thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Labour urges MPs to ditch planning law that will create a 'generation of slums'

Labour is urging Tories disgruntled by the Government ’ s planning shake-up to voice their dissent by voting against the first batch of changes designed to fast-track developments .
They have dubbed Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick ’ s sweeping reforms to the planning process a “ developers ’ charter ” and argued it could lead to slum housing in town and city centres .
It has secured a vote in the Commons on the first elements of the overhaul which the party has claimed will stop local people objecting to inappropriate developments in their streets .
Labour said new powers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ empty shops to be demolished and converted into housing without the need for planning permission , while two-storey property extensions will be approved automatically .
The streamline reforms have caused unease within Tory ranks , with fears that local concerns will be ignored in order to build more quickly .
Shadow housing minister Mike Amesbury said : “ This is the first stage of an atrocious new developers ’ charter , which will wrench power away from local people and into the hands of the developers that bankroll the Tories .
“ Passing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streets , hobble leaseholders and create a new generation of slum housing – and there will be nothing local people can do to stop it .
“ If Tory MPs vote through this legislation , they will permanently silence local voices and show their communities that it ’ s not just Robert Jenrick who is in the pockets of developers.
” Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his senior aide Dominic Cummings have both advocated reform to the planning system , and the proposals in the Planning for the Future White Paper last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The envisaged new process will involve quicker development on land which has been designated “ for renewal ” , with a “ permission in principle ” approach that the Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government ( MHCLG ) said will balance the need for proper checks with a speedier way of working .
The other two categories will see land designated for growth where new homes , hospitals and schools will be allowed automatically to empower development , while areas of outstanding natural beauty and the green belt will come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said changes already made by ministers before the summer recess , in the form of statutory instruments which are not put to a vote by MPs , show a disregard for local scrutiny .
Changes to the Town and Country Planning regulations will allow some blocks of flats to have up to two storeys added , empty high street shops to be demolished and rebuilt as housing and for homes could be extended upwards by two storeys , all without the requirement for council approval , said Labour .
The party highlighted that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the Westferry Printworks development scandal , in which Mr Jenrick unlawfully approved a £1 billion development for Conservative donor Richard Desmond , saving him tens of millions of pounds due in tax .
Planning permission for the east London development was later reversed after the Cabinet minister , who faced calls to resign over his handling of the application , admitted “ bias ” following contact with former newspaper magnate Mr Desmond .

They have dubbed Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick’s sweeping reforms to the planning process a 'developers’ charter' and argued it could lead to slum housing in town and city centres.
Labour urges MPs to vote down planning law that will create 'new generation of slums'
Labour is urging Tories disgruntled by the Government’s planning shake-up to voice their dissent by voting against the first batch of changes designed to fast-track developments.
They have dubbed Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick’s sweeping reforms to the planning process a “developers’ charter” and argued it could lead to slum housing in town and city centres.
It has secured a vote in the Commons on the first elements of the overhaul which the party has claimed will stop local people objecting to inappropriate developments in their streets.
Labour said new powers already issued by the Government will allow empty shops to be demolished and converted into housing without the need for planning permission, while two-storey property extensions will be approved automatically.
The streamline reforms have caused unease within Tory ranks, with fears that local concerns will be ignored in order to build more quickly.
Shadow housing minister Mike Amesbury said: “This is the first stage of an atrocious new developers’ charter, which will wrench power away from local people and into the hands of the developers that bankroll the Tories.
Image: Adam Vaughan/REX/Shutterstock) Adam Vaughan/REX/Shutterstock)
“Passing this legislation will kill off our high streets, hobble leaseholders and create a new generation of slum housing – and there will be nothing local people can do to stop it.
“If Tory MPs vote through this legislation, they will permanently silence local voices and show their communities that it’s not just Robert Jenrick who is in the pockets of developers.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his senior aide Dominic Cummings have both advocated reform to the planning system, and the proposals in the Planning for the Future White Paper last month set out the Government’s vision.
The envisaged new process will involve quicker development on land which has been designated “for renewal”, with a “permission in principle” approach that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) said will balance the need for proper checks with a speedier way of working.
The other two categories will see land designated for growth where new homes, hospitals and schools will be allowed automatically to empower development, while areas of outstanding natural beauty and the green belt will come under the protection category.
But Labour said changes already made by ministers before the summer recess, in the form of statutory instruments which are not put to a vote by MPs, show a disregard for local scrutiny.
Changes to the Town and Country Planning regulations will allow some blocks of flats to have up to two storeys added, empty high street shops to be demolished and rebuilt as housing and for homes could be extended upwards by two storeys, all without the requirement for council approval, said Labour.
The party highlighted that the changes were brought in only weeks after the Westferry Printworks development scandal, in which Mr Jenrick unlawfully approved a £1 billion development for Conservative donor Richard Desmond, saving him tens of millions of pounds due in tax.
Planning permission for the east London development was later reversed after the Cabinet minister, who faced calls to resign over his handling of the application, admitted “bias” following contact with former newspaper magnate Mr Desmond.


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Amanda Holden floored by husband's reaction to song dedicated to stillborn baby

Amanda Holden has shared the meaning behind her new track , With You , which is dedicated to her stillborn son Theo .
The Britain ’ s Got Talent judge , 49 , revealed that her baby ’ s tragic death in 2011 changed her as a person forever , and made her release first-hand just how fragile life can be .
The devoted wife also paid tribute to her beloved husband Chris Hughes for staying strong when she 'fell apart ' after suffering the colossal loss in her life .
Lifting the lid on the meaning behind the precious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The last lines of this song are 'You took my life with you , took my world with you ' and so this is for Theo , our baby who was born sleeping and for Chris who stayed strong when I fell apart .
“ It was Chris who told me he always thought of Theo when he heard this song which floored me so it 's also his song for Theo.
” In 2011 , Amanda was seven months pregnant with son Theo when a scan revealed his heart had stopped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later underwent a Caesarean to deliver her 'sleeping baby ' .
Amanda shared the heartbreaking details of how she discovered that her baby had passed away on the poignant BBC One show Dear NHS Superhero 's earlier this year .
“ I held him in my arms for the first time and that is when I realised that I was still a mummy even though he was fast asleep.
” She described her beautiful baby as having perfectly formed eyebrows `` like all of her children '' .
`` The thing that I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfectly formed eyebrows .
My husband says our children inherited them from him '' she laughed .
The TV star insisted that she could not have got through the devastating ordeal if it was n't for the help of the incredible NHS staff .

Britain’s Got Talent star Amanda Holden opened up about her powerful song With You which is dedicated to her stillborn son Theo
Amanda Holden has shared the meaning behind her new track, With You, which is dedicated to her stillborn son Theo.
The Britain’s Got Talent judge, 49, revealed that her baby’s tragic death in 2011 changed her as a person forever, and made her release first-hand just how fragile life can be.
The devoted wife also paid tribute to her beloved husband Chris Hughes for staying strong when she 'fell apart' after suffering the colossal loss in her life.
Lifting the lid on the meaning behind the precious song, Amanda told Mail Online : “The last lines of this song are 'You took my life with you, took my world with you' and so this is for Theo, our baby who was born sleeping and for Chris who stayed strong when I fell apart.
Image: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED) TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED)
“It was Chris who told me he always thought of Theo when he heard this song which floored me so it's also his song for Theo.”
In 2011, Amanda was seven months pregnant with son Theo when a scan revealed his heart had stopped.
The Britain's Got Talent star later underwent a Caesarean to deliver her 'sleeping baby'.
Image: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED) TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED)
Amanda shared the heartbreaking details of how she discovered that her baby had passed away on the poignant BBC One show Dear NHS Superhero's earlier this year.
“I held him in my arms for the first time and that is when I realised that I was still a mummy even though he was fast asleep.”
She described her beautiful baby as having perfectly formed eyebrows "like all of her children".
Image: BBC) BBC)
"The thing that I always remember most about him was his perfectly formed eyebrows. My husband says our children inherited them from him" she laughed.
The TV star insisted that she could not have got through the devastating ordeal if it wasn't for the help of the incredible NHS staff.


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Strictly Come Dancing's Bruno Tonioli eyes up a villainous EastEnders role

Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli is eyeing up a villainous role in EastEnders .
The 64-year-old Strictly Come Dancing legend has been musing about roles he would be keen on taking up in his acting career .
According to the Daily Star , Bruno said : `` I would love to play a baddie on TV , a very evil character .
`` I could be an EastEnders baddie .
It would have to be scripted so I did n't have to do it myself though . ''
Meanwhile , Bruno has also been reflecting on Strictly Come Dancing 's recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his gratitude to fans for watching all of these years .
He said : `` But the biggest thank you goes to all of you - our viewers .
I 'm telling you , without you , we would not be here .
`` And we really hope to keep you entertained and happy for many years to come . ''
Sadly , Bruno will not be appearing on this year 's series of Strictly Come Dancing due to the Covid-19 pandemic creating travel chaos between the US and UK .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US version of the series , Dancing with the Stars .
It has already been revealed that Strictly 's Halloween week and Blackpool visit have been cancelled due to the pandemic too .
Presenter Claudia Winkleman will also be speaking to couples separately rather than altogether as a group .
Celebrities are also due to find out their professional dance partners via a video link for the first time in the show 's history .
Meanwhile , over on EastEnders it is something of a dramatic period for exit announcements .
Actor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the soap after 15 years in the role of ladies ' man Max Branning , with the character bowing out before the end of the year .
Elsewhere , relative newcomer Jags Panesar is due to leave Albert Square next month , while hunky Kush Kazemi will be written out at the conclusion of a dramatic storyline in 2021 .
Finally , Enders icon Lacey Turner will once again be going on maternity leave as she is expecting her second child , meaning her fan-favourite character Stacey Slater will be temporarily written out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the year .
Could her exit coincide with the departure of old flame Max ?
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One in October , while EastEnders airs on Mondays , Tuesdays , Thursdays , and Fridays on BBC One .
Would you like to see Bruno Tonioli on EastEnders ?
Let us know in the comments below .

Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli has said he would be keen on playing a villain in BBC One soap opera EastEnders
Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli is eyeing up a villainous role in EastEnders.
The 64-year-old Strictly Come Dancing legend has been musing about roles he would be keen on taking up in his acting career.
According to the Daily Star, Bruno said: "I would love to play a baddie on TV, a very evil character.
"I could be an EastEnders baddie. It would have to be scripted so I didn't have to do it myself though."
Meanwhile, Bruno has also been reflecting on Strictly Come Dancing's recent BAFTA win, which saw him show his gratitude to fans for watching all of these years.
He said: "But the biggest thank you goes to all of you - our viewers. I'm telling you, without you, we would not be here.
"And we really hope to keep you entertained and happy for many years to come."
Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images) Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Sadly, Bruno will not be appearing on this year's series of Strictly Come Dancing due to the Covid-19 pandemic creating travel chaos between the US and UK.
However, Bruno is appearing as a judge on the US version of the series, Dancing with the Stars.
It has already been revealed that Strictly's Halloween week and Blackpool visit have been cancelled due to the pandemic too.
Presenter Claudia Winkleman will also be speaking to couples separately rather than altogether as a group.
Image: BBC/Guy Levy) BBC/Guy Levy)
Celebrities are also due to find out their professional dance partners via a video link for the first time in the show's history.
Meanwhile, over on EastEnders it is something of a dramatic period for exit announcements.
Actor Jake Wood is being written out of the soap after 15 years in the role of ladies' man Max Branning, with the character bowing out before the end of the year.
Elsewhere, relative newcomer Jags Panesar is due to leave Albert Square next month, while hunky Kush Kazemi will be written out at the conclusion of a dramatic storyline in 2021.
Image: BBC) BBC) Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes) BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)
Finally, Enders icon Lacey Turner will once again be going on maternity leave as she is expecting her second child, meaning her fan-favourite character Stacey Slater will be temporarily written out of the soap by the end of the year.
Could her exit coincide with the departure of old flame Max?
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One in October, while EastEnders airs on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays on BBC One.
Would you like to see Bruno Tonioli on EastEnders? Let us know in the comments below.


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--No, Joe Biden isn't wearing an earpiece to cheat in the US election TV debate

Joe Biden is n't wearing an electronic earpiece to cheat in the first US election TV debate .
A bizarre , unfounded conspiracy theory began to spread earlier today through social media , claiming the former Vice President planned to use an in-ear transmitter to have answers fed to him during tonight 's 90 minute TV debate .
It 's unclear where the claim originated , but it appeared to be pushed out by co-ordinated Facebook accounts in the US .
Memes insisting Biden have his ears checked before the debate spread this morning - saying : `` Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ piece as well as submit to a drug test before the debate .
Share if you agree ! ''
The theory was picked up by Fox News , and before too long by the Trump campaign themselves .
When Team Trump arrived at the debate site in Cleveland , Ohio to decide the ground rules for tonight 's clash , they demanded both candidates submit to an independent body search for electronic devices .
Team Biden declined - also denying , as Trump ’ s team claimed , that they had asked for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Kate Bedingfield , a Biden deputy campaign manager said Team Trump “ seems concerned that he will not do well tonight , and they ’ re already laying the groundwork for how they ’ re going to lie about why.
” She added : “ It is completely absurd .
Of course he is not wearing an earpiece , and we never asked for breaks.
” The President has repeatedly - without evidence - claimed Mr Biden has relied on `` performance enhancing drugs '' in previous debates against fellow Democrat Bernie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came to a head today , 24 hours before the first Presidential debate of the 2020 US election in Cleveland , Ohio .
The President challenged Biden to a take a drug test ahead of the showdown , saying he would do the same .
I will be strongly demanding a Drug Test of Sleepy Joe Biden prior to , or after , the Debate on Tuesday night .
Naturally , I will agree to take one also , ” Trump wrote on Twitter .
“ His Debate performances have been record setting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Only drugs could have caused this discrepancy ?
?
?
” In response , Kate Bedingfield , Biden ’ s deputy campaign manager treated the President 's challenge with every bit of the seriousness it deserved .
“ Vice President Biden intends to deliver his debate answers in words .
If the president thinks his best case is made in urine he can have at it , ” she said .
“ We ’ d expect nothing less from Donald Trump , who pissed away the chance to protect the lives of 200K @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plan to stop COVID-19.
” We ca n't be sure , but we think this might be the first time the word `` urine '' has been used in an official statement from a major presidential campaign .
Of course , Biden would n't be the first person to be baselessly accused of wearing a wire in a TV debate .
Boris Johnson gets it a lot , because he has a weird flap of skin in one of his ears .
And in the US Hilary Clinton , Barack Obama , Al @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all been accused of wearing a wire during debates over the years .
The first debate will take place tonight in Cleveland , Ohio .
The debate will be broadcast live on all major news channels from 2am UK time , including BBC News and Sky News , and on CNN which is available on Sky TV in the UK .

The first US Election 2020 presidential debate is tonight, and a bizarre, unfounded conspiracy theory appears to have been pushed out by coordinated Facebook accounts
No, Joe Biden isn't wearing an earpiece to cheat in the US election TV debate
Joe Biden isn't wearing an electronic earpiece to cheat in the first US election TV debate.
A bizarre, unfounded conspiracy theory began to spread earlier today through social media, claiming the former Vice President planned to use an in-ear transmitter to have answers fed to him during tonight's 90 minute TV debate.
It's unclear where the claim originated, but it appeared to be pushed out by co-ordinated Facebook accounts in the US.
Memes insisting Biden have his ears checked before the debate spread this morning - saying: "Joe Biden should be inspected for a hidden ear piece as well as submit to a drug test before the debate. Share if you agree!"
The theory was picked up by Fox News, and before too long by the Trump campaign themselves.
When Team Trump arrived at the debate site in Cleveland, Ohio to decide the ground rules for tonight's clash, they demanded both candidates submit to an independent body search for electronic devices.
Team Biden declined - also denying, as Trump’s team claimed, that they had asked for “multiple breaks” during the event.
Kate Bedingfield, a Biden deputy campaign manager said Team Trump “seems concerned that he will not do well tonight, and they’re already laying the groundwork for how they’re going to lie about why.”
She added: “It is completely absurd. Of course he is not wearing an earpiece, and we never asked for breaks.”
The President has repeatedly - without evidence - claimed Mr Biden has relied on "performance enhancing drugs" in previous debates against fellow Democrat Bernie Sanders.
The bizarre line of attack came to a head today, 24 hours before the first Presidential debate of the 2020 US election in Cleveland, Ohio.
The President challenged Biden to a take a drug test ahead of the showdown, saying he would do the same.
I will be strongly demanding a Drug Test of Sleepy Joe Biden prior to, or after, the Debate on Tuesday night. Naturally, I will agree to take one also,” Trump wrote on Twitter.
“His Debate performances have been record setting UNEVEN, to put it mildly. Only drugs could have caused this discrepancy???”
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
In response, Kate Bedingfield, Biden’s deputy campaign manager treated the President's challenge with every bit of the seriousness it deserved.
“Vice President Biden intends to deliver his debate answers in words. If the president thinks his best case is made in urine he can have at it,” she said.
“We’d expect nothing less from Donald Trump, who pissed away the chance to protect the lives of 200K Americans when he didn't make a plan to stop COVID-19.”
We can't be sure, but we think this might be the first time the word "urine" has been used in an official statement from a major presidential campaign.
Of course, Biden wouldn't be the first person to be baselessly accused of wearing a wire in a TV debate.
Boris Johnson gets it a lot, because he has a weird flap of skin in one of his ears.
And in the US Hilary Clinton, Barack Obama, Al Gore, and George W Bush have all been accused of wearing a wire during debates over the years.
The first debate will take place tonight in Cleveland, Ohio.
The debate will be broadcast live on all major news channels from 2am UK time, including BBC News and Sky News, and on CNN which is available on Sky TV in the UK.


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Hugh Jackman’s wife Deborra-Lee Furness addresses rumours her husband is gay

Deborra-Lee Furness has laughed off long-running speculation regarding her husband Hugh Jackman ’ s sexuality .
The stars celebrate 25 years of marriage next year - but even that has n't stopped rumours swirling .
Hugh , 51 , has never taken the talk to heart , but says Deborra-Lee does n't enjoy reading or hearing the unfounded gossip .
The wife of the Wolverine star has now spoken about the subject during her appearance on Anh 's Brush with Fame on Tuesday .
The unimpressed 64-year-old actress said : `` I see these magazines and they are just so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's all made up .
It ’ s just wrong .
`` It ’ s like someone saying to Elton John , ‘ He ’ s straight ’ - I ’ m sure he ’ d be p****d !
” She joked : `` Hugh 's been gay for so many years , I was gay too when I did [ the film ] Shame .
They were shocked when I got married !
`` And so what ?
What are we discussing here ?
Is he a vegetarian ?
Is he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the past that he does n't take the speculation to heart - and knows where it all started .
But he said : `` Just recently , it bugs her .
She goes : 'It 's big .
It 's everywhere ! '
`` Some dudes do get upset , some dudes say `` Do n't say I 'm gay '' but I am good . ''
In a 2018 interview , Hugh said he thinks rumours came from his Tony-winning performance as Peter Allen in The Boy from Oz - a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minelli ’ s first husband , who later came out as gay .
Seven years ago X-Men producer Lauren Shuler Donner also addressed rumours that Jackman was secretly gay .
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter , she said : “ I have seen him with Deborra since the beginning of their trip to Hollywood , and I ’ ve been on five movie sets with him and have never seen him stray , have never seen him eye anyone .
”

In 2018, the star said he thinks speculation came from his performance as Peter Allen in The Boy from Oz - a musical about the musician who was Liza Minelli’s first husband, who later came out as gay
Deborra-Lee Furness has laughed off long-running speculation regarding her husband Hugh Jackman’s sexuality.
The stars celebrate 25 years of marriage next year - but even that hasn't stopped rumours swirling.
Hugh, 51, has never taken the talk to heart, but says Deborra-Lee doesn't enjoy reading or hearing the unfounded gossip.
The wife of the Wolverine star has now spoken about the subject during her appearance on Anh's Brush with Fame on Tuesday.
The unimpressed 64-year-old actress said: "I see these magazines and they are just so mean-spirited.
"I hope people realise it's all made up. It’s just wrong.
Image: GETTY) GETTY)
"It’s like someone saying to Elton John, ‘He’s straight’ - I’m sure he’d be p****d!”
She joked: "Hugh's been gay for so many years, I was gay too when I did [the film] Shame. They were shocked when I got married!
"And so what? What are we discussing here? Is he a vegetarian? Is he gay?"
The actor told PageSix in the past that he doesn't take the speculation to heart - and knows where it all started.
But he said: "Just recently, it bugs her. She goes: 'It's big. It's everywhere!'
"Some dudes do get upset, some dudes say "Don't say I'm gay" but I am good."
In a 2018 interview, Hugh said he thinks rumours came from his Tony-winning performance as Peter Allen in The Boy from Oz - a musical about the musician who was Liza Minelli’s first husband, who later came out as gay.
Seven years ago X-Men producer Lauren Shuler Donner also addressed rumours that Jackman was secretly gay.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, she said: “I have seen him with Deborra since the beginning of their trip to Hollywood, and I’ve been on five movie sets with him and have never seen him stray, have never seen him eye anyone.”


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Man sentenced to death for 'posting blasphemous song in WhatsApp group'

A 22-year-old musician has been sentenced to death after being convicted of sharing an insulting song about the Prophet Muhammad in a WhatsApp chat .
Yahaya Sharif-Aminu faces being hanged after his conviction in Kano , Nigeria .
Outrage grew after the recording was widely shared earlier this year , with an angry crowd destroying his family home and forcing his father to flee .
Sharif-Aminu 's conviction has been described as a `` travesty of justice '' , amid calls for his life to be spared .
Lawyers for the music studio assistant told CNN the comment was made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group .
Legal documents say he was found guilty of making `` a blasphemous statement against Prophet Mohammed in a WhatsApp Group '' - an offence punishable by death according to the Kano State Sharia Penal Code .
Sharif-Aminu admitted the charge during his trial - during which he reportedly did not have a lawyer - but later said he 'd made a mistake .
He was arrested in March by the Hisbah Corps - a religious police force which enforces Sharia law in the state .
Amnesty International 's Nigeria director Osai @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns about the fairness of his trial and the framing of the charges against him based on his WhatsApp messages .
`` Furthermore , the imposition of the death penalty following an unfair trial violates the right to life . ''
A petition calling for authorities to overturn the sentence has been signed by more than 80,000 people .
However the state 's governor , Abdullahi Umar Ganduje , has said he will sign the musician 's death warrant as soon as the appeal process is exhausted .
He told a meeting , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assure you that immediately the Supreme Court affirms the judgment , I will sign it without any hesitation . ''
In a statement , UN human rights experts said : “ We are deeply concerned over the serious lack of due process in Mr. Sharif-Aminu ’ s case so far , especially reports that he has been held incommunicado , and that he did not have access to a lawyer during his initial trial , a trial that was not open to the public . ''
They added : “ Artistic expression of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other media – including those seen to offend religious sensibilities – is protected in accordance with international law .
`` The criminalization of these expressions is unlawful .
Music is not a crime .
”

Yahaya Sharif-Aminu faces being hanged after his conviction in Kano, Nigeria, which has been branded a "travesty of justice" by Amnesty International amid calls for his life to be spared
A 22-year-old musician has been sentenced to death after being convicted of sharing an insulting song about the Prophet Muhammad in a WhatsApp chat.
Yahaya Sharif-Aminu faces being hanged after his conviction in Kano, Nigeria.
Outrage grew after the recording was widely shared earlier this year, with an angry crowd destroying his family home and forcing his father to flee.
Sharif-Aminu's conviction has been described as a "travesty of justice", amid calls for his life to be spared.
Lawyers for the music studio assistant told CNN the comment was made during a row posted in a WhatsApp group.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Legal documents say he was found guilty of making "a blasphemous statement against Prophet Mohammed in a WhatsApp Group" - an offence punishable by death according to the Kano State Sharia Penal Code.
Sharif-Aminu admitted the charge during his trial - during which he reportedly did not have a lawyer - but later said he'd made a mistake.
He was arrested in March by the Hisbah Corps - a religious police force which enforces Sharia law in the state.
Amnesty International's Nigeria director Osai Ojigho said: "There are serious concerns about the fairness of his trial and the framing of the charges against him based on his WhatsApp messages.
Image: REUTERS) REUTERS)
"Furthermore, the imposition of the death penalty following an unfair trial violates the right to life."
A petition calling for authorities to overturn the sentence has been signed by more than 80,000 people.
However the state's governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has said he will sign the musician's death warrant as soon as the appeal process is exhausted.
He told a meeting, the Daily Post reports: "I assure you that immediately the Supreme Court affirms the judgment, I will sign it without any hesitation."
In a statement, UN human rights experts said: “We are deeply concerned over the serious lack of due process in Mr. Sharif-Aminu’s case so far, especially reports that he has been held incommunicado, and that he did not have access to a lawyer during his initial trial, a trial that was not open to the public."
They added: “Artistic expression of opinion and beliefs, through songs or other media – including those seen to offend religious sensibilities – is protected in accordance with international law.
"The criminalization of these expressions is unlawful. Music is not a crime.”


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Why Jake Gyllenhaal's childhood pic littered with comments by Taylor Swift fans

Jake Gyllenhaal 's sweet childhood photo was left littered with comments from Taylor Swift fans who could n't help but point out the lyric he inspired .
The Spider-Man : Far From Home star took to Instagram to share a cute black and white picture of himself as a child to raise awareness of an important cause .
The headshot shows Jake as a youngster smiling for the camera wearing a pair of round-framed glasses .
And Taylor 's fans could n't help but quote the lyrics to her song All Too Well .
Jake , 39 , captioned his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my glasses ever since I parted my hair meticulously with gel ( see above ) , which is why NEW EYES has always been near and dear to my heart .
`` Since 1932 , @ neweyes_ has provided eyeglasses to people who needed them most .
I ’ m thrilled that they ’ ve partnered with @ theinspireprojectus to create Project Human : Changing the Way We See the World , a speaker series coming to schools and remote learners this fall .
`` Project Human is designed to spark conversations focusing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s an opportunity for students to interact with public figures and do what they do best : Keep ‘ em on their toes !
For a full line-up of speakers or to bring Project Human to a school near you , visit : http : //theinspireproject.us/project-human/ '' While many people praised him for his message , some simply quoted Taylor 's lyrics to him .
One wrote : `` You used to be a little kid with glasses in a twin sized bed '' Another asked him : `` Is it true you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glasses in a twin sized bed '' A third wrote : `` TS was right .
`` you used to be a little kid with glasses in a twin sized-bed '' And one joked : `` i ’ ll be honest mate you set yourself up for this one '' Taylor and the Brokeback Mountain star dated for three months in 2010 and it 's widely believed that her song All Too Well from 2012 album Red was inspired by their romance .
The track , which is a big fan favourite , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left at Jake 's sister Maggie 's home .
Taylor is now in a relationship with actor Joe Alwyn , who she 's been dating since 2017 , while Jake has been seeing model Jeanne Cadieu for almost two years .

Spider-Man: Far From Home star Jake Gyllenhaal shared an adorable picture of himself as a child to raise awareness of an important cause, but Taylor Swift's fans couldn't help pointing out the lyrics to one of her songs
Why Jake Gyllenhaal's childhood throwback is littered with comments from Taylor Swift fans
Jake Gyllenhaal's sweet childhood photo was left littered with comments from Taylor Swift fans who couldn't help but point out the lyric he inspired.
The Spider-Man: Far From Home star took to Instagram to share a cute black and white picture of himself as a child to raise awareness of an important cause.
The headshot shows Jake as a youngster smiling for the camera wearing a pair of round-framed glasses.
And Taylor's fans couldn't help but quote the lyrics to her song All Too Well.
Jake, 39, captioned his picture: "I’ve worn my glasses ever since I parted my hair meticulously with gel (see above), which is why NEW EYES has always been near and dear to my heart.
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
"Since 1932, @neweyes_ has provided eyeglasses to people who needed them most. I’m thrilled that they’ve partnered with @theinspireprojectus to create Project Human: Changing the Way We See the World, a speaker series coming to schools and remote learners this fall.
"Project Human is designed to spark conversations focusing on unity and equality. It’s an opportunity for students to interact with public figures and do what they do best: Keep ‘em on their toes! For a full line-up of speakers or to bring Project Human to a school near you, visit: http://theinspireproject.us/project-human/"
While many people praised him for his message, some simply quoted Taylor's lyrics to him.
Image: Getty Images for dcp) Getty Images for dcp)
One wrote: "You used to be a little kid with glasses in a twin sized bed"
Another asked him: "Is it true you used to be a lil kid with glasses in a twin sized bed"
A third wrote: "TS was right. "you used to be a little kid with glasses in a twin sized-bed"
Image: SONY) SONY)
And one joked: "i’ll be honest mate you set yourself up for this one"
Taylor and the Brokeback Mountain star dated for three months in 2010 and it's widely believed that her song All Too Well from 2012 album Red was inspired by their romance.
The track, which is a big fan favourite, also famously references a scarf that Taylor left at Jake's sister Maggie's home.
Taylor is now in a relationship with actor Joe Alwyn, who she's been dating since 2017, while Jake has been seeing model Jeanne Cadieu for almost two years.


thedailymirror--2020-09-29--Netflix's Enola Holmes sued for making Henry Cavill's Sherlock 'too nice'

Netflix 's Enola Holmes was released last week as Millie Bobby Brown plays the plucky sister of detective Sherlock Holmes on a mission to track down her missing mother .
The film was based on Nancy Springer 's books and starred Henry Cavill as Sherlock and Helena Bonham Carter as their mother , Eudoria .
While the film has been a smash hit on Netflix , reaching the number one spot on the site , it has landed in hot water with the Arthur Conan Doyle Estate .
The estate of original author Arthur Conan Doyle has filed a lawsuit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , book publishers Penguin Random House and others , including Nancy Springer .
The estate owns the copyright for the final ten stories in the series , while the majority are in the public domain .
It claims that the final ten stories are the ones in which Sherlock becomes warmer and more friendly , and so it was an infringement of copyright to depict him behaving so in the Enola Holmes film .
`` After the stories that are now in the public domain , and before the Copyrighted Stories , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states .
`` In World War I Conan Doyle lost his eldest son , Arthur Alleyne Kingsley .
Four months later he lost his brother , Brigadier-general Innes Doyle .
`` When Conan Doyle came back to Holmes in the Copyrighted Stories between 1923 and 1927 , it was no longer enough that the Holmes character was the most brilliant rational and analytical mind .
`` Holmes needed to be human .
The character needed to develop human connection and empathy . ''
The lawsuit was filed in June and no further developments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the parties involved have commented publicly .
Henry Cavill recently appeared in GQ magazine where he was quizzed on the lawsuit , and responded : `` Haha , honestly , nothing surprises me anymore .
`` I mean , honestly , I do n't have a take on it .
`` It 's a character from a page which we worked out from the screenplay , the legal stuff is above my pay grade . ''

Neflix is being sued by the estate of Sherlock Holmes' author for its "warm and friendly" depiction of the detective in new film Enola Holmes, starring Millie Bobby Brown and Henry Cavill
Netflix's Enola Holmes was released last week as Millie Bobby Brown plays the plucky sister of detective Sherlock Holmes on a mission to track down her missing mother.
The film was based on Nancy Springer's books and starred Henry Cavill as Sherlock and Helena Bonham Carter as their mother, Eudoria.
While the film has been a smash hit on Netflix, reaching the number one spot on the site, it has landed in hot water with the Arthur Conan Doyle Estate.
The estate of original author Arthur Conan Doyle has filed a lawsuit against Neflix, production company Legendary Pictures, book publishers Penguin Random House and others, including Nancy Springer.
Image: LEGENDARY) LEGENDARY)
The estate owns the copyright for the final ten stories in the series, while the majority are in the public domain.
It claims that the final ten stories are the ones in which Sherlock becomes warmer and more friendly, and so it was an infringement of copyright to depict him behaving so in the Enola Holmes film.
"After the stories that are now in the public domain, and before the Copyrighted Stories, the Great War happened," the complaint states.
Image: 2020 LEGENDARY) 2020 LEGENDARY)
"In World War I Conan Doyle lost his eldest son, Arthur Alleyne Kingsley. Four months later he lost his brother, Brigadier-general Innes Doyle.
"When Conan Doyle came back to Holmes in the Copyrighted Stories between 1923 and 1927, it was no longer enough that the Holmes character was the most brilliant rational and analytical mind.
"Holmes needed to be human. The character needed to develop human connection and empathy."
Image: ALEX BAILEY) ALEX BAILEY)
The lawsuit was filed in June and no further developments have yet occurred, and none of the parties involved have commented publicly.
Henry Cavill recently appeared in GQ magazine where he was quizzed on the lawsuit, and responded: "Haha, honestly, nothing surprises me anymore.
"I mean, honestly, I don't have a take on it.
"It's a character from a page which we worked out from the screenplay, the legal stuff is above my pay grade."


thedailymirror--2020-09-30--'I started Christmas shopping on New Year's Day - and I don't regret it one bit'

The Christmas countdown is underway , with less than three months to go until December 25 .
But one woman is already feeling very smug about it - because she 's already completed her Christmas shop .
Heather Edwards from Ewloe , North Wales , started buying her gifts eight months ago , and she 's been busy preparing for Christmas ever since .
She says the idea of starting her festive spree in December fills her with dread - which is why she 's been shopping since January .
Not only has she bought all of her partner 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covered her friends and family , bar a few last-minute stocking fillers .
Heather , who admits she loves a money-saving spreadsheet , meticulously starts her Christmas shopping in the New Year sales .
This year she set herself a £650 Christmas budget , including gifts for eight loved ones , food , drink party outfits and nights out - and she 's been saving into it all year .
She then keeps an eye on the sales , and when she spots a bargain , she buys the item and stores it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This ways , she says , she avoids the dread of having to pay for Christmas with one pay packet .
Heather , 27 , says her obsession with getting Christmas in the bag extra early started at work .
`` A few years ago , some colleagues at work decided to do a spontaneous 'Secret Santa ' with a budget of £10 , '' she said .
`` It does n't seem like a huge amount of money to some people , but on top of Christmas gifts for my family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parties , I just could n't afford to take part in 'Secret Santa ' .
`` I was embarrassed as there 's often an expectation to take part in these things .
So ever since , I 've spread the cost of Christmas and budgeted for little extras like 'Secret Santa ! '
'' She totals up how much she wants to spend on each person and divides it by 11 to get her monthly savings target .
Heather then starts a list , and adds to it every time she gets - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money-saver then keeps an eye out for discounts , and when she spots a good deal she buys it .
`` I make lists of gift ideas throughout the year , '' she said .
`` If I hear someone mention something they 'd like but never buy for themselves , it goes on the list .
Have you started your Christmas shopping early ?
Tell us your secrets : emma.munbodh @ mirror.co.uk '' I then watch out for deals throughout the year .
I also like to follow friends and family wish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buy a gift from there , it takes it off their list – so you know the gift won ’ t be duplicated . ''
Heather keeps an eye on sales and makes sure she 's on the right mailing lists before she buys anything .
`` I always pick up bargains in the January sales .
Places like The Body Shop will sell their Christmas gift sets for less than half the price sometimes !
Just be sure to check the dates on the products .
`` I sign up to emails @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they 'll give you a discount on your first order .
I set up a separate email account for this so I don ’ t get bothered with the spam emails !
It 's also a great idea to use cashback sites such as TopCashback .
Get the latest money advice , news and help straight to your inbox - sign up at mirror.co.uk/email '' My biggest saving this year has been for my partner who needed a new watch .
I like to go to the outlet stores and was able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than half the price that it was originally .
I saved over £100 . ''
Heather says her top tip is to make a plan - and stick to it .
And she says remember to add nights out , dinner parties , food , drink , and any party outfits to your budget .
`` My budget always includes gifts , Christmas food and drink and nights out .
`` I was lucky enough to be able to work during lockdown so managed to save my total budget whilst staying home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount each month .
`` And lastly , stick to it .
If you go Christmas shopping , make sure you have a list of things you need to buy before you go and don ’ t spend on unnecessary things . ''
If you 're struggling to build a Christmas budget , you can use this handy MoneySupermarket one to help keep track of your spending .

Heather Edwards from Ewloe, North Wales, started buying her gifts nine months ago, and she's been busy preparing for Christmas ever since. Here are her secrets
Woman who started Christmas shopping in January spills the beans on hidden bargains
The Christmas countdown is underway, with less than three months to go until December 25.
But one woman is feeling very smug about it - because she's already completed her Christmas shop.
Heather Edwards from Ewloe, North Wales, started buying gifts nine months ago, and she's been busy preparing for Christmas ever since.
She says the idea of starting her festive spree in December fills her with dread - which is why she's been shopping since January.
Not only has she bought all of her partner's Christmas presents, but she's also covered her friends and family, bar a few last-minute stocking fillers.
Heather, who admits she loves a money-saving spreadsheet, was inspired to start shopping early after being unable to take part in a Secret Santa at work two years ago.
She said she felt "embarrassed" after telling her colleagues she couldn't afford to take part.
This year she set herself a £650 Christmas budget, including gifts for eight loved ones, food, drink party outfits and nights out - and she's been saving into it all year.
She said she keeps an eye on sales, and when she spots a bargain, buys it and stores the gift on top of her wardrobe for December.
This ways, she says, she avoids the dread of having to pay for Christmas with one pay packet.
Image: Getty) Getty)
Heather, 27, says her obsession with getting Christmas in the bag extra early started at work.
"A few years ago, some colleagues at work decided to do a spontaneous 'Secret Santa' with a budget of £10," she said.
"It doesn't seem like a huge amount of money to some people, but on top of Christmas gifts for my family, Christmas raffles in work and Christmas parties, I just couldn't afford to take part in 'Secret Santa'.
"I was embarrassed as there's often an expectation to take part in these things. So ever since, I've spread the cost of Christmas and budgeted for little extras like 'Secret Santa!'"
Heather's Christmas plan starts in January.
She totals up how much she wants to spend on each person and divides it by 11 to get her monthly savings target.
Heather then starts a list, and adds to it every time she gets an idea.
The money-saver then keeps an eye out for discounts, and when she spots a good deal she buys it.
"I make lists of gift ideas throughout the year," she said.
"If I hear someone mention something they'd like but never buy for themselves, it goes on the list.
Have you started your Christmas shopping early? Tell us your secrets: emma.munbodh@mirror.co.uk
"I then watch out for deals throughout the year. I also like to follow friends and family wish lists on Amazon, as when you buy a gift from there, it takes it off their list – so you know the gift won’t be duplicated."
Heather also keeps an eye on sales and makes sure she's on the right mailing lists before she buys anything.
"I always pick up bargains in the January sales. Places like The Body Shop will sell their Christmas gift sets for less than half the price sometimes! Just be sure to check the dates on the products.
"I sign up to emails when I'm online shopping. Often, they'll give you a discount on your first order. I set up a separate email account for this so I don’t get bothered with the spam emails! It's also a great idea to use cashback sites such as TopCashback.
Get the latest money advice, news and help straight to your inbox - sign up at mirror.co.uk/email
"My biggest saving this year has been for my partner who needed a new watch. I like to go to the outlet stores and was able to get him a Fossil watch for less than half the price that it was originally. I saved over £100."
Heather says her top tip is to make a plan - and stick to it.
And she says remember to add nights out, dinner parties, food, drink, and any party outfits to your budget.
"My budget always includes gifts, Christmas food and drink and nights out.
"I was lucky enough to be able to work during lockdown so managed to save my total budget whilst staying home. Usually I would save a small amount each month.
"And lastly, stick to it. If you go Christmas shopping, make sure you have a list of things you need to buy before you go and don’t spend on unnecessary things."
If you're struggling to build a Christmas budget, you can use this handy MoneySupermarket calculator to help keep track of your spending.


thedailymirror--2020-09-30--Thomas Cook commits to issuing refunds within 14 days during the pandemic

Thomas Cook has said that it feels confident it can issue refunds to holidaymakers within 14 days , should their holidays be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic .
New owner Fosun Tourism Group , which owns the rights to the name and brand , re-launched Thomas Cook as an online travel agent earlier this month .
The brand is currently selling holidays to destinations such as Italy and Turkey where - at the time of writing - the Foreign Office does not advise against travel .
If the advice does change to a destination and a customer 's holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it will try and find alternatives for the holidaymaker .
Should these not work , they will offer a full refund within 14 days .
Alan French , CEO for Thomas Cook said : `` Following our launch , and the successful delivery of our policy on only selling holidays to destinations that are on the government ’ s travel corridor list , we have been able to test the speed of our contact centre team to change and cancel holidays where government advice has changed .
`` In light of that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to provide cash refunds to customers within 14 days of their holiday being cancelled .
`` We know that customers want to go on holiday not to have to get a refund and so if the government advice changes for a destination , we will contact customers at least two weeks before their departure to help them find an alternative date or location .
`` If we are unable to find something that suits the customer we will organise a full refund for them within 14 days . ''
This follows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brand that if customers book a holiday and the government advice changes before they travel , they will be able to amend their booking free of charge .
They 're not the only brand looking to reassure holidaymakers .
Jet2holidays recently launched a new travel insurance policy which includes cover for holidaymakers if the Foreign Office changes travel advice to their destination .
During the pandemic , travel restrictions are constantly being reviewed and are subject to change quickly if a country sees a rise in the number of coronavirus cases .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the FCDO changes its advice , it will affect your trip - we 've got a wider guide explaining what happens when the government travel advice changes , including your rights to getting your money back .

Thomas Cook has said it's confident that it can issue refunds within 14 days for holidays cancelled due to the pandemic
Thomas Cook has said that it feels confident it can issue refunds to holidaymakers within 14 days, should their holidays be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
New owner Fosun Tourism Group, which owns the rights to the name and brand, re-launched Thomas Cook as an online travel agent earlier this month.
The brand is currently selling holidays to destinations such as Italy and Turkey where - at the time of writing - the Foreign Office does not advise against travel.
If the advice does change to a destination and a customer's holiday is cancelled, Thomas Cook says that it will try and find alternatives for the holidaymaker. Should these not work, they will offer a full refund within 14 days.
Image: Thomas Cook) Thomas Cook)
Alan French, CEO for Thomas Cook said: "Following our launch, and the successful delivery of our policy on only selling holidays to destinations that are on the government’s travel corridor list, we have been able to test the speed of our contact centre team to change and cancel holidays where government advice has changed.
"In light of that, we are now confident that we will be able to provide cash refunds to customers within 14 days of their holiday being cancelled.
"We know that customers want to go on holiday not to have to get a refund and so if the government advice changes for a destination, we will contact customers at least two weeks before their departure to help them find an alternative date or location.
"If we are unable to find something that suits the customer we will organise a full refund for them within 14 days."
Image: Thomas Cook) Thomas Cook)
This follows on from an existing promise from the brand that if customers book a holiday and the government advice changes before they travel, they will be able to amend their booking free of charge.
They're not the only brand looking to reassure holidaymakers.
Jet2holidays recently launched a new travel insurance policy which includes cover for holidaymakers if the Foreign Office changes travel advice to their destination.
During the pandemic, travel restrictions are constantly being reviewed and are subject to change quickly if a country sees a rise in the number of coronavirus cases.
If you've got a holiday booked and the FCDO changes its advice, it will affect your trip - we've got a wider guide explaining what happens when the government travel advice changes, including your rights to getting your money back.


thedailymirror--2020-09-30--M&S launch a festive Colin the Caterpillar for Christmas and it looks amazing

When it comes to Christmas , aside from seeing family , time off and obviously presents , we ’ re all about the food and naturally Marks and Spencer ’ s have launched of irresistible goodies we can ’ t wait to see in the fridge when we finally go home ( if we are allowed ) .
Yes the high street ’ s favourite supermarket has knocked Christmas pickings right out the park this year with a pethora of choice that will delight everyone - from young to old .
You can explore the full festive range when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including 14 exclusive online Christmas Food to Order products like the Star-Studded Sausage Roll Garland Stack ( £12 ) – a three-tier tower of moreish sausage rolls that will have you keep diving back for more .
Some pieces will be dropping in to stores from now right up to the big day .
To find your nearest M & S with a Food Hall , we ’ ve added the store locator here .
You ’ ll also find opening and closing time information listed there as well .
M & S @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s no doubt about it .
And for us , no celebration is complete without tucking into a bitesize chunk of M & S loveliness , and even if celebrations are a little different , we ’ ll still want to eat party food - right ?
This year M & S have added 14 new lines to the range including more vegetarian and vegan lines than ever before .
Look out for this year ’ s must haves the Battered Mini Sausages ‘ chip shop style ’ , Chicken Doughnut Dippers ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kitchen Mini No Chicken Kievs .
What ’ s great about this year ’ s collection , not only does each canape cook at the same temperature with little to no prep , they are also suitable for freezing – meaning those looking to get ahead with their prep this Christmas can .
Plus the nation ’ s favourite cake has had a festive makeover - you guessed it , we ’ re talking Colin the Caterpillar .
Perfect for those who have a birthday over the festive period or just fancy a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas pudding .
Below , you can read about our top picks but there are 60 , yes 6-0 , products that the whizzes at M & S have created and to fill us with festive joy - no matter how we may be spending Christmas this year .
Battered Mini Sausages ‘ chip shop style ’ with curry dip , £5 - in stores from 21st October A perfect taste of the “ chippy ” in bitesize form , complete with curry sauce for dipping .
Get ready to tuck in… Dough-nut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that right .
These jumbo battered British chicken breast “ rings ” come in their very own doughnut box with BBQ sauce and waffle crumbs for dipping .
Frozen Plant Kitchen mini no chicken Kievs , £5 - in stores now In January M & S unveiled their first ever vegan Kiev , 40 years after launching the chicken Kiev in the UK .
This Christmas , they ’ re launching frozen bitesize versions of the soya-based Kievs .
What ’ s better than one sausage roll at Christmas ?
Thirty-two of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centrepiece , made with seasoned pork sausage and all-butter pastry , really is the star of the show on a buffet table .
This is a cheese-lovers ’ dream .
The fondue pot of Gruyère , Comté and Emmental is topped with bacon lardons , roasted onion and Raclette cheese , and is ready to pop straight into the oven .
The Perfect Turkey Crown , £50 - in stores from 19th December The ultimate fool-proof turkey centrepiece every time , this Oakham turkey crown has been stock-basted , stuffed with pork and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Succulent and delicious – a real crowd-pleaser .
To make sure there ’ s no wastage from M & S crowns , they ’ ve specially prepared these delicious slow-cooked turkey legs , complete with rich turkey gravy .
Perfect for extra guests or anyone who prefers darker meat .
The meat is so succulent , it falls off the bone .
Mushroom and Camembert pie , £18 - in stores from 18th December Who wouldn ’ t want to tuck into this fabulous and indulgent veggie masterpiece ?
A Christmas treat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parsnips in a creamy , cheesy sauce , encased in flaky vegan pastry .
That ’ s not all , M & S have added even more vegan options this year including Plant Kitchen Festive Wreath , Plant Kitchen No Pigs in Duvets and Chocolate Tortes that you ’ d never know were vegan .
Profiteroles with a difference .
Go for gold this Christmas with M & S dazzling stack of delicate choux pastry puffs filled with whipped cream , layered with rich salted caramel sauce and decorated with gold malt balls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customer favourite – this time super-sized to add a touch of theatre to the table .
A light caramel mousse , layered with chocolate ganache , crunchy chocolate shortbread pieces and salted caramel sauce , encased in a milk chocolate shell .
Simply shatter and share ( if you want ) .
Is this the most delicious Christmas pudding yet ?
Rich and zesty , packed with juicy vine fruit , Belgian chocolate , orange liqueur and brandy .
And inside ?
A melt-in-themiddle chocolate and orange sauce .
Irresistible .
Lovingly baked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sweet and fluffy panettone is filled with chocolate sauce and chocolate chips , topped with dark chocolate and white chocolate chips .
Beautifullly packaged for the ultimate foodie gift .
Festive Colin the Caterpillar Cake , £10 - in store from 19th December Everyone ’ s favourite caterpillar has gone all seasonal with a makeover , including a festive Santa hat and edible decorations .
A moreish chocolate sponge roll filled with chocolate buttercream and smothered in delicious milk chocolate .
Made with fresh cream from Northern Ireland ’ s Ballyrashane Creamery , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an indulgent salted caramel chocolate brownie .
Last year ’ s trifle cream liqueur was a sure-fire winner and this one promises to be even more popular .
April Preston , Director of Product Development said : “ This year , customers have been telling us they want to embrace the spirit of Christmas more than ever .
We won ’ t want to confine Christmas to one day , we ’ ll be looking to extend the festive season and turn it into a series of moments , celebrating with loved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas isn ’ t a time our customers want to hold back , and food will continue to play a central part in their celebrations .
Some of the festivities may look a bit different , some might even be virtual , but they will be more special than ever as we treat , thank , celebrate and unite with friends and family.
” Now we really can ’ t wait until Christmas .

Yes the nation’s favourite cake has had a festive makeover - and fans of the supermarket can also look forward to more vegan options than ever before, no fuss turkey for the main day and, other sweet treats that will make any chocoholic happy
When it comes to Christmas, aside from seeing family, time off and obviously presents, we’re all about the food and naturally Marks and Spencer’s have launched of irresistible goodies we can’t wait to see in the fridge when we finally go home (if we are allowed).
Yes the high street’s favourite supermarket has knocked Christmas pickings right out the park this year with a pethora of choice that will delight everyone - from young to old.
You can explore the full festive range when it launches online tomorrow, October 1st, including 14 exclusive online Christmas Food to Order products like the Star-Studded Sausage Roll Garland Stack (£12) – a three-tier tower of moreish sausage rolls that will have you keep diving back for more.
Some pieces will be dropping in to stores from now right up to the big day. To find your nearest M&S with a Food Hall, we’ve added the store locator here. You’ll also find opening and closing time information listed there as well.
M&S party food is iconic - there’s no doubt about it. And for us, no celebration is complete without tucking into a bitesize chunk of M&S loveliness, and even if celebrations are a little different, we’ll still want to eat party food - right? This year M&S have added 14 new lines to the range including more vegetarian and vegan lines than ever before. Look out for this year’s must haves the Battered Mini Sausages ‘chip shop style’, Chicken Doughnut Dippers (you read that right) and Plant Kitchen Mini No Chicken Kievs. What’s great about this year’s collection, not only does each canape cook at the same temperature with little to no prep, they are also suitable for freezing – meaning those looking to get ahead with their prep this Christmas can.
Plus the nation’s favourite cake has had a festive makeover - you guessed it, we’re talking Colin the Caterpillar. Perfect for those who have a birthday over the festive period or just fancy a slice of cake as an alternative to Christmas pudding.
Below, you can read about our top picks but there are 60, yes 6-0, products that the whizzes at M&S have created and to fill us with festive joy - no matter how we may be spending Christmas this year.
Party Food:
Battered Mini Sausages ‘chip shop style’ with curry dip, £5 - in stores from 21st October
A perfect taste of the “chippy” in bitesize form, complete with curry sauce for dipping. Get ready to tuck in…
Chicken Doughnut Dippers, £5 - in stores from 21st October
Dough-nut adjust your screen… you’ve read that right. These jumbo battered British chicken breast “rings” come in their very own doughnut box with BBQ sauce and waffle crumbs for dipping.
Frozen Plant Kitchen mini no chicken Kievs, £5 - in stores now
In January M&S unveiled their first ever vegan Kiev, 40 years after launching the chicken Kiev in the UK. This Christmas, they’re launching frozen bitesize versions of the soya-based Kievs.
Star studded sausage roll stack, £12 - in stores 18th December
What’s better than one sausage roll at Christmas? Thirty-two of them baked together over three tiers. This centrepiece, made with seasoned pork sausage and all-butter pastry, really is the star of the show on a buffet table.
Cheese News:
Molten mountain cheese bake, £7 - in stores from 2nd December
This is a cheese-lovers’ dream. The fondue pot of Gruyère, Comté and Emmental is topped with bacon lardons, roasted onion and Raclette cheese, and is ready to pop straight into the oven.
Meat Options:
The Perfect Turkey Crown, £50 - in stores from 19th December
The ultimate fool-proof turkey centrepiece every time, this Oakham turkey crown has been stock-basted, stuffed with pork and cranberries, all wrapped in cured bacon. Succulent and delicious – a real crowd-pleaser.
Slow-cooked turkey legs, £12 - in stores from 2nd December
To make sure there’s no wastage from M&S crowns, they’ve specially prepared these delicious slow-cooked turkey legs, complete with rich turkey gravy. Perfect for extra guests or anyone who prefers darker meat. The meat is so succulent, it falls off the bone.
Vegan Options:
Mushroom and Camembert pie, £18 - in stores from 18th December
Who wouldn’t want to tuck into this fabulous and indulgent veggie masterpiece? A Christmas treat for anyone. Savoury mushrooms and roast parsnips in a creamy, cheesy sauce, encased in flaky vegan pastry.
That’s not all, M&S have added even more vegan options this year including Plant Kitchen Festive Wreath, Plant Kitchen No Pigs in Duvets and Chocolate Tortes that you’d never know were vegan.
Dessert:
Golden Balls, £12 - in stores from 20th December
Profiteroles with a difference. Go for gold this Christmas with M&S dazzling stack of delicate choux pastry puffs filled with whipped cream, layered with rich salted caramel sauce and decorated with gold malt balls and gold shimmer.
Giant Gold Bullion Bar, £20 - in stores from 18th December
Bringing back a customer favourite – this time super-sized to add a touch of theatre to the table. A light caramel mousse, layered with chocolate ganache, crunchy chocolate shortbread pieces and salted caramel sauce, encased in a milk chocolate shell. Simply shatter and share (if you want).
Chocolate Orange Christmas Pudding, £12 - in stores from 6th October
Is this the most delicious Christmas pudding yet? Rich and zesty, packed with juicy vine fruit, Belgian chocolate, orange liqueur and brandy. And inside? A melt-in-themiddle chocolate and orange sauce. Irresistible.
Triple Chocolate Panettone, £10 - in stores from 6th October
Lovingly baked at an Italian family bakery, this sweet and fluffy panettone is filled with chocolate sauce and chocolate chips, topped with dark chocolate and white chocolate chips. Beautifullly packaged for the ultimate foodie gift.
Festive Colin the Caterpillar Cake, £10 - in store from 19th December
Everyone’s favourite caterpillar has gone all seasonal with a makeover, including a festive Santa hat and edible decorations. A moreish chocolate sponge roll filled with chocolate buttercream and smothered in delicious milk chocolate.
Little Extras:
Salted Caramel Brownie Liqueur, £12 - in stores from 15th September
Made with fresh cream from Northern Ireland’s Ballyrashane Creamery, this boozy liqueur has all the flavour of an indulgent salted caramel chocolate brownie. Last year’s trifle cream liqueur was a sure-fire winner and this one promises to be even more popular.
April Preston, Director of Product Development said: “This year, customers have been telling us they want to embrace the spirit of Christmas more than ever. We won’t want to confine Christmas to one day, we’ll be looking to extend the festive season and turn it into a series of moments, celebrating with loved ones in whatever way we can. Christmas isn’t a time our customers want to hold back, and food will continue to play a central part in their celebrations. Some of the festivities may look a bit different, some might even be virtual, but they will be more special than ever as we treat, thank, celebrate and unite with friends and family.”
Now we really can’t wait until Christmas.


thedailymirror--2020-09-30--Thousands of applications for Tories' Covid jobs scheme 'verging on fraudulent'

More than 8,000 applications by firms to the new Covid youth jobs scheme are `` verging on fraudulent '' , a Cabinet minister has revealed .
Therese Coffey told MPs one in seven of the 60,000 applications to the Kickstart scheme since August have come under suspicion .
The scheme will offer six-month work placements to people aged 16 to 24 who are on Universal Credit .
But it could be a big earner for firms - because they get a £1,000 fee and won ’ t have to top up any of the youngster ’ s wages .
When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they must show the jobs are `` new '' , do `` not replace existing jobs '' , and are `` above and beyond any jobs they were expecting to create . ''
But the Work and Pensions Secretary told MPs : `` It ’ s important we take our time to be thorough .
“ Because we ’ ve already estimated that unfortunately , we think about one in seven applications have been frankly verging on fraudulent .
“ And we need to be careful in that , which is why we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process in making sure these are legitimate businesses , legitimate organisations , and they are additional roles.
” Under the scheme , the government funds 25 hours of minimum wage per week - but there is no way of forcing firms to pay more .
The minister said “ well over 60,000 vacancies ” have been offered by firms already , and are currently being vetted .
Ms Coffey was quizzed as MPs heard 6million people are now on Universal Credit - double the number before the pandemic .
She revealed she is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' about carrying on a £20-a-week boost to Universal Credit beyond April 2021 .
More than 50 charities and campaigners have warned ending the one-year rise , as planned , would hurl 700,000 more people into poverty .
And committee chairman Stephen Timms said it would be `` inconceivable to cut everybody ’ s benefit before the pandemic is over ” .
Ms Coffey refused to pledge the rise will stay - and has refused to extend it to more than a million other benefit claimants , mostly disabled .
But she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s financial resilience and debt .
She added : “ That ’ s part of what ’ s driving me in my considerations as we go forward with potential further measures . ''
Ms Coffey also hinted she could extend a coronavirus rule that allows loss-making self-employed people to claim benefits .
Usually the level of Universal Credit the self-employed can claim is capped , under a policy called the Minimum Income Floor .
The MIF was suspended due to Covid-19 but is currently due to return on November 12 .
Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very actively being considered ” .
The Commons Work and Pensions Committee heard there are now 35,000 to 40,000 new UC claims per week , a return to normal levels .
But 4,500 new work coaches - originally promised “ by October ” - will start in the first week of November as overall claims soar .
`` We are planning for a potential rise in unemployment , '' Ms Coffey said .
`` That 's why we are doubling the number of work coaches , increasing the number of decision-makers , expanding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help more people who may need our help . ''
Ms Coffey admitted efforts to find more Jobcentre space were “ going slower than I hoped ” .
The Tory minister also refused to promise a long-awaited Green Paper on reforming disability benefit tests will come before Christmas .
“ I ’ m going to try to do my best to get it out before the end of the year ” , she told MPs - adding she expected it before April 2021 .
Despite this , she revealed she is in talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number ” of face-to-face disability benefit assessments .
Ms Coffey said disabled people who are unfairly dumped by firms during the pandemic should resort to an employment tribunal .
Asked how they could be helped , she replied : “ Clearly if people think they have been discriminated against they can of course go to an employment tribunal to challenge their redundancy or dismissal .
That ’ s an important part of our overall legislation in making sure people are not discriminated against in that regard .
”

DWP Secretary Therese Coffey revealed one in seven firms' applications for the Kickstart scheme - which will offer them a lucrative work placement arrangement for young people - are 'frankly verging on fraudulent'
More than 8,000 applications by firms to the new Covid youth jobs scheme are "verging on fraudulent", a Cabinet minister has revealed.
Therese Coffey told MPs one in seven of the 60,000 applications to the Kickstart scheme since August have come under suspicion.
The scheme will offer six-month work placements to people aged 16 to 24 who are on Universal Credit.
But it could be a big earner for firms - because they get a £1,000 fee and won’t have to top up any of the youngster’s wages.
When the scheme launched, firms were warned they must show the jobs are "new", do "not replace existing jobs", and are "above and beyond any jobs they were expecting to create."
But the Work and Pensions Secretary told MPs: "It’s important we take our time to be thorough.
Image: Getty Images/Cultura RF) Getty Images/Cultura RF)
“Because we’ve already estimated that unfortunately, we think about one in seven applications have been frankly verging on fraudulent.
“And we need to be careful in that, which is why we’ve gone through a very systematic process in making sure these are legitimate businesses, legitimate organisations, and they are additional roles.”
Under the scheme, the government funds 25 hours of minimum wage per week - but there is no way of forcing firms to pay more.
The minister said “well over 60,000 vacancies” have been offered by firms already, and are currently being vetted.
Ms Coffey was quizzed as MPs heard 6million people are now on Universal Credit - double the number before the pandemic.
She revealed she is in “active discussion with the Treasury" about carrying on a £20-a-week boost to Universal Credit beyond April 2021.
More than 50 charities and campaigners have warned ending the one-year rise, as planned, would hurl 700,000 more people into poverty.
And committee chairman Stephen Timms said it would be "inconceivable to cut everybody’s benefit before the pandemic is over”.
Ms Coffey refused to pledge the rise will stay - and has refused to extend it to more than a million other benefit claimants, mostly disabled.
But she said “I do worry” about people’s financial resilience and debt. She added: “That’s part of what’s driving me in my considerations as we go forward with potential further measures."
Ms Coffey also hinted she could extend a coronavirus rule that allows loss-making self-employed people to claim benefits.
Usually the level of Universal Credit the self-employed can claim is capped, under a policy called the Minimum Income Floor.
The MIF was suspended due to Covid-19 but is currently due to return on November 12. Ms Coffey said: “This policy is very actively being considered”.
The Commons Work and Pensions Committee heard there are now 35,000 to 40,000 new UC claims per week, a return to normal levels.
But 4,500 new work coaches - originally promised “by October” - will start in the first week of November as overall claims soar.
"We are planning for a potential rise in unemployment," Ms Coffey said. "That's why we are doubling the number of work coaches, increasing the number of decision-makers, expanding the number of sites in order to help more people who may need our help."
Image: PA Archive/PA Images) PA Archive/PA Images)
Ms Coffey admitted efforts to find more Jobcentre space were “going slower than I hoped”.
The Tory minister also refused to promise a long-awaited Green Paper on reforming disability benefit tests will come before Christmas.
“I’m going to try to do my best to get it out before the end of the year”, she told MPs - adding she expected it before April 2021.
Despite this, she revealed she is in talks about how to reintroduce “a limited number” of face-to-face disability benefit assessments.
Ms Coffey said disabled people who are unfairly dumped by firms during the pandemic should resort to an employment tribunal.
Asked how they could be helped, she replied: “Clearly if people think they have been discriminated against they can of course go to an employment tribunal to challenge their redundancy or dismissal. That’s an important part of our overall legislation in making sure people are not discriminated against in that regard.”


thedailymirror--2020-09-30--Kerry Katona 'disappointed' in Russell Brand over working class men tweet

Kerry Katona has had her say on a row sparked by comedian Russell Brand with a tweet about working class men 's vocabulary .
The Atomic Kitten singer , 40 , said that while she 's been fond of Russell in the past , she feels he crossed a line when he expressed surprise at the `` poetic '' language used by two working class men .
Russell , 45 , had been out walking his dog when he was approached by two men who appreciated the pooch 's colouring .
`` I love Bear , '' Russell captioned a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out the beauty in people .
`` Today two working class men independently described him in surprisingly poetic language .
`` 'Apricot ' coloured said one .
'Cinnamon ' said another . ''
While many replied with snaps of their own dogs , some took issue that Russell had been `` surprised '' at the two men 's vocabularly .
One fumed : `` In breaking news today , Russell Brand discovers that working class people know what colours are .
`` I mean there 's condescending and then there 's # russellbrand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ writing : `` With my council estate upbringing I have some colourful language that I would like to use to describe your patronising tweet .
`` Also with the benefit of that upbringing , I have the decency not to use it . ''
Kerry also slammed the funnyman , taking to her new !
magazine column to lay out her thoughts .
`` I 'm really disappointed in Russell Brand , who made some patronising remarks about working class people , '' she penned .
`` Er… that use of the word @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belittling .
`` I 'm someone who has always championed Russell , due to the way he 's dealt with his mental health issues , but to make fun of working class people who earn less than him – well , I did n't appreciate it .
`` The way he came across felt very dismissive and that was a massive shame for me . ''
And while many took offence at the tweet , others jumped to Russell 's defence , many pointing out that he 's from a working class background @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it being a bit of a corny tweet , I think many have chosen to neglect the fact that Brand was not only brought up in a working class environment , but has shown support for working class causes throughout his career ; blokes a good egg IMO . ''
Another reckoned : `` I think what Russell Brand really meant by 'working class ' was 'Blokey Blokes ' who don ’ t normally use 'flowery language ' to describe his beautiful dog , he thought it was sweet , not Twitter of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the band wagon .
# russellbrand . ''
A third asked : `` I 'm actually laughing my head off at these tweets man , why are you taking this so seriously !
?
!
!
So many people desperate to be offended !
!
`` He 's a comedian .
He 's working class done alright for himself but still working class . ''
Mirror Online has reached out to Russell 's reps for comment .

Kerry Katona has weighed in on a divisive tweet penned by comedian Russell Brand about working class men's vocabulary
Kerry Katona has had her say on a row sparked by comedian Russell Brand with a tweet about working class men's vocabulary.
The Atomic Kitten singer, 40, said that while she's been fond of Russell in the past, she feels he crossed a line when he expressed surprise at the "poetic" language used by two working class men.
Russell, 45, had been out walking his dog when he was approached by two men who appreciated the pooch's colouring.
"I love Bear," Russell captioned a snap his dog, "He brings out the beauty in people.
"Today two working class men independently described him in surprisingly poetic language.
"'Apricot' coloured said one. 'Cinnamon' said another."
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
While many replied with snaps of their own dogs, some took issue that Russell had been "surprised" at the two men's vocabularly.
One fumed: "In breaking news today, Russell Brand discovers that working class people know what colours are.
"I mean there's condescending and then there's #russellbrand."
Another addressed Russell directly, writing: "With my council estate upbringing I have some colourful language that I would like to use to describe your patronising tweet.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
"Also with the benefit of that upbringing, I have the decency not to use it."
Kerry also slammed the funnyman, taking to her new! magazine column to lay out her thoughts.
"I'm really disappointed in Russell Brand, who made some patronising remarks about working class people," she penned.
"Er… that use of the word surprisingly – I found it patronising and belittling.
"I'm someone who has always championed Russell, due to the way he's dealt with his mental health issues, but to make fun of working class people who earn less than him – well, I didn't appreciate it.
Image: Twitter) Twitter)
"The way he came across felt very dismissive and that was a massive shame for me."
And while many took offence at the tweet, others jumped to Russell's defence, many pointing out that he's from a working class background himself.
One tweeted: "Despite it being a bit of a corny tweet, I think many have chosen to neglect the fact that Brand was not only brought up in a working class environment, but has shown support for working class causes throughout his career; blokes a good egg IMO."
Another reckoned: "I think what Russell Brand really meant by 'working class' was 'Blokey Blokes' who don’t normally use 'flowery language' to describe his beautiful dog, he thought it was sweet, not Twitter of course and all those who jump on the band wagon. #russellbrand."
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
A third asked: "I'm actually laughing my head off at these tweets man, why are you taking this so seriously!?!! So many people desperate to be offended!!
"He's a comedian. He's working class done alright for himself but still working class."
Mirror Online has reached out to Russell's reps for comment.