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Jamie Oliver urges Cameron to 'be brave' and impose a sugar tax - live Jamie Oliver urges Cameron to 'be brave' and impose a sugar tax - live
(35 minutes later)
5.27pm BST17:27
Sir Edward Leigh, tory MP for Gainsborough, said funding for grammar schools had declined vociferously and that worse performing state schools received more.
Morgan said her party’s manifesto promised fair funding and that £390mn was invested for fairness.
Ian Austin MP, the Labour MP for Dudley North, said he did not agree with Morgn that quality of schooling has become better but that the UK had slid down the league tables and that poorer students should be able to attend good private schools.
Morgan replied by saying Labour had abolished the assisted places scheme and had not implemented pupil premium.
5.23pm BST17:23
Answering Andrew Gwynne, the Denton and Reddish Labour MP, Morgan sad the law would not be changed and that the choice to open the new grammar school last week was a very particular case.
5.17pm BST17:17
Back to the Commons Nicky Morgan, the education minister, has made a statement on school expansion. It follows her announcement last week about he department approving a new grammar school in Sevenoaks, Kent.
It is thought the government’s decision however is likely to prompt more schools to apply for grammar school status
Labour last week however had accused Nicky Morgan, the education secretary, of “attempting to subvert the law”.
5.12pm BST17:12
Jamie Oliver: we have to get "medieval" on school lunches
Jamie Oliver said the enemy of healthy food in schools was packed lunch, and that sometimes when a teacher removes unhealthy foods it can cause a fractious conversation ad there currently no governmnet guidelines on this.
Oliver said he has stood at the schoolgates and looked into the lunchboxes because “I want to know” what kids were eating.
He ended by saying that by January he believed positive changes would be made and that “we have to get medieval” on the issue of unhealthy school meals.
To recap the main points made by Oliver were:
Updated at 5.20pm BST
5.08pm BST17:08
While Jamie Oliver has been addressing the select committee, commentators on twitter have been sharing their thoughts. Here are a few reactions:
Instead of hitting people with Jamie Oliver's Sugar Tax we should be doing everything possible to get kids playing more sport at school.
.@jamieoliver shows Health Select Cttee 500ml sugary drink bottle with FOURTEEN teaspoons of sugar in it, clearly labelled. Blimey.
#jamieoliver reminds Commons Select Committee how sugar "hijacked our Olympics. "Who's running the country? is it big business or is it us?"
5.01pm BST17:015.01pm BST17:01
When Oliver was asked whether his campaign was negative, he said: “we’re not knocking off the halo of the British kid, it’s about putting the halo back,” and that such sugary products had been presented as positive for too long.When Oliver was asked whether his campaign was negative, he said: “we’re not knocking off the halo of the British kid, it’s about putting the halo back,” and that such sugary products had been presented as positive for too long.
4.56pm BST16:564.56pm BST16:56
During his interactive session, Jamie Oliver handed out sugar drinks that he had plastered clear labels about sugar levels to committee members.During his interactive session, Jamie Oliver handed out sugar drinks that he had plastered clear labels about sugar levels to committee members.
“The ill health that we are suffering is lack of clarity and wanting to help British parents”, he said.“The ill health that we are suffering is lack of clarity and wanting to help British parents”, he said.
Dr Sarah Wollaston, chair of the health committee, pointed out that the drinks already had labels telling people how much sugar was in them.Dr Sarah Wollaston, chair of the health committee, pointed out that the drinks already had labels telling people how much sugar was in them.
Oliver responded and said he didn’t care if the industry will be hurt, or more important than children’s health. “Over my dead body” he said.Oliver responded and said he didn’t care if the industry will be hurt, or more important than children’s health. “Over my dead body” he said.
“I was born in industry, I worked in a pub” he said and that his sort of labels were more powerful.“I was born in industry, I worked in a pub” he said and that his sort of labels were more powerful.
Updated at 4.58pm BSTUpdated at 4.58pm BST
4.46pm BST16:464.46pm BST16:46
Jamie Oliver: ban junk food ads before watershedJamie Oliver: ban junk food ads before watershed
Oliver said there was still an issue in the country and “we have to join the dots” so that good food could be distributed around the country.Oliver said there was still an issue in the country and “we have to join the dots” so that good food could be distributed around the country.
He said it could be the first generation in which children could be teaching their parents.He said it could be the first generation in which children could be teaching their parents.
“We’ve normalised the consumption of sugary foods and drinks at home which is completely inappropriate” and that sugary drinks were “not hydration” he said. Oliver said it was a time to “mop up inconsistencies.”“We’ve normalised the consumption of sugary foods and drinks at home which is completely inappropriate” and that sugary drinks were “not hydration” he said. Oliver said it was a time to “mop up inconsistencies.”
He said junk food should not be advertised before 9pm – singling out such adverts during Britain’s Got Talent, the ITV Saturday night talent show. He said however we were nearly there, as advertising for junk food between children’s TV programmes had stopped.He said junk food should not be advertised before 9pm – singling out such adverts during Britain’s Got Talent, the ITV Saturday night talent show. He said however we were nearly there, as advertising for junk food between children’s TV programmes had stopped.
Updated at 4.48pm BSTUpdated at 4.48pm BST
4.39pm BST16:394.39pm BST16:39
When asked whether such a sugar tax would unfairly affect people on lower socio-economic background, Oliver passed around a brief about Sugar Rush and said it was pioneering and that others would follow.When asked whether such a sugar tax would unfairly affect people on lower socio-economic background, Oliver passed around a brief about Sugar Rush and said it was pioneering and that others would follow.
“It’s a profoundly important time” he said.“It’s a profoundly important time” he said.
On profitability, he said within supermarkets it has to be easier to make the right choice and promote a better balance.On profitability, he said within supermarkets it has to be easier to make the right choice and promote a better balance.
He said his suggestion was that there should be a three year 20% tax on each litre of sugary drink.He said his suggestion was that there should be a three year 20% tax on each litre of sugary drink.
Many public health experts support the call for a 20% tax on sugary drinks, which they believe would reduce consumption, as even a 10% tax has in Mexico, which has one of the world’s worst obesity problems and high rates of type 2 diabetes.Many public health experts support the call for a 20% tax on sugary drinks, which they believe would reduce consumption, as even a 10% tax has in Mexico, which has one of the world’s worst obesity problems and high rates of type 2 diabetes.
The tax could raise £1bn, according to Sustain, the campaigners for a sugar duty, which should be spent in initiative to prevent childhood obesity and diet-related disease.The tax could raise £1bn, according to Sustain, the campaigners for a sugar duty, which should be spent in initiative to prevent childhood obesity and diet-related disease.
Updated at 4.58pm BSTUpdated at 4.58pm BST
4.32pm BST16:324.32pm BST16:32
Oliver was questioned about some of the sugary products sold at his restaurant chain at Gatwick.Oliver was questioned about some of the sugary products sold at his restaurant chain at Gatwick.
Oliver said he was not aware of this and would review it. He said his restaurant was one of the few in an airport to bake fresh bread.Oliver said he was not aware of this and would review it. He said his restaurant was one of the few in an airport to bake fresh bread.
4.28pm BST16:284.28pm BST16:28
Jamie Oliver, when asked, said he was not demonising sugar – “I think sugar is great.”Jamie Oliver, when asked, said he was not demonising sugar – “I think sugar is great.”
He said there was honest and dishonest sugar: chocolate and cake being honest, cereal, sugary drinks being dishonest.He said there was honest and dishonest sugar: chocolate and cake being honest, cereal, sugary drinks being dishonest.
4.26pm BST16:264.26pm BST16:26
TV chef urges Cameron to impose "sugar tax"TV chef urges Cameron to impose "sugar tax"
Jamie Oliver said diet and controlling sugar is something that we had to be passionate about, in regards to children’s health, and urged for a sugar tax. He said after the imposition of such a tax: “everything will cascade off it beautifully”.Jamie Oliver said diet and controlling sugar is something that we had to be passionate about, in regards to children’s health, and urged for a sugar tax. He said after the imposition of such a tax: “everything will cascade off it beautifully”.
4.23pm BST16:234.23pm BST16:23
Jamie Oliver speaks on childhood obesityJamie Oliver speaks on childhood obesity
Switching to a select committee now, Jamie Oliver the TV chef, meets with senior MPs to talk about sugary drinks and the issue of childhood obesity.Switching to a select committee now, Jamie Oliver the TV chef, meets with senior MPs to talk about sugary drinks and the issue of childhood obesity.
He said clamping down on sugary drinks was seen as radical by some in the UK as: “the French are doing it, the Mexicans are doing it.”He said clamping down on sugary drinks was seen as radical by some in the UK as: “the French are doing it, the Mexicans are doing it.”
He called the prime minister “to be brave” and do the right thing for public health, such as considering a sugar tax.He called the prime minister “to be brave” and do the right thing for public health, such as considering a sugar tax.
Updated at 4.23pm BSTUpdated at 4.23pm BST
4.13pm BST16:134.13pm BST16:13
Keith Vaz, the senior Labour MP said he welcomed the additional support to Turkey and what was already being done to resettle the refugees but said: the scenes of refugees being shuttled from country to anther country was contrary to the values of Europe. He asked what else would be done particularly to stop people smugglers.Keith Vaz, the senior Labour MP said he welcomed the additional support to Turkey and what was already being done to resettle the refugees but said: the scenes of refugees being shuttled from country to anther country was contrary to the values of Europe. He asked what else would be done particularly to stop people smugglers.
4.10pm BST16:104.10pm BST16:10
In answer to Andrew Tyrie MP for Chichester, Cameron said that possible to boil down the the question on Europe and said that it has: “got to be possible to be a successful member outside the European Union as it is to be inside the European union”.In answer to Andrew Tyrie MP for Chichester, Cameron said that possible to boil down the the question on Europe and said that it has: “got to be possible to be a successful member outside the European Union as it is to be inside the European union”.
He said the Britain’s approach would make this possible.He said the Britain’s approach would make this possible.
4.06pm BST16:064.06pm BST16:06
Yvette Cooper, the senior Labour MP, stands now. She said that the Shengen agreement was not the cause of the refugee crisis.Yvette Cooper, the senior Labour MP, stands now. She said that the Shengen agreement was not the cause of the refugee crisis.
She said of the humanitarian crisis: “please will the Prime Minister show some leadership and not just outside Europe” and help refugees arriving to Europe in Greece?”She said of the humanitarian crisis: “please will the Prime Minister show some leadership and not just outside Europe” and help refugees arriving to Europe in Greece?”
Tim Farron, the Lib Dem leader, asked Cameron about the actions of Viktor Orbán, the Hungarian prime minister, who said he wanted to keep migrants out of Europe.Tim Farron, the Lib Dem leader, asked Cameron about the actions of Viktor Orbán, the Hungarian prime minister, who said he wanted to keep migrants out of Europe.
3.56pm BST15:563.56pm BST15:56
Cameron says “Bishops were wrong” about UK refugee helpCameron says “Bishops were wrong” about UK refugee help
Cameron, in answer to Corbyn, said it was right to offer some financial assistance to Turkey as the country was helping 2 million refugees. He reiterated the UK was not part of Schengen so could not do more about the brders.Cameron, in answer to Corbyn, said it was right to offer some financial assistance to Turkey as the country was helping 2 million refugees. He reiterated the UK was not part of Schengen so could not do more about the brders.
He said there would be a report after Christmas on the update of the number of refugees helped.He said there would be a report after Christmas on the update of the number of refugees helped.
PM says: “Bishops were wrong” about him, and that he had not ignored their pleas to provide further assistance to refugeesPM says: “Bishops were wrong” about him, and that he had not ignored their pleas to provide further assistance to refugees
In response to a letter signed by 84 bishops of the Church of England who accused David Cameron of ignoring their offers to help to provide housing, foster care and other support for up to 50,000 refugees –the prime minister flatly denied this and said “I have great respect for the bishops” but added that on this occasion “the Bishops were wrong.”In response to a letter signed by 84 bishops of the Church of England who accused David Cameron of ignoring their offers to help to provide housing, foster care and other support for up to 50,000 refugees –the prime minister flatly denied this and said “I have great respect for the bishops” but added that on this occasion “the Bishops were wrong.”
The Prime Minister replied by insisting the UK’s stance has gained “a lot of respect” within the EU, adding the 84 Church of England bishops who have asked him to accept at least 50,000 Syrian refugees are “wrong”.The Prime Minister replied by insisting the UK’s stance has gained “a lot of respect” within the EU, adding the 84 Church of England bishops who have asked him to accept at least 50,000 Syrian refugees are “wrong”.
Mr Cameron suggested the bishops should press other countries to fulfil their aid commitments.Mr Cameron suggested the bishops should press other countries to fulfil their aid commitments.
Updated at 4.16pm BSTUpdated at 4.16pm BST
3.50pm BST15:503.50pm BST15:50
Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, asked the prime minister to confirm whether there would be votes for 16 year olds on the European Referendum.Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, asked the prime minister to confirm whether there would be votes for 16 year olds on the European Referendum.
He said about the refugee crisis that the duty should not be outsourced to other countries. He said he welcomed the government helping refugee camps but asked what was being done to help refugees that had come to the UK.He said about the refugee crisis that the duty should not be outsourced to other countries. He said he welcomed the government helping refugee camps but asked what was being done to help refugees that had come to the UK.
He asked for more details on the “command structure” organised to deal with people smuggling across European borders.He asked for more details on the “command structure” organised to deal with people smuggling across European borders.
Corbyn said the situation in Syria was complex, that the humanitarian crisis had led to half the population, the vast majority fleeing to neighbouring countries, but said there needed to be a political solution.Corbyn said the situation in Syria was complex, that the humanitarian crisis had led to half the population, the vast majority fleeing to neighbouring countries, but said there needed to be a political solution.
Speaking in the Commons, he asked how many Syrian refugees have been accepted under the Government’s scheme to relocate vulnerable people.Speaking in the Commons, he asked how many Syrian refugees have been accepted under the Government’s scheme to relocate vulnerable people.
Corbyn, who praised the UK’s aid effort in response to the Syrian crisis, added: “Will you give a substantive reply to the letter from 84 bishops calling on you to accept 50,000 refugees?Corbyn, who praised the UK’s aid effort in response to the Syrian crisis, added: “Will you give a substantive reply to the letter from 84 bishops calling on you to accept 50,000 refugees?
“If Britain played a more positive role on this front, it may create the goodwill in Europe to make headway in your other forthcoming negotiations.”“If Britain played a more positive role on this front, it may create the goodwill in Europe to make headway in your other forthcoming negotiations.”
He urged for safe spaces in Syria itself to help humanitarian aid.He urged for safe spaces in Syria itself to help humanitarian aid.
He asked, finally, whether Cameron had asked his Italian counterpart over job losses as SSI Redcar plant.He asked, finally, whether Cameron had asked his Italian counterpart over job losses as SSI Redcar plant.
Updated at 4.18pm BSTUpdated at 4.18pm BST
3.40pm BST15:403.40pm BST15:40
Cameron begins by saying 8,000 people are arriving in Germany each day. The UK does not take part in Schengen and is not participating in the quota system.Cameron begins by saying 8,000 people are arriving in Germany each day. The UK does not take part in Schengen and is not participating in the quota system.
Britain would be taking 20,000 refugees from the camps, Cameron said, adding that he thought “this is the right approach”.Britain would be taking 20,000 refugees from the camps, Cameron said, adding that he thought “this is the right approach”.
The council condemned the brutality of Isil and Assad, Cameron said, in equal measure.The council condemned the brutality of Isil and Assad, Cameron said, in equal measure.
He updated the House telling them that part of the the European Council conclusion was that Turkey should be included to be a part of a comprehensive cooperation agenda based on shared responsibility, mutual commitments and delivery.He updated the House telling them that part of the the European Council conclusion was that Turkey should be included to be a part of a comprehensive cooperation agenda based on shared responsibility, mutual commitments and delivery.
He said that he had challenged the raised the issue of Russia’s involvement, and said that 8 out of 10 out of Russia’s attacks were against opposition of Assad, not Isil.He said that he had challenged the raised the issue of Russia’s involvement, and said that 8 out of 10 out of Russia’s attacks were against opposition of Assad, not Isil.
3.33pm BST15:333.33pm BST15:33
Aisha GaniAisha Gani
Hello, good afternoon. I’m Aisha Gani and I’ll be anchoring the politics liveblog now, covering David Cameron’s statement statement in the Commons on the recent meeting of the European Council.Hello, good afternoon. I’m Aisha Gani and I’ll be anchoring the politics liveblog now, covering David Cameron’s statement statement in the Commons on the recent meeting of the European Council.
Cameron is expected to update the House having attended the meeting of the European Council on 15 October 2015. Among points of discussion was the current migration and refugee crisis in Europe.Cameron is expected to update the House having attended the meeting of the European Council on 15 October 2015. Among points of discussion was the current migration and refugee crisis in Europe.
Updated at 3.51pm BSTUpdated at 3.51pm BST
3.27pm BST15:273.27pm BST15:27
I’m handing over to my colleague Aisha Gani for the rest of the afternoon. She’ll be live blogging the prime minister’s statement updating MPs on last week’s European Council meeting and the debate on the Wilson Doctrine. There will also be an oral statement on grammar schools.I’m handing over to my colleague Aisha Gani for the rest of the afternoon. She’ll be live blogging the prime minister’s statement updating MPs on last week’s European Council meeting and the debate on the Wilson Doctrine. There will also be an oral statement on grammar schools.
I’ll be back tomorrow morning. Thanks for the comments!I’ll be back tomorrow morning. Thanks for the comments!
3.07pm BST15:073.07pm BST15:07
A reminder of the key points in the Wilson Doctrine case:A reminder of the key points in the Wilson Doctrine case:
This was interesting on the Daily Politics from Sir David Omand, former director of GCHQ –This was interesting on the Daily Politics from Sir David Omand, former director of GCHQ –
Sir David Omand: ‘You have to understand what Harold Wilson was facing in 1966 when he made this famous statement’ https://t.co/GqDhWw12wvSir David Omand: ‘You have to understand what Harold Wilson was facing in 1966 when he made this famous statement’ https://t.co/GqDhWw12wv
Updated at 3.07pm BSTUpdated at 3.07pm BST
2.53pm BST14:532.53pm BST14:53
Ahead of the debate on the Wilson Doctrine, the Green party’s only MP, Caroline Lucas, has released a statement calling for the protection of MPs communications to be enshrined in law. The MP for Brighton Pavilion said:Ahead of the debate on the Wilson Doctrine, the Green party’s only MP, Caroline Lucas, has released a statement calling for the protection of MPs communications to be enshrined in law. The MP for Brighton Pavilion said:
Recent statements by ministers suggested that the Wilson Doctrine was in force – yet last week’s ruling indicates that this crucial protection has been shredded. MPs were repeatedly told that blanket surveillance wasn’t permitted because of the Wilson Doctrine – yet it is in fact taking place and constitutes a grave breach of our constituents’ privacy. The Government must now come clean about what they knew about the status of the Wilson Doctrine.Recent statements by ministers suggested that the Wilson Doctrine was in force – yet last week’s ruling indicates that this crucial protection has been shredded. MPs were repeatedly told that blanket surveillance wasn’t permitted because of the Wilson Doctrine – yet it is in fact taking place and constitutes a grave breach of our constituents’ privacy. The Government must now come clean about what they knew about the status of the Wilson Doctrine.
Members of the public should be able to expect representation without their privacy being compromised. Indeed blanket surveillance of politicians is nothing short of a stain on our parliamentary democracy - it must be stopped.Members of the public should be able to expect representation without their privacy being compromised. Indeed blanket surveillance of politicians is nothing short of a stain on our parliamentary democracy - it must be stopped.
It is crucial that upcoming legislation on surveillance includes a provision to protect the communications of MPs, Peers, MSPs, AMs and MEPS from extra-judicial spying. For the sake of constituents – and to protect whistle-blowers who need to contact parliamentarians – the protection of national politicians’ communications must now be enshrined in law.It is crucial that upcoming legislation on surveillance includes a provision to protect the communications of MPs, Peers, MSPs, AMs and MEPS from extra-judicial spying. For the sake of constituents – and to protect whistle-blowers who need to contact parliamentarians – the protection of national politicians’ communications must now be enshrined in law.
2.30pm BST14:302.30pm BST14:30
The Telegraph is reporting that Conservative MP Geoffrey Cox has resigned from parliament’s sleaze watchdog after failing to declare hundreds of thousands of pounds of outside income on time. Cox, who is a QC, has apologised and referred himself to the standards commissioner.The Telegraph is reporting that Conservative MP Geoffrey Cox has resigned from parliament’s sleaze watchdog after failing to declare hundreds of thousands of pounds of outside income on time. Cox, who is a QC, has apologised and referred himself to the standards commissioner.
The Torridge and West Devon MP is known as one of parliament’s highest earners, and has argued that continuing to practise law alongside his parliamentary duties means he has “practical experience of a world outside politics”.The Torridge and West Devon MP is known as one of parliament’s highest earners, and has argued that continuing to practise law alongside his parliamentary duties means he has “practical experience of a world outside politics”.
According to the latest register of members’ financial interests, Mr Cox received £325,000 on June 15 and 16 this year for 500 hours of work carried out between June 2014 and March 2015.According to the latest register of members’ financial interests, Mr Cox received £325,000 on June 15 and 16 this year for 500 hours of work carried out between June 2014 and March 2015.
2.05pm BST14:052.05pm BST14:05
Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has been on the BBC’s World at One, making comments about the government’s tax credit plans which will not be appreciated by Downing Street.Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has been on the BBC’s World at One, making comments about the government’s tax credit plans which will not be appreciated by Downing Street.
While Johnson said it was “brave” of Osborne to attempt to change the tax credit system, which he said needed reform, he also said: “Irrespective of the politics of it, nobody wants to do something that is not fair to working people.”While Johnson said it was “brave” of Osborne to attempt to change the tax credit system, which he said needed reform, he also said: “Irrespective of the politics of it, nobody wants to do something that is not fair to working people.”
“This is something that is under intensive review and consultation at the moment,” said Johnson. “I have no doubt that people are working very, very hard right now to try to make sure that, as we reform the tax credit system, we do so in such a way as not to bear down too unfairly on the hard working people on low incomes in my city, London, and elsewhere.”“This is something that is under intensive review and consultation at the moment,” said Johnson. “I have no doubt that people are working very, very hard right now to try to make sure that, as we reform the tax credit system, we do so in such a way as not to bear down too unfairly on the hard working people on low incomes in my city, London, and elsewhere.”
Johnson used his speech at the Conservative party conference to deliver a coded warning to Osborne about the impact of tax credit cuts of up to £1,300 per family. He said: “We must ensure that as we reform welfare and we cut taxes that we protect the hardest working and lowest paid: shop workers, cleaners, the people who get up in the small hours or work through the night because they have dreams for what their families can achieve.”Johnson used his speech at the Conservative party conference to deliver a coded warning to Osborne about the impact of tax credit cuts of up to £1,300 per family. He said: “We must ensure that as we reform welfare and we cut taxes that we protect the hardest working and lowest paid: shop workers, cleaners, the people who get up in the small hours or work through the night because they have dreams for what their families can achieve.”
Two Conservative MPs, David Davis and Stephen McPartland, voted against the government’s reforms to tax credits last month.Two Conservative MPs, David Davis and Stephen McPartland, voted against the government’s reforms to tax credits last month.
1.33pm BST13:331.33pm BST13:33
Hilary Benn, Labour’s shadow foreign secretary, has written to Philip Hammond asking him to intervene with Interserve after the reports of disciplinary action against FCO cleaners.Hilary Benn, Labour’s shadow foreign secretary, has written to Philip Hammond asking him to intervene with Interserve after the reports of disciplinary action against FCO cleaners.
Here is the text of the letter –Here is the text of the letter –
I have read with great concern reports in the press today regarding disciplinary action taken by Interserve, a contractor working for the FCO, against cleaners in their employment who work at the FCO’s offices.I have read with great concern reports in the press today regarding disciplinary action taken by Interserve, a contractor working for the FCO, against cleaners in their employment who work at the FCO’s offices.
It appears that a letter sent to you dated 21 July 2015 by a number of cleaners asking for a meeting to discuss the possibility of receiving a Living Wage was used as part of this action by Interserve. I spoke to one of your cleaners today who told me about this and she was very upset about what happened.It appears that a letter sent to you dated 21 July 2015 by a number of cleaners asking for a meeting to discuss the possibility of receiving a Living Wage was used as part of this action by Interserve. I spoke to one of your cleaners today who told me about this and she was very upset about what happened.
I understand that other government departments do pay the Living Wage to their cleaners. Indeed your Cabinet colleague Iain Duncan Smith MP met with cleaners asking for the Living Wage and ensured they got it.I understand that other government departments do pay the Living Wage to their cleaners. Indeed your Cabinet colleague Iain Duncan Smith MP met with cleaners asking for the Living Wage and ensured they got it.
I have some questions that I would be grateful if you could answer:I have some questions that I would be grateful if you could answer:
· Did your office pass this letter to Interserve and, if so, were any comments made about its contents?· Did your office pass this letter to Interserve and, if so, were any comments made about its contents?
· Is the FCO aiming to become an accredited Living Wage employer and, if so, by when?· Is the FCO aiming to become an accredited Living Wage employer and, if so, by when?
· Will you investigate what happened and intervene with Interserve to ensure that citizens exercising their democratic right to write to a Government minister are able to do so without having to fear repercussions from their employer?· Will you investigate what happened and intervene with Interserve to ensure that citizens exercising their democratic right to write to a Government minister are able to do so without having to fear repercussions from their employer?
The people who clean your offices are trusted colleagues who work in a sensitive environment. They should be treated with dignity and respect, and if their colleagues elsewhere in Whitehall are now being paid the Living Wage then I cannot see why they should not be treated equally. I do hope that you will ensure that a Living Wage is paid to the cleaners at the FCO in time for Christmas.The people who clean your offices are trusted colleagues who work in a sensitive environment. They should be treated with dignity and respect, and if their colleagues elsewhere in Whitehall are now being paid the Living Wage then I cannot see why they should not be treated equally. I do hope that you will ensure that a Living Wage is paid to the cleaners at the FCO in time for Christmas.
1.29pm BST13:291.29pm BST13:29
Labour’s shadow policing minister Jack Dromey has been speaking to the BBC. He said it was crucial that the government should “get the balance right” on counter-extremism: “The last thing we should do is to alienate the Muslim community.” He likened the government’s approach to that taken with Irish republican terrorism, which he said served to drive “a whole community into the hands of the IRA”.Labour’s shadow policing minister Jack Dromey has been speaking to the BBC. He said it was crucial that the government should “get the balance right” on counter-extremism: “The last thing we should do is to alienate the Muslim community.” He likened the government’s approach to that taken with Irish republican terrorism, which he said served to drive “a whole community into the hands of the IRA”.
The prime minister’s got to be very careful not to use the language he used earlier in the summer that somehow the Muslim community is not standing up to terrorism.The prime minister’s got to be very careful not to use the language he used earlier in the summer that somehow the Muslim community is not standing up to terrorism.
1.04pm BST13:041.04pm BST13:04
Lunchtime summaryLunchtime summary
Today’s debate is probably timely. However I hope MPs will resist the temptation to use misplaced arguments about their own importance and ill founded conspiracy theories to try to protect an outdated ‘doctrine’. A modern, transparent legally sound basis for interception and protection from it is what is needed now.Today’s debate is probably timely. However I hope MPs will resist the temptation to use misplaced arguments about their own importance and ill founded conspiracy theories to try to protect an outdated ‘doctrine’. A modern, transparent legally sound basis for interception and protection from it is what is needed now.
2015 will be a year to remember for China and Britain. Despite a slight slowdown in China’s growth, its choice of the City of London to lead the world in debt issuance in renminbi and the Chancellor’s recent visit are signs that our thriving trading partnership lies at the heart of the UK’s economic future.2015 will be a year to remember for China and Britain. Despite a slight slowdown in China’s growth, its choice of the City of London to lead the world in debt issuance in renminbi and the Chancellor’s recent visit are signs that our thriving trading partnership lies at the heart of the UK’s economic future.
From infrastructure projects to digital technology, the UK is the top destination for Chinese foreign direct investment in Europe, whilst UK exports to China have more than trebled since 2007. President Xi’s State Visit is a timely sign of the ever-deepening importance of the relationship between Britain and China. It will help further strengthen the trading bonds that link our two countries, and thus drive growth and create jobs in both our nations.From infrastructure projects to digital technology, the UK is the top destination for Chinese foreign direct investment in Europe, whilst UK exports to China have more than trebled since 2007. President Xi’s State Visit is a timely sign of the ever-deepening importance of the relationship between Britain and China. It will help further strengthen the trading bonds that link our two countries, and thus drive growth and create jobs in both our nations.
Updated at 1.06pm BSTUpdated at 1.06pm BST
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Here’s some Twitter reaction to the counter-extremism strategy.Here’s some Twitter reaction to the counter-extremism strategy.
From Jonathan Russell at the Quilliam Foundation –From Jonathan Russell at the Quilliam Foundation –
Like me, take the time to read the counter-extremism strategy inside out. Don't let your dogma get in the way of this debate!Like me, take the time to read the counter-extremism strategy inside out. Don't let your dogma get in the way of this debate!
From Kevin Maguire, associate editor at the Mirror –From Kevin Maguire, associate editor at the Mirror –
Unfortunate timing, Dave unveiling a counter extremism strategy then greeting China's head with an extreme record on violating human rightsUnfortunate timing, Dave unveiling a counter extremism strategy then greeting China's head with an extreme record on violating human rights
From the law and policy blogger David Allen Green –From the law and policy blogger David Allen Green –
The "counter-extremism" strategy, by which the UK will protect free speech by curbing free speech: https://t.co/Bk5r8X9iXOThe "counter-extremism" strategy, by which the UK will protect free speech by curbing free speech: https://t.co/Bk5r8X9iXO
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A statement from the Henry Jackson Society, a rightwing think tank which has previously been accused of pushing an anti-Muslim agenda.A statement from the Henry Jackson Society, a rightwing think tank which has previously been accused of pushing an anti-Muslim agenda.
HJS has long highlighted the threat posed to both national security and British society by extremists and believes the government is largely on the right track. The UK already has a world-leading counter-terrorism strategy and the Prime Minister has taken important steps to redefine the debate in recent months. Many of the new initiatives are vital in protecting the British public and HJS welcomes in particular the measures that empower individuals and institutions to challenge extremists, something we have consistently called for.HJS has long highlighted the threat posed to both national security and British society by extremists and believes the government is largely on the right track. The UK already has a world-leading counter-terrorism strategy and the Prime Minister has taken important steps to redefine the debate in recent months. Many of the new initiatives are vital in protecting the British public and HJS welcomes in particular the measures that empower individuals and institutions to challenge extremists, something we have consistently called for.
However, much work remains to be done and some significant concerns remain. In particular these relate to anticipated measures - such as extremism disruption orders – which restrict freedom of expression and may risk undermining these welcome steps.However, much work remains to be done and some significant concerns remain. In particular these relate to anticipated measures - such as extremism disruption orders – which restrict freedom of expression and may risk undermining these welcome steps.
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Counter-extremism strategy summaryCounter-extremism strategy summary
In a foreword to the counter-extremism strategy, David Cameron writes that the fight against Islamist extremism is “one of the great struggles of our generation”.In a foreword to the counter-extremism strategy, David Cameron writes that the fight against Islamist extremism is “one of the great struggles of our generation”.
In responding to this poisonous ideology, we face a choice. Do we close our eyes, put our kid gloves on and just hope that our values will somehow endure in the end? Or do we get out there and make the case for those values, defend them with all that we’ve got and resolve to win the battle of ideas all over again? In the past, I believe governments made the wrong choice. Whether in the face of Islamist or neo-Nazi extremism, we were too tolerant of intolerance, too afraid to cause offence. We seemed to lack the strength and resolve to stand up for what is right, even when the damage being done by extremists was all too clear.In responding to this poisonous ideology, we face a choice. Do we close our eyes, put our kid gloves on and just hope that our values will somehow endure in the end? Or do we get out there and make the case for those values, defend them with all that we’ve got and resolve to win the battle of ideas all over again? In the past, I believe governments made the wrong choice. Whether in the face of Islamist or neo-Nazi extremism, we were too tolerant of intolerance, too afraid to cause offence. We seemed to lack the strength and resolve to stand up for what is right, even when the damage being done by extremists was all too clear.
Here are some key announcements in the strategy -Here are some key announcements in the strategy -
Updated at 11.58am BSTUpdated at 11.58am BST
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Alan TravisAlan Travis
Here is a first take on the counter-extremism strategy from the Guardian’s home affairs editor, Alan Travis.Here is a first take on the counter-extremism strategy from the Guardian’s home affairs editor, Alan Travis.
A major government “counter-ideology campaign at pace and scale” to combat Islamist and other forms of extremism in Britain is at the heart of the new counter-extremism strategy published on Monday.A major government “counter-ideology campaign at pace and scale” to combat Islamist and other forms of extremism in Britain is at the heart of the new counter-extremism strategy published on Monday.
The campaign will include a full review of all public institutions to safeguard them against the risk of ‘entryism’ by extremists, including schools, colleges, the civil service and local authorities.The campaign will include a full review of all public institutions to safeguard them against the risk of ‘entryism’ by extremists, including schools, colleges, the civil service and local authorities.
The launch of the hunt for extremists across the public sector follows the Trojan Horse affair in Birmingham schools.The launch of the hunt for extremists across the public sector follows the Trojan Horse affair in Birmingham schools.
“The review will clearly set out the risk posed and advise on measures to guard against entryism, for example by improving governance, inspection and whistle-blowing mechanisms. It will also engage charities and businesses to help them identify and tackle entryist behaviour,” says the new strategy.“The review will clearly set out the risk posed and advise on measures to guard against entryism, for example by improving governance, inspection and whistle-blowing mechanisms. It will also engage charities and businesses to help them identify and tackle entryist behaviour,” says the new strategy.
It will also include an official investigation into the application of Sharia law, new powers to intervene in the activities of faith-based “supplementary schools” and a new “extremism community trigger” to guarantee the police will take seriously complaints from the public about suspected extremists.It will also include an official investigation into the application of Sharia law, new powers to intervene in the activities of faith-based “supplementary schools” and a new “extremism community trigger” to guarantee the police will take seriously complaints from the public about suspected extremists.
The details of the published strategy show that the tough package first proposed by the home secretary, Theresa May, back in March has survived largely intact despite objections from no fewer than six of her cabinet colleagues.The details of the published strategy show that the tough package first proposed by the home secretary, Theresa May, back in March has survived largely intact despite objections from no fewer than six of her cabinet colleagues.
She has compromised with her cabinet colleagues over her initial proposal to require broadcasters to allow television programmes to be vetted for extremist content before they are broadcast. Instead they will be challenged “whenever extremists have been given a platform to preach harmful messages and falsehoods without critical challenge.”She has compromised with her cabinet colleagues over her initial proposal to require broadcasters to allow television programmes to be vetted for extremist content before they are broadcast. Instead they will be challenged “whenever extremists have been given a platform to preach harmful messages and falsehoods without critical challenge.”
Existing legislation requiring Ofcom, the broadcasting watchdog, to immediate suspend television services that broadcast unacceptable extremist material is also to be extended to radio services.Existing legislation requiring Ofcom, the broadcasting watchdog, to immediate suspend television services that broadcast unacceptable extremist material is also to be extended to radio services.
Also missing from the revised strategy is the previous plan to publish a list of “hate preachers”. Instead the strategy includes previously advertised orders banning extremist groups, closure orders against mosques used by extremists, and ‘disruption orders’ issued against individual named extremists. These orders will mean it is set out clearly for the first time which individuals and organisations the government and the public sector should not engage with.Also missing from the revised strategy is the previous plan to publish a list of “hate preachers”. Instead the strategy includes previously advertised orders banning extremist groups, closure orders against mosques used by extremists, and ‘disruption orders’ issued against individual named extremists. These orders will mean it is set out clearly for the first time which individuals and organisations the government and the public sector should not engage with.
Updated at 11.46am BSTUpdated at 11.46am BST
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Government publishes full counter-extremism strategyGovernment publishes full counter-extremism strategy
The Home Office has published the full counter-extremism strategy. It’s 40 pages long. You can read it here. I will publish a summary shortly.The Home Office has published the full counter-extremism strategy. It’s 40 pages long. You can read it here. I will publish a summary shortly.
Updated at 11.35am BSTUpdated at 11.35am BST
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David Cameron has issued a statement on his Facebook page on today’s counter-extremism strategy announcement.David Cameron has issued a statement on his Facebook page on today’s counter-extremism strategy announcement.
Two: this is, at its heart, a battle of ideas. On one side sit the extremists, with a deliberate strategy to infect public debate, divide our communities and advance their warped worldview.Two: this is, at its heart, a battle of ideas. On one side sit the extremists, with a deliberate strategy to infect public debate, divide our communities and advance their warped worldview.
On the other side must sit everyone else – not just the institutions of the state, such as the government, police and security services; but community groups and the rest of society. The extremist narrative needs to be fought every day at the kitchen table, on the university campus, online and on the airwaves.On the other side must sit everyone else – not just the institutions of the state, such as the government, police and security services; but community groups and the rest of society. The extremist narrative needs to be fought every day at the kitchen table, on the university campus, online and on the airwaves.
In the end, this battle will only be won through argument and persuasion – people taking a stand to demonstrate the incredible power of our liberal, democratic values, and the emptiness of theirs...In the end, this battle will only be won through argument and persuasion – people taking a stand to demonstrate the incredible power of our liberal, democratic values, and the emptiness of theirs...
Three: while Islamist extremists in no way represent the true spirit of Islam, we cannot ignore the fact that they attempt to justify their views and actions through Islamic scripture and theology.Three: while Islamist extremists in no way represent the true spirit of Islam, we cannot ignore the fact that they attempt to justify their views and actions through Islamic scripture and theology.
Globally, it is a challenge for all of Islam that a perverted, illiberal and hostile interpretation of this great religion has been allowed to grow. It is a problem that so many see the West as an oppressor, and buy into the grievances, if not necessarily the violence. And it is a worry for the world that some feel allegiance only to a religious brotherhood, instead of to their fellow citizens in nation states.Globally, it is a challenge for all of Islam that a perverted, illiberal and hostile interpretation of this great religion has been allowed to grow. It is a problem that so many see the West as an oppressor, and buy into the grievances, if not necessarily the violence. And it is a worry for the world that some feel allegiance only to a religious brotherhood, instead of to their fellow citizens in nation states.
Updated at 11.25am BSTUpdated at 11.25am BST
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Muslim Council of Britain: anti-extremism plans have McCarthyist undertonesMuslim Council of Britain: anti-extremism plans have McCarthyist undertones
The secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, Dr Shuja Shafi, has issued a statement on the anti-extremism announcement saying it is based on “fuzzy conceptions of British values”:The secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, Dr Shuja Shafi, has issued a statement on the anti-extremism announcement saying it is based on “fuzzy conceptions of British values”:
...today’s ‘one nation’ counter-extremism strategy continues down a flawed path, focusing on Muslims in particular, and are based on fuzzy conceptions of British values....today’s ‘one nation’ counter-extremism strategy continues down a flawed path, focusing on Muslims in particular, and are based on fuzzy conceptions of British values.
It risks being counter-productive by alienating the very people needed to confront Al-Qaeda or Daesh-related terrorism: British Muslim communities. For over 10 years we have had to contend with a misguided ‘conveyor-belt theory’ analysis that conflates terrorism with subjective notions of extremism and Islamic practices. Whether it is in mosques, education or charities, the strategy will reinforce perceptions that all aspects of Muslim life must undergo a ‘compliance’ test to prove our loyalty to this country...It risks being counter-productive by alienating the very people needed to confront Al-Qaeda or Daesh-related terrorism: British Muslim communities. For over 10 years we have had to contend with a misguided ‘conveyor-belt theory’ analysis that conflates terrorism with subjective notions of extremism and Islamic practices. Whether it is in mosques, education or charities, the strategy will reinforce perceptions that all aspects of Muslim life must undergo a ‘compliance’ test to prove our loyalty to this country...
...The measures could be seen more as a means to address the anxieties a minority of people may have against Muslims and their religious life, rather than the scourge of terrorism itself......The measures could be seen more as a means to address the anxieties a minority of people may have against Muslims and their religious life, rather than the scourge of terrorism itself...
...We cannot help also detect the McCarthyist undertones in the proposal to create blacklists and exclude and ban people deemed to be extremist. If we are to have such lists at all, they should be determined through a transparent process and subject to judicial oversight to prevent any discrimination and political interference based on pressure from foreign governments......We cannot help also detect the McCarthyist undertones in the proposal to create blacklists and exclude and ban people deemed to be extremist. If we are to have such lists at all, they should be determined through a transparent process and subject to judicial oversight to prevent any discrimination and political interference based on pressure from foreign governments...
In the Muslim Council of Britain’s view, there needs to be clarity of purpose: is this new policy initiative about tackling alienation, or seeking more securitisation? The former requires long-term capacity building and empowerment of Muslim civil society organisations and addressing structural socio-economic imbalances; the latter is about preventing criminality and enforcing the law. To lump both in one programme of action is not logical.In the Muslim Council of Britain’s view, there needs to be clarity of purpose: is this new policy initiative about tackling alienation, or seeking more securitisation? The former requires long-term capacity building and empowerment of Muslim civil society organisations and addressing structural socio-economic imbalances; the latter is about preventing criminality and enforcing the law. To lump both in one programme of action is not logical.
...these initiatives will not be successful if they perpetuate further alienation of the community and are used to restrict freedom of thought and expression, or to conflate conservative views with violent extremism without any evidence base. The Muslim Council of Britain will be doing its part to explore the issue. While the MCB has not taken government funds towards this, it has consistently spoken out against terrorism....these initiatives will not be successful if they perpetuate further alienation of the community and are used to restrict freedom of thought and expression, or to conflate conservative views with violent extremism without any evidence base. The Muslim Council of Britain will be doing its part to explore the issue. While the MCB has not taken government funds towards this, it has consistently spoken out against terrorism.
Updated at 10.46am BSTUpdated at 10.46am BST
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Here’s a round-up of some interesting political stories that you might have missed this morning.Here’s a round-up of some interesting political stories that you might have missed this morning.
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Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver will be giving evidence to the Health select committee this afternoon at around 3.40pm, along side Duncan Selbie, the chief executive of Public Health England. They will be talking about childhood obesity and Oliver will present on his campaign for the introduction of a sugar tax. I’ll try and bring you the highlights later on.Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver will be giving evidence to the Health select committee this afternoon at around 3.40pm, along side Duncan Selbie, the chief executive of Public Health England. They will be talking about childhood obesity and Oliver will present on his campaign for the introduction of a sugar tax. I’ll try and bring you the highlights later on.
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The Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron spoke to the Today programme about the Wilson Doctrine earlier this morning. He insisted that he was not in favour of protecting privilege for MPs.The Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron spoke to the Today programme about the Wilson Doctrine earlier this morning. He insisted that he was not in favour of protecting privilege for MPs.
I’m in favour of protecting privacy for everybody else and what the Wilson Doctrine was seeking to achieve was to ensure that you could have conversations with journalists. A constituent could blow the whistle to me or any other MP and not be at risk of having their telephone tapped, which in the digital age is a much more likely occurrence....I’m in favour of protecting privacy for everybody else and what the Wilson Doctrine was seeking to achieve was to ensure that you could have conversations with journalists. A constituent could blow the whistle to me or any other MP and not be at risk of having their telephone tapped, which in the digital age is a much more likely occurrence....
You should get rid of the Wilson Doctrine if we could replace it with a proper digital bill of rights for everybody. So my privacy is no more important than anybody’s listening to this programme and that’s absolutely critical.You should get rid of the Wilson Doctrine if we could replace it with a proper digital bill of rights for everybody. So my privacy is no more important than anybody’s listening to this programme and that’s absolutely critical.
Farron predicted that the government was likely to revive the Snooper’s Charter, which the Liberal Democrats blocked in the coalition.Farron predicted that the government was likely to revive the Snooper’s Charter, which the Liberal Democrats blocked in the coalition.
My concern is that what government is doing is heading in exactly the opposite direction, that if they bring back the Snooper’s Charter, which is what they are planning to do ... If that happens then you’re going to find not only the security services massively hampered by having so much data they won’t be able to find the people they need to find, but you also have a massive blow to traditional British liberties...My concern is that what government is doing is heading in exactly the opposite direction, that if they bring back the Snooper’s Charter, which is what they are planning to do ... If that happens then you’re going to find not only the security services massively hampered by having so much data they won’t be able to find the people they need to find, but you also have a massive blow to traditional British liberties...
I take the view that not only is that counter-productive, because if you’re looking for a needle in a haystack, don’t triple the size of the haystack, you should also make sure we understand that when we’re trying to fight against terrorists you don’t go giving away your traditional freedoms that Britain has fought for so hard over the years.I take the view that not only is that counter-productive, because if you’re looking for a needle in a haystack, don’t triple the size of the haystack, you should also make sure we understand that when we’re trying to fight against terrorists you don’t go giving away your traditional freedoms that Britain has fought for so hard over the years.
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Theresa May: "This isn’t about people having different views"Theresa May: "This isn’t about people having different views"
Speaking on the BBC’s Today programme, home secretary Theresa May insisted that the anti-extremism measures were not about “people having different views”.Speaking on the BBC’s Today programme, home secretary Theresa May insisted that the anti-extremism measures were not about “people having different views”.
This isn’t about people having different views; different beliefs. It’s not about people saying things that some people don’t agree with. That debate is part of freedom of speech and that debate is part of our democracy - it underpins our society. What this is about is those whose extremist message is there in order to try and spread hatred and to divide communities. And that can, of course, lead to violence, but it also leads to other harms, as we have seen.This isn’t about people having different views; different beliefs. It’s not about people saying things that some people don’t agree with. That debate is part of freedom of speech and that debate is part of our democracy - it underpins our society. What this is about is those whose extremist message is there in order to try and spread hatred and to divide communities. And that can, of course, lead to violence, but it also leads to other harms, as we have seen.
May was cross-questioned about the extension of powers to cancel passports.May was cross-questioned about the extension of powers to cancel passports.
If you talk to, as I have, parents of young people who have been on the path to radicalisation, or perhaps parents, as I have heard from, who have children who have gone out to Syria, some of whom have died out there fighting, then they are saying that they want to see more action taken. They want themselves, within their communities to be able to take more action...If you talk to, as I have, parents of young people who have been on the path to radicalisation, or perhaps parents, as I have heard from, who have children who have gone out to Syria, some of whom have died out there fighting, then they are saying that they want to see more action taken. They want themselves, within their communities to be able to take more action...
I’m not pretending that any of this is easy. Of course this is difficult, but government has a choice here. We can either say ‘well, this is difficult so let’s not do anything’ or we can say ‘well, actually it is difficult, but this is so important that we need to take action.’...I’m not pretending that any of this is easy. Of course this is difficult, but government has a choice here. We can either say ‘well, this is difficult so let’s not do anything’ or we can say ‘well, actually it is difficult, but this is so important that we need to take action.’...
When I talk to people in the muslim community who are out there themselves working against extremism they will welcome support and welcome the fact that the government is saying this is an important issue that we need to deal with.When I talk to people in the muslim community who are out there themselves working against extremism they will welcome support and welcome the fact that the government is saying this is an important issue that we need to deal with.
May also refused to be drawn into condemning the allegations against former Conservative home secretary Leon Brittan – who was cleared of rape allegations – saying instead that she thought it was important that sexual abuse victims weren’t deterred from coming forward.May also refused to be drawn into condemning the allegations against former Conservative home secretary Leon Brittan – who was cleared of rape allegations – saying instead that she thought it was important that sexual abuse victims weren’t deterred from coming forward.
The decisions in relation to looking into allegations are for the police to take. Somebody had come forward with an accusation and what we have seen in recent months and continuing is more people coming forward with allegations of sexual abuse of various sorts ... I think it’s very important that we allow people to come forward with their allegations.The decisions in relation to looking into allegations are for the police to take. Somebody had come forward with an accusation and what we have seen in recent months and continuing is more people coming forward with allegations of sexual abuse of various sorts ... I think it’s very important that we allow people to come forward with their allegations.
Updated at 9.50am BSTUpdated at 9.50am BST
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Good Morning.Good Morning.
David Cameron is due to launch his anti-extremism strategy this afternoon as well as making the case for two new pieces of law – the investigatory powers bill and a counter-terrorism bill.David Cameron is due to launch his anti-extremism strategy this afternoon as well as making the case for two new pieces of law – the investigatory powers bill and a counter-terrorism bill.
As part of the overall strategy, he will extend the powers of parents to cancel their children’s passports if they are worried that their children may be about to travel to Syria or Iraq to join Islamic State. The powers that currently apply to under-16s will now be rolled out to all those under-18.As part of the overall strategy, he will extend the powers of parents to cancel their children’s passports if they are worried that their children may be about to travel to Syria or Iraq to join Islamic State. The powers that currently apply to under-16s will now be rolled out to all those under-18.
There will also be new measures to automatically bar convicted terrorists from working with children and vulnerable people. Cameron will also announce that suspected jihadi returning from Syria and Iraq will be forced to attend classes to address their support for extremist ideology.There will also be new measures to automatically bar convicted terrorists from working with children and vulnerable people. Cameron will also announce that suspected jihadi returning from Syria and Iraq will be forced to attend classes to address their support for extremist ideology.
Home Secretary Theresa May has just been speaking on Today and I’ll bring you a summary shortly.Home Secretary Theresa May has just been speaking on Today and I’ll bring you a summary shortly.
There will be an emergency debate on the Wilson Doctrine – a convention that the UK’s intelligence agencies will not eavesdrop on members of parliament – after around 2.30pm. The Psychoactive Substances Bill will get its second reading after that.There will be an emergency debate on the Wilson Doctrine – a convention that the UK’s intelligence agencies will not eavesdrop on members of parliament – after around 2.30pm. The Psychoactive Substances Bill will get its second reading after that.
I’ll be covering for Andrew this week, bringing you breaking political news as it happens, as well as bringing you the best reaction, comment and analysis from the web.I’ll be covering for Andrew this week, bringing you breaking political news as it happens, as well as bringing you the best reaction, comment and analysis from the web.
If you want to follow me or contact me on Twitter, I’m on @fperraudin.If you want to follow me or contact me on Twitter, I’m on @fperraudin.
Updated at 10.45am BSTUpdated at 10.45am BST