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Version 6 Version 7
Jeremy Corbyn to continue Labour shadow cabinet reshuffle - live Jeremy Corbyn to continue Labour shadow cabinet reshuffle - live
(35 minutes later)
11.46am BST
11:46
My thanks to my colleague Harriet Sherwood, the Guardian’s religious correspondent, who has sent me this rather strongly-worded comment from the Board of Deputies of British Jews on the appointment of Shami Chakrabarti to shadow attorney general.
Calling the Charkabarti Report into antisemitism in the Labour Party a “whitewash”, it states that she has “sold out the Jewish community”.
Board of Deputies Vice President Marie van der Zyl has reacted with “disappointment” to the appointment “only months after she presided over the Charkabarti Report into antisemitism in the Labour Party”, said the statement:
We are disappointed, but sadly unsurprised, that once again Shami Chakrabarti and Jeremy Corbyn have spectacularly undermined her so-called ‘independent’ report.
We hoped her report would be a potent weapon in the fight against antisemitism.
It now looks increasingly like the whitewash was a job application.
She has sold out the Jewish community.
11.38am BST
11:38
I have asked @Europarl_EN Advisory Committee to urgently investigate incident involving MEP @Steven_Woolfe https://t.co/2dJV9KAh6o
News from Europe, president of the European parliament Martin Schulz has launched an urgent investigation into the Ukip “incident”, saying that “disrespectful and violent behaviour” had no place in the parliament.
If the MEPs have been found to breach the parliament’s rules of conduct, they could be fined or even suspended.
Woolfe apparently has no plans to refer the incident to police.
In a statement Schulz said:
I would first of all like to wish a speedy recovery to Steven Woolfe, MEP, who is currently hospitalised. I also heartily thank the Parliament’s staff and medical service which provided the first aid as well as the French medical services which have subsequently been caring for him.
The reported facts are extremely serious. It goes without saying that disrespectful and violent behaviour does not have a place in the European Parliament. Moreover, indulging in this kind of conduct might result in a breach of Rule 11 of Parliament’s Rules of Procedures and of Article 1 of the Code of Conduct for Members of the European Parliament.
As a consequence, and regardless of the possible judicial consequences that this incident may also have, I have decided today to refer this very regrettable matter to the Advisory Committee established by the Code of Conduct, and asked for it to be dealt with as a matter of urgency next week.
11.24am BST11.24am BST
11:2411:24
According to our team in the lobby Jonathan Ashworth, Labour and Co-operative party MP for Leicester South, is thought to be considering accepting the position of shadow health secretary in return for losing his seat on the national executive committee, which would tip the balance of Labour’s governing board back towards Corbyn.According to our team in the lobby Jonathan Ashworth, Labour and Co-operative party MP for Leicester South, is thought to be considering accepting the position of shadow health secretary in return for losing his seat on the national executive committee, which would tip the balance of Labour’s governing board back towards Corbyn.
Dan Hodges, political commentator at the Mail on Sunday has tweeted:Dan Hodges, political commentator at the Mail on Sunday has tweeted:
Told Jon Ashworth has been offered shadow health secretary in return for giving up his NEC seat.Told Jon Ashworth has been offered shadow health secretary in return for giving up his NEC seat.
Jon Ashworth had previously told colleagues he was only remaining in shad cab to protect NEC seat for moderates.Jon Ashworth had previously told colleagues he was only remaining in shad cab to protect NEC seat for moderates.
11.20am BST11.20am BST
11:2011:20
Thank you. Clearly my pledge stands, but it's not the story (or shouldn't be). This is about preventing Govt making a catastrophic decision https://t.co/3GhVxHQ60YThank you. Clearly my pledge stands, but it's not the story (or shouldn't be). This is about preventing Govt making a catastrophic decision https://t.co/3GhVxHQ60Y
Away from the reshuffle and various Ukip shenanigans Conservative MP and former London mayoral candidate Zac Goldsmith has been speaking this morning, and has confirmed that he will stand down as an MP if a third runway is built at Heathrow and urged the government not to make “a catastrophic decision”.Away from the reshuffle and various Ukip shenanigans Conservative MP and former London mayoral candidate Zac Goldsmith has been speaking this morning, and has confirmed that he will stand down as an MP if a third runway is built at Heathrow and urged the government not to make “a catastrophic decision”.
It is thought that the Government is set to back a third runway in the coming weeks, ending years of rowing about airport expansion.It is thought that the Government is set to back a third runway in the coming weeks, ending years of rowing about airport expansion.
Goldsmith, the MP for Richmond, has been one of the leading figures against Heathrow expansion.Goldsmith, the MP for Richmond, has been one of the leading figures against Heathrow expansion.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he said:Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he said:
My position is the same as it was nine years ago.My position is the same as it was nine years ago.
I promised my constituents before I was ever elected in 2010 that I would trigger a by-election were the Government to give a green light to Heathrow expansion. My position has never changed.I promised my constituents before I was ever elected in 2010 that I would trigger a by-election were the Government to give a green light to Heathrow expansion. My position has never changed.
I’m committed to my constituents, I’m committed to fighting this campaign and I’m committed to winning this campaign - and I have every confident that will happen.I’m committed to my constituents, I’m committed to fighting this campaign and I’m committed to winning this campaign - and I have every confident that will happen.
There are huge question marks about whether a third runway could even be delivered, irrespective of the Government’s decision in the next week, two weeks, three weeks or so.There are huge question marks about whether a third runway could even be delivered, irrespective of the Government’s decision in the next week, two weeks, three weeks or so.
The legal risks are immense. You’ve got the councils under the flight path lining up with big cheque books waiting to challenge these proposals.The legal risks are immense. You’ve got the councils under the flight path lining up with big cheque books waiting to challenge these proposals.
There are huge planning risks, there are financial risks.There are huge planning risks, there are financial risks.
Heathrow is massively over leveraged already, there is no prospect of their being able to raise the finance necessary to deliver this project without turning to the taxpayer.Heathrow is massively over leveraged already, there is no prospect of their being able to raise the finance necessary to deliver this project without turning to the taxpayer.
Whatever the Government decides, this project is not going to happen. In five years’ time, 10 years’ time, we’ll still be arguing about it.Whatever the Government decides, this project is not going to happen. In five years’ time, 10 years’ time, we’ll still be arguing about it.
11.15am BST11.15am BST
11:1511:15
Quite a few readers have picked up on the scale of Ukip’s victory in Hartlepool with magnoliaboulevard noting:Quite a few readers have picked up on the scale of Ukip’s victory in Hartlepool with magnoliaboulevard noting:
Staggering, almost unbelievable result from Hartlepool (North East England Labour Party heartland for overseas readers unfamiliar with UK political geography:Staggering, almost unbelievable result from Hartlepool (North East England Labour Party heartland for overseas readers unfamiliar with UK political geography:
Headland & Harbour (Hartlepool) Local council election result:Headland & Harbour (Hartlepool) Local council election result:
UKIP: 49.2% (+49.2)UKIP: 49.2% (+49.2)
BloodAndBandages has pointed out the win in Bolton:BloodAndBandages has pointed out the win in Bolton:
Labour held Rumworth Ward Council by election yesterday in Bolton. Increased majority. Up 4.6%.Labour held Rumworth Ward Council by election yesterday in Bolton. Increased majority. Up 4.6%.
While Roger Higgins, has pointed out that the turnout in Hartlepool was low:While Roger Higgins, has pointed out that the turnout in Hartlepool was low:
On a 17.9% turnout so not really the landslide you believe it implies.On a 17.9% turnout so not really the landslide you believe it implies.
11.05am BST11.05am BST
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Here is MEP Nathan Gill speaking outside the Strasbourg hospital about Steven Woolfe.Here is MEP Nathan Gill speaking outside the Strasbourg hospital about Steven Woolfe.
10.36am BST10.36am BST
10:3610:36
My colleague Nadia Khomami has just provided this up-to-date list of the Labour shadow cabinet as it stands:My colleague Nadia Khomami has just provided this up-to-date list of the Labour shadow cabinet as it stands:
ININ
Shami Chakrabarti – promoted to shadow attorney general – ex-Liberty directorShami Chakrabarti – promoted to shadow attorney general – ex-Liberty director
Jo Stevens – promoted to shadow welsh secretary – MP for Cardiff CentralJo Stevens – promoted to shadow welsh secretary – MP for Cardiff Central
Keir Starmer – promoted to shadow brexit secretary – MP for Holborn and St PancrasKeir Starmer – promoted to shadow brexit secretary – MP for Holborn and St Pancras
Jonathan Reynolds – promoted to shadow economic secretary – MP for Stalybridge and HydeJonathan Reynolds – promoted to shadow economic secretary – MP for Stalybridge and Hyde
Dawn Butler – promoted to shadow minister for black and minority ethnic communities – MP for Brent CentralDawn Butler – promoted to shadow minister for black and minority ethnic communities – MP for Brent Central
Nick Brown – promoted to opposition chief whip – MP for Newcastle upon Tyne EastNick Brown – promoted to opposition chief whip – MP for Newcastle upon Tyne East
Nia Griffith – promoted to shadow defence secretary – MP for LlanelliNia Griffith – promoted to shadow defence secretary – MP for Llanelli
Sarah Champion – promoted to shadow minister for women and equalities – MP for RotherhamSarah Champion – promoted to shadow minister for women and equalities – MP for Rotherham
REMAININGREMAINING
Dianne Abbot – promoted to shadow home secretary (was shadow health secretary) – MP for Hackney North and Stoke NewingtonDianne Abbot – promoted to shadow home secretary (was shadow health secretary) – MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington
Clive Lewis – shadow business secretary (removed from defence, replacing Jon Trickett) – MP for Norwich SouthClive Lewis – shadow business secretary (removed from defence, replacing Jon Trickett) – MP for Norwich South
Emily Thornberry – shadow foreign secretary – MP for Islington South and FinsburyEmily Thornberry – shadow foreign secretary – MP for Islington South and Finsbury
Barry Gardiner – shadow international trade secretary & energy minister – MP for Brent northBarry Gardiner – shadow international trade secretary & energy minister – MP for Brent north
John McDonnell – shadow chancellor – MP for Hayes and HarlingtonJohn McDonnell – shadow chancellor – MP for Hayes and Harlington
Tom Watson – deputy leader – MP for West Bromwich EastTom Watson – deputy leader – MP for West Bromwich East
Jon Trickett – shadow lord president of the council and national campaigns co-ordinator – MP for HemsworthJon Trickett – shadow lord president of the council and national campaigns co-ordinator – MP for Hemsworth
Rachael Maskell – shadow environment secretary – MP for York CentralRachael Maskell – shadow environment secretary – MP for York Central
Rebecca Long-Bailey – shadow chief secretary to treasury – MP for Salford and EcclesRebecca Long-Bailey – shadow chief secretary to treasury – MP for Salford and Eccles
Cat Smith – shadow minister for voter engagement and youth affairs – MP for Lancaster and FleetwoodCat Smith – shadow minister for voter engagement and youth affairs – MP for Lancaster and Fleetwood
Angela Smith – shadow leader of the house of lordsAngela Smith – shadow leader of the house of lords
Richard Burgon – shadow justice secretary – MP for Leeds EastRichard Burgon – shadow justice secretary – MP for Leeds East
Kate Osamor – shadow secretary for international development – MP for EdmontonKate Osamor – shadow secretary for international development – MP for Edmonton
Angela Rayner – shadow education secretary – MP for Ashton-under-LyneAngela Rayner – shadow education secretary – MP for Ashton-under-Lyne
Lord Bassam – house of lords chief whipLord Bassam – house of lords chief whip
Andy McDonald – shadow transport secretary – MP for MiddlesboroughAndy McDonald – shadow transport secretary – MP for Middlesborough
Grahame Morris – shadow secretary of state for communities and local government – MP for EasingtonGrahame Morris – shadow secretary of state for communities and local government – MP for Easington
Kelvin Hopkins – shadow secretary of state for culture, media and sport – MP for Luton NorthKelvin Hopkins – shadow secretary of state for culture, media and sport – MP for Luton North
Jonathan Ashworth – shadow minister without portfolio – MP for Leicester SouthJonathan Ashworth – shadow minister without portfolio – MP for Leicester South
David Anderson – shadow secretary of state for northern ireland & Scotland – MP for BlaydonDavid Anderson – shadow secretary of state for northern ireland & Scotland – MP for Blaydon
Paul Flynn – shadow leader of the house (removed as shadow welsh secretary) – MP for Newport WestPaul Flynn – shadow leader of the house (removed as shadow welsh secretary) – MP for Newport West
Debbie Abrahams – shadow work and pensions secretary – MP for Oldham East and SaddleworthDebbie Abrahams – shadow work and pensions secretary – MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth
OUTOUT
Dame Rosie Winterton – out as chief whip – MP for Doncaster CentralDame Rosie Winterton – out as chief whip – MP for Doncaster Central
10.28am BST10.28am BST
10:2810:28
Headland & Harbour (Hartlepool) result:UKIP: 49.2% (+49.2)LAB: 25.3% (-17.7)PHF: 15.4% (-20.3)CON: 4.1% (-14.0)PNP: 3.6%IND: 2.6%Headland & Harbour (Hartlepool) result:UKIP: 49.2% (+49.2)LAB: 25.3% (-17.7)PHF: 15.4% (-20.3)CON: 4.1% (-14.0)PNP: 3.6%IND: 2.6%
Meanwhile, away from the fray, Ukip’s leadership woes and troubles in Strasbourg appeared to have little impact at the ballot box. The party won a Hartlepool council by-election with almost 50% of the vote on Thursday. The SNP also took Glasgow City Council seat from Labour.Meanwhile, away from the fray, Ukip’s leadership woes and troubles in Strasbourg appeared to have little impact at the ballot box. The party won a Hartlepool council by-election with almost 50% of the vote on Thursday. The SNP also took Glasgow City Council seat from Labour.
This from the Press Association:This from the Press Association:
Ukip took a council seat from Labour in the latest local by-elections despite its current leadership crisis and news of an altercation among its MEPs.Ukip took a council seat from Labour in the latest local by-elections despite its current leadership crisis and news of an altercation among its MEPs.
Meanwhile north of the border, the SNP continued its advances in former Labour strongholds by gaining a Glasgow City Council seat from the party.Meanwhile north of the border, the SNP continued its advances in former Labour strongholds by gaining a Glasgow City Council seat from the party.
The Ukip victory came at Hartlepool in a contest in the Headland & Harbour ward following the resignation of a Labour councillor.The Ukip victory came at Hartlepool in a contest in the Headland & Harbour ward following the resignation of a Labour councillor.
Voting was: Ukip 496, Lab 255, Putting Hartlepool First 155, C 41, Patients Not Profit 36, Ind 26.Voting was: Ukip 496, Lab 255, Putting Hartlepool First 155, C 41, Patients Not Profit 36, Ind 26.
The turnout was low at 17.8%. Ukip had not contested the seat in the previous election in 2014.The turnout was low at 17.8%. Ukip had not contested the seat in the previous election in 2014.
The SNP gain was in Glasgow’s Garscadden/Scotstounhill ward in a by-election following the death of a Labour councillor.The SNP gain was in Glasgow’s Garscadden/Scotstounhill ward in a by-election following the death of a Labour councillor.
First-preference voting was: SNP 2,135, Lab 1,944, C 510, Green 242, LD 97, Ukip 83. Turnout was 23.8%.First-preference voting was: SNP 2,135, Lab 1,944, C 510, Green 242, LD 97, Ukip 83. Turnout was 23.8%.
In other contests, Labour rebuffed challenges from Plaid Cymru to hold two seats at Caerphilly, in the Gilfach and Risca East divisions. Labour also overwhelmingly held a seat at Bolton (Rumworth ward).In other contests, Labour rebuffed challenges from Plaid Cymru to hold two seats at Caerphilly, in the Gilfach and Risca East divisions. Labour also overwhelmingly held a seat at Bolton (Rumworth ward).
Conservatives held a seat at East Devon (Exmouth Brixington).Conservatives held a seat at East Devon (Exmouth Brixington).
:: Results due later from by-elections at: Highland Council (Culloden & Ardersier) following the death of a Labour councillor; and Basingstoke & Deane (Basing) following the resignation of a Conservative councillor.:: Results due later from by-elections at: Highland Council (Culloden & Ardersier) following the death of a Labour councillor; and Basingstoke & Deane (Basing) following the resignation of a Conservative councillor.
10.21am BST10.21am BST
10:2110:21
Nathan Gill MEP reveals STEPHEN Woolfe being kept in hospital until Sunday. Says he has "reached out" to Mike Hookem. pic.twitter.com/DUOwqwt8fLNathan Gill MEP reveals STEPHEN Woolfe being kept in hospital until Sunday. Says he has "reached out" to Mike Hookem. pic.twitter.com/DUOwqwt8fL
Gill said Woolfe has been moved to the neurological department “as a precautionary measure”, and will remain in the hospital for 48 hours.Gill said Woolfe has been moved to the neurological department “as a precautionary measure”, and will remain in the hospital for 48 hours.
“Now Steven has this morning reached out the hand of friendship to Mr Hookem, to Mike, and has realised that things did go too far in the MEP meeting.”“Now Steven has this morning reached out the hand of friendship to Mr Hookem, to Mike, and has realised that things did go too far in the MEP meeting.”
The “hand of friendship” had was offered in an email, he said. He did not comment on whether Hookem had gripped said hand.The “hand of friendship” had was offered in an email, he said. He did not comment on whether Hookem had gripped said hand.
Gill insisted there was no danger to Woolfe’s health “even though it was at one stage touch and go”. He would not give any details of what actually happened in The Meeting. Asked if Ukip could recover from this most recent crisis, he said the party has “teflon” qualities.Gill insisted there was no danger to Woolfe’s health “even though it was at one stage touch and go”. He would not give any details of what actually happened in The Meeting. Asked if Ukip could recover from this most recent crisis, he said the party has “teflon” qualities.
10.03am BST10.03am BST
10:0310:03
As an (important) aside, apparently Woolfe hates flaky, buttery wonderful breakfast pastries and prefers good old British grease. Natch.As an (important) aside, apparently Woolfe hates flaky, buttery wonderful breakfast pastries and prefers good old British grease. Natch.
Ukip MEP Nathan Gill: "Steven is sick of croissants and is ready for a full English breakfast." Because he's a bloody bloke.Ukip MEP Nathan Gill: "Steven is sick of croissants and is ready for a full English breakfast." Because he's a bloody bloke.
9.59am BST9.59am BST
09:5909:59
MEP Nathan Gill has just given a live statement in Strasbourg, saying Steven Woolfe has “reached out the hand of friendship” to Mike Hookem after their altercation and “has realised that things did go too far”.MEP Nathan Gill has just given a live statement in Strasbourg, saying Steven Woolfe has “reached out the hand of friendship” to Mike Hookem after their altercation and “has realised that things did go too far”.
UpdatedUpdated
at 10.52am BSTat 10.52am BST
9.55am BST9.55am BST
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Attempts at damage control have been put into action today, with both Ukip party chairman Paul Oakden and acting leader Nigel Farage promising a investigation into the bust up.Attempts at damage control have been put into action today, with both Ukip party chairman Paul Oakden and acting leader Nigel Farage promising a investigation into the bust up.
In a statement, Nigel Farage -promised “the truth will be discovered”:In a statement, Nigel Farage -promised “the truth will be discovered”:
All other claims being made in the media by representatives of Ukip who were not even there at the time are extremely unhelpful.All other claims being made in the media by representatives of Ukip who were not even there at the time are extremely unhelpful.
Oakden insisted that they would recover from the incident:Oakden insisted that they would recover from the incident:
We are a functioning party of tens of thousands of members. This is two members who had an incident, an altercation. We will deal with it in due course and with appropriate action once we know the facts.We are a functioning party of tens of thousands of members. This is two members who had an incident, an altercation. We will deal with it in due course and with appropriate action once we know the facts.
He told BBC Breakfast it could difficult to establish the truth.He told BBC Breakfast it could difficult to establish the truth.
I have spoken to people who were there and everything I am being told at the moment would suggest that there were no witnesses. That is going to present a problem,” he told BBC Breakfast.I have spoken to people who were there and everything I am being told at the moment would suggest that there were no witnesses. That is going to present a problem,” he told BBC Breakfast.
I hope that we don’t end up in a situation where we just have two members here disagreeing on the facts but with nobody else able to corroborate either.I hope that we don’t end up in a situation where we just have two members here disagreeing on the facts but with nobody else able to corroborate either.
What I am hopeful of is that we have two members who accept that something happened yesterday that was unfortunate, regrettable, and they, as we all do, will want to move on from it and focus on electing our new leader.What I am hopeful of is that we have two members who accept that something happened yesterday that was unfortunate, regrettable, and they, as we all do, will want to move on from it and focus on electing our new leader.
Lisa Duffy, who was runner-up in the last leadership contest, said the incident raised questions as to Woolfe’s suitability to become leader following the resignation on Wednesday of Diane James:.Lisa Duffy, who was runner-up in the last leadership contest, said the incident raised questions as to Woolfe’s suitability to become leader following the resignation on Wednesday of Diane James:.
She told the BBC Radio 4’s Today programme:She told the BBC Radio 4’s Today programme:
I have been talking to a lot of members over the last few hours. They are embarrassed about what’s happening to the party,” she told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.I have been talking to a lot of members over the last few hours. They are embarrassed about what’s happening to the party,” she told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.
Do we want a leader who will get himself involved in an altercation or do we want a leader who is going to be rational and reflect and deal with things in an appropriate manner?Do we want a leader who will get himself involved in an altercation or do we want a leader who is going to be rational and reflect and deal with things in an appropriate manner?
Violence or any kind of offering to go outside is not the way to deal with problems.Violence or any kind of offering to go outside is not the way to deal with problems.
Duffy said she had spoken to Hookem, who categorically denied throwing any punches. He told her that the incident was sparked by a row over comments by Mr Woolfe admitting that he had considered defecting to the Tories.Duffy said she had spoken to Hookem, who categorically denied throwing any punches. He told her that the incident was sparked by a row over comments by Mr Woolfe admitting that he had considered defecting to the Tories.
Steven then said ‘Let’s take this outside’ and started taking his jacket off. Mike then said there was a small scuffle but absolutely no punches were thrown.Steven then said ‘Let’s take this outside’ and started taking his jacket off. Mike then said there was a small scuffle but absolutely no punches were thrown.
He said then a door opened and Steven fell backwards, which is when he then hit his head. But he is categorically stating that he never threw a punch at Steven.He said then a door opened and Steven fell backwards, which is when he then hit his head. But he is categorically stating that he never threw a punch at Steven.
London Assembly member Peter Whittle admitted it had been “a rocky week” for the party.London Assembly member Peter Whittle admitted it had been “a rocky week” for the party.
He told ITV’s Good Morning Britain it was “an altercation that got out of hand” and there would be a full investigation:He told ITV’s Good Morning Britain it was “an altercation that got out of hand” and there would be a full investigation:
Obviously it’s not the way to carry on and it’s not the way to behave.Obviously it’s not the way to carry on and it’s not the way to behave.
The fact is we are in a very, very strong position. We are up in the polls and we are basically making the whole political agenda at the moment.The fact is we are in a very, very strong position. We are up in the polls and we are basically making the whole political agenda at the moment.
Anyone who looked at the Tory Party conference this week will see all our ideas are being discussed, all of them are being taken on board by the Government.Anyone who looked at the Tory Party conference this week will see all our ideas are being discussed, all of them are being taken on board by the Government.
The fact is we are here to stay as a party, there’s no question about it.The fact is we are here to stay as a party, there’s no question about it.
John Prescott, when he punched a member of the public, nobody started drawing conclusions about Labour as a whole.John Prescott, when he punched a member of the public, nobody started drawing conclusions about Labour as a whole.
You shouldn’t draw conclusions about Ukip as a whole from this.You shouldn’t draw conclusions about Ukip as a whole from this.
People care, obviously, about who’s leading Ukip, because they realise Ukip sets the whole political agenda in Britain at the moment.People care, obviously, about who’s leading Ukip, because they realise Ukip sets the whole political agenda in Britain at the moment.
Of course this is wrong, we’ll get to the bottom of it, but if I had a dollar for every time Ukip had been written off, I’d be a very rich man.Of course this is wrong, we’ll get to the bottom of it, but if I had a dollar for every time Ukip had been written off, I’d be a very rich man.
9.46am BST9.46am BST
09:4609:46
So, all considered, it’s not been a sterling couple of days for Ukip. And the argy bargy continues.So, all considered, it’s not been a sterling couple of days for Ukip. And the argy bargy continues.
Major donor Arron Banks threatened to leave the party, calling Neil Hamilton an “odious toad” for comments he made after Woolfe injured. Hamilton, speaking on BBC news this morning has said Banks has sent him and his wife personal abuse and is bringing the party into disrepute.Major donor Arron Banks threatened to leave the party, calling Neil Hamilton an “odious toad” for comments he made after Woolfe injured. Hamilton, speaking on BBC news this morning has said Banks has sent him and his wife personal abuse and is bringing the party into disrepute.
He's an odious toad. If the Tories want him back I won't punch him ! https://t.co/Pk2VW8oNI9He's an odious toad. If the Tories want him back I won't punch him ! https://t.co/Pk2VW8oNI9
He threatened to leave Ukip if Hamilton and Douglas Carswell are allowed to stay in the party and if the party’s national executive committee rules Woolfe cannot run for leader.He threatened to leave Ukip if Hamilton and Douglas Carswell are allowed to stay in the party and if the party’s national executive committee rules Woolfe cannot run for leader.
Banks said he was “utterly disgusted” by Hamilton’s comments and revealed that he was considering leaving the party.Banks said he was “utterly disgusted” by Hamilton’s comments and revealed that he was considering leaving the party.
In a statement, Banks said:In a statement, Banks said:
Firstly, I was shocked at the events that unfolded today - it goes without saying that I wish Steven best wishes and hope he recovers soon.Firstly, I was shocked at the events that unfolded today - it goes without saying that I wish Steven best wishes and hope he recovers soon.
I am however utterly disgusted to see Neil Hamilton touring the newsrooms this afternoon, spewing his bile before anyone knew if Steven was going to be ok.I am however utterly disgusted to see Neil Hamilton touring the newsrooms this afternoon, spewing his bile before anyone knew if Steven was going to be ok.
He truly is a creature from the gutter who will do anything to get his mug on our screens.He truly is a creature from the gutter who will do anything to get his mug on our screens.
Tonight I am calling for the immediate suspension of the NEC. Elections need to be held for both a new leader of the party as well as the NEC.Tonight I am calling for the immediate suspension of the NEC. Elections need to be held for both a new leader of the party as well as the NEC.
People say that Ukip is split down the middle between two camps. This is incorrect.People say that Ukip is split down the middle between two camps. This is incorrect.
The Tory troublemakers and fifth columnists represent a small minority in our party, yet they use any opportunity they can do undermine those working tirelessly to hold the governments feet to the flames. This ends today.The Tory troublemakers and fifth columnists represent a small minority in our party, yet they use any opportunity they can do undermine those working tirelessly to hold the governments feet to the flames. This ends today.
If Neil Hamilton and Douglas Carswell remain in the party, and the NEC decide that Steven Woolfe can not run for leader, I will be leaving Ukip.If Neil Hamilton and Douglas Carswell remain in the party, and the NEC decide that Steven Woolfe can not run for leader, I will be leaving Ukip.
People have worked too long and too hard to get Ukip to where it is today, but it is clear that we ourselves, are at breaking point.People have worked too long and too hard to get Ukip to where it is today, but it is clear that we ourselves, are at breaking point.
9.32am BST9.32am BST
09:3209:32
So what of the other major politics story of the day? What really happened after that heated meeting between Ukip MEPs, which has left leadership contender Steven Woolfe recovering in a hospital bed?So what of the other major politics story of the day? What really happened after that heated meeting between Ukip MEPs, which has left leadership contender Steven Woolfe recovering in a hospital bed?
Here’s what the main protagonists have said happened:Here’s what the main protagonists have said happened:
•Steven Woolfe has said he was attacked by Ukip MEP Mike Hookem, the party’s defence spokesman, who served in the RAF and Royal Engineers. He said the meeting had become heated and he had asked Hookem to continue to deal with the matter outside the room which the Ukip MEP read “totally the wrong way”. He said Hookem then hit him and he bashed himself on the door frame.•Steven Woolfe has said he was attacked by Ukip MEP Mike Hookem, the party’s defence spokesman, who served in the RAF and Royal Engineers. He said the meeting had become heated and he had asked Hookem to continue to deal with the matter outside the room which the Ukip MEP read “totally the wrong way”. He said Hookem then hit him and he bashed himself on the door frame.
He told the Daily Mail:He told the Daily Mail:
Mike was obviously very angry and lost his temper.Mike was obviously very angry and lost his temper.
I wasn’t bruising for a scrap. I asked to deal with the matter outside of the room because it was flaring up in the meeting and upsetting everybody, and Mike clearly read that totally the wrong way. It was a completely unexpected incident.I wasn’t bruising for a scrap. I asked to deal with the matter outside of the room because it was flaring up in the meeting and upsetting everybody, and Mike clearly read that totally the wrong way. It was a completely unexpected incident.
Mike came at me and landed a blow. The door frame took the biggest hit after I was shoved into it and I knew I’d taken a whack and was pretty shaken.Mike came at me and landed a blow. The door frame took the biggest hit after I was shoved into it and I knew I’d taken a whack and was pretty shaken.
•Mike Hookem reportedly told the Mail that he hadn’t hit Woolfe, and didn’t see him hit is head, while a spokeswoman insisted it had been a ‘verbal altercation’ and denied that Hookem had punched Woolfe. ‘Mike did not touch him,’ she said.•Mike Hookem reportedly told the Mail that he hadn’t hit Woolfe, and didn’t see him hit is head, while a spokeswoman insisted it had been a ‘verbal altercation’ and denied that Hookem had punched Woolfe. ‘Mike did not touch him,’ she said.
I did not hit Steven and I did not see him hit his head.I did not hit Steven and I did not see him hit his head.
•Neil Hamilton, Ukip’s leader in the Welsh assembly, said he had been told by colleagues in the European parliament that Woolfe had “picked a fight with one of them and came off worse”.•Neil Hamilton, Ukip’s leader in the Welsh assembly, said he had been told by colleagues in the European parliament that Woolfe had “picked a fight with one of them and came off worse”.
Hamilton told the BBC:Hamilton told the BBC:
He toppled over and hit his head on a glass window so it must have been quite a wallopHe toppled over and hit his head on a glass window so it must have been quite a wallop
•A source close to the party put it this way:•A source close to the party put it this way:
Steven Woolfe has then taken his jacket off, walked over and said: ‘Right you, outside now’ or words to that effect.Steven Woolfe has then taken his jacket off, walked over and said: ‘Right you, outside now’ or words to that effect.
They went outside and Steven Woolfe got the brunt of it.They went outside and Steven Woolfe got the brunt of it.
So that’s clear then. If anyone does have some video footage, do let us know.So that’s clear then. If anyone does have some video footage, do let us know.
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'An open question': Tony Blair refuses to rule out return to British politics https://t.co/T3CZMslKLc'An open question': Tony Blair refuses to rule out return to British politics https://t.co/T3CZMslKLc
Here’s a little recap of my colleague Rajeev Syal’s Tony Blair story this morning:Here’s a little recap of my colleague Rajeev Syal’s Tony Blair story this morning:
Blair has hinted at a return to frontline politics, as he suggested Britain risks becoming a “one-party state”.Blair has hinted at a return to frontline politics, as he suggested Britain risks becoming a “one-party state”.
The former Labour prime minister said it was “a tragedy” that the two choices facing the electorate were the Tories pursuing a hard Brexit and “an ultra-left Labour Party” which has “a set of policies that takes us back to the Sixties”.The former Labour prime minister said it was “a tragedy” that the two choices facing the electorate were the Tories pursuing a hard Brexit and “an ultra-left Labour Party” which has “a set of policies that takes us back to the Sixties”.
Mr Blair recently announced that he would be significantly scaling back his business empire in order to focus on charity work.Mr Blair recently announced that he would be significantly scaling back his business empire in order to focus on charity work.
And, in an interview with Esquire magazine, he refused to rule out a return to politics.And, in an interview with Esquire magazine, he refused to rule out a return to politics.
Mr Blair said: “It’s a tragedy for British politics if the choice before the country is a Conservative government going for a hard Brexit and an ultra-left Labour Party, that believes in a set of policies that takes us back to the Sixties.Mr Blair said: “It’s a tragedy for British politics if the choice before the country is a Conservative government going for a hard Brexit and an ultra-left Labour Party, that believes in a set of policies that takes us back to the Sixties.
“In the UK at the moment you’ve got a one-party state.“In the UK at the moment you’ve got a one-party state.
“When you put it all together (taking into account that the Conservative leader wasn’t elected), there’s something seriously wrong.“When you put it all together (taking into account that the Conservative leader wasn’t elected), there’s something seriously wrong.
“I don’t know if there’s a role for me ... There’s a limit to what I want to say about my own position at this moment.“I don’t know if there’s a role for me ... There’s a limit to what I want to say about my own position at this moment.
“All I can say is that this is where politics is at. Do I feel strongly about it? Yes, I do. Am I very motivated by that? Yes.“All I can say is that this is where politics is at. Do I feel strongly about it? Yes, I do. Am I very motivated by that? Yes.
“Where do I go from here? What exactly do I do? That’s an open question.”“Where do I go from here? What exactly do I do? That’s an open question.”
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Jeremy Corbyn has appointed people to shadow cabinet from opposing side of leadership campaign, says new shadow Welsh secretary Jo StevensJeremy Corbyn has appointed people to shadow cabinet from opposing side of leadership campaign, says new shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens
New shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens has been defending Mr Corbyn’s appointments, on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, saying he had reached out to political opponents.New shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens has been defending Mr Corbyn’s appointments, on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, saying he had reached out to political opponents.
I didn’t support Jeremy in the leadership election, neither did Keir Starmer, neither did Nia Griffith and I don’t think Sarah Champion did either.I didn’t support Jeremy in the leadership election, neither did Keir Starmer, neither did Nia Griffith and I don’t think Sarah Champion did either.
He has made appointments to his shadow cabinet from the opposing part of the leadership campaign.He has made appointments to his shadow cabinet from the opposing part of the leadership campaign.
I was one of the senior people in Owen Smith’s leadership campaign, and he’s offered me a post on the shadow cabinet.I was one of the senior people in Owen Smith’s leadership campaign, and he’s offered me a post on the shadow cabinet.
Good leadership is about listening, influencing, persuading and an element of compromise.Good leadership is about listening, influencing, persuading and an element of compromise.
Jeremy has admitted he’s made mistakes and he will try and do things differently. I think we ought to give him that opportunity.Jeremy has admitted he’s made mistakes and he will try and do things differently. I think we ought to give him that opportunity.
Stevens, who supported Owen Smith during the leadership contest, also suggested Corbyn wouldn’t use reshuffle to try change trident position. She said the decision had been made on Trident and she did not expect it to be revisited.Stevens, who supported Owen Smith during the leadership contest, also suggested Corbyn wouldn’t use reshuffle to try change trident position. She said the decision had been made on Trident and she did not expect it to be revisited.
She and Mr Corbyn both voted against renewing Trident, although the Labour Party policy is to renew the UK’s nuclear deterrent.She and Mr Corbyn both voted against renewing Trident, although the Labour Party policy is to renew the UK’s nuclear deterrent.
Former shadow defence secretary Clive Lewis, who backs renewing Trident, has been moved to business, energy and industrial strategy.Former shadow defence secretary Clive Lewis, who backs renewing Trident, has been moved to business, energy and industrial strategy.
UpdatedUpdated
at 10.08am BSTat 10.08am BST
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My colleague Heather Stewart has been talking to MPs about their thoughts following the shadow cabinet reshuffle. She sends this:My colleague Heather Stewart has been talking to MPs about their thoughts following the shadow cabinet reshuffle. She sends this:
Labour MPs are privately expressing concern about Jeremy Corbyn’s shadow cabinet reshuffle, claiming it doesn’t represent the “olive branch” he pledged to offer rebel backbenchers in the wake of the bitter leadership battle.Labour MPs are privately expressing concern about Jeremy Corbyn’s shadow cabinet reshuffle, claiming it doesn’t represent the “olive branch” he pledged to offer rebel backbenchers in the wake of the bitter leadership battle.
The sacking of Labour’s chief whip Rosie Winterton, who had been pursuing talks about electing some members of the shadow cabinet in a bid to bring refuseniks back on board, was greeted with dismay among moderate MPs. There was also disquiet about Corbyn’s promotion of his close political ally Diane Abbott.The sacking of Labour’s chief whip Rosie Winterton, who had been pursuing talks about electing some members of the shadow cabinet in a bid to bring refuseniks back on board, was greeted with dismay among moderate MPs. There was also disquiet about Corbyn’s promotion of his close political ally Diane Abbott.
One senior Labour MP said, “rather than balance and equilibrium, they’ve gone for control, and a straight power grab”. Another MP who had been expected to return to the front bench, warned that the appointments so far make Labour look too London-centric, with Corbyn, his shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry, home Secretary Diane Abbott and chancellor John McDonnell, all representing constituencies in the capital. “It’s looking a bit like a government of north London, for north London, by North London”, he said.One senior Labour MP said, “rather than balance and equilibrium, they’ve gone for control, and a straight power grab”. Another MP who had been expected to return to the front bench, warned that the appointments so far make Labour look too London-centric, with Corbyn, his shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry, home Secretary Diane Abbott and chancellor John McDonnell, all representing constituencies in the capital. “It’s looking a bit like a government of north London, for north London, by North London”, he said.
However, Corbyn’s team stressed the number of MPs from northern seats in other roles - and pointed out that more appointments are expected to come today. John Mann, the MP for Bassetlaw, is tipped for a return; and Leicester MP Jon Ashworth, is thought to be considering accepting a more senior role.However, Corbyn’s team stressed the number of MPs from northern seats in other roles - and pointed out that more appointments are expected to come today. John Mann, the MP for Bassetlaw, is tipped for a return; and Leicester MP Jon Ashworth, is thought to be considering accepting a more senior role.
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Here’s what we know so far on the Labour shadow cabinet, we will update as more news comes in:Here’s what we know so far on the Labour shadow cabinet, we will update as more news comes in:
Diane Abbott, shadow home secretaryDiane Abbott, shadow home secretary
Jeremy Corbyn gave a top job to Diane Abbott in shadow cabinet reshuffle, replacing Andy Burnham. Abbott has been one of Corbyn’s closest supporters, and this is the third shadow cabinet post that she has held since he took over as leader a year ago.Jeremy Corbyn gave a top job to Diane Abbott in shadow cabinet reshuffle, replacing Andy Burnham. Abbott has been one of Corbyn’s closest supporters, and this is the third shadow cabinet post that she has held since he took over as leader a year ago.
Shami Chakrabarti, shadow attorney generalShami Chakrabarti, shadow attorney general
Chakrabarti, the 47-year-old former director of the human rights organisation Liberty, takes up the role of shadow attorney general just five months after becoming a member of the Labour Party.Chakrabarti, the 47-year-old former director of the human rights organisation Liberty, takes up the role of shadow attorney general just five months after becoming a member of the Labour Party.
Nominated by Corbyn for a peerage in August, Chakrabarti’s promotion may be controversial in some areas as some critics of the Labour leader branded her inquiry into anti-semitism in the party a “whitewash”.Nominated by Corbyn for a peerage in August, Chakrabarti’s promotion may be controversial in some areas as some critics of the Labour leader branded her inquiry into anti-semitism in the party a “whitewash”.
Nick Brown, chief whipNick Brown, chief whip
Nick Brown is not new to the role of chief whip. He first held the post in 1997-98 under Tony Blair, before becoming a key “fixer” for Gordon Brown and playing a role in the ousting of Blair.Nick Brown is not new to the role of chief whip. He first held the post in 1997-98 under Tony Blair, before becoming a key “fixer” for Gordon Brown and playing a role in the ousting of Blair.
He replaces Dame Rosie Winterton, who became a popular chief whip, holding the job for six years under three different leaders.He replaces Dame Rosie Winterton, who became a popular chief whip, holding the job for six years under three different leaders.
Keir Starmer, shadow Brexit secretaryKeir Starmer, shadow Brexit secretary
The former director of public prosecutions is one of the new intake of MPs to be handed jobs in Corbyn’s cabinet, taking the role of shadow Brexit secretary.The former director of public prosecutions is one of the new intake of MPs to be handed jobs in Corbyn’s cabinet, taking the role of shadow Brexit secretary.
He backed remain during the EU referendum campaign and his appointment as Brexit secretary indicates that Labour will seek to strongly oppose Britain leaving the EU, after criticism that Corbyn was half-hearted in his campaigning on the issue.He backed remain during the EU referendum campaign and his appointment as Brexit secretary indicates that Labour will seek to strongly oppose Britain leaving the EU, after criticism that Corbyn was half-hearted in his campaigning on the issue.
Clive Lewis, spokesman for business, energy and industrial strategyClive Lewis, spokesman for business, energy and industrial strategy
Another of 2015’s intake, Lewis is moving from defence to shadow spokesman for business, energy and industrial strategy. He replaces Jon Trickett.Another of 2015’s intake, Lewis is moving from defence to shadow spokesman for business, energy and industrial strategy. He replaces Jon Trickett.
The shift follows a high-profile row over Trident at Labour conference, where he announced that Labour would not be ditching its support, despite Corbyn’s longstanding opposition to nuclear weapons.The shift follows a high-profile row over Trident at Labour conference, where he announced that Labour would not be ditching its support, despite Corbyn’s longstanding opposition to nuclear weapons.
Sarah Champion, shadow minister for women and equalitiesSarah Champion, shadow minister for women and equalities
The Rotherham MP, who resigned from Corbyn’s front bench in the referendum’s aftermath but returned within weeks, becomes shadow minister for women and equalities. Since her return to Corbyn’s team in July she had served as shadow minister for preventing abuse and domestic violence, but she made headlines during conference when it emerged that she had been arrested following a row with her husband.The Rotherham MP, who resigned from Corbyn’s front bench in the referendum’s aftermath but returned within weeks, becomes shadow minister for women and equalities. Since her return to Corbyn’s team in July she had served as shadow minister for preventing abuse and domestic violence, but she made headlines during conference when it emerged that she had been arrested following a row with her husband.
Jo Stevens, shadow welsh secretaryJo Stevens, shadow welsh secretary
Cardiff Central MP Jo Stevens becomes shadow Wales secretary, having formerly held a justice brief. Stevens did not to resign from Corbyn’s front bench in July, but did back Owen Smith in the recent leadership contest.Cardiff Central MP Jo Stevens becomes shadow Wales secretary, having formerly held a justice brief. Stevens did not to resign from Corbyn’s front bench in July, but did back Owen Smith in the recent leadership contest.
Nia Griffith, shadow defence secretaryNia Griffith, shadow defence secretary
The former shadow Welsh secretary takes on the defence brief. Griffith was among the shadow cabinet members to resign in June and backed Owen Smith’s leadership bid, although she returned to the shadow cabinet in September. Griffith has been tipped as a potential candidate for the defence post since January, thanks to her opposition to Trident.The former shadow Welsh secretary takes on the defence brief. Griffith was among the shadow cabinet members to resign in June and backed Owen Smith’s leadership bid, although she returned to the shadow cabinet in September. Griffith has been tipped as a potential candidate for the defence post since January, thanks to her opposition to Trident.
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Good morning! With heavy heart I have to tell you that the inimitable Andrew Sparrow will not be at the helm of the liveblog today, he has a well-earned day off. But as ever we’ll be here, keeping you up to date with the major developments of the day.Good morning! With heavy heart I have to tell you that the inimitable Andrew Sparrow will not be at the helm of the liveblog today, he has a well-earned day off. But as ever we’ll be here, keeping you up to date with the major developments of the day.
We’ll get more Labour shadow cabinet reshuffle news and reaction, as well as taking a look at the fallout from yesterday’s Ukip fisticuffs.We’ll get more Labour shadow cabinet reshuffle news and reaction, as well as taking a look at the fallout from yesterday’s Ukip fisticuffs.