This article is from the source 'guardian' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2017/apr/24/corbyn-may-farron-sturgeon

The article has changed 26 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 9 Version 10
General election: Fallon says Tories would not rule out nuclear first strike and calls Corbyn 'security risk' - Politics live General election: Ukip accused of 'full-throated Islamophobia' after it launches integration plan - Politics live
(35 minutes later)
12.34pm BST
12:34
Labour expected to publish manifesto on 15 May
Anushka Asthana
The Labour party has pencilled in 15 May to launch its manifesto, just under three weeks before the June 8 general election poll, and is asking its shadow cabinet to carry three campaign visits a week over the entire period, the Guardian understands.
Jeremy Corbyn will meet with his shadow cabinet tomorrow to discuss the national campaign and manifesto process, which will be led by the senior policy adviser and former PCS union official, Andrew Fisher.
Shadow cabinet members will be expected to hit their target of three visits a week unless they have agreement from Corbyn’s political secretary, Katy Clark, not to.
Fisher will lead a manifesto process that has already garnered views of members via an email sent out in Corbyn’s name and will hear priorities from the party’s national policy forum.
Other plans include meetings with key groups including MPs, local councillors and unions, before the critical Clause V meeting between the NEC and shadow cabinet members on Thursday 11 May.
12.31pm BST
12:31
Guardian/ICM poll suggests Tories have 21-point lead over Labour
ICM was polling over the weekend, and here are the figures.
At 48%, the Conservatives are at their highest share of the vote in Guardian/ICM polling dating back to 1983. But their lead over Labour has not increased since our snap poll on Tuesday because the Conservatives and Labour are both up two points.
But Ukip is down to 7%. That is quite a steep drop from where they were the weekend before the general election was announced, when the Guardian/ICM poll had them at 11%.
Conservatives: 48% (up 2 since the snap Guardian/ICM poll last Tuesday)
Labour: 27% (up 2)
Lib Dems: 10% (down 1)
Ukip: 7% (down 1)
Greens: 3% (down 1)
Conservative lead: 21 points (no change)
ICM Unlimited interviewed a representative sample of 2,024 adults aged 18+ on 21 to 24 April 2017. Interviews were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.
12.07pm BST
12:07
Ukip accuses of embracing 'full-throated Islamophobia' by Greens
Caroline Lucas, the Green party co-leader, has accused Ukip of embracing “full-throated Islamophobia” following the party’s policy launch this morning. (See 11.40am.) She said:
Ukip’s ‘integration agenda’ is an assault on multiculturalism and an attack on Muslims. It’s full throttled Islamophobia.
Now that the referendum has passed Nutall’s party is desperately scrabbling around for relevance and seem to have settled upon attacks on Muslims and fringe far right politics as their new home. In this election the Green Party will be standing up to the politics of hate spewing from UKIP and putting forward a vision for a multicultural, welcoming Britain which we can all be proud of.
11.47am BST11.47am BST
11:4711:47
Ukip leader Paul Nuttall refuses to say if he will stand for parliamentUkip leader Paul Nuttall refuses to say if he will stand for parliament
Here are more tweets from my colleague Jessica Elgot about the Ukip integration policy launch, and its proposal for girls at risk of FGM to have to undergo an annual medical examination.Here are more tweets from my colleague Jessica Elgot about the Ukip integration policy launch, and its proposal for girls at risk of FGM to have to undergo an annual medical examination.
.@UKIP Ukip says this will send "long overdue signal that Britain will not tolerate this any more.".@UKIP Ukip says this will send "long overdue signal that Britain will not tolerate this any more."
.@UKIP Ukip says any rape or grooming offence where the perpetrator is a different race should be "aggravating factor" and treated as hate crime..@UKIP Ukip says any rape or grooming offence where the perpetrator is a different race should be "aggravating factor" and treated as hate crime.
UKIP's Islam-focussed polices are not yet party policy, they will go to policy scrutiny committee. But there's a very clear new focus.UKIP's Islam-focussed polices are not yet party policy, they will go to policy scrutiny committee. But there's a very clear new focus.
Ukip dep leader now outlining party's plan to "ban sharia law"and the face veil. All official docs should be in "English alone"Ukip dep leader now outlining party's plan to "ban sharia law"and the face veil. All official docs should be in "English alone"
This is the full @UKIP "integration agenda" announced today pic.twitter.com/2jlPSKoLqMThis is the full @UKIP "integration agenda" announced today pic.twitter.com/2jlPSKoLqM
Paul Nuttall is barricaded behind these doors, there are a lot of journalists outside wanting to know if he is standing in June. pic.twitter.com/VCbfpg6UvFPaul Nuttall is barricaded behind these doors, there are a lot of journalists outside wanting to know if he is standing in June. pic.twitter.com/VCbfpg6UvF
Ukip leader Paul Nuttall refuses to tell journalists if he will stand for parliament in the election.Ukip leader Paul Nuttall refuses to tell journalists if he will stand for parliament in the election.
11.40am BST11.40am BST
11:4011:40
Ukip says girls at risk of FGM should have to undergo a medical examination every yearUkip says girls at risk of FGM should have to undergo a medical examination every year
Paul Nuttall, the Ukip leader, has been speaking at a policy launch this morning alongside Peter Whittle, the party’s deputy leader, Margot Parker MEP, the party’s equalities spokeswoman, and David Kurten AM, the party’s education spokesman.Paul Nuttall, the Ukip leader, has been speaking at a policy launch this morning alongside Peter Whittle, the party’s deputy leader, Margot Parker MEP, the party’s equalities spokeswoman, and David Kurten AM, the party’s education spokesman.
My colleague Jessica Elgot has been tweeting from the event.My colleague Jessica Elgot has been tweeting from the event.
.@UKIP Nuttall says this is about people "signing up to British law and British life". Clear change of direction for @Ukip to focus on Islam..@UKIP Nuttall says this is about people "signing up to British law and British life". Clear change of direction for @Ukip to focus on Islam.
.@UKIP @ukip's education spokesman now introduced. Calls Islamism "a poisonous ideology." You can see where this is going....@UKIP @ukip's education spokesman now introduced. Calls Islamism "a poisonous ideology." You can see where this is going...
.@UKIP Ukip education spox David Kurten says there should be immediate moratorium on new Islamic schools.@UKIP Ukip education spox David Kurten says there should be immediate moratorium on new Islamic schools
.@UKIP Ukip's Margot Parker now taking us on a tour of women's rights throughout the ages..@UKIP Ukip's Margot Parker now taking us on a tour of women's rights throughout the ages.
.@UKIP The point is we should never take women's rights for granted, it seems. "Multiculturalism is the enemy of women's rights.".@UKIP The point is we should never take women's rights for granted, it seems. "Multiculturalism is the enemy of women's rights."
Islamic communities are becoming more and more segregated, instead of taking on "superior British values" says ParkerIslamic communities are becoming more and more segregated, instead of taking on "superior British values" says Parker
.@UKIP Parker addressing FGM against British girls, and says the law has been a failure (she's not wrong there).@UKIP Parker addressing FGM against British girls, and says the law has been a failure (she's not wrong there)
.@UKIP NEW: Ukip propose that girls at risk of FGM are required to have medical examinations every year.@UKIP NEW: Ukip propose that girls at risk of FGM are required to have medical examinations every year
Ukip says girls at risk of FGM should have to undergo a medical examination every year.Ukip says girls at risk of FGM should have to undergo a medical examination every year.
11.02am BST11.02am BST
11:0211:02
Khan firmly endorses Corbyn for prime ministerKhan firmly endorses Corbyn for prime minister
Sadiq Khan was one of the Labour MPs who nominated Jeremy Corbyn for the leadership in 2015 and his courting of the Corbynite left helped him beat Tessa Jowell for the mayoral nomination. But once he became the candidate he quickly distanced himself from Corbyn and as mayor at time he has been almost derisive about his party leader.Sadiq Khan was one of the Labour MPs who nominated Jeremy Corbyn for the leadership in 2015 and his courting of the Corbynite left helped him beat Tessa Jowell for the mayoral nomination. But once he became the candidate he quickly distanced himself from Corbyn and as mayor at time he has been almost derisive about his party leader.
But on Sky’s All Out Politics Khan firmly endorsed Corbyn for prime minister. Asked if he could tell Londoners Corbyn was the best person to be prime minister on 9 June, Khan replied:But on Sky’s All Out Politics Khan firmly endorsed Corbyn for prime minister. Asked if he could tell Londoners Corbyn was the best person to be prime minister on 9 June, Khan replied:
The choice is simple. The choice is a Conservative prime minister who wants a bigger majority for a hard Brexit, risking jobs, growth and prosperity, or a Labour prime minister, Jeremy Corbyn, making sure we get a good deal with the European Union, protecting jobs, growth and prosperity, but also protecting the NHS, the police service and our city. We have had too many years of those who were the poorest, those who are working their socks off, not getting a fair share, and I’m hoping a Labour government will ensure that all of us get a fair share.The choice is simple. The choice is a Conservative prime minister who wants a bigger majority for a hard Brexit, risking jobs, growth and prosperity, or a Labour prime minister, Jeremy Corbyn, making sure we get a good deal with the European Union, protecting jobs, growth and prosperity, but also protecting the NHS, the police service and our city. We have had too many years of those who were the poorest, those who are working their socks off, not getting a fair share, and I’m hoping a Labour government will ensure that all of us get a fair share.
The Mirror’s Kevin Maguire thinks this was a textbook answer from Khan.The Mirror’s Kevin Maguire thinks this was a textbook answer from Khan.
London's Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan gives text book support to Corbyn despite their known political differences. Class act in his partyLondon's Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan gives text book support to Corbyn despite their known political differences. Class act in his party
10.48am BST10.48am BST
10:4810:48
Jim Messina, the American Democratic political consultant who spent two years as President Obama’s deputy chief of staff, has been hired by the Conservatives to work on their election campaign, Bloomberg’s Tim Ross reports. Messina also worked for the Tories on their 2015 campaign. Ross says:Jim Messina, the American Democratic political consultant who spent two years as President Obama’s deputy chief of staff, has been hired by the Conservatives to work on their election campaign, Bloomberg’s Tim Ross reports. Messina also worked for the Tories on their 2015 campaign. Ross says:
[Messina’s] appointment brings together the key figures in the team behind Cameron’s success in 2015. May has also hired Lynton Crosby, the political strategist, Mark Textor, the pollster and Crosby’s business partner, and the digital media specialists Craig Elder and Tom Edmonds, all of whom worked for the Cameron campaign.[Messina’s] appointment brings together the key figures in the team behind Cameron’s success in 2015. May has also hired Lynton Crosby, the political strategist, Mark Textor, the pollster and Crosby’s business partner, and the digital media specialists Craig Elder and Tom Edmonds, all of whom worked for the Cameron campaign.
10.37am BST10.37am BST
10:3710:37
Esther McVey, the Conservative former employment minister, is one of the three Tories selected for the shortlist to replace George Osborne as the party’s candidate in Tatton, Mark Wallace at ConservativeHome reports.Esther McVey, the Conservative former employment minister, is one of the three Tories selected for the shortlist to replace George Osborne as the party’s candidate in Tatton, Mark Wallace at ConservativeHome reports.
McVey was elected MP for Wirral West in 2010 but lost her seat five years later. If she wins the Tatton selection, she is unlikely to have to worry about defeat again. George Osborne, who is standing down to concentrate on his new career at editor of the Evening Standard, had a majority of 18,241 at the 2015 election.McVey was elected MP for Wirral West in 2010 but lost her seat five years later. If she wins the Tatton selection, she is unlikely to have to worry about defeat again. George Osborne, who is standing down to concentrate on his new career at editor of the Evening Standard, had a majority of 18,241 at the 2015 election.
Under fast-track procedures being used by the Conservative party to select candidates in seats where they do not have them, CCHQ is drawing up shortlists of three for seats that are Tory-held or Tory targets. Local members will then chose from the three candidates they have been offered.Under fast-track procedures being used by the Conservative party to select candidates in seats where they do not have them, CCHQ is drawing up shortlists of three for seats that are Tory-held or Tory targets. Local members will then chose from the three candidates they have been offered.
UPDATE: Jonathan Marsland points out that boundary changes mean I’m wrong about Tatton being a safe seat for the foreseeable future.UPDATE: Jonathan Marsland points out that boundary changes mean I’m wrong about Tatton being a safe seat for the foreseeable future.
@AndrewSparrow Tatton only long term safe seat if G Brady steps down at next GE as under boundary review Alt/SW & Tatton basically combined!@AndrewSparrow Tatton only long term safe seat if G Brady steps down at next GE as under boundary review Alt/SW & Tatton basically combined!
UpdatedUpdated
at 11.27am BSTat 11.27am BST
10.22am BST10.22am BST
10:2210:22
Maria Miller, the Conservative former culture secretary and chair of the Commons women and equalities committee, has urged political parties to use the election to increase the number of women in parliament. In a statement she said:Maria Miller, the Conservative former culture secretary and chair of the Commons women and equalities committee, has urged political parties to use the election to increase the number of women in parliament. In a statement she said:
The early election is an unmissable opportunity for political parties to show that they are truly committed to increasing the proportion of women in the House of Commons. We heard a lot of encouraging promises when we took evidence on this last year from leadership figures in the Conservatives, Labour Party, SNP and the Liberal Democrats, but we expressed concern that warm words had not yet resulted in concrete strategies to deliver more women candidates, particularly in winnable seats.The early election is an unmissable opportunity for political parties to show that they are truly committed to increasing the proportion of women in the House of Commons. We heard a lot of encouraging promises when we took evidence on this last year from leadership figures in the Conservatives, Labour Party, SNP and the Liberal Democrats, but we expressed concern that warm words had not yet resulted in concrete strategies to deliver more women candidates, particularly in winnable seats.
Candidate selection is happening now, and gender equality in Parliament can’t be put on the back burner for another five years. It’s time for the leadership of each of the parties to show that actions speak louder than words.Candidate selection is happening now, and gender equality in Parliament can’t be put on the back burner for another five years. It’s time for the leadership of each of the parties to show that actions speak louder than words.
In January’s Miller’s committee published a report (pdf) on women in the Commons.In January’s Miller’s committee published a report (pdf) on women in the Commons.
According to Miller, it was only in 2017 that the total number of women ever elected to the Commons overtook the number of men currently holding seats.According to Miller, it was only in 2017 that the total number of women ever elected to the Commons overtook the number of men currently holding seats.
9.59am BST9.59am BST
09:5909:59
According to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Jeremy Corbyn will not respond directly to the Conservative attacks on his stance on defence policy (see 8.22pm) in his speech to the Scottish TUC (STUC) at lunchtime.According to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Jeremy Corbyn will not respond directly to the Conservative attacks on his stance on defence policy (see 8.22pm) in his speech to the Scottish TUC (STUC) at lunchtime.
Corbyn not expected to address Tory attacks directly on stump today, but later in campaign he'll put forward a 'peace and security' caseCorbyn not expected to address Tory attacks directly on stump today, but later in campaign he'll put forward a 'peace and security' case
Corbyn likely to make case further into campaign that his calls on foreign interventions in recent years have essentially been proved rightCorbyn likely to make case further into campaign that his calls on foreign interventions in recent years have essentially been proved right
They'll mount that case, knowing many voters agree with him that Iraq was a mistake -challenge to overturn wider accusations on securityThey'll mount that case, knowing many voters agree with him that Iraq was a mistake -challenge to overturn wider accusations on security
9.46am BST9.46am BST
09:4609:46
Andrew Gwynne, Labour’s joint elections chief, was on the Today programme earlier (see 7.36am) but he was also on Sky News, where he was asked about Jeremy Corbyn’s interview on the Andrew Marr show yesterday.Andrew Gwynne, Labour’s joint elections chief, was on the Today programme earlier (see 7.36am) but he was also on Sky News, where he was asked about Jeremy Corbyn’s interview on the Andrew Marr show yesterday.
In the interview Corbyn gave rather elliptical answers when asked if he would authorise the use of nuclear weapons, or a drone strike against the leader of Isis. You can read the transcript here (pdf). My colleague John Crace sketched the interview here.In the interview Corbyn gave rather elliptical answers when asked if he would authorise the use of nuclear weapons, or a drone strike against the leader of Isis. You can read the transcript here (pdf). My colleague John Crace sketched the interview here.
On Sky News Gwynne was asked about the interview, and it was put to him that in it Corbyn showed that he was not ready to take decisions and to be prime minister. Gwynne defended his leaders robustly. He replied:On Sky News Gwynne was asked about the interview, and it was put to him that in it Corbyn showed that he was not ready to take decisions and to be prime minister. Gwynne defended his leaders robustly. He replied:
He absolutely is [ready to be prime minister]. And, actually, I don’t want a hothead sitting at the table in Number 10. I want somebody who’s going to take a very considered view as to what is the most appropriate way of dealing with the defence and security challenges facing Britain.He absolutely is [ready to be prime minister]. And, actually, I don’t want a hothead sitting at the table in Number 10. I want somebody who’s going to take a very considered view as to what is the most appropriate way of dealing with the defence and security challenges facing Britain.
9.02am BST9.02am BST
09:0209:02
Ed Miliband accuses Fallon of 'talking garbage' about Labour's energy price cap planEd Miliband accuses Fallon of 'talking garbage' about Labour's energy price cap plan
Andrew SparrowAndrew Sparrow
Good morning. I’m taking over now from Martin.Good morning. I’m taking over now from Martin.
We have already flagged up what Sir Michael Fallon, the defence secretary, said about Jeremy Corbyn’s stance on Trident on the Today programme this morning (see 8.22pm) but there was also an interesting exchange on energy policy. Nick Robinson, who was interviewing him, challenged him very effectively over the fact that the Conservatives are adopting an energy price cap policy that the party rubbished when Ed Miliband proposed it.We have already flagged up what Sir Michael Fallon, the defence secretary, said about Jeremy Corbyn’s stance on Trident on the Today programme this morning (see 8.22pm) but there was also an interesting exchange on energy policy. Nick Robinson, who was interviewing him, challenged him very effectively over the fact that the Conservatives are adopting an energy price cap policy that the party rubbished when Ed Miliband proposed it.
Here is an edited transcript of the key exchange.Here is an edited transcript of the key exchange.
NR: You talk about staggering performances. Do you think it is staggering to try and control the price of energy in the way that people tried to control the price of bread in the 1970s?NR: You talk about staggering performances. Do you think it is staggering to try and control the price of energy in the way that people tried to control the price of bread in the 1970s?
MF: No. Energy has always been regulated. There has been a regulator there. And we are committed to making markets work better for working families ...MF: No. Energy has always been regulated. There has been a regulator there. And we are committed to making markets work better for working families ...
NR: But those were your words when you were the energy minister and Ed Miliband unveiled an energy freeze. And you said: “We have not seen intervention in industry on a scale like this since the 1970s when they tried to control the price of bread.” It now seems you think it was a jolly good idea.NR: But those were your words when you were the energy minister and Ed Miliband unveiled an energy freeze. And you said: “We have not seen intervention in industry on a scale like this since the 1970s when they tried to control the price of bread.” It now seems you think it was a jolly good idea.
MF: No we don’t. And you will find when the manifesto is published in a couple of weeks we are not proposing a freeze. A freeze means, of course, you would not be able to take advantage of prices when they drop ... He was proposing an 18-month freeze that could have made a lot of consumers worse off ...MF: No we don’t. And you will find when the manifesto is published in a couple of weeks we are not proposing a freeze. A freeze means, of course, you would not be able to take advantage of prices when they drop ... He was proposing an 18-month freeze that could have made a lot of consumers worse off ...
NR: Let me see if I can get this right. You are saying that a freeze on prices is a control on industry but a cap on prices is not a control on industry. I’m finding that hard to understand, I have to say.NR: Let me see if I can get this right. You are saying that a freeze on prices is a control on industry but a cap on prices is not a control on industry. I’m finding that hard to understand, I have to say.
MF: Well, a freeze is very different to a cap. But you will see our precise proposals when the manifesto is published in a couple of weeks time ... A freeze would have stopped you taking advantage of prices when they dropped.MF: Well, a freeze is very different to a cap. But you will see our precise proposals when the manifesto is published in a couple of weeks time ... A freeze would have stopped you taking advantage of prices when they dropped.
NR: Are you not at all guilty of just a little bit of hypocrisy on this particular measure. And wouldn’t people admire you more if you say: “We thought of doing it one way, we’ve changed our mind, we are going to do something different.”NR: Are you not at all guilty of just a little bit of hypocrisy on this particular measure. And wouldn’t people admire you more if you say: “We thought of doing it one way, we’ve changed our mind, we are going to do something different.”
MF: No. What we can be honest about is saying we hoped markets would have worked better by now, we hoped the power that the big six energy companies have would have been diluted, we had hoped that there would have been more switching. But when that has not happened, it is right to make sure that people are properly protected.MF: No. What we can be honest about is saying we hoped markets would have worked better by now, we hoped the power that the big six energy companies have would have been diluted, we had hoped that there would have been more switching. But when that has not happened, it is right to make sure that people are properly protected.
Fallon claimed that there was no inconsistency because Miliband was proposing a price freeze and the Tories are proposing a price cap. But “freeze” was just the term Miliband used to describe a cap. He never proposed to stop energy companies cutting prices, and has said so this morning.Fallon claimed that there was no inconsistency because Miliband was proposing a price freeze and the Tories are proposing a price cap. But “freeze” was just the term Miliband used to describe a cap. He never proposed to stop energy companies cutting prices, and has said so this morning.
Fallon, of course, talking garbage...2015 manifesto:"Labour will freeze energy bills until 2017, ensuring that bills can fall but not rise" https://t.co/OZHwrjpbwmFallon, of course, talking garbage...2015 manifesto:"Labour will freeze energy bills until 2017, ensuring that bills can fall but not rise" https://t.co/OZHwrjpbwm
Ed Miliband accuses Fallon of ‘talking garbage’ about the Labour energy price cap policy the Tories have now lifted.Ed Miliband accuses Fallon of ‘talking garbage’ about the Labour energy price cap policy the Tories have now lifted.
My colleague Adam Vaughan has a good article looking at how the attitude of rightwing papers towards this policy has mysteriously changed now it is being proposed by the Conservatives not Labour.My colleague Adam Vaughan has a good article looking at how the attitude of rightwing papers towards this policy has mysteriously changed now it is being proposed by the Conservatives not Labour.
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.09am BSTat 9.09am BST
8.56am BST8.56am BST
08:5608:56
Matthew WeaverMatthew Weaver
The leader of the Women’s Equality Party, Sophie Walker, has gone head-to-head with Tory MP for Shipley Philip Davies after announcing she is to stand against him in the election over his “track record of misogyny”.The leader of the Women’s Equality Party, Sophie Walker, has gone head-to-head with Tory MP for Shipley Philip Davies after announcing she is to stand against him in the election over his “track record of misogyny”.
Appearing along side her rival on the Today programme Walker accused Davies of using the West Yorkshire seat as a platform to attack feminists and equality.Appearing along side her rival on the Today programme Walker accused Davies of using the West Yorkshire seat as a platform to attack feminists and equality.
She said the people of Shipley want their seat back. Walker said:She said the people of Shipley want their seat back. Walker said:
They want a local MP that will act in the best interests of their constituents instead of using that privilege to create a national anti-women platform which consists of self-indulgent parliamentary theatrics which damage not just the prospects of women and men in Shipley but women right across the UK.They want a local MP that will act in the best interests of their constituents instead of using that privilege to create a national anti-women platform which consists of self-indulgent parliamentary theatrics which damage not just the prospects of women and men in Shipley but women right across the UK.
Walker is targeting Davies after he attempted to derail a bill to protect women against violence and railed against “feminist zealots” at an anti-feminism party conference.Walker is targeting Davies after he attempted to derail a bill to protect women against violence and railed against “feminist zealots” at an anti-feminism party conference.
Davies claimed he is pro-Equality. He told Today:Davies claimed he is pro-Equality. He told Today:
It seems to be bizarre that in two speeches when I actually argued that men and women should be treated equally before the law, [I] have got the ire of the Women’s Equality Party. You would have thought they would be four square behind me in arguing that men and women should treated the same on these issues.It seems to be bizarre that in two speeches when I actually argued that men and women should be treated equally before the law, [I] have got the ire of the Women’s Equality Party. You would have thought they would be four square behind me in arguing that men and women should treated the same on these issues.
Walker responded:Walker responded:
Philip has hugely underestimated how they feel to have an MP who has taken time to attempt to talk down a bill on ending violence against women and girls, who took time out of his constituency duties to give a speech for an outfit called Justice for Men and Boys whose website promotes articles including ‘13 reasons why women lie about rape’; somebody who has tried to talk down a bill providing free parking for carers, and who spent constituency time writing to the Equality and Human Rights Commission asking is it really so offensive for people to black up their faces. This is somebody who really has no idea how he has offended the people of his constituency.Philip has hugely underestimated how they feel to have an MP who has taken time to attempt to talk down a bill on ending violence against women and girls, who took time out of his constituency duties to give a speech for an outfit called Justice for Men and Boys whose website promotes articles including ‘13 reasons why women lie about rape’; somebody who has tried to talk down a bill providing free parking for carers, and who spent constituency time writing to the Equality and Human Rights Commission asking is it really so offensive for people to black up their faces. This is somebody who really has no idea how he has offended the people of his constituency.
Davies said: “All these laws should be gender neutral it doesn’t matter whether the victim is a man or a woman. Surely that’s the whole point of gender equality.”Davies said: “All these laws should be gender neutral it doesn’t matter whether the victim is a man or a woman. Surely that’s the whole point of gender equality.”
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.08am BSTat 9.08am BST
8.22am BST8.22am BST
08:2208:22
Fallon says Tories would not rule out nuclear first strike and calls Corbyn 'security risk'Fallon says Tories would not rule out nuclear first strike and calls Corbyn 'security risk'
Matthew WeaverMatthew Weaver
Defence minister Michael Fallon has portrayed Jeremy Corbyn as a “security risk” after the Labour leader went against his party on Trident and refused to state whether he would order drone strikes against terrorist leaders.Defence minister Michael Fallon has portrayed Jeremy Corbyn as a “security risk” after the Labour leader went against his party on Trident and refused to state whether he would order drone strikes against terrorist leaders.
Fallon seized on Corbyn’s performance on Sunday’s Andrew Marr programme after he gave a series of equivocal answers on military decisions.Fallon seized on Corbyn’s performance on Sunday’s Andrew Marr programme after he gave a series of equivocal answers on military decisions.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Fallon said:Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Fallon said:
Yesterday we had the staggering performance of somebody who wants to be prime minister saying he wouldn’t necessarily authorise strikes against terrorists. He’s against the nuclear deterrent; would stop building the submarines which we have already started building; he wouldn’t control our borders; and earlier he has even questioned our Nato deployment.Yesterday we had the staggering performance of somebody who wants to be prime minister saying he wouldn’t necessarily authorise strikes against terrorists. He’s against the nuclear deterrent; would stop building the submarines which we have already started building; he wouldn’t control our borders; and earlier he has even questioned our Nato deployment.
Fallon said a Conservative government would be prepared to use nuclear weapons. He said:Fallon said a Conservative government would be prepared to use nuclear weapons. He said:
In the most extreme circumstances you can’t rule out the use of nuclear weapons as a first strike.In the most extreme circumstances you can’t rule out the use of nuclear weapons as a first strike.
But he refused to specify those circumstances adding: “The whole point about the deterrent is that you have got to leave uncertainty in the mind of anybody who might be thinking of using weapons against this country.”But he refused to specify those circumstances adding: “The whole point about the deterrent is that you have got to leave uncertainty in the mind of anybody who might be thinking of using weapons against this country.”
Asked about a string of senior military figures who regard Trident as useless as a deterrent, Fallon said:Asked about a string of senior military figures who regard Trident as useless as a deterrent, Fallon said:
You will often find some military figures who will prefer to spend more money on conventional weapons that on nuclear ... but it is better to have the deterrent because you cannot be sure that ... nobody might use a weapon against us.You will often find some military figures who will prefer to spend more money on conventional weapons that on nuclear ... but it is better to have the deterrent because you cannot be sure that ... nobody might use a weapon against us.
He also praised “brave Labour MPs” who backed the renewal of Trident.He also praised “brave Labour MPs” who backed the renewal of Trident.
Fallon added:Fallon added:
Jeremy Corbyn made it absolutely clear that he is still against the deterrent, and he was then corrected by his own party. So we had chaos from Labour last night which doubles the security risk to this country when you have somebody standing to be prime minister who his own party is then having to correct. And you are left completely unsure as to what would actually happen to our nuclear deterrent.Jeremy Corbyn made it absolutely clear that he is still against the deterrent, and he was then corrected by his own party. So we had chaos from Labour last night which doubles the security risk to this country when you have somebody standing to be prime minister who his own party is then having to correct. And you are left completely unsure as to what would actually happen to our nuclear deterrent.
This is somebody who would certainly put the security of our country at risk. And if you want stronger and stable leadership then it has to be Theresa May and the Conservatives.This is somebody who would certainly put the security of our country at risk. And if you want stronger and stable leadership then it has to be Theresa May and the Conservatives.
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.28am BSTat 9.28am BST
7.36am BST7.36am BST
07:3607:36
Matthew WeaverMatthew Weaver
Labour’s general election chief, Andrew Gwynne, has confirmed that renewing Trident will not be part of Labour’s defence review, despite Jeremy Corbyn’s suggestion on Sunday that it would be subject to review.Labour’s general election chief, Andrew Gwynne, has confirmed that renewing Trident will not be part of Labour’s defence review, despite Jeremy Corbyn’s suggestion on Sunday that it would be subject to review.
“We are committed to renewing the Trident system,” said Gwynne, who is shadow minister without portfolio and Labour’s campaign and elections chair.“We are committed to renewing the Trident system,” said Gwynne, who is shadow minister without portfolio and Labour’s campaign and elections chair.
His comments come after the Labour leader was asked by the Andrew Marr programme whether he still backs Trident. He said “all aspects” of defence policy would be subject to review.His comments come after the Labour leader was asked by the Andrew Marr programme whether he still backs Trident. He said “all aspects” of defence policy would be subject to review.
Responding to those comments, Gwynne told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “The Labour party is very clear we are committed to a credible nuclear credibility at the minimum end of the scale. That is Labour party policy and it will be in the manifesto.”Responding to those comments, Gwynne told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “The Labour party is very clear we are committed to a credible nuclear credibility at the minimum end of the scale. That is Labour party policy and it will be in the manifesto.”
Gwynne was also asked about Corbyn’s refusal to use nuclear weapons. He said:Gwynne was also asked about Corbyn’s refusal to use nuclear weapons. He said:
No prime minister has ever been put in the position where they have had to consider using them.No prime minister has ever been put in the position where they have had to consider using them.
We would not be in a position where the first choice would be to press that red button. It is a deterrent because we have them. We believe in multilateralism, we believe in negotiating away our nuclear weapons system to create a nuclear weapon free world.We would not be in a position where the first choice would be to press that red button. It is a deterrent because we have them. We believe in multilateralism, we believe in negotiating away our nuclear weapons system to create a nuclear weapon free world.
The Conservatives continue to seize on Labour’s confusion on Trident.The Conservatives continue to seize on Labour’s confusion on Trident.
Labour election chief Andrew Gwynne tells BBC his leader wrong on Trident. Vote Conservative on 8 June or his leader will be your PM #chaosLabour election chief Andrew Gwynne tells BBC his leader wrong on Trident. Vote Conservative on 8 June or his leader will be your PM #chaos
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.07am BSTat 9.07am BST
7.17am BST7.17am BST
07:1707:17
Corbyn will get on with the actual campaigning in Scotland where his party fared so badly in 2015.Corbyn will get on with the actual campaigning in Scotland where his party fared so badly in 2015.
He has vowed “to fight every corner” north of the border and repair some of the damage.He has vowed “to fight every corner” north of the border and repair some of the damage.
To that end, he will address the Scottish TUC in beautiful Aviemore today, along with Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the SNP.To that end, he will address the Scottish TUC in beautiful Aviemore today, along with Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the SNP.
6.57am BST6.57am BST
06:5706:57
Jeremy Corbyn is already taking some flak from retired defence chiefs about his Trident comments.Jeremy Corbyn is already taking some flak from retired defence chiefs about his Trident comments.
General Lord Richards of Herstmonceux, a former chief of defence staff, has thundered to the Daily Telegraph:General Lord Richards of Herstmonceux, a former chief of defence staff, has thundered to the Daily Telegraph:
Jeremy Corbyn, unlike many of his distinguished predecessors in the Labour party from Clement Attlee through Denis Healey and beyond, has demonstrated why he should not be trusted with the ultimate responsibility of government - that of the nation’s defence and security.Jeremy Corbyn, unlike many of his distinguished predecessors in the Labour party from Clement Attlee through Denis Healey and beyond, has demonstrated why he should not be trusted with the ultimate responsibility of government - that of the nation’s defence and security.
6.22am BST6.22am BST
06:2206:22
The Snap: your election briefingThe Snap: your election briefing
Good morning and welcome to day 44 in the countdown to the general election.Good morning and welcome to day 44 in the countdown to the general election.
As Claire Phipps is away, today’s briefing is brought to you Nicola Slawson. I’m Martin Farrer but don’t worry because Andrew Sparrow will be along later as usual and will covering all of the day’s election action. In the meantime, here’s Nicola’s roundup of all the latest campaign news. Comments are open below or you can find me on Twitter @Nicola_Slawson.As Claire Phipps is away, today’s briefing is brought to you Nicola Slawson. I’m Martin Farrer but don’t worry because Andrew Sparrow will be along later as usual and will covering all of the day’s election action. In the meantime, here’s Nicola’s roundup of all the latest campaign news. Comments are open below or you can find me on Twitter @Nicola_Slawson.
What’s happening?What’s happening?
All eyes were on our neighbours across the channel yesterday evening as France went to the polls. The outcome of the presidential election is set to impact on Brexit negotiations, whatever the outcome which we’ll know almost a month to the day before our election. With independent centrist Emmanuel Macron topping the first round of the French presidential election, it could spell bad news for the UK in talks on Brexit should he win.All eyes were on our neighbours across the channel yesterday evening as France went to the polls. The outcome of the presidential election is set to impact on Brexit negotiations, whatever the outcome which we’ll know almost a month to the day before our election. With independent centrist Emmanuel Macron topping the first round of the French presidential election, it could spell bad news for the UK in talks on Brexit should he win.
Old wounds in the Labour party were reopened on the country’s nuclear deterrent after a “zen-like” Jeremy Corbyn said on the Andrew Marr show that “all aspects” of defence would be reviewed if he won power. A Labour spokesperson then spent yesterday attempting to dial that back by insisting that Labour backs the UK’s Trident nuclear weapons. This contradiction has naturally been jumped on by the right wing press today, with the Daily Mail running with “Corbyn’s defence debacle” as the headline to its double page spread on the matter.Old wounds in the Labour party were reopened on the country’s nuclear deterrent after a “zen-like” Jeremy Corbyn said on the Andrew Marr show that “all aspects” of defence would be reviewed if he won power. A Labour spokesperson then spent yesterday attempting to dial that back by insisting that Labour backs the UK’s Trident nuclear weapons. This contradiction has naturally been jumped on by the right wing press today, with the Daily Mail running with “Corbyn’s defence debacle” as the headline to its double page spread on the matter.
The Conservatives said they would include a cap on household energy bills in their manifesto. This came as a surprise to Ed Miliband who took to Twitter to ask: “Where were these people for last four years since I proposed cap? Defending a broken energy market that ripped people off. Let’s see small print.” And later: “Tories in for kicking from Sun and Mail tomorrow for energy policy. Just wait: Marxist madness, anti-business, back to 70s.” Having perused the first editions, they seem to have missed the memo. And as newspapers alter their views on energy market intervention, consumers must work out what it would mean for them, my colleague Adam Vaughan says.The Conservatives said they would include a cap on household energy bills in their manifesto. This came as a surprise to Ed Miliband who took to Twitter to ask: “Where were these people for last four years since I proposed cap? Defending a broken energy market that ripped people off. Let’s see small print.” And later: “Tories in for kicking from Sun and Mail tomorrow for energy policy. Just wait: Marxist madness, anti-business, back to 70s.” Having perused the first editions, they seem to have missed the memo. And as newspapers alter their views on energy market intervention, consumers must work out what it would mean for them, my colleague Adam Vaughan says.
The Liberal Democrats, probably the only party genuinely excited at the prospect of a snap election, say their membership is set to pass the 100,000 mark following a surge of new joiners in the wake of May’s announcement. £1.6m has also been raised, Tim Farron claimed, although he did make a plea on Peston on Sunday to “anyone out there feeling generous, the Lib Dem bank account is still open for business”.The Liberal Democrats, probably the only party genuinely excited at the prospect of a snap election, say their membership is set to pass the 100,000 mark following a surge of new joiners in the wake of May’s announcement. £1.6m has also been raised, Tim Farron claimed, although he did make a plea on Peston on Sunday to “anyone out there feeling generous, the Lib Dem bank account is still open for business”.
At a glance:At a glance:
Ukip pledged in its manifesto to ban full veils worn by some Muslim womenUkip pledged in its manifesto to ban full veils worn by some Muslim women
Women’s Equality party leader seeks backing for a clear run to beat “misogynist” MP. Sophie Walker’s challenge to Tory Philip Davies in Shipley comes as ‘progressive alliance’ gathers support in key marginal seatsWomen’s Equality party leader seeks backing for a clear run to beat “misogynist” MP. Sophie Walker’s challenge to Tory Philip Davies in Shipley comes as ‘progressive alliance’ gathers support in key marginal seats
How May kept her secret – and left rivals scramblingHow May kept her secret – and left rivals scrambling
The Observer examined six battlegrounds that could shape the voteThe Observer examined six battlegrounds that could shape the vote
Poll positionPoll position
According to a clutch of new polls over the weekend, with one showing half of all voters backing the Conservatives, May is heading for a landslide victory. One poll by Survation carried out as the row over Tory tax and pension plans was emerging, had the two main parties closer, with the Tories on 40% and Labour on 29%. A ComRes poll for the Sunday Mirror put the Tories at 50% and Labour on 25%, while the Tories could gain 12 SNP seats, according to a Panelbase poll for the Sunday Times found.According to a clutch of new polls over the weekend, with one showing half of all voters backing the Conservatives, May is heading for a landslide victory. One poll by Survation carried out as the row over Tory tax and pension plans was emerging, had the two main parties closer, with the Tories on 40% and Labour on 29%. A ComRes poll for the Sunday Mirror put the Tories at 50% and Labour on 25%, while the Tories could gain 12 SNP seats, according to a Panelbase poll for the Sunday Times found.
May, however, has not quite forgiven the pollsters for getting things so wrong in the last few years, it seems:May, however, has not quite forgiven the pollsters for getting things so wrong in the last few years, it seems:
The opinion polls got the general election wrong in 2015. They got the EU referendum wrong … So we will not be complacent. We will be fighting for every single vote.The opinion polls got the general election wrong in 2015. They got the EU referendum wrong … So we will not be complacent. We will be fighting for every single vote.
DiaryDiary
It’s going to be a busy day for the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) in Aviemore. Both Corbyn and Nicola Sturgeon are due to address trade unionists there todayIt’s going to be a busy day for the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) in Aviemore. Both Corbyn and Nicola Sturgeon are due to address trade unionists there today
Farron will be out in Kate Hoey’s seat of Vauxhall in the afternoonFarron will be out in Kate Hoey’s seat of Vauxhall in the afternoon
May, however, is not going out on the campaign trail today. I guess she’ll just be getting on with STRONG. STABLE. LEADERSHIP then?May, however, is not going out on the campaign trail today. I guess she’ll just be getting on with STRONG. STABLE. LEADERSHIP then?
The Leader of the Commons, David Lidington, is going to make a statement at 3.30pm about how the government plans to manage the legislative wash-up before parliament is dissolved.The Leader of the Commons, David Lidington, is going to make a statement at 3.30pm about how the government plans to manage the legislative wash-up before parliament is dissolved.
Talking pointTalking point
Aside from setting tongues wagging by urging people to vote Tory*, Tony Blair also hinted at an extraordinary return to British politics. He stepped down from frontline politics in 2007 but has become more vocal and politically active in recent months, including setting up a thinktank to make the case for the centre ground and for continued EU membership. So will the former prime minister stand for election?Aside from setting tongues wagging by urging people to vote Tory*, Tony Blair also hinted at an extraordinary return to British politics. He stepped down from frontline politics in 2007 but has become more vocal and politically active in recent months, including setting up a thinktank to make the case for the centre ground and for continued EU membership. So will the former prime minister stand for election?
I look at the British political scene at the moment and I actually almost feel motivated to go right back into it.I look at the British political scene at the moment and I actually almost feel motivated to go right back into it.
* Only if the candidate promises to have an open mind about the terms of the final Brexit deal.* Only if the candidate promises to have an open mind about the terms of the final Brexit deal.
Read theseRead these
In the Guardian, Zoe Williams argues that the emphasis on Corbyn’s personal qualities obscures what’s really broken in our political system:In the Guardian, Zoe Williams argues that the emphasis on Corbyn’s personal qualities obscures what’s really broken in our political system:
No amount of spinning or grooming or looking Zen on Andrew Marr will make him look any way other than how he always has, an outsider by choice; more than choice, vocation. The progressive case will move faster when his allies and near-allies stop trying to tease failure from his policies and his speeches. There is nothing wrong with the direction or the analysis; no left-leaning party would lead on anything other than saving the NHS, building social housing and reducing inequality. Yet, at the same time, expecting undecideds to be won over by his very particular brand of contrarianism isn’t realistic.No amount of spinning or grooming or looking Zen on Andrew Marr will make him look any way other than how he always has, an outsider by choice; more than choice, vocation. The progressive case will move faster when his allies and near-allies stop trying to tease failure from his policies and his speeches. There is nothing wrong with the direction or the analysis; no left-leaning party would lead on anything other than saving the NHS, building social housing and reducing inequality. Yet, at the same time, expecting undecideds to be won over by his very particular brand of contrarianism isn’t realistic.
In the Spectator, James Forsyth says that the supposedly cautious prime minister has taken a dangerous gamble:In the Spectator, James Forsyth says that the supposedly cautious prime minister has taken a dangerous gamble:
A prime minister going for an election when her party is 20-odd points ahead in the opinion polls doesn’t seem much like a gamble. That’s especially true when more than half of the leader of the opposition’s own MPs don’t have confidence in him. But this decision is the riskiest one that Theresa May has taken since entering No 10. If May were to lose her reputation as the serious grown-up of British politics, any general election victory would come at a cost for her personally. The May brand that has proved so potent would have been tarnished and her prime ministerial honeymoon would be over.A prime minister going for an election when her party is 20-odd points ahead in the opinion polls doesn’t seem much like a gamble. That’s especially true when more than half of the leader of the opposition’s own MPs don’t have confidence in him. But this decision is the riskiest one that Theresa May has taken since entering No 10. If May were to lose her reputation as the serious grown-up of British politics, any general election victory would come at a cost for her personally. The May brand that has proved so potent would have been tarnished and her prime ministerial honeymoon would be over.
John Rentoul wrote for the Independent about the fight to succeed Jeremy Corbyn, which has already begun:John Rentoul wrote for the Independent about the fight to succeed Jeremy Corbyn, which has already begun:
For those around Corbyn, the priority is to ensure that he stays on as leader after defeat, or that he is replaced by a fellow member of the faction. Hence the desperate attempts going on behind the scenes as you read this article to try to secure selection as Labour candidates in safe seats for Corbyn supporters.For those around Corbyn, the priority is to ensure that he stays on as leader after defeat, or that he is replaced by a fellow member of the faction. Hence the desperate attempts going on behind the scenes as you read this article to try to secure selection as Labour candidates in safe seats for Corbyn supporters.
Revelation of the dayRevelation of the day
Revelation is probably too strong a word but on the Marr show Corbyn said: “We haven’t completed work on the manifesto yet, as you’d expect.”Revelation is probably too strong a word but on the Marr show Corbyn said: “We haven’t completed work on the manifesto yet, as you’d expect.”
This, despite claiming to have been election ready for months, could be because he is actually crowdsourcing Labour’s manifesto. On Sunday, Corbyn emailed Labour party members asking them to fill in a form with their ideas. The email asked: “How do you think we can best deliver prosperity for all, public services that are protected and ensure that the next generation have the best start in life?”This, despite claiming to have been election ready for months, could be because he is actually crowdsourcing Labour’s manifesto. On Sunday, Corbyn emailed Labour party members asking them to fill in a form with their ideas. The email asked: “How do you think we can best deliver prosperity for all, public services that are protected and ensure that the next generation have the best start in life?”
And another thingAnd another thing
Would you like to wake up to this briefing in your inbox every weekday? Sign up here!Would you like to wake up to this briefing in your inbox every weekday? Sign up here!
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.14am BSTat 9.14am BST