his backing for an In/Out referendum, which he gave before the last election but then withdrew afterwards, then it could be a significant moment in British politics. Mr Farage will give a full response to this development on LBC tomorrow morning.”
“If this challenge means that Mr Clegg is going to restore his backing for an In/Out referendum, which he gave before the last election but then withdrew afterwards, then it could be a significant moment in British politics. Mr Farage will give a full response to this development on LBC tomorrow morning.”
Wednesday, 19 February 2014
Young people “frozen out of recovery”
Young adults are being hit hardest by the Government sanctions regime, according to new analysis by national charity Citizens Advice. An examination of Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) figures published today shows that whilst 27 per cent of all JSA recipients are aged 18-24, young people comprise 40 per cent of those hit by sanctions.
Whilst welcoming positive employment figures, the charity’s Chief Executive points out that 27 per cent of JSA claimants are under 24 years old and that there are 38,000 fewer young people in work today than one year ago. The charity is particularly concerned that with young people receiving 40 per cent of all sanctions, more targeted support is needed to ensure they can contribute to the economic recovery.
Whilst welcoming positive employment figures, the charity’s Chief Executive points out that 27 per cent of JSA claimants are under 24 years old and that there are 38,000 fewer young people in work today than one year ago. The charity is particularly concerned that with young people receiving 40 per cent of all sanctions, more targeted support is needed to ensure they can contribute to the economic recovery.
People receiving support to find work have their Jobseekers’ Allowance withheld for a minimum of four weeks if they are judged not to be doing enough to get a job or miss an appointment, however the charity claims that Government statistics underestimate the impact of sanctions on people’s lives. Latest figures from the DWP show a 16 per cent rise in the number of people facing a sanction, whilst the number of problems about sanctions reported to Citizens Advice Bureaux in the past year went up by 64 per cent.
Gillian Guy, Citizens Advice Chief Executive, said: "Today’s figures are welcome but many young people are frozen out of this recovery. There are fewer young people in work than this time last year and more than one quarter of all JSA claimants are 24 or younger. Young people are carrying the burden of unemployment and face the daunting prospect of funding rising pensions and social care costs. Despite welcome positive signs, 900,000 young people are out of work, we’ve seen a 57 per cent increase in youth homelessness problems and the total number of young people coming to us for help has gone up 53 per cent since before the recession."
Continuing Ms Guy said: “The impact on some people of the tough new sanctions regime is a chronic problem, based on a bad system, which is getting worse and making it harder for many people to find work. Our experience on the ground shows that people hit by sanctions often don’t understand why they’ve lost their support. The stress of a sanction can mean people are distracted by the desperate task of putting food on the table whilst still working hard to get a job.”
Gillian Guy, Citizens Advice Chief Executive, said: "Today’s figures are welcome but many young people are frozen out of this recovery. There are fewer young people in work than this time last year and more than one quarter of all JSA claimants are 24 or younger. Young people are carrying the burden of unemployment and face the daunting prospect of funding rising pensions and social care costs. Despite welcome positive signs, 900,000 young people are out of work, we’ve seen a 57 per cent increase in youth homelessness problems and the total number of young people coming to us for help has gone up 53 per cent since before the recession."
Continuing Ms Guy said: “The impact on some people of the tough new sanctions regime is a chronic problem, based on a bad system, which is getting worse and making it harder for many people to find work. Our experience on the ground shows that people hit by sanctions often don’t understand why they’ve lost their support. The stress of a sanction can mean people are distracted by the desperate task of putting food on the table whilst still working hard to get a job.”
Tuesday, 18 February 2014
Longstanding Lib Dem Cllr defects to the Greens
Elmdon Councillor Jean Hamilton, who has been a Liberal Democrat Councillor for 7 years, has joined the Green Party and Green Group on Solihull Council. Councillor Hamilton was one of the first Lib Dem Councillors in Elmdon ward, having been elected in 2007 and re-elected in 2011.
The announcement by Cllr Hamilton takes the number of Green Party Councillors in Solihull to seven, which has grown from having just one seat until 2011 when it grew to three. Cllr Hamilton’s switch is not the first from the Lib Dems. Cllr Howard Allen (Shirley West) switched to the Green Party in 2011, Cllr Andy Hodgson (Shirley South) moved from Lib Dem to Green in 2012 along with Tim Hodgson, the former Lib Dem Deputy Leader of Solihull Council. Cllr Allen was re-elected as a Green in 2012. Cllr Hodgson aims to do the same in May this year.
Commenting Jean Hamilton said “I have been extremely disappointed with many decisions agreed to by the Liberal Democrats in coalition. Decisions made on vital issues such as Education, the NHS, welfare support and the environment, have shocked and upset me. For the last nearly 4 years, I chose to focus on local issues and lobby Liberal Democrats in government hard about the decisions they were signing up to, believing as I do, that being true to one’s principles is the best way to proceed. As part of the Elmdon ward team of Councillors, we have worked well together, doing our very best for residents."
Continuing Ms Hamilton said: "However, with the Euro and the General Elections looming there is an expectation by the National Liberal Democrats, that I must toe the party line which means having to stand behind messages I quite simply do not agree with. This has led to months of intensive discussions at a local, regional and national level which have been upsetting, not just for me, but for the local party. After weeks of personal reflection and consideration of my options, I have made the decision to move to the Green Party in Solihull who I feel much more closely aligned with on important issues nationally and whose core values I very much share."
Concluding Jean Hamilton commented: "As a Councillor for Elmdon ward, what matters to me most, before any party politics, is working for and on behalf of residents. I feel this stance is respected and shared by the Green Party who will support me in my endeavours to serve the people of Elmdon ward as well as I possibly can by always putting their interests first."
Leader of Green Party Councillors on Solihull Council, Karl Macnaughton, said “I have always admired Jean’s work on the Council. I know how passionate she is working for the people of Elmdon in a gracious, yet robust, manner. Jean gets results. Jean speaks with a conscience. She is someone whose values fit closely with those of the Green Party”.
Green Party Deputy Leader, Will Duckworth said “It is no surprise that the Green Party welcomes its 7th Councillor in Solihull. Solihull Green Councillors have shown their determination to fight for fairness and good public services for all. I know some pundits consider the Green Party could even become the main opposition party on Solihull Council in May. If the last local election results are repeated, this will become a reality”.
The announcement by Cllr Hamilton takes the number of Green Party Councillors in Solihull to seven, which has grown from having just one seat until 2011 when it grew to three. Cllr Hamilton’s switch is not the first from the Lib Dems. Cllr Howard Allen (Shirley West) switched to the Green Party in 2011, Cllr Andy Hodgson (Shirley South) moved from Lib Dem to Green in 2012 along with Tim Hodgson, the former Lib Dem Deputy Leader of Solihull Council. Cllr Allen was re-elected as a Green in 2012. Cllr Hodgson aims to do the same in May this year.
Commenting Jean Hamilton said “I have been extremely disappointed with many decisions agreed to by the Liberal Democrats in coalition. Decisions made on vital issues such as Education, the NHS, welfare support and the environment, have shocked and upset me. For the last nearly 4 years, I chose to focus on local issues and lobby Liberal Democrats in government hard about the decisions they were signing up to, believing as I do, that being true to one’s principles is the best way to proceed. As part of the Elmdon ward team of Councillors, we have worked well together, doing our very best for residents."
Continuing Ms Hamilton said: "However, with the Euro and the General Elections looming there is an expectation by the National Liberal Democrats, that I must toe the party line which means having to stand behind messages I quite simply do not agree with. This has led to months of intensive discussions at a local, regional and national level which have been upsetting, not just for me, but for the local party. After weeks of personal reflection and consideration of my options, I have made the decision to move to the Green Party in Solihull who I feel much more closely aligned with on important issues nationally and whose core values I very much share."
Concluding Jean Hamilton commented: "As a Councillor for Elmdon ward, what matters to me most, before any party politics, is working for and on behalf of residents. I feel this stance is respected and shared by the Green Party who will support me in my endeavours to serve the people of Elmdon ward as well as I possibly can by always putting their interests first."
Leader of Green Party Councillors on Solihull Council, Karl Macnaughton, said “I have always admired Jean’s work on the Council. I know how passionate she is working for the people of Elmdon in a gracious, yet robust, manner. Jean gets results. Jean speaks with a conscience. She is someone whose values fit closely with those of the Green Party”.
Green Party Deputy Leader, Will Duckworth said “It is no surprise that the Green Party welcomes its 7th Councillor in Solihull. Solihull Green Councillors have shown their determination to fight for fairness and good public services for all. I know some pundits consider the Green Party could even become the main opposition party on Solihull Council in May. If the last local election results are repeated, this will become a reality”.
Atos underfire from NHA party & PCS union
Ahead of tomorrow's national day of action against Atos, the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union calls for the demeaning work capability tests to be scrapped. The union says support to help sick and disabled people find work if they can should be brought back in-house. It adds that the tests currently carried out by Atos on behalf of the government are designed solely to cut entitlements and have no place in our social security system.
The union is supporting the national day of action on Wednesday organised by disability campaign groups Disabled People Against the Cuts and Black Triangle. PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "It is a scandal that the likes of Atos are profiting from this government's cold and calculating assault on sick and disabled people. The demeaning tests should be scrapped and the work to provide the kind of professional and caring support that disabled people need and deserve should be brought back in-house."
The National Health Action Party has also critical of Atos and is backing calls for doctors to be properly consulted over ATOS assessments. Dr Louise Irvine, the National Health Action Party's prospective MEP for London, says the DWP must take proper account of the clinical assessment of doctors:
“The current method of Work Capacity Assessment run by ATOS is inhumane , not fit for purpose and should be scrapped and replaced by a system that truly supports people with long term health problems to get back into suitable employment when their health permits, or enables them to claim appropriate benefits to which they are entitled. GPs should be asked to provide information about their patients to support their claims and such information should be taken seriously. This used to happen and was stopped under the new Work Capacity Assessment system. It’s important that the information that GPs have about their patients should be made available to help patients making claims.”
NHA Party co-leader Dr Richard Taylor said: "ATOS – a nightmare. I had correspondence with the then relevant minister during the last parliament and obtained a promise that ATOS would ensure that available medical evidence from the client’s GP or consultant would always be taken into account in assessments for fitness. I was concerned because i'd had plenty of examples where this was readily available and yet had never even been looked at. I can remember patients awaiting cardiac surgery who had been pronounced as fit because ATOS had not bothered to find even this out. So it's imperative that existing medical evidence must be taken into account".
Kate Green MP, Labour's Shadow Work and Pensions Minister, commenting on the Work Capability Assessment contract and Atos, said: "It is becoming increasingly clear that disabled people are being badly let down by Atos which is why Labour has called on the Government to sack them with immediate effect. But it is also clear that problems with the Work Capability Assessment go much deeper. We need fundamental reform of the assessment process so that disabled people have confidence that the system is fair and to ensure they receive the help they need to enter work when they can."
The union is supporting the national day of action on Wednesday organised by disability campaign groups Disabled People Against the Cuts and Black Triangle. PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "It is a scandal that the likes of Atos are profiting from this government's cold and calculating assault on sick and disabled people. The demeaning tests should be scrapped and the work to provide the kind of professional and caring support that disabled people need and deserve should be brought back in-house."
“The current method of Work Capacity Assessment run by ATOS is inhumane , not fit for purpose and should be scrapped and replaced by a system that truly supports people with long term health problems to get back into suitable employment when their health permits, or enables them to claim appropriate benefits to which they are entitled. GPs should be asked to provide information about their patients to support their claims and such information should be taken seriously. This used to happen and was stopped under the new Work Capacity Assessment system. It’s important that the information that GPs have about their patients should be made available to help patients making claims.”
NHA Party co-leader Dr Richard Taylor said: "ATOS – a nightmare. I had correspondence with the then relevant minister during the last parliament and obtained a promise that ATOS would ensure that available medical evidence from the client’s GP or consultant would always be taken into account in assessments for fitness. I was concerned because i'd had plenty of examples where this was readily available and yet had never even been looked at. I can remember patients awaiting cardiac surgery who had been pronounced as fit because ATOS had not bothered to find even this out. So it's imperative that existing medical evidence must be taken into account".
Kate Green MP, Labour's Shadow Work and Pensions Minister, commenting on the Work Capability Assessment contract and Atos, said: "It is becoming increasingly clear that disabled people are being badly let down by Atos which is why Labour has called on the Government to sack them with immediate effect. But it is also clear that problems with the Work Capability Assessment go much deeper. We need fundamental reform of the assessment process so that disabled people have confidence that the system is fair and to ensure they receive the help they need to enter work when they can."
Brown accused of "scaremongering on pensions"
The Scottish National Party have accused the former, Labour, Prime Minister Gordon Brown of "scaremongering on pensions" and have described him "as lacking in all credibility," also accusing the former Chancellor and Prime Minister of "having done more than anyone to destroy the value of people’s pensions."
The SNP base their claims on that, while Chancellor, Gordon Brown abolished Advanced Corporation Tax (ACT) relief, which is estimated to have cost pension schemes at least £100 billion within a decade, and in 1999 chose to increase the state pension by just 75 pence.
The SNP base their claims on that, while Chancellor, Gordon Brown abolished Advanced Corporation Tax (ACT) relief, which is estimated to have cost pension schemes at least £100 billion within a decade, and in 1999 chose to increase the state pension by just 75 pence.
A recent publication by the National Institute of Economic Research shows that Scotland is disadvantaged by having the same retirement age as the rest of the UK, and pensions in Scotland would be six to eight per cent cheaper than the rest of the UK. The paper also demonstrated that under current UK schemes, there will be a transfer from Scotland to the rest of the UK of almost £50 million per year by 2020.
Meanwhile, opinion polling has consistently shown that people in Scotland want decisions on pensions and welfare to be made in Scotland – with today’s Scottish Social Attitudes Survey showing that 63% of people want either ‘devo-max’ - that would see only defence and foreign affairs remain in Westminster control – or independence.
Commenting, Scotland’s Deputy First Minister and SNP Deputy Leader Nicola Sturgeon said: “The last person anyone in Scotland will take lessons from when it comes to pensions is Gordon Brown – the man who destroyed final-salary pension schemes with his £100 billion raid, and insulted our older folk with a miserly 75p increase in the state pension. Mr Brown's track record means that he lacks all credibility on this subject, so it is little wonder that his speech bears little relationship with reality."
Continuing Ms Sturgeon said: "The Scottish Government has set out clearly and unambiguously that people will continue to receive the pension entitlements they have built up – and any attempt to insinuate otherwise is grossly irresponsible. Social protection costs represent a lower share of tax revenues in Scotland than for the UK as a whole - meaning pensions are more affordable for Scotland - and academic surveys and polls consistently show that people want decisions on pensions and welfare to be made in the Scottish Parliament rather than by Westminster. Just this month the National Institute of Economic Research showed that pensions in Scotland would be 6% to 8% cheaper than in the rest of the UK."
Concluding Nicola Sturgeon commented "Scotland is better placed to afford our pensions and welfare than the UK – which is why Scotland’s Future set out our plans to maintain the triple-lock, and set up an independent commission to look at the appropriate retirement age for people in Scotland. Where Westminster has decimated pension schemes and is rushing ahead an accelerated timetable that will see the retirement age rise rapidly, a Yes vote in September will ensure we have a pensions system that is right for Scotland."
Meanwhile, opinion polling has consistently shown that people in Scotland want decisions on pensions and welfare to be made in Scotland – with today’s Scottish Social Attitudes Survey showing that 63% of people want either ‘devo-max’ - that would see only defence and foreign affairs remain in Westminster control – or independence.
Commenting, Scotland’s Deputy First Minister and SNP Deputy Leader Nicola Sturgeon said: “The last person anyone in Scotland will take lessons from when it comes to pensions is Gordon Brown – the man who destroyed final-salary pension schemes with his £100 billion raid, and insulted our older folk with a miserly 75p increase in the state pension. Mr Brown's track record means that he lacks all credibility on this subject, so it is little wonder that his speech bears little relationship with reality."
Continuing Ms Sturgeon said: "The Scottish Government has set out clearly and unambiguously that people will continue to receive the pension entitlements they have built up – and any attempt to insinuate otherwise is grossly irresponsible. Social protection costs represent a lower share of tax revenues in Scotland than for the UK as a whole - meaning pensions are more affordable for Scotland - and academic surveys and polls consistently show that people want decisions on pensions and welfare to be made in the Scottish Parliament rather than by Westminster. Just this month the National Institute of Economic Research showed that pensions in Scotland would be 6% to 8% cheaper than in the rest of the UK."
Concluding Nicola Sturgeon commented "Scotland is better placed to afford our pensions and welfare than the UK – which is why Scotland’s Future set out our plans to maintain the triple-lock, and set up an independent commission to look at the appropriate retirement age for people in Scotland. Where Westminster has decimated pension schemes and is rushing ahead an accelerated timetable that will see the retirement age rise rapidly, a Yes vote in September will ensure we have a pensions system that is right for Scotland."
Scots would prefer 'devo max' new SSA data reveals
New figures from Scottish Social Attitudes survey show Scots would prefer more devolution, but remain unsure about consequences. The option not on the referendum ballot paper - more devolution - is preferred by a majority of Scots to both independence and the status quo, according to new results from ScotCen's Scottish Social Attitudes (SSA) survey being presented today. However, Scots do not always embrace some of the consequences of more devolution, while expectations of what it would deliver are quite limited.
According to the latest SSA findings, 32% of Scots say that their first preference is for the Scottish Parliament to be responsible for everything apart from defence and foreign affairs, a position often dubbed 'devo max'. 31% say their top preference is for the Scottish Parliament to make the key decisions for Scotland about everything, including defence and foreign affairs, i.e. independence. Meanwhile ScotCen's research also shows 25% back the status quo with taxation and welfare benefits still mostly be decided by Westminster, while 8% do not want any devolution at all.
However, no less than 42% of all Scots say that 'devo max' would be their second preference. This option is backed by 79% of those whose first preference is independence and by 66% of those who would most like to see a continuation of the status quo. As a result, if voters were asked to choose between independence and more devolution, 61% would back 'devo max' and only 39% independence. Equally in a run-off between 'devo max' and the status quo, 'devo max' would win by 62% to 38%.
However, some of the likely consequences of more devolution - more of Scotland's public spending being funded out of revenues raised in Scotland and different levels of taxes and benefits being paid on the two sides of the border - are not so readily accepted.
However, fewer people think that introducing more devolution would be damaging to Scotland than say the same of independence. Indeed, just 28% say they would be 'worried' if Scotland were to have more devolution, whereas 55% say they are 'worried' about independence.
Prof. John Curtice, Research Consultant at ScotCen Social Research, said: "Both Labour and the Conservatives have to decide in the next few weeks what proposals for more devolution they wish to bring forward in advance of the independence referendum. Doubtless supporters of the idea will note its apparent widespread popularity, while sceptics will point to the relative lack of enthusiasm for some of its consequences. But given that as many as 44% of those whose first preference is 'devo max' have yet to decide how to vote in September, working out the best way of appealing to their sometimes seemingly inconsistent feelings and aspirations could well prove vital in determining the eventual referendum outcome."
However, some of the likely consequences of more devolution - more of Scotland's public spending being funded out of revenues raised in Scotland and different levels of taxes and benefits being paid on the two sides of the border - are not so readily accepted.
- 50% believe that the public services currently run by Holyrood should be funded out of taxes collected in Scotland, while 46% feel they should continue to be paid for by a block grant from Westminster.
- Although 48% think that the revenues from income tax should only be spent in Scotland, 47% believe they should be shared across the UK as a whole.
- While 41% say that it is OK for the basic rate of income tax to be different from that in England, as many as 52% believe it should always be the same.
- Only 37% think it is OK for the old age pension to be different north of the border, while 58% feel it should be the same.
- 34% feel that the old age pension paid out in Scotland should be paid for wholly out of taxes collected in Scotland. 61% believe it should be paid for out of UK-wide taxation.
However, fewer people think that introducing more devolution would be damaging to Scotland than say the same of independence. Indeed, just 28% say they would be 'worried' if Scotland were to have more devolution, whereas 55% say they are 'worried' about independence.
Prof. John Curtice, Research Consultant at ScotCen Social Research, said: "Both Labour and the Conservatives have to decide in the next few weeks what proposals for more devolution they wish to bring forward in advance of the independence referendum. Doubtless supporters of the idea will note its apparent widespread popularity, while sceptics will point to the relative lack of enthusiasm for some of its consequences. But given that as many as 44% of those whose first preference is 'devo max' have yet to decide how to vote in September, working out the best way of appealing to their sometimes seemingly inconsistent feelings and aspirations could well prove vital in determining the eventual referendum outcome."
Monday, 17 February 2014
PM unveils new £10m business support scheme
Prime Minister David Cameron has unveiled a new £10m business support scheme to help flood-affected businesses get back on their feet. As part of the Government’s ongoing work to deal with the floods, the Prime Minister has today set out further support for businesses in areas affected by flooding. Building on last week’s package of support for businesses and households, the Prime Minister announced:
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "It is vital that small businesses affected by the flooding get assistance as quickly as possible. We know the insurance companies are working to process claims as quickly as possible and we will inform local authorities of their allocations from the Business Support Scheme on Thursday to assist businesses with clean-up costs or help them to continue trading. I encourage all businesses affected by flooding to get in touch with their local authority or contact the Business Support Helpline, where our team of advisers will be able to direct people to a wide range of practical help and advice."
- A new Business Support Scheme worth up to £10million to provide hardship funding for SME businesses in areas affected by the floods. Both businesses that have been flooded, and businesses that are in affected areas and have suffered significant loss of trade, will be able to apply for support. Eligible businesses will be able to claim for funding for things like immediate clean-up costs, materials, and exceptional costs to help them continue trading.
- Extra time for businesses to file accounts without any penalties. If any affected company is unable to file accounts or other documents on time as a direct result of the floods, Companies House will agree an extension and not collect the penalties which apply for late filings.
- A Government Business Support Helpline is providing comprehensive advice and support to businesses affected by floods. The Helpline will offer a free one hour call with a dedicated Business Support Adviser to help businesses get back on their feet. The helpline number is 0300 456 3565 and can take calls from flood affected businesses now.
- Regus, the global workspace provider with 220 business centres across the UK, is coming to the aid of businesses by offering free workspace to workers affected by the floods. Those who cannot work in their normal location – whether that’s an office or their home – will be given free access to the business lounge within any Regus centre, providing professional workspace, wifi and complementary refreshments.
- Citrix has pledged to support small businesses affected by the floods by letting them use GoToMeeting free on a trial basis for up to 3 months (90 days) for quick and easy online meetings with employees and customers. GoToMeeting is quick to install and allows you to connect face-to-face and work with people important to your business via a mobile, tablet or PC wherever you or they happen to be.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "It is vital that small businesses affected by the flooding get assistance as quickly as possible. We know the insurance companies are working to process claims as quickly as possible and we will inform local authorities of their allocations from the Business Support Scheme on Thursday to assist businesses with clean-up costs or help them to continue trading. I encourage all businesses affected by flooding to get in touch with their local authority or contact the Business Support Helpline, where our team of advisers will be able to direct people to a wide range of practical help and advice."
Monday, 10 February 2014
Labour MP John Mann refers the former Immigration Minister Mark Harper to the police
The Labour MP John Mann has today written to Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, asking him to investigate former Immigration Minister Mark Harper following the revelation that he paid an illegal immigrant to clean his Westminster flat. John Mann commented: "I have referred Mark Harper to the police as legal experts are suggesting that by employing an illegal immigrant and failing to keep the relevant documents, he may well have broken the law."
Continuing John Mann said: "The idea of Harper's resignation being "honourable" is nonsense. As Immigration Minister, he claimed more than £2,000 in expenses from the taxpayer to pay an illegal immigrant to clean his home and iron his clothes. I have already called for Mark Harper to reject the £8,000 payoff he can expect after quitting. That however is not enough - the case clearly warrants a full police investigation."
Continuing John Mann said: "The idea of Harper's resignation being "honourable" is nonsense. As Immigration Minister, he claimed more than £2,000 in expenses from the taxpayer to pay an illegal immigrant to clean his home and iron his clothes. I have already called for Mark Harper to reject the £8,000 payoff he can expect after quitting. That however is not enough - the case clearly warrants a full police investigation."
Friday, 7 February 2014
Mitchell favourite to become next EU Commissioner
The former Conservative party Chief Whip, Andrew Mitchell, is the hot favourite to replace Baroness Cathy Ashton according to Ladbrokes. The bookies have installed Mitchell as the overwhelming 2/1 favourite at the head of a book of seasoned political heavyweights, with Owen Paterson (4/1) and John Cridland (5/1) deemed his most likely opposition.
Nick Clegg isn't ruled out for a trip to Brussels at 16/1 while it's 50/1 David Miliband returns to fill the vacancy. Unsurprisingly, Nigel Farage is the 200/1 outsider. Alex Donohue of Ladbrokes said: "We've got a strong suspicion Mitchell will be lined up for the EU job. Should he miss out, the betting suggests Paterson or Cridland will benefit." He added: "We'll gladly accommodate anyone who wants to back Farage to fill the void."
Ladbrokes latest betting. Next UK EU Commissioner:
Nick Clegg isn't ruled out for a trip to Brussels at 16/1 while it's 50/1 David Miliband returns to fill the vacancy. Unsurprisingly, Nigel Farage is the 200/1 outsider. Alex Donohue of Ladbrokes said: "We've got a strong suspicion Mitchell will be lined up for the EU job. Should he miss out, the betting suggests Paterson or Cridland will benefit." He added: "We'll gladly accommodate anyone who wants to back Farage to fill the void."
Ladbrokes latest betting. Next UK EU Commissioner:
- 2/1 Andrew Mitchell
- 4/1 Owen Paterson
- 5/1 John Cridland
- 8/1 Michael Fallon
- 16/1 Nick Clegg
- 16/1 Peter Lilley
- 16/1 David Willetts
- 16/1 Francis Maude
- 16/1 Andrew Lansley
- 20/1 William Hague
- 25/1 Theresa Villiers
- 33/1 Daniel Hannan
- 50/1 Douglas Carswell
- 50/1 David Miliband
- 66/1 Boris Johnson
- 100/1 Ed Balls
- 100/1 Nadine Dorries
- 200/1 Nigel Farage
Thursday, 6 February 2014
Met Police staff to join Tube unions on strike
Thousands of Metropolitan Police civilian staff plan to strike for two days next week over the imposition of pay cuts, the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) announces. The 48-hour stoppage on 12 and 13 February will coincide with the next planned Tube strikes by RMT and TSSA members and follows well-supported action by Met Police staff on new year's eve.
The PCS say that the the Met is not bound by the government's pay cap policy and the imposition of a below inflation 1% increase is in breach of an existing agreement. This is the first time the Met has done this instead of negotiating with the union that represents around 7,500 staff including 999 call handlers, support officers and those who work in custody suites and support victims of crime.
The union's members have reported an increase in police staff turning to payday lenders to get by – even though this could lead to disciplinary action being taken against them. The union says the MPS can afford to pay staff more after saving millions of pounds on police staff salaries in recent years due to job cuts.
As well as being "angry" about their pay, staff fear for their futures as the Met is considering privatising the work of about 4,000 civilian workers. The union is committed to trying to resolve the dispute and was in talks this morning with Met bosses.
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "It ought to bring shame on the Met Police that staff who help to keep London safe are being driven into the arms of loan sharks because of low pay. The Met Police is not short of money and does not have to ape the government's politically motivated pay policies that have fuelled the longest decline in wages on record."
The PCS say that the the Met is not bound by the government's pay cap policy and the imposition of a below inflation 1% increase is in breach of an existing agreement. This is the first time the Met has done this instead of negotiating with the union that represents around 7,500 staff including 999 call handlers, support officers and those who work in custody suites and support victims of crime.
The union's members have reported an increase in police staff turning to payday lenders to get by – even though this could lead to disciplinary action being taken against them. The union says the MPS can afford to pay staff more after saving millions of pounds on police staff salaries in recent years due to job cuts.
As well as being "angry" about their pay, staff fear for their futures as the Met is considering privatising the work of about 4,000 civilian workers. The union is committed to trying to resolve the dispute and was in talks this morning with Met bosses.
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "It ought to bring shame on the Met Police that staff who help to keep London safe are being driven into the arms of loan sharks because of low pay. The Met Police is not short of money and does not have to ape the government's politically motivated pay policies that have fuelled the longest decline in wages on record."
Tuesday, 4 February 2014
Greens urge all to get on roll for National Voter Registration Day
London Green MEP Jean Lambert has urged all Londoners who are entitled to vote, whether they are UK, EU or Commonwealth nationals or citizens, to register to do so ahead of 'National Voter Registration Day', which takes place tomorrow (February 5th).
Campaign group 'Bite the Ballot' are organising this year's campaign, which is timed to mark the anniversary of the 1832 Reform Act which gave many of us (well, many men anyway!) the right to vote for the first time. 'Bite the Ballot!' hopes as many as 250,000 UK residents - especially younger people - will register to vote on Wednesday.
Jean Lambert commentated: "Everyone should be entitled to have their say on which politicians make the decisions that affect their day-to-day lives - and the first step is to register to vote. About a million non-UK EU citizens live in the capital, and most of them will be entitled to vote in the European election this May.
Ms Lambert continued: I hope many of them register to vote and have their say - whatever party they support. This is about ensuring the political rights of all who could vote to be able to exercise that crucial right by registering - at least they then have a choice whether to vote or not, or even stand for election!"
Elections to the European Parliament, as well as many councils including all London Boroughs and a some mayoral contests, will be held on Thursday, May 22nd.
Jean Lambert commentated: "Everyone should be entitled to have their say on which politicians make the decisions that affect their day-to-day lives - and the first step is to register to vote. About a million non-UK EU citizens live in the capital, and most of them will be entitled to vote in the European election this May.
Ms Lambert continued: I hope many of them register to vote and have their say - whatever party they support. This is about ensuring the political rights of all who could vote to be able to exercise that crucial right by registering - at least they then have a choice whether to vote or not, or even stand for election!"
Elections to the European Parliament, as well as many councils including all London Boroughs and a some mayoral contests, will be held on Thursday, May 22nd.
Plaid Cymru unveil their plans for "Energy Wales"
Plaid Cymru, the Party of Wales, has outlined its ambition to build an energy future for Wales that is based on fairness. Plaid Cymru's Shadow Energy Minister Llyr Gruffydd has published a paper detailing how devolving energy would create a consenting system that is fairer for Wales, a system of community benefits for renewable energy projects that is fairer for Welsh communities, and energy prices that are fairer for Welsh customers. Mr Gruffydd said that the devolution of consenting arrangements for all Welsh renewable energy projects would ensure that the Welsh Government is able to decide on energy projects that can help the whole of Wales achieve its long-term energy goals.
He also said that a Plaid Cymru government would enforce a robust system of community benefit clauses in contracts, which would ensure that local communities see a direct benefit from energy projects in their area. Thirdly, he said that the Party of Wales would pursue the establishment of an arms-length, publicly-owned, not for profit energy company – Energy Wales, Ynni Cymru.
The Party of Wales Shadow Energy Minister Llyr Gruffydd said: “Wales’ strength lies in its natural resources. They are our most valuable assets, and Plaid Cymru wants to make sure that they are managed in a way that promotes fairness. If we are to develop a sustainable future for Wales, then the Welsh Government needs to have a firmer grip on delivering that. That’s why it is essential that more powers over planning for renewable energy for Wales is devolved. It is right that the government that develops Wales’ energy targets is responsible for delivering them."
He also said that a Plaid Cymru government would enforce a robust system of community benefit clauses in contracts, which would ensure that local communities see a direct benefit from energy projects in their area. Thirdly, he said that the Party of Wales would pursue the establishment of an arms-length, publicly-owned, not for profit energy company – Energy Wales, Ynni Cymru.
The Party of Wales Shadow Energy Minister Llyr Gruffydd said: “Wales’ strength lies in its natural resources. They are our most valuable assets, and Plaid Cymru wants to make sure that they are managed in a way that promotes fairness. If we are to develop a sustainable future for Wales, then the Welsh Government needs to have a firmer grip on delivering that. That’s why it is essential that more powers over planning for renewable energy for Wales is devolved. It is right that the government that develops Wales’ energy targets is responsible for delivering them."
"Secondly, we need to ensure that local communities see a direct benefit from energy projects in our area. Plaid Cymru has long called for community benefit clauses so that Welsh communities get something back. And thirdly, we want Welsh energy customers to pay a fair price for it. Welsh energy bills have risen three times faster than wages since 2008, and the Party of Wales’ proposal to establish Ynni Cymru will tackle this issue directly.
“Wales used to be a world leader in carbon-based energy and it is clear that we have the potential to be a world leader again in renewables. But for that to happen we need to create the right environment so that everyone in Wales is able to benefit. Plaid Cymru wants to unlock Wales’ potential as a world leader in green industries and create a stronger and more economically self-sufficient Wales.”
You can download the paper by clicking here.
“Wales used to be a world leader in carbon-based energy and it is clear that we have the potential to be a world leader again in renewables. But for that to happen we need to create the right environment so that everyone in Wales is able to benefit. Plaid Cymru wants to unlock Wales’ potential as a world leader in green industries and create a stronger and more economically self-sufficient Wales.”
You can download the paper by clicking here.
Labour's NEC Backs Miliband Reforms
The Labour party's National Executive Committee (NEC) has today backed the recommendations of the Collins Report by a margin of twenty eight votes to two, with one abstention. The proposals will now go to a vote of the Special Conference of the Labour Party on 1 March. If approved, these reforms will give:
- Union members a real choice in which they must give their positive consent to the payment of affiliation fees.
- Those who wish to become Affiliated Supporters a real voice within a genuinely One Nation Labour Party.
- Everyone who wants a direct individual relationship with the Labour Party a vote in leadership elections according to the principles of OMOV in which everyone is treated as equal in worth.
- Londoners the chance to engage in politics with a primary introduced for the selection of Labour candidate for Mayor involving members and all supporters who pay a registration fee.
- A guarantee to communities that Labour’s process for selecting candidates is free from manipulation and fair to everyone.
Labour leader Ed Miliband responded to the news commenting: "I am delighted that these historic reforms have cleared the first hurdle to being agreed. For too long politics has been out of touch with working people and people from all walks of life. These changes will help bridge the gap between Westminster and the rest of Britain. They are about opening up the Labour Party so that more people from every walk of life can have more say on the issues which matter to them most like the cost-of-living crisis."
Mr Miliband continued: "But we are not taking anything for granted. Change is difficult and these are the biggest changes in the way politics is done for generations. Some people will find change difficult to accept. Others are worried about the consequences. But at the PLP last night, the Shadow Cabinet this morning, and the NEC this afternoon, there was a strong consensus that change must come.
Concluding Mr Miliband said: "Because we must have the courage to change our party and change our politics if we are to change our country once again. "Over the next four weeks, we will be taking these proposals out around the country to win the case for change. So that together we can build a genuinely One Nation Labour Party based on the principle of One Member, One Vote."
Mr Miliband continued: "But we are not taking anything for granted. Change is difficult and these are the biggest changes in the way politics is done for generations. Some people will find change difficult to accept. Others are worried about the consequences. But at the PLP last night, the Shadow Cabinet this morning, and the NEC this afternoon, there was a strong consensus that change must come.
Concluding Mr Miliband said: "Because we must have the courage to change our party and change our politics if we are to change our country once again. "Over the next four weeks, we will be taking these proposals out around the country to win the case for change. So that together we can build a genuinely One Nation Labour Party based on the principle of One Member, One Vote."
Tory MEPs propose red-card system to block bad EU laws
Conservative MEPs today put forward plans for a red-card system to let national parliaments block burdensome and interfering European legislation. As part of the continuing Conservative drive for better lawmaking in the European Union, Tory MEPs put a report before the European Parliament outlining a raft of measures to tackle red tape and rationalise the legislative process. The report was drafted by spokesman Sajjad Karim as the response of the Parliament's Legal Affairs Committee to plans announced last year by the European Commission itself for cutting red tape.
It proposes to reduces the red tape burden on small businesses by exempting more of them from regulation altogether, as well as to increase the role of evidence-based policy making to ensure any new laws are necessary and proportionate. It also targets so-called gold-plating and reinforces the principle the new legislation should only be adopted if old and defunct regulation can be scrapped to make way.
Mr Karim said: "We believe national parliaments should have significantly more powers to play a role in drafting EU law – including a right to veto if proposed legislation is disproportionate or interferes in areas which clearly should be decided at national or local level. This so-called red card approach has been suggested by both William Hague and David Lidington and we believe the European parliament and the EU as a whole need to take it on board.
"We already have a yellow card system which allows national parliaments to issue a warning if a proposed law breaches principles of subsidiarity. Sometimes the Commission heeds the yellow card, but on occasions it has not. Footballers who ignore a yellow card end up getting a red one. The same ultimate sanction is needed for the EU Commission."
The report calls for an inquiry into how a red-card system should be set up. Conservative MEPs believe it should be used on similar terms to the procedures already in place, but with much greater effect. The current procedures are seen by some as being too weak to be effective. Some national parliaments do not prioritise them domestically, nor are they given appropriate weight in the EU process.
Mr Karim said: "We believe national parliaments should have significantly more powers to play a role in drafting EU law – including a right to veto if proposed legislation is disproportionate or interferes in areas which clearly should be decided at national or local level. This so-called red card approach has been suggested by both William Hague and David Lidington and we believe the European parliament and the EU as a whole need to take it on board.
"We already have a yellow card system which allows national parliaments to issue a warning if a proposed law breaches principles of subsidiarity. Sometimes the Commission heeds the yellow card, but on occasions it has not. Footballers who ignore a yellow card end up getting a red one. The same ultimate sanction is needed for the EU Commission."
The report calls for an inquiry into how a red-card system should be set up. Conservative MEPs believe it should be used on similar terms to the procedures already in place, but with much greater effect. The current procedures are seen by some as being too weak to be effective. Some national parliaments do not prioritise them domestically, nor are they given appropriate weight in the EU process.
Monday, 3 February 2014
Government rejects £203m funding for food banks
The Labour MP Frank Field who is the Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Hunger and Food Poverty, has questioned the Government’s decision to reject at least £203 million of funding that could have been used to boost food aid provision in Britain. New figures obtained by Mr Field from the House of Commons Library show that Britain would have been entitled to at least €246 million from the Fund for European Aid to the Most Deprived between now and 2020, with more funding available if needed. Frank Field has written to the Prime Minister, David Cameron, asking him to reconsider the Government’s decision to reject this funding.
Commenting on the figures, Frank Field said: “People are going hungry yet the Government has turned down a small fortune in food aid funding. Despite recent improvements in the labour market, the cost of household essentials is continuing to rise, with household incomes for those at the bottom often failing to cover the costs of putting food on the table. An additional £200 million plus of funding could have enabled food banks and other food aid providers to work wonders with the most vulnerable people in society. The Government must reconsider its bizarre decision to reject this funding.”
Commenting on the figures, Frank Field said: “People are going hungry yet the Government has turned down a small fortune in food aid funding. Despite recent improvements in the labour market, the cost of household essentials is continuing to rise, with household incomes for those at the bottom often failing to cover the costs of putting food on the table. An additional £200 million plus of funding could have enabled food banks and other food aid providers to work wonders with the most vulnerable people in society. The Government must reconsider its bizarre decision to reject this funding.”
Final list of candidates for Wythemshawe & Sale East by-election
The final list of candidates for the Wythenshawe and Sale East by-election has been announced. The three main parties are standing they're joined by the Greens, UKIP, the BNP and the Official Moster Raving Loony party. The candidates are:
John Bickley - United Kingdom Independence Party
Captain Chaplington-Smythe - Monster Raving Loony Party
Daniel Critchlow - Conservative Party
Mary di Mauro - Liberal Democrat Party
Mike Kane - Labour Party
Eddy O'Sullivan - British National Party
Nigel Woodcock - Green Party
John Bickley - United Kingdom Independence Party
Captain Chaplington-Smythe - Monster Raving Loony Party
Daniel Critchlow - Conservative Party
Mary di Mauro - Liberal Democrat Party
Mike Kane - Labour Party
Eddy O'Sullivan - British National Party
Nigel Woodcock - Green Party
Labour are expected to hold the constituency. The UK Independence party are looking for second but the bookies have them at only 7/1 to spring a surprise and take the seat from Labour. The Coalition parties are expecting a good kicking with the Liberal Democrats likely to loose their deposit. The by-election will take place on Thursday 13th February 2014
A real choice and a real voice: real change
Ed Miliband has unveiled reforms of the Labour Party which will root it ever deeper in the lives of the British people and begin changing the way politics is conducted in our country. Labour say he knows that one of the chief reasons why Britain is in the midst of a sustained cost-of-living crisis is because politics has become out of touch - listening only to a rich and powerful few - while working people, ordinary families, small businesses and consumers are too often ignored.
The reforms being set out today are designed to ensure "One Nation" Labour is a party built by the many which continues to be more successful in the 21st Century than it was in the 20th Century. These reforms will help fulfil Labour’s historic mission to bridge the gulf between political debate in Westminster and the rest of Britain, as well as begin to restore trust in our democracy. And they will complete the journey begun by John Smith 21 years ago to make Labour a modern, democratic and open political party where decisions are taken on the basis of One Member, One Vote (OMOV).
Ed Miliband said: "This is about completing unfinished business from the past 20 years and creating a One Nation Labour Party built on the principle of One Member, One Vote. And it is about letting the people back into our politics: giving people a real choice and a real voice in our party; changing Labour so that Labour can change our country."
The reforms will give:
1. A Real Choice:
Ed Miliband wants to mend, not end, Labour’s historic link to trade unions so that the party can deepen its relationship with people from every walk of life. Trade unions are hugely important civil society institutions in their own right which, week in and week out, fight for working people. Indeed, if that link did not already exist, a One Nation Labour Party seeking to give voice to ordinary people would need to invent one.
But for too long we have operated with structures which were laid down in a different era which did not anticipate the new forms of communication and community activism available for a modern political party. And, in a 21st Century political party, it is no longer acceptable or fair for people to give money to it without having made an active choice as individuals to do so.
So every individual member of an affiliated trade union will be given a straight “Yes or No” choice about whether they want to pay a small sum to ensure their union’s voice is heard within the party. Trade unions will continue to affiliate collectively to Labour but, for the first time, the payment of affiliation fees will become a wholly transparent process based on individual positive consent. These reforms will be introduced during 2014 and will apply to new members of affiliated organisations first. It will be fully implemented for existing members of such organisations within five years - which is the time frame recommended by successive reports into the future of political funding by Sir Gerald Hayden Phillips and Sir Christopher Kelly.
During this period, affiliated organisations will be encouraged to help the party maximise the number of people who agree to pay an affiliation fee. At the end of this period, the affiliation of each organisation will be determined by the number of members who have consented to the payment of affiliation fees. Only those who have made a positive choice to pay affiliation fees will be counted.
2. A Real Voice:
In the last three years, Ed Miliband has already begun opening up the party to registered supporters, campaigns to local communities, and the policy making process to good people with good ideas both inside and outside Labour so that their voice can be better heard. A new opportunity will be given to enable more people, from different walks of life, to have their say in the future of the Labour Party. Those that want to pay this fee will also be asked if they wish - at no extra cost - to become an Affiliated Supporter who has a direct relationship with the party as an individual.
This would mean:
More than 20 years have passed since since John Smith succeeded in introducing the principle of One Member, One Vote, into the way we select Parliamentary candidates. But the way Labour elects its leaders has not kept pace with other changes in the party and in politics. Labour has continued with an electoral college system for choosing leaders which gives different weight to some votes and allows some people to have multiple votes.
The reforms being set out today are designed to ensure "One Nation" Labour is a party built by the many which continues to be more successful in the 21st Century than it was in the 20th Century. These reforms will help fulfil Labour’s historic mission to bridge the gulf between political debate in Westminster and the rest of Britain, as well as begin to restore trust in our democracy. And they will complete the journey begun by John Smith 21 years ago to make Labour a modern, democratic and open political party where decisions are taken on the basis of One Member, One Vote (OMOV).
Ed Miliband said: "This is about completing unfinished business from the past 20 years and creating a One Nation Labour Party built on the principle of One Member, One Vote. And it is about letting the people back into our politics: giving people a real choice and a real voice in our party; changing Labour so that Labour can change our country."
The reforms will give:
- Union members a real choice over the payment of affiliation fees
- Those who wish to become Affiliated Supporters a real voice within a genuinely One Nation Labour Party.
- Everyone who wants a direct individual relationship with the Labour Party a vote in leadership elections according to the principles of OMOV in which everyone is treated as equal in worth to anyone else.
- Londoners the chance to engage in politics with a primary introduced for the selection of Labour candidate for Mayor.
- A guarantee to communities that Labour’s process for selecting candidates is free from manipulation and fair to everyone.
1. A Real Choice:
Ed Miliband wants to mend, not end, Labour’s historic link to trade unions so that the party can deepen its relationship with people from every walk of life. Trade unions are hugely important civil society institutions in their own right which, week in and week out, fight for working people. Indeed, if that link did not already exist, a One Nation Labour Party seeking to give voice to ordinary people would need to invent one.
But for too long we have operated with structures which were laid down in a different era which did not anticipate the new forms of communication and community activism available for a modern political party. And, in a 21st Century political party, it is no longer acceptable or fair for people to give money to it without having made an active choice as individuals to do so.
So every individual member of an affiliated trade union will be given a straight “Yes or No” choice about whether they want to pay a small sum to ensure their union’s voice is heard within the party. Trade unions will continue to affiliate collectively to Labour but, for the first time, the payment of affiliation fees will become a wholly transparent process based on individual positive consent. These reforms will be introduced during 2014 and will apply to new members of affiliated organisations first. It will be fully implemented for existing members of such organisations within five years - which is the time frame recommended by successive reports into the future of political funding by Sir Gerald Hayden Phillips and Sir Christopher Kelly.
During this period, affiliated organisations will be encouraged to help the party maximise the number of people who agree to pay an affiliation fee. At the end of this period, the affiliation of each organisation will be determined by the number of members who have consented to the payment of affiliation fees. Only those who have made a positive choice to pay affiliation fees will be counted.
2. A Real Voice:
In the last three years, Ed Miliband has already begun opening up the party to registered supporters, campaigns to local communities, and the policy making process to good people with good ideas both inside and outside Labour so that their voice can be better heard. A new opportunity will be given to enable more people, from different walks of life, to have their say in the future of the Labour Party. Those that want to pay this fee will also be asked if they wish - at no extra cost - to become an Affiliated Supporter who has a direct relationship with the party as an individual.
This would mean:
- For the first time Labour would be able to contact people affiliated to the party directly, either in person or through phone, email and post.
- For the first time the party would be able to invite them as individuals to take part in local campaigns, policy discussions, and fund-raising.
- For the first time Affiliated Supporters would be attached as an individual to their Constituency party(but with no rights over local or parliamentary selections).
More than 20 years have passed since since John Smith succeeded in introducing the principle of One Member, One Vote, into the way we select Parliamentary candidates. But the way Labour elects its leaders has not kept pace with other changes in the party and in politics. Labour has continued with an electoral college system for choosing leaders which gives different weight to some votes and allows some people to have multiple votes.
The real choice and the real voice Labour is giving members of affiliated organisations open up a way to change the way the party elects it Leader and Deputy Leader. Because the time has come for them to be elected according to the principle of One Member, One Vote. The reforms set out today will abolish the Electoral College and ensure everyone who wants a say is given an equal say.
The role of Affiliated Supporters:
In addition to being given a choice over the payment of affiliation fees, members of Trade Unions and other affiliated organisations will be asked if they want to have an individual voice within it. Those that want to become an Affiliated Supporters - who are not already Members - will have a single vote in the leadership election, along with MPs, Members, and Registered Supporters from all walks of life who have paid a small fee to have a direct relationship with the Party.
Under the new rules all the ballot papers will be issued by the Labour Party which, for the first time, would hold the personal contact details of Affiliated Supporters. Unions and other affiliated organisations will no longer issue their own ballot papers. In the five year transition period, only those members of affiliated trade unions who have separately signed up to become affiliated supporters and consented to pay an affiliation fee will be given a vote in any leadership contest. These changes will ensure that a vote is given only to those people who make an active choice to pay fees to Labour, who declare they support Labour, and register that they want a relationship with Labour.
One of the consequences of the old electoral college was that an MP’s vote could be worth a thousand times more than that of one of their local party members. In a 21st Century political party that is impossible to justify. But the Leader of the Labour Party is chosen from its MPs. And MPs, who will have seen all the candidates close-up, should continue to have a role in ensuring that whoever is chosen is someone who can perform and command respect in Parliament.
Currently, candidates for Leader and Deputy Leader must secure the nominations of 12.5% of MPs before being allowed to enter the contest. This condition would remain but the role of MPs in the nomination process would be strengthened so that only those who secured 20% of nominations from MPs will be allowed to contest the OMOV ballot.
The role of Registered Supporters:
Many people share Labour's aims and values but do not want to become a full member. They come from all walks of life and most of them will never part of a trade union or political party. Since 2011, Labour has been signing up Registered Supporters and there are already around 20,000 of them, participating in campaigns and working with constituency parties. Labour wants to increase this number significantly over the years to come. These Registered Supporters will have similar rights to Affiliated Supporters and in return for payment of a registration fee will be given an equal vote in leadership elections.
The role of Members:
It is important to open up Labour to people who do not want - or do not yet want – to become full members of the Party. But it is equally important to recognise that Members are the lifeblood of the party and that they should retain rights which are not available to anyone else.
Ed Miliband is keen that Labour learns from the experience of other parties around the world which have opened up the selection of candidates to a wider section of the voting public through the use of primaries. This will not be the case in Parliamentary selections at this time. But it makes sense in contests like that for Mayor of London – the largest directly elected position in the UK - where potentially millions of people who support Labour would have a view on who should be the party’s next candidate.
Currently this selection is not reserved solely for Members but is conducted through another Electoral College in which Trade Union and other affiliated organisations have 50% of the vote. It is proposed that this selection is also conducted on OMOV principles with Members, Affiliated Supporters, Registered Supporters– being given an equal vote.
5. Rebuilding Trust in Selections
Changing the way politics is conducted in this country also means repairing the trust which once bound people to the Labour Party and the political process. Ed Miliband is determined to ensure everyone has confidence that Labour’s selections are fair and free from manipulation. Since the Nolan Report on party funding in the late 1990s, Labour has moved away from the old practice of sponsorship of MPs towards the current one of support for constituency organisations.
This was introduced to remove any question that financial support could be used to exercise influence, whilst also recognising the healthy role that trade unions and other organisations can play in funding local political parties and keeping elected representatives in touch with working people in their communities.
These reforms will:
In addition to being given a choice over the payment of affiliation fees, members of Trade Unions and other affiliated organisations will be asked if they want to have an individual voice within it. Those that want to become an Affiliated Supporters - who are not already Members - will have a single vote in the leadership election, along with MPs, Members, and Registered Supporters from all walks of life who have paid a small fee to have a direct relationship with the Party.
Under the new rules all the ballot papers will be issued by the Labour Party which, for the first time, would hold the personal contact details of Affiliated Supporters. Unions and other affiliated organisations will no longer issue their own ballot papers. In the five year transition period, only those members of affiliated trade unions who have separately signed up to become affiliated supporters and consented to pay an affiliation fee will be given a vote in any leadership contest. These changes will ensure that a vote is given only to those people who make an active choice to pay fees to Labour, who declare they support Labour, and register that they want a relationship with Labour.
- No one has more than one vote
- No one’s vote is worth more than anyone else
- No one but Labour can issue ballot papers
One of the consequences of the old electoral college was that an MP’s vote could be worth a thousand times more than that of one of their local party members. In a 21st Century political party that is impossible to justify. But the Leader of the Labour Party is chosen from its MPs. And MPs, who will have seen all the candidates close-up, should continue to have a role in ensuring that whoever is chosen is someone who can perform and command respect in Parliament.
Currently, candidates for Leader and Deputy Leader must secure the nominations of 12.5% of MPs before being allowed to enter the contest. This condition would remain but the role of MPs in the nomination process would be strengthened so that only those who secured 20% of nominations from MPs will be allowed to contest the OMOV ballot.
The role of Registered Supporters:
Many people share Labour's aims and values but do not want to become a full member. They come from all walks of life and most of them will never part of a trade union or political party. Since 2011, Labour has been signing up Registered Supporters and there are already around 20,000 of them, participating in campaigns and working with constituency parties. Labour wants to increase this number significantly over the years to come. These Registered Supporters will have similar rights to Affiliated Supporters and in return for payment of a registration fee will be given an equal vote in leadership elections.
The role of Members:
It is important to open up Labour to people who do not want - or do not yet want – to become full members of the Party. But it is equally important to recognise that Members are the lifeblood of the party and that they should retain rights which are not available to anyone else.
- For the first time there will only be one type of vote in Leadership elections and Members will not be confined to a one-third share of an Electoral College dominated by MPs and Unions. Instead they will have an individual vote along with Affiliated Supporters and Registered Supporters.
- Members will remain the only people who can select Parliamentary candidates.
- Members will remain the only people able to select or become constituency delegates to the annual conference.
- Members will remain the only people who can stand for election as Labour representatives.
- Members will continue to hold elected representatives to account.
Ed Miliband is keen that Labour learns from the experience of other parties around the world which have opened up the selection of candidates to a wider section of the voting public through the use of primaries. This will not be the case in Parliamentary selections at this time. But it makes sense in contests like that for Mayor of London – the largest directly elected position in the UK - where potentially millions of people who support Labour would have a view on who should be the party’s next candidate.
Currently this selection is not reserved solely for Members but is conducted through another Electoral College in which Trade Union and other affiliated organisations have 50% of the vote. It is proposed that this selection is also conducted on OMOV principles with Members, Affiliated Supporters, Registered Supporters– being given an equal vote.
5. Rebuilding Trust in Selections
Changing the way politics is conducted in this country also means repairing the trust which once bound people to the Labour Party and the political process. Ed Miliband is determined to ensure everyone has confidence that Labour’s selections are fair and free from manipulation. Since the Nolan Report on party funding in the late 1990s, Labour has moved away from the old practice of sponsorship of MPs towards the current one of support for constituency organisations.
This was introduced to remove any question that financial support could be used to exercise influence, whilst also recognising the healthy role that trade unions and other organisations can play in funding local political parties and keeping elected representatives in touch with working people in their communities.
These reforms will:
- Ensure standardised constituency agreements are regulated and overseen so that no-one can allege individuals are being put under pressure at a local level.
- Agree a strengthened Code of Conduct for selections, a swift timetable and guarantees that local Members have proper interaction with the candidates.
- Impose a limit on what candidates can spend in pursuit of selection and a cap on donations to a campaign.