skynewspolitics--2020-11-19--PM 'risks destroying UK's global reputation' with foreign aid cut

Boris Johnson risks trashing Britain 's reputation `` across the world '' if he cuts the UK 's foreign aid spending , former prime minister Gordon Brown has warned .
Mr Johnson has not denied claims the UK 's aid budget could be slashed in order to help pay for the coronavirus crisis .
It has been reported the government could temporarily cut the UK 's foreign aid spending target from 0.7 % to 0.5 % of gross national income , following the huge outlay to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic .
This is despite the 0.7 % commitment being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's general election .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is said to be mulling the move ahead of next week 's announcement of his spending review .
Yet , prior to that fiscal statement , both Mr Sunak and the prime minister have already splashed the cash with a £16.5bn boost to defence spending and on a new 10-point plan to tackle climate change .
This has increased suggestions that other Whitehall budgets - including aid spending - could be squeezed in order to fund the move , as well as help balance the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Tories also having promised before the election to increase the defence budget by at least 0.5 % above inflation every year , Mr Brown said it would be `` a terrible thing that you would break one promise to honour the other promise '' in relation to a possible cut in aid spending .
He told Sky News ' Kay Burley : `` If we break these promises , we 're not just breaking promises within our own country , we 're breaking promises that will destroy our reputation across the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proper spending on defence , but he [ Mr Johnson ] ca n't do it at the expense of cutting another promise that he freely made during the last general election . ''
Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Brown warned that if the UK 's ability to help African countries battle COVID-19 , such as through vaccinations , was hindered then the disease `` will come back , through them , into this country '' .
He also called on Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to UK foreign aid spending ahead of next year 's G7 summit of world powers , which the prime minister is due to chair .
`` You ca n't chair the G7 next year - you 'll bring all the world leaders to Britain next year - and you ca n't say that this G7 is going to help the rest of the world , if you 're breaking your promises to the world , '' he said .

Boris Johnson risks trashing Britain's reputation "across the world" if he cuts the UK's foreign aid spending, former prime minister Gordon Brown has warned.
Mr Johnson has not denied claims the UK's aid budget could be slashed in order to help pay for the coronavirus crisis.
It has been reported the government could temporarily cut the UK's foreign aid spending target from 0.7% to 0.5% of gross national income, following the huge outlay to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is despite the 0.7% commitment being a Conservative manifesto pledge at last year's general election.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 12:21 Gordon Brown on devolution, COVID-19 & Corbyn
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is said to be mulling the move ahead of next week's announcement of his spending review.
Yet, prior to that fiscal statement, both Mr Sunak and the prime minister have already splashed the cash with a £16.5bn boost to defence spending and on a new 10-point plan to tackle climate change.
This has increased suggestions that other Whitehall budgets - including aid spending - could be squeezed in order to fund the move, as well as help balance the public finances amid the coronavirus pandemic.
With the Tories also having promised before the election to increase the defence budget by at least 0.5% above inflation every year, Mr Brown said it would be "a terrible thing that you would break one promise to honour the other promise" in relation to a possible cut in aid spending.
He told Sky News' Kay Burley: "If we break these promises, we're not just breaking promises within our own country, we're breaking promises that will destroy our reputation across the world.
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"I want to see the proper spending on defence, but he [Mr Johnson] can't do it at the expense of cutting another promise that he freely made during the last general election."
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Mr Brown warned that if the UK's ability to help African countries battle COVID-19, such as through vaccinations, was hindered then the disease "will come back, through them, into this country".
He also called on Mr Johnson to consider the impact of any cut to UK foreign aid spending ahead of next year's G7 summit of world powers, which the prime minister is due to chair.
"You can't chair the G7 next year - you'll bring all the world leaders to Britain next year - and you can't say that this G7 is going to help the rest of the world, if you're breaking your promises to the world," he said.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-18--Starmer risked reigniting factional civil war after blocking Corbyn from sitting as Labour MP

When Sir Keir Starmer was elected Labour leader he said his aim was to unify his party and rebuild trust with the Jewish community .
The decision he took on Wednesday saw him pursue one of those goals at the expense of the other .
By upholding the suspension of Jeremy Corbyn from the parliamentary party , despite Labour 's governing body reinstating his predecessor 's membership , Sir Keir knew he was likely to reignite a factional civil war .
That he pressed on with that option anyway says a great deal - he judged the alternative to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ term to his prospects as leader .
The fact the Jewish Labour Movement , the Board of Deputies , the Jewish Leadership Council and Community Security Trust had all so clearly expressed their outrage at the NEC 's decision meant Sir Keir was able to argue the Jewish community did not have confidence in the disciplinary process and that therefore he would use the power left available to him and demand the whip be withheld .
But it was by no means just pressure from Jewish groups that led to the decision .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the heart of his leadership campaign just a few months ago on Tuesday night threatened to leave the party in protest over the NEC 's handling of the case .
There was the possibility of resignations from the shadow cabinet , and some Labour backbenchers leaving the party altogether .
Why would he risk all that in order to prevent a backlash from a wing of the party who have already made clear their loyalties are split ?
So far the reaction from Mr Corbyn 's allies has been furious , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take things further .
Former shadow cabinet ministers from the Corbyn era like John McDonnell and Diane Abbott have warned further disunity and division will follow , but suggestions that key figures could split off to form a new left-wing party have so far not shown any signs of materialising .
The most strident voice of criticism so far has been from Unite boss Len McCluskey who issued a blistering warning , saying : `` I urge Keir Starmer in the strongest possible terms to pull back from the brink . ''
Given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of the funding Unite provides to the Labour Party , this will no doubt be seen as a threat that more may be to come , but for now that threat hangs in the air .
One part of Sir Keir 's statement that is concerning those close to Mr Corbyn is the final line , in which he said : `` I have taken the decision not to restore the whip… I will keep this situation under review '' .
They claim this limits their options to challenge the decision because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision , and yet they have no idea what would be needed to change it .
That indicates once again the wider issue of antisemitism and the party 's handling of it is going to be fought via the differing interpretations of the party rule book and rows over disciplinary mechanisms .
Even when an independent complaints process is eventually introduced , it 's unlikely that a particular characteristic of Labour internecine warfare will disappear .

When Sir Keir Starmer was elected Labour leader he said his aim was to unify his party and rebuild trust with the Jewish community.
The decision he took on Wednesday saw him pursue one of those goals at the expense of the other.
By upholding the suspension of Jeremy Corbyn from the parliamentary party, despite Labour's governing body reinstating his predecessor's membership, Sir Keir knew he was likely to reignite a factional civil war.
That he pressed on with that option anyway says a great deal - he judged the alternative to be far more politically incendiary and damaging longer term to his prospects as leader.
Image: Jeremy Corbyn was suspended over his response to a human rights watchdog report on antisemitism within the Labour party
The fact the Jewish Labour Movement, the Board of Deputies, the Jewish Leadership Council and Community Security Trust had all so clearly expressed their outrage at the NEC's decision meant Sir Keir was able to argue the Jewish community did not have confidence in the disciplinary process and that therefore he would use the power left available to him and demand the whip be withheld.
But it was by no means just pressure from Jewish groups that led to the decision.
I understand individuals who had worked right at the heart of his leadership campaign just a few months ago on Tuesday night threatened to leave the party in protest over the NEC's handling of the case.
There was the possibility of resignations from the shadow cabinet, and some Labour backbenchers leaving the party altogether.
Why would he risk all that in order to prevent a backlash from a wing of the party who have already made clear their loyalties are split?
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So far the reaction from Mr Corbyn's allies has been furious, but it is not obvious they intend to take things further.
Former shadow cabinet ministers from the Corbyn era like John McDonnell and Diane Abbott have warned further disunity and division will follow, but suggestions that key figures could split off to form a new left-wing party have so far not shown any signs of materialising.
The most strident voice of criticism so far has been from Unite boss Len McCluskey who issued a blistering warning, saying: "I urge Keir Starmer in the strongest possible terms to pull back from the brink."
Given Mr McCluskey has already moved to reduce some of the funding Unite provides to the Labour Party, this will no doubt be seen as a threat that more may be to come, but for now that threat hangs in the air.
One part of Sir Keir's statement that is concerning those close to Mr Corbyn is the final line, in which he said: "I have taken the decision not to restore the whip… I will keep this situation under review".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:24 No Labour whip for Jeremy Corbyn
They claim this limits their options to challenge the decision because it implies it's not a final decision, and yet they have no idea what would be needed to change it.
That indicates once again the wider issue of antisemitism and the party's handling of it is going to be fought via the differing interpretations of the party rule book and rows over disciplinary mechanisms.
Even when an independent complaints process is eventually introduced, it's unlikely that a particular characteristic of Labour internecine warfare will disappear.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-19--PM vows to make UK 'foremost naval power in Europe' with defence budget boost

Boris Johnson has vowed to `` restore Britain 's position as the foremost naval power in Europe '' as part of a multi-billion pound boost to defence spending .
The prime minister , as he set out a new multi-year funding package to the House of Commons , warned the `` international situation is now more perilous and intensely competitive than at any time since the Cold War '' .
Mr Johnson has promised to invest an extra £16.5bn in defence spending over the next four years .
This is on top of the Conservatives ' manifesto commitment to increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % above inflation every year .
The prime minister said , in total , this would add up to a £24.1bn increase in defence spending over the next four years .
Downing Street has hailed the biggest programme of investment in British defence since the end of the Cold War , which will also see the creation of 40,000 jobs .
Mr Johnson told MPs that the UK 's defence budget had been `` trimmed and cheese-pared '' for decades and that he had `` decided that the era of cutting our defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now '' .
`` Our national security in 20 years ' time will depend on decisions we take today , '' the prime minister told the Commons via videolink , as he continues to self-isolate in Downing Street .
`` I have done this in the teeth of the pandemic , amid every other demand on our resources , because the defence of the realm and the safety of the British people , must come first . ''
With perhaps an eye on his future relationship with US president-elect Joe Biden , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now be investing more than any other European country in defence projects and more than any other NATO ally , other than America .
Outlining how the new money will be spent , the prime minister claimed the cash would help `` spur a renaissance of British shipbuilding across the UK - in Glasgow and Rosyth , Belfast , Appledore and Birkenhead '' .
Making his promise to `` restore Britain 's position as the foremost naval power in Europe '' , he added : `` If there was one policy which strengthens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is building more ships for the Royal Navy . ''
He said the government would seek to `` develop the next generation of warships , including multi-role research vessels and Type 32 frigates '' .
Mr Johnson also outlined plans to focus the expanded defence budget on `` technologies that will revolutionise warfare '' , such as `` directed energy weapons '' that employ `` inexhaustible lasers '' .
He told MPs of a £1.5bn investment in military research and development , a new centre dedicated to Artificial Intelligence and a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ satellites and `` our first rocket from Scotland in 2022 '' .
The prime minister also confirmed the establishment of a National Cyber Force , which is already operating over computer networks against terrorism , organised crime and hostile states .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer claimed the government had made the spending announcement - which comes before of the publication of a review of the UK 's foreign , defence , development and security policyearly next year - without a `` clear strategy or a coherent vision for Britain in the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister is always keen to talk about the bits of government he enjoys - big announcements , space programmes , moonshots , '' he said .
`` But this statement shows the government still lacks a clear strategy or a coherent vision for Britain in the world , or any idea how the promises the prime minister makes will actually be delivered . ''
Sir Keir also questioned how the increased defence spending will be paid for , asking whether it would be funded by extra borrowing , tax rises or a squeeze @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister came under pressure from Conservative ex-cabinet ministers Andrew Mitchell and Jeremy Hunt to resist cutting the UK 's foreign aid spending in order to help pay for the new defence commitments .
It has been reported the government could temporarily cut the UK 's foreign aid spending target from 0.7 % to 0.5 % of gross national income , following the huge outlay to deal with the coronavirus pandemic .
Mr Johnson said the UK could be proud of its record on overseas aid and would `` continue to lead the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our defence and security , and there is no read across to any other issue , '' he added .

Boris Johnson has vowed to "restore Britain's position as the foremost naval power in Europe" as part of a multi-billion pound boost to defence spending.
The prime minister, speaking as he set out a new multi-year funding package to the House of Commons, warned the "international situation is now more perilous and intensely competitive than at any time since the Cold War".
Mr Johnson has promised to invest an extra £16.5bn in defence spending over the next four years.
Image: Boris Johnson vowed to 'restore Britain's position as the foremost naval power in Europe'
This is on top of the Conservatives' manifesto commitment to increase the defence budget by at least 0.5% above inflation every year.
The prime minister said, in total, this would add up to a £24.1bn increase in defence spending over the next four years.
Downing Street has hailed the biggest programme of investment in British defence since the end of the Cold War, which it said will also see the creation of 40,000 jobs.
Mr Johnson told MPs that the UK's defence budget had been "trimmed and cheese-pared" for decades and that he had "decided that the era of cutting our defence budget must end, and it ends now".
"Our national security in 20 years' time will depend on decisions we take today," the prime minister told the Commons via videolink, as he continues to self-isolate in Downing Street.
"I have done this in the teeth of the pandemic, amid every other demand on our resources, because the defence of the realm and the safety of the British people, must come first."
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Image: The PM came under pressure to resist cutting foreign aid to fund the new commitments
With perhaps an eye on his future relationship with US president-elect Joe Biden, the prime minister hailed how the UK would now be investing more than any other European country in defence projects and more than any other NATO ally, other than America.
Outlining how the new money will be spent, the prime minister claimed the cash would help "spur a renaissance of British shipbuilding across the UK - in Glasgow and Rosyth, Belfast, Appledore and Birkenhead".
Making his promise to "restore Britain's position as the foremost naval power in Europe", he added: "If there was one policy which strengthens the UK in every possible sense, it is building more ships for the Royal Navy."
He said the government would seek to "develop the next generation of warships, including multi-role research vessels and Type 32 frigates".
Mr Johnson also outlined plans to focus the expanded defence budget on "technologies that will revolutionise warfare", such as "directed energy weapons" that employ "inexhaustible lasers".
He told MPs of a £1.5bn investment in military research and development, a new centre dedicated to Artificial Intelligence and a new RAF Space Command that will launch British satellites and "our first rocket from Scotland in 2022".
The prime minister also confirmed the establishment of a National Cyber Force, which is already operating over computer networks against terrorism, organised crime and hostile states.
Image: Sir Keir Starmer asked where the extra money would come from
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer claimed the government had made the spending announcement - which comes before the publication of a review of the UK's foreign, defence, development and security policy early next year - without a "clear strategy or a coherent vision for Britain in the world".
"I know the prime minister is always keen to talk about the bits of government he enjoys - big announcements, space programmes, moonshots," he said.
"But this statement shows the government still lacks a clear strategy or a coherent vision for Britain in the world, or any idea how the promises the prime minister makes will actually be delivered."
Sir Keir also questioned how the increased defence spending will be paid for, asking whether it would be funded by extra borrowing, tax rises or a squeeze on other government departments.
The prime minister came under pressure from Conservative ex-cabinet ministers Andrew Mitchell and Jeremy Hunt to resist cutting the UK's foreign aid spending in order to help pay for the new defence commitments.
It has been reported the government could temporarily cut the UK's foreign aid spending target from 0.7% to 0.5% of gross national income, following the huge outlay to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.
Mr Johnson said the UK could be proud of its record on overseas aid and would "continue to lead the world".
"This statement is about our defence and security, and there is no read across to any other issue," he added.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-18--Test and Trace boss having to self-isolate after alert from her own app

The under-pressure head of NHS Test and Trace is having to self-isolate after being pinged by the scheme 's smartphone app .
Baroness Dido Harding revealed on Twitter she would have to quarantine until 26 November after receiving an alert .
Alongside a screenshot of the NHS Test and Trace app , she posted : `` Nothing like personal experience of your own products ... .got this overnight .
`` Feeling well .
Many hours of Zoom ahead . ''
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said : `` Dido Harding is self-isolating after being anonymously notified to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The NHS Test and Trace system continues to break chains of transmission , with everybody having their part to play in tackling this virus . ''
Baroness Harding 's husband , Conservative former minister John Penrose , had already been in self-isolation .
The Weston-Super-Mare MP revealed on Twitter last Monday that his NHS app had `` just gone off '' and told him to self-isolate .
Asked at the time whether he had spoken to his wife about it , Mr Penrose said : `` We are trying to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ book , if I can put it that way .
`` Her NHS app has not gone off , so it 's someone I have been in contact with rather than her . ''
According to NHS guidance , if you are told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace but are not displaying COVID-19 symptoms , then people you live with do not need to self-isolate with you .
Baroness Harding has faced criticism over the NHS Test and Trace scheme , with one senior Conservative MP having called for her resignation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , revealed four in 10 contacts of those who tested positive were being missed .
Test and Trace reached 60.4 % of contacts of people who tested positive for coronavirus in the week ending 4 November .
This was slightly up on the previous week 's figure of 59.9 % , but still made it one of the lowest rates since the scheme launched back in May .
Sir Bernard Jenkin , the chair of the House of Commons ' powerful liaison committee , last month called for Baroness Harding to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said there was a `` vacuum of leadership '' in Test and Trace .
However , Boris Johnson has consistently supported Baroness Harding , despite admitting there are problems with the scheme .
The prime minister , who is self-isolating himself after meeting with an MP who later tested positive , once promised a `` world-beating '' national Test and Trace scheme .

The under-pressure head of NHS Test and Trace is having to self-isolate after being pinged by the scheme's smartphone app.
Baroness Dido Harding revealed on Twitter she would have to quarantine until 26 November after receiving an alert.
Alongside a screenshot of the NHS Test and Trace app, she posted: "Nothing like personal experience of your own products ....got this overnight.
"Feeling well. Many hours of Zoom ahead."
Image: Baroness Harding is having to quarantine until 26 November
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "Dido Harding is self-isolating after being anonymously notified to do so by the NHS COVID-19 app.
"The NHS Test and Trace system continues to break chains of transmission, with everybody having their part to play in tackling this virus."
Baroness Harding's husband, Conservative former minister John Penrose, had already been in self-isolation.
The Weston-Super-Mare MP revealed on Twitter last Monday that his NHS app had "just gone off" and told him to self-isolate.
Asked at the time whether he had spoken to his wife about it, Mr Penrose said: "We are trying to make sure we are doing it by the book, if I can put it that way.
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"Her NHS app has not gone off, so it's someone I have been in contact with rather than her."
According to NHS guidance, if you are told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace but are not displaying COVID-19 symptoms, then people you live with do not need to self-isolate with you.
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Baroness Harding has faced criticism over the NHS Test and Trace scheme, with one senior Conservative MP having called for her resignation.
The latest figures, published last week, revealed four in 10 contacts of those who tested positive were being missed.
Test and Trace reached 60.4% of contacts of people who tested positive for coronavirus in the week ending 4 November.
This was slightly up on the previous week's figure of 59.9%, but still made it one of the lowest rates since the scheme launched back in May.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:40 Senior Tory calls on Test and Trace head to go
Sir Bernard Jenkin, the chair of the House of Commons' powerful liaison committee, last month called for Baroness Harding to be given a "well-earned break" and said there was a "vacuum of leadership" in Test and Trace.
However, Boris Johnson has consistently supported Baroness Harding, despite admitting there are problems with the scheme.
The prime minister, who is self-isolating himself after meeting with an MP who later tested positive, once promised a "world-beating" national Test and Trace scheme.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-20--PM set to announce decision on Patel's future amid bullying claims

Boris Johnson is set to reveal the conclusions of an inquiry into bullying allegations against Home Secretary Priti Patel .
Sources with knowledge of the situation told Sky News the home secretary is unlikely to be sacked and will not be issued with a formal warning .
However , the prime minister could force her to apologise when he delivers his verdict on Ms Patel 's conduct later .
Sky News understands the conclusions could be published as soon as this morning .
According to reports , Ms Patel was found to have failed to meet the requirement to treat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Normally ministers are expected to resign if they breach the code , however the prime minister is expected to point to a finding that her conduct was `` unintentional '' .
Senior Conservatives have offered their support to Ms Patel ahead of the findings being made public .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News ' Kay Burley on Friday morning : `` I have n't seen the report but I do know what my experience of working closely with the home secretary is .
`` And the experience that I 've always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she 's nothing but courteous in getting the job done . ''
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss posted on Twitter : `` She is a great person - compassionate , determined , hard working and professional . ''
And Jacob Rees-Mogg , the Leader of the House of Commons , called Ms Patel a `` formidable '' home secretary and an `` asset to government '' .
Labour , meanwhile , has accused Mr Johnson of presiding over a `` cover-up '' after it emerged that a fact-finding report into her behaviour will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson is expected to release an assessment of its findings by his adviser on ministerial standards , Sir Alex Allan .
According to The Times , he concluded : `` My advice is that the home secretary has not always met the high standards of the code in treating civil servants with respect .
`` Instances would meet the definition of bullying .
To that extent her behaviour has been in breach of the ministerial code even if unintentional . ''
The newspaper said Sir Alex was also critical of some civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they had not always been as `` flexible '' as they could have been in `` responding to the home secretary 's requests and directions '' .
• 21 February : It emerges the home secretary has been accused of bullying over her alleged treatment of her department 's most senior civil servant Sir Philip Rutnam • 29 February : Sir Philip resigns and accuses Ms Patel of spearheading a `` vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign '' against him .
Sir Philip also revealed he had received allegations of Ms Patel `` shouting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` making unreasonable and repeated demands '' • 2 March : A union boss who represents civil servants tells Sir Mark Sedwill , the head of the civil service , that an investigation into the bullying allegations must be held • 3 March : The government announces the Cabinet Office will investigate the bullying claims • 4 March : Boris Johnson says he is sticking by Ms Patel who he had earlier called a `` fantastic '' minister • 6 March : Nearly 100 people who have worked with Ms Patel launch a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Labour calls for investigation to results to be made public as soon as possible amid reports the home secretary has been cleared • 20 November : Labour demands publication of the full inquiry findings after Ms Patel was found to have broken the ministerial code .
The party also accuses the prime minister of a cover-up after it emerged the fact-finding report will not be made public Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds called for the immediate publication of the full Cabinet Office findings .
He said Labour had `` lost confidence in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Patel having first emerged in February .
`` These revelations could not be more serious , '' he added .
`` This has all the hallmarks of a cover-up from the prime minister and raises fundamental questions about his judgment .
`` His actions are all but condoning bullying in the workplace .
In any other area of life this would not be acceptable .
Yet again , it seems to be one rule for them and another for everyone else .
`` The report needs to be published in full immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secretary must come before parliament to answer questions on this mess . ''
A Cabinet Office investigation was launched in March over allegations that Ms Patel belittled colleagues and clashed with senior officials in three different departments .
It followed the resignation of the Home Office 's permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam , who accused Ms Patel of a `` vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign '' against him and is claiming constructive dismissal at an employment tribunal .
Ms Patel has expressed concern at the `` false '' claims , and allies have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boss but not a bully .
A government spokesman said : `` The process is ongoing and the prime minister will make any decision on the matter public once the process has concluded . ''

Boris Johnson is set to reveal the conclusions of an inquiry into bullying allegations against Home Secretary Priti Patel.
Sources with knowledge of the situation told Sky News the home secretary is unlikely to be sacked and will not be issued with a formal warning.
However, the prime minister could force her to apologise when he delivers his verdict on Ms Patel's conduct later.
Sky News understands the conclusions could be published as soon as this morning.
According to reports, Ms Patel was found to have failed to meet the requirement to treat civil servants with respect and consideration.
Normally ministers are expected to resign if they breach the code, however the prime minister is expected to point to a finding that her conduct was "unintentional".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:39 Priti Patel is 'courteous and kind'
Senior Conservatives have offered their support to Ms Patel ahead of the findings being made public.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News' Kay Burley on Friday morning: "I haven't seen the report but I do know what my experience of working closely with the home secretary is.
"And the experience that I've always had working with her has been that she's nothing but courteous in getting the job done."
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International Trade Secretary Liz Truss posted on Twitter: "She is a great person - compassionate, determined, hard working and professional."
And Jacob Rees-Mogg, the Leader of the House of Commons, called Ms Patel a "formidable" home secretary and an "asset to government".
Labour, meanwhile, has accused Mr Johnson of presiding over a "cover-up" after it emerged that a fact-finding report into her behaviour will not be made public.
Instead, Mr Johnson is expected to release an assessment of its findings by his adviser on ministerial standards, Sir Alex Allan.
According to The Times, he concluded: "My advice is that the home secretary has not always met the high standards of the code in treating civil servants with respect.
"Instances would meet the definition of bullying. To that extent her behaviour has been in breach of the ministerial code even if unintentional."
The newspaper said Sir Alex was also critical of some civil servants in the Home Office, saying they had not always been as "flexible" as they could have been in "responding to the home secretary's requests and directions".
Timeline: How the bullying allegations row unfolded
21 February: It emerges the home secretary has been accused of bullying over her alleged treatment of her department's most senior civil servant Sir Philip Rutnam
It emerges the home secretary has been accused of bullying over her alleged treatment of her department's most senior civil servant Sir Philip Rutnam 29 February: Sir Philip resigns and accuses Ms Patel of spearheading a "vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign" against him. Sir Philip also revealed he had received allegations of Ms Patel "shouting and swearing, belittling people" and "making unreasonable and repeated demands"
Sir Philip resigns and accuses Ms Patel of spearheading a "vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign" against him. Sir Philip also revealed he had received allegations of Ms Patel "shouting and swearing, belittling people" and "making unreasonable and repeated demands" 2 March: A union boss who represents civil servants tells Sir Mark Sedwill, the head of the civil service, that an investigation into the bullying allegations must be held
A union boss who represents civil servants tells Sir Mark Sedwill, the head of the civil service, that an investigation into the bullying allegations must be held 3 March: The government announces the Cabinet Office will investigate the bullying claims
The government announces the Cabinet Office will investigate the bullying claims 4 March: Boris Johnson says he is sticking by Ms Patel who he had earlier called a "fantastic" minister
Boris Johnson says he is sticking by Ms Patel who he had earlier called a "fantastic" minister 6 March: Nearly 100 people who have worked with Ms Patel launch a public defence of her
Nearly 100 people who have worked with Ms Patel launch a public defence of her 20 April: Sir Philip Rutnam formally launches legal action against the government claiming "constructive dismissal"
Sir Philip Rutnam formally launches legal action against the government claiming "constructive dismissal" 29 April: Labour calls for investigation to results to be made public as soon as possible amid reports the home secretary has been cleared
Labour calls for investigation to results to be made public as soon as possible amid reports the home secretary has been cleared 20 November: Labour demands publication of the full inquiry findings after Ms Patel was found to have broken the ministerial code. The party also accuses the prime minister of a cover-up after it emerged the fact-finding report will not be made public
Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds called for the immediate publication of the full Cabinet Office findings.
He said Labour had "lost confidence in the process", with allegations against Ms Patel having first emerged in February.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:27 Labour critical over Patel bullying claims
"These revelations could not be more serious," he added.
"This has all the hallmarks of a cover-up from the prime minister and raises fundamental questions about his judgment.
"His actions are all but condoning bullying in the workplace. In any other area of life this would not be acceptable. Yet again, it seems to be one rule for them and another for everyone else.
"The report needs to be published in full immediately and both the prime minister and home secretary must come before parliament to answer questions on this mess."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 February: Sir Philip Rutnam - 'I don't believe Priti Patel'
A Cabinet Office investigation was launched in March over allegations that Ms Patel belittled colleagues and clashed with senior officials in three different departments.
It followed the resignation of the Home Office's permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam, who accused Ms Patel of a "vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign" against him and is claiming constructive dismissal at an employment tribunal.
Ms Patel has expressed concern at the "false" claims, and allies have described her as a "demanding" boss but not a bully.
A government spokesman said: "The process is ongoing and the prime minister will make any decision on the matter public once the process has concluded."


skynewspolitics--2020-11-20--What were the claims against Priti Patel?

The results of an inquiry into bullying accusations against Home Secretary Priti Patel have finally been revealed .
It follows an eight-month wait for the findings of a Cabinet Office investigation into claims against the home secretary .
Why was the inquiry established ?
The Whitehall probe was launched in March , with the prime minister asking for the department to `` establish the facts '' over whether the home secretary breached the ministerial code .
It was led by the government 's independent adviser on standards , Sir Alex Allan , and followed allegations against Ms Patel from across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Under the code , government ministers are ordered to be `` professional in all their dealings and treat all those with whom they come into contact with consideration and respect '' .
`` Working relationships , including with civil servants , ministerial and parliamentary colleagues and parliamentary staff should be proper and appropriate , '' it adds .
`` Harassing , bullying or other inappropriate or discriminating behaviour wherever it takes place is not consistent with the Ministerial Code and will not be tolerated . ''
Following an investigation , Prime Minister Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there has been a breach of the code .
What were the allegations against Ms Patel ?
Questions about Ms Patel 's conduct as a government minister arose following the dramatic resignation of the Home Office 's most senior civil servant , Sir Philip Rutnam , in February .
It came after reports of a bitter feud between himself and Ms Patel .
At the time , Sir Philip revealed he had received allegations of Ms Patel `` shouting and swearing , belittling people , making unreasonable and repeated demands '' , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
He said he had `` encouraged '' the home secretary `` to change her behaviour '' .
His departure as the Home Office 's permanent secretary is still the subject of an employment tribunal , with Sir Philip pursuing a claim for constructive dismissal from the £175,000-per-year role .
In his resignation statement , he revealed the Cabinet Office had `` offered me a financial settlement that would have avoided this outcome '' .
Around the same time as Sir Philip 's exit , further allegations about Ms Patel 's behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Cabinet Office review .
There were claims a senior Home Office official once collapsed after being confronted by Ms Patel , following an unsuccessful all-night effort to reverse a High Court ruling .
It was reported that an official in the Department for Work and Pensions received a £25,000 payout after making bullying claims during Ms Patel 's time as an employment minister .
There were also claims about Ms Patel 's behaviour towards staff during her later spell as international development secretary .
Ms Patel was previously accused of breaching the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failed to declare meetings she held with politicians in Israel .
That saw her forced to resign as international development secretary by former prime minister Theresa May .
Ms Patel rejected all of the allegations against her , while the home secretary 's supporters claimed she had been the victim of a Westminster smear campaign .
The prime minister had vowed to `` stick with Prit '' .
Why has it taken so long for the findings to be published ?
The prime minister has been accused of having sat on the report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the former cabinet secretary , recently suggested Mr Johnson had been presented with the report in early September .
Downing Street batted away questions about the wait for the findings by saying it was an `` ongoing process '' .
The government was also said to have been `` preoccupied '' by the coronavirus crisis .

The results of an inquiry into bullying accusations against Home Secretary Priti Patel have finally been revealed.
It follows an eight-month wait for the findings of a Cabinet Office investigation into claims against the home secretary.
Why was the inquiry established?
The Whitehall probe was launched in March, with the prime minister asking for the department to "establish the facts" over whether the home secretary breached the ministerial code.
It was led by the government's independent adviser on standards, Sir Alex Allan, and followed allegations against Ms Patel from across her time at three government departments.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:39 Priti Patel is 'courteous and kind'
Under the code, government ministers are ordered to be "professional in all their dealings and treat all those with whom they come into contact with consideration and respect".
"Working relationships, including with civil servants, ministerial and parliamentary colleagues and parliamentary staff should be proper and appropriate," it adds.
"Harassing, bullying or other inappropriate or discriminating behaviour wherever it takes place is not consistent with the Ministerial Code and will not be tolerated."
Following an investigation, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is the ultimate arbiter of whether there has been a breach of the code.
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What were the allegations against Ms Patel?
Questions about Ms Patel's conduct as a government minister arose following the dramatic resignation of the Home Office's most senior civil servant, Sir Philip Rutnam, in February.
It came after reports of a bitter feud between himself and Ms Patel.
At the time, Sir Philip revealed he had received allegations of Ms Patel "shouting and swearing, belittling people, making unreasonable and repeated demands", and argued her behaviour had "created fear".
He said he had "encouraged" the home secretary "to change her behaviour".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 'I don't believe Priti Patel'
His departure as the Home Office's permanent secretary is still the subject of an employment tribunal, with Sir Philip pursuing a claim for constructive dismissal from the £175,000-per-year role.
In his resignation statement, he revealed the Cabinet Office had "offered me a financial settlement that would have avoided this outcome".
Around the same time as Sir Philip's exit, further allegations about Ms Patel's behaviour in government also emerged, which prompted the Cabinet Office review.
There were claims a senior Home Office official once collapsed after being confronted by Ms Patel, following an unsuccessful all-night effort to reverse a High Court ruling.
It was reported that an official in the Department for Work and Pensions received a £25,000 payout after making bullying claims during Ms Patel's time as an employment minister.
There were also claims about Ms Patel's behaviour towards staff during her later spell as international development secretary.
Ms Patel was previously accused of breaching the ministerial code in 2017, when she failed to declare meetings she held with politicians in Israel.
That saw her forced to resign as international development secretary by former prime minister Theresa May.
Image: Boris Johnson had vowed to 'stick with Priti'
Ms Patel rejected all of the allegations against her, while the home secretary's supporters claimed she had been the victim of a Westminster smear campaign.
The prime minister had vowed to "stick with Prit".
Why has it taken so long for the findings to be published?
The prime minister has been accused of having sat on the report since the summer.
Lord Sedwill, the former cabinet secretary, recently suggested Mr Johnson had been presented with the report in early September.
Downing Street batted away questions about the wait for the findings by saying it was an "ongoing process".
The government was also said to have been "preoccupied" by the coronavirus crisis.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-20--Mass vaccination programme could begin 'within a matter of weeks'

The health secretary has told Sky News that he hopes a mass vaccination programme for COVID-19 will get under way `` within a matter of weeks '' .
A coronavirus vaccine has yet to receive official approval , but two US-led treatments have been found to be more than 90 % effective .
Live COVID-19 updates from the UK and around the world The UK government has ordered enough of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to treat 20 million people , while it has also secured five million doses of the Moderna vaccine .
Speaking to Kay Burley , Matt Hancock said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were `` encouraging signs of hope '' .
He told the programme that the NHS was working towards delivering the flu jab and COVID-19 vaccine `` in parallel '' and `` within a matter of weeks '' .
`` Normally 15 million people are vaccinated against flu .
This year it will be 30 million - the biggest number in history , '' Mr Hancock said .
`` We hope that we will also have a COVID vaccination programme alongside that .
The arrangements are being put in place for the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will be a huge effort , and I know that the NHS is up to it . ''
The health secretary said he hopes people can be vaccinated in large numbers in 2021 .
Derby City Council has said the Derby Arena is being considered as a temporary vaccination centre .
Chris Poulter , the leader of Derby City Council , said : `` The potential roll-out of a COVID vaccine is a welcome step in the nationwide effort against the spread of COVID-19 - it 's an honour for Derby to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical part in any vaccination programme .
`` The Arena is a perfect venue - it has plenty of space , parking , and good transport networks to serve Derby , Derbyshire and beyond . ''
On the situation with the pandemic generally , Mr Hancock said there were `` encouraging signs '' that the number of cases is beginning to flatten .
`` The lockdown that we brought in earlier this month is working , but in the meantime everyone has got to keep following the rules , '' he told Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Asked whether people will be able to see loved ones over Christmas , Mr Hancock acknowledged that it would not be a `` normal Christmas '' like in previous years .
The health secretary said `` there will have to be rules in place '' , but added : `` We hope that they will allow for a bit more of that normal Christmas that people look forward to . ''
The UK government and the devolved administrations are in talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place over Christmas , with the details to be made public shortly .
Mr Hancock said : `` I know how important Christmas is .
It 's important to my family , it 's important to people right across the country .
`` We need to have a set of rules , if at all possible , that 's UK-wide .
Not least because so many people travel across parts `` of the UK . ''
He added : `` It of course wo n't be like a normal Christmas , there will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we hope that they will allow for a bit more of that normal Christmas that people look forward to . ''
Mr Hancock said he is planning a small family Christmas within the existing rules because a final decision on the measures is yet to be made .

The health secretary has told Sky News that he hopes a mass vaccination programme for COVID-19 will get under way "within a matter of weeks".
A coronavirus vaccine has yet to receive official approval, but two US-led treatments have been found to be more than 90% effective.
Live COVID-19 updates from the UK and around the world
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 Inside the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine trials
The UK government has ordered enough of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to treat 20 million people, while it has also secured five million doses of the Moderna vaccine.
Speaking to Kay Burley, Matt Hancock said "nothing's guaranteed yet" but there were "encouraging signs of hope".
He told the programme that the NHS was working towards delivering the flu jab and COVID-19 vaccine "in parallel" and "within a matter of weeks".
"Normally 15 million people are vaccinated against flu. This year it will be 30 million - the biggest number in history," Mr Hancock said.
"We hope that we will also have a COVID vaccination programme alongside that. The arrangements are being put in place for the NHS to deliver that at scale.
"It will be a huge effort, and I know that the NHS is up to it."
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The health secretary said he hopes people can be vaccinated in large numbers in 2021.
Derby City Council has said the Derby Arena is being considered as a temporary vaccination centre.
Chris Poulter, the leader of Derby City Council, said: "The potential roll-out of a COVID vaccine is a welcome step in the nationwide effort against the spread of COVID-19 - it's an honour for Derby to have the opportunity to play such a critical part in any vaccination programme.
"The Arena is a perfect venue - it has plenty of space, parking, and good transport networks to serve Derby, Derbyshire and beyond."
On the situation with the pandemic generally, Mr Hancock said there were "encouraging signs" that the number of cases is beginning to flatten.
"The lockdown that we brought in earlier this month is working, but in the meantime everyone has got to keep following the rules," he told Sky News.
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Asked whether people will be able to see loved ones over Christmas, Mr Hancock acknowledged that it would not be a "normal Christmas" like in previous years.
The health secretary said "there will have to be rules in place", but added: "We hope that they will allow for a bit more of that normal Christmas that people look forward to."
The UK government and the devolved administrations are in talks over what COVID-19 measures should be in place over Christmas, with the details to be made public shortly.
Mr Hancock said: "I know how important Christmas is. It's important to my family, it's important to people right across the country.
"We need to have a set of rules, if at all possible, that's UK-wide. Not least because so many people travel across parts "of the UK."
He added: "It of course won't be like a normal Christmas, there will have to be rules in place, but we hope that they will allow for a bit more of that normal Christmas that people look forward to."
Mr Hancock said he is planning a small family Christmas within the existing rules because a final decision on the measures is yet to be made.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-19--Corbyn told he will be barred from sitting as Labour MP for three months

Jeremy Corbyn has been told he will be barred from being a Labour MP for three months , Sky News understands .
But the length of that suspension is under review by leader Sir Keir Starmer , pending an investigation into his predecessor 's conduct .
Mr Corbyn was told about the move in a letter from Labour 's chief whip Nick Brown sent on Thursday night .
The former Labour leader was suspended at the end of October for his response to a long-running investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission into how antisemitism complaints were handled during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party 's ruling National Executive Committee then voted this week to readmit him as a member , but Sir Keir said he would not automatically get the Labour whip back .
The refusal to let Mr Corbyn back into the parliamentary party has sparked consternation among his allies .
Len McCluskey , leader of the Unite union , said it was `` vindictive and vengeful action which despoils party democracy and due process alike '' .
And John McDonnell , Mr Corbyn 's former shadow chancellor , called the decision `` just plain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more division and disunity '' .
A total of 30 Labour MPs , along with two peers , have opposed Mr Corbyn being refused the whip , writing in a statement released through the Socialist Campaign Group that it was `` damaging '' to party unity .
However , other Labour politicians have voiced their support for Sir Keir 's decision .
Dame Margaret Hodge said : `` As Corbyn has refused to himself accept the findings of the EHRC report , refused to apologise for his actions and refused to take any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right decision . ''
Neil Coyle said that continuing to withhold the whip from Mr Corbyn was the `` only option '' until a new independent complaints process was established .

Jeremy Corbyn has been told he will be barred from being a Labour MP for three months, Sky News understands.
But the length of that suspension is under review by leader Sir Keir Starmer, pending an investigation into his predecessor's conduct.
Mr Corbyn was told about the move in a letter from Labour's chief whip Nick Brown sent on Thursday night.
The former Labour leader was suspended at the end of October for his response to a long-running investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission into how antisemitism complaints were handled during his tenure.
A panel from the party's ruling National Executive Committee then voted this week to readmit him as a member, but Sir Keir said he would not automatically get the Labour whip back.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:36 'I don't want a split in the Labour Party'
The refusal to let Mr Corbyn back into the parliamentary party has sparked consternation among his allies.
Len McCluskey, leader of the Unite union, said it was "vindictive and vengeful action which despoils party democracy and due process alike".
And John McDonnell, Mr Corbyn's former shadow chancellor, called the decision "just plain wrong" and warned it would cause more division and disunity".
A total of 30 Labour MPs, along with two peers, have opposed Mr Corbyn being refused the whip, writing in a statement released through the Socialist Campaign Group that it was "damaging" to party unity.
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However, other Labour politicians have voiced their support for Sir Keir's decision.
Dame Margaret Hodge said: "As Corbyn has refused to himself accept the findings of the EHRC report, refused to apologise for his actions and refused to take any responsibility, withholding the whip is the right decision."
Neil Coyle said that continuing to withhold the whip from Mr Corbyn was the "only option" until a new independent complaints process was established.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-20--Backlash over chancellor's 'cruel' expected public sector pay freeze

Freezing pay for millions of public sector workers has been described as a `` cruel body blow '' by unions .
Around four million public sector workers are set to be hit with a pay cap as Rishi Sunak looks to rebuild the public finances , according to reports which the Treasury has not denied .
Unison said the freeze would hurt workers who `` remain at the heart of the fight against COVID-19 '' .
Live COVID-19 updates from the UK and around the world General secretary Dave Prentis said : `` Reports of pay restraint for all but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body blow to other health , care and public service employees working tirelessly to get us through the pandemic .
It would also backfire badly with the public . ''
The chancellor is expected to use next week 's spending review to limit pay rises in the public sector to at or below inflation .
Teachers , police , firefighters , members of the armed forces , and NHS managers would all be affected but frontline NHS doctors and nurses are expected to be exempt in recognition of their work during the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trade union , Gail Cartmail , said : `` In the spring , the prime minister was praising NHS staff for saving his life .
`` Now , in the autumn , he needs to ensure that his chancellor turns those warm words into hard cash for those who ensure the efficient running of the NHS , schools and colleges , and the myriad of services provided on a daily basis by local councils . ''
Matt Wrack , general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union , said his union 's members had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the pandemic '' .
He added : `` We warned ministers in the summer that clapping key workers would not pay the bills - but it seems in government memories are short , and morals in short supply .
`` It wo n't be lost on workers that their wages are set to be cut while the government continues to hand out contracts worth billions of pounds to its cronies .
If finances really are a worry , the ultra-wealthy and the corporations who have cashed in on this pandemic should shoulder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He also criticised the government for leaving key workers to rely on news reports for answers about their livelihoods .
The Treasury has not denied the reports but pointed to the words from Chancellor Rishi Sunak in July , when he warned of the need for `` restraint '' in future public sector pay settlements .
Mr Sunak said at the time that awards made would have to take account of the `` wider economic context '' and stressed that while public sector pay was rising , wages in the private sector @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That argument was backed by a new report by the Centre for Policy Studies ( CPS ) which said private sector workers had suffered far more from the economic impact of the disease .
It said that a three-year pay freeze across the public sector could save up to £23bn , helping to plug the hole in the public finances opened up by the pandemic .
If the NHS was excluded , the CPS said that it could still save £15.3bn over the three years .
Director Robert Colvile said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to justify generous pay rises in the public sector when private sector wages are actually falling .
`` At the same time , there is a need to control public spending and reduce the structural deficit which the pandemic is likely to have opened up . ''
Earlier on Friday , the Office for National Statistics reported that public sector net debt hit £2.076trn at the end of October - or 100.8 % of GDP , a level not seen for many decades .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock refused to comment on `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Sky News ' Kay Burley : `` The pandemic has had a very serious impact on people 's health but also on the economy .
`` We all know that and we can all see it and it 's a very difficult set of circumstances . ''
Mr Hancock also declined to be drawn on the subject of MPs ' own pay , despite the independent body that decides their salaries having recommended they get a £3,360 salary boost from next April .
Are you a public sector worker affected by this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ News

Freezing pay for millions of public sector workers has been described as a "cruel body blow" by unions.
Around four million public sector workers are set to be hit with a pay cap as Rishi Sunak looks to rebuild the public finances, according to reports which the Treasury has not denied.
Unison said the freeze would hurt workers who "remain at the heart of the fight against COVID-19".
Live COVID-19 updates from the UK and around the world
General secretary Dave Prentis said: "Reports of pay restraint for all but frontline NHS staff would be a cruel body blow to other health, care and public service employees working tirelessly to get us through the pandemic. It would also backfire badly with the public."
The chancellor is expected to use next week's spending review to limit pay rises in the public sector to at or below inflation.
Teachers, police, firefighters, members of the armed forces, and NHS managers would all be affected but frontline NHS doctors and nurses are expected to be exempt in recognition of their work during the coronavirus pandemic.
Assistant general secretary of Unite trade union, Gail Cartmail, said: "In the spring, the prime minister was praising NHS staff for saving his life.
"Now, in the autumn, he needs to ensure that his chancellor turns those warm words into hard cash for those who ensure the efficient running of the NHS, schools and colleges, and the myriad of services provided on a daily basis by local councils."
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Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, said his union's members had "gone above and beyond to respond to the pandemic".
He added: "We warned ministers in the summer that clapping key workers would not pay the bills - but it seems in government memories are short, and morals in short supply.
"It won't be lost on workers that their wages are set to be cut while the government continues to hand out contracts worth billions of pounds to its cronies. If finances really are a worry, the ultra-wealthy and the corporations who have cashed in on this pandemic should shoulder the burden through emergency tax measures."
He also criticised the government for leaving key workers to rely on news reports for answers about their livelihoods.
The Treasury has not denied the reports but pointed to the words from Chancellor Rishi Sunak in July, when he warned of the need for "restraint" in future public sector pay settlements.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 In October, Sunak warned of 'hard choices' on debt
Mr Sunak said at the time that awards made would have to take account of the "wider economic context" and stressed that while public sector pay was rising, wages in the private sector had fallen back during the coronavirus pandemic.
That argument was backed by a new report by the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS) which said private sector workers had suffered far more from the economic impact of the disease.
It said that a three-year pay freeze across the public sector could save up to £23bn, helping to plug the hole in the public finances opened up by the pandemic.
If the NHS was excluded, the CPS said that it could still save £15.3bn over the three years.
Director Robert Colvile said: "Healthcare workers aside, it is difficult to justify generous pay rises in the public sector when private sector wages are actually falling.
"At the same time, there is a need to control public spending and reduce the structural deficit which the pandemic is likely to have opened up."
Earlier on Friday, the Office for National Statistics reported that public sector net debt hit £2.076trn at the end of October - or 100.8% of GDP, a level not seen for many decades.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock refused to comment on "speculation" about the pay freeze but told Sky News' Kay Burley: "The pandemic has had a very serious impact on people's health but also on the economy.
"We all know that and we can all see it and it's a very difficult set of circumstances."
Mr Hancock also declined to be drawn on the subject of MPs' own pay, despite the independent body that decides their salaries having recommended they get a £3,360 salary boost from next April.
Are you a public sector worker affected by this news? Get in touch with Sky News
:: WhatsApp - 07583 000853
:: Email - sky.today@sky.uk
:: 'Your Report' on Sky News apps


skynewspolitics--2020-11-19--'It's ridiculous. No one will pay double for Stilton at Christmas': Warning of Brexit impact on NI f

'It's ridiculous. No one will pay double for Stilton at Christmas': Warning of Brexit impact on NI foods

Many UK food manufacturers are planning to stop supplying Northern Ireland once the Brexit transition period ends on 1 January , industry experts warn .
According to a survey of member companies carried out by the Food and Drink Federation ( FDF ) , almost a third of respondents said they planned to `` pause '' shipments to Northern Ireland amid the confusion caused by the implementation of the so-called `` Irish Sea border '' .
While the rest of the UK will leave the EU 's single market , Northern Ireland will effectively remain within it for goods .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland - means that many goods entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain will face new checks , which will substantially increase cost .
Dominic Goudie , the FDF 's Head of International Trade , says it 's `` an extremely serious situation . ''
`` We found in our latest survey that nearly 29 % of businesses were looking to either reduce their shipments into NI or temporarily pause supply to the NI market after 1 January , '' he says .
`` The challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they just do n't have answers to the questions they 've been asking . ''
That uncertainty is reflected at the other end of the food supply chain to Northern Ireland .
At the Arcadia Deli in Belfast , owner Mark Brown is facing a potential doubling in the price of an English cheese .
He currently buys half a wheel of Colston Bassett stilton from Nottinghamshire for around £60 .
But he estimates that , after 1 January , each cheese will need an Export Health Certificate that could cost £50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to do ? ''
he says .
`` I ca n't pass on that kind of price increase to the customer .
There 's no way anyone will pay double for their wedge of Stilton at Christmas .
I ca n't source it from anywhere else ... otherwise it 's not Stilton . ''
He 's referring to the cheese 's Protected Designation of Origin status , which means a Stilton can only be produced in three English counties .
Mr Brown says the irony of Brexit is that he will now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This is a Picos blue cheese from northern Spain '' , Mr Brown says , holding up a vine leaf-covered wheel .
`` Currently it 's selling for a pound more than the Stilton , but post-Brexit , with the new checks we 're expecting , it will be nearly half the price of the Stilton .
That 's what customers will choose instead .
At the start of Brexit , I thought it 'd be cheaper to get British produce rather than European , but now , it 's the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the larger retailers , like supermarkets , are extremely reluctant to comment publicly on their plans .
But Sainsbury 's has warned that its supply of some fish , dairy and meat products to Northern Ireland could be hit .
The chain 's chief executive Simon Roberts told The Guardian earlier this month : `` If we do n't get greater clarity on the Northern Irish situation then we will see a restriction on the ranges of products we can sell .
This is not one or two products in stores I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of products and quite key , everyday products too . ''
That is something many in Northern Ireland will feel very keenly , according to Aodhan Connolly , director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium .
`` The starting point for this is that the Northern Irish consumers have half the discretionary income of Great British households , '' he says .
`` So even small cost rises are going to affect them .
We are going to see cost rises because of checks , because of Export Health Certificates , because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friction and all of them have costs .
`` The retail industry is high-volume , low-profit margin , so we ca n't afford it ... but neither can the Northern Ireland consumer . ''
As the Brexit negotiations continue , retailers are urging the UK government and the EU to agree upon some form of transitionary or grace period for businesses .
A `` trusted trader '' scheme has also been mooted , although many fear small businesses would not benefit .
For now , retailers like Mr Brown are urging their customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soar in price , or disappear altogether .
`` It 's a bit ridiculous , '' he says , `` is n't it ? ''

Many UK food manufacturers are planning to stop supplying Northern Ireland once the Brexit transition period ends on 1 January, industry experts warn.
According to a survey of member companies carried out by the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), almost a third of respondents said they planned to "pause" shipments to Northern Ireland amid the confusion caused by the implementation of the so-called "Irish Sea border".
While the rest of the UK will leave the EU's single market, Northern Ireland will effectively remain within it for goods.
The Northern Ireland protocol - designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland - means that many goods entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain will face new checks, which will substantially increase cost.
Dominic Goudie, the FDF's Head of International Trade, says it's "an extremely serious situation."
"We found in our latest survey that nearly 29% of businesses were looking to either reduce their shipments into NI or temporarily pause supply to the NI market after 1 January," he says.
"The challenge that many of them is facing is that they just don't have answers to the questions they've been asking."
That uncertainty is reflected at the other end of the food supply chain to Northern Ireland. At the Arcadia Deli in Belfast, owner Mark Brown is facing a potential doubling in the price of an English cheese.
He currently buys half a wheel of Colston Bassett stilton from Nottinghamshire for around £60. But he estimates that, after 1 January, each cheese will need an Export Health Certificate that could cost £50 or £60.
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Image: The English stilton and the Picos blue from Spain, which will be half the price of the former post-Brexit
"What am I going to do?" he says.
"I can't pass on that kind of price increase to the customer. There's no way anyone will pay double for their wedge of Stilton at Christmas. I can't source it from anywhere else... otherwise it's not Stilton."
He's referring to the cheese's Protected Designation of Origin status, which means a Stilton can only be produced in three English counties.
Mr Brown says the irony of Brexit is that he will now most likely sell a European cheese instead.
"This is a Picos blue cheese from northern Spain", Mr Brown says, holding up a vine leaf-covered wheel.
"Currently it's selling for a pound more than the Stilton, but post-Brexit, with the new checks we're expecting, it will be nearly half the price of the Stilton. That's what customers will choose instead. At the start of Brexit, I thought it'd be cheaper to get British produce rather than European, but now, it's the other way around."
Many of the larger retailers, like supermarkets, are extremely reluctant to comment publicly on their plans. But Sainsbury's has warned that its supply of some fish, dairy and meat products to Northern Ireland could be hit.
The chain's chief executive Simon Roberts told The Guardian earlier this month: "If we don't get greater clarity on the Northern Irish situation then we will see a restriction on the ranges of products we can sell. This is not one or two products in stores I am talking about, it is a substantial number of products and quite key, everyday products too."
That is something many in Northern Ireland will feel very keenly, according to Aodhan Connolly, director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium.
"The starting point for this is that the Northern Irish consumers have half the discretionary income of Great British households," he says.
Image: Food manufacturers are planning to pause shipments to Northern Ireland post-Brexit
"So even small cost rises are going to affect them. We are going to see cost rises because of checks, because of Export Health Certificates, because of delays, all these things are friction and all of them have costs.
"The retail industry is high-volume, low-profit margin, so we can't afford it... but neither can the Northern Ireland consumer."
As the Brexit negotiations continue, retailers are urging the UK government and the EU to agree upon some form of transitionary or grace period for businesses.
A "trusted trader" scheme has also been mooted, although many fear small businesses would not benefit.
In response, a UK government spokesperson told Sky News: "We are in regular contact with the food industry to support its preparations for a range of scenarios, and will continue to work closely with them to ensure people across the UK have the food and supplies they need."
For now, retailers like Mr Brown are urging their customers to stock up on products that might soar in price, or disappear altogether. "It's a bit ridiculous," he says, "isn't it?"


skynewspolitics--2020-11-19--Foreign medics' visas extended to manage coronavirus second wave

Six thousand foreign medics will have their UK visas extended for a year to help battle coronavirus over winter .
Nurses , doctors , midwives and paramedics whose right to work in the country was due to expire before 31 March 2021 are among those who will benefit , as well as any children they have up to the age of 18 .
They have all made `` huge contributions '' during the COVID-19 pandemic and will have their visas extended for free - but still need to fill in a form to prove their identity , said Home Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the move , but told hardworking NHS and private healthcare workers should `` never have had to worry about their immigration status '' in the first place .
It follows a similar decision earlier this year for foreign medics whose visas were due to expire between 31 March and 1 October .
But the UK has plunged into a second wave of coronavirus .
There were another 22,915 infections reported by the government on Thursday - taking the total to 1,453,256 .
Another 501 fatalities were also recorded , meaning there have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK 's statistics agencies say the number of people who have COVID-19 on their death certificate is over 68,000 .
In a bid to keep health services running and staffed as much as possible , the government has extended visas for 6,000 people for whom they were soon due to expire .
The full list of eligible staff is : Biological scientists and biochemists , physical scientists , medical practitioners , psychologists , pharmacists , ophthalmic opticians , dental practitioners , medical radiographers , podiatrists , physiotherapists , occupational therapists , speech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , social workers and paramedics .
Dr Chaand Nagpaul , head of the British Medical Association , said he was glad the government listened to the calls to remove the `` unnecessary , bureaucratic and costly barrier '' for healthcare workers during `` an incredibly difficult winter '' .
`` Our international colleagues have worked tirelessly and selflessly during the pandemic , providing care and support as we all faced unprecedented challenges , '' he said .
`` This often came at the expense of their own health and wellbeing , and as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we have seen staff who came from overseas to look after people in this country tragically lose their own lives to COVID-19 .
`` We owe this vital group of staff a huge debt of gratitude and they should never have had to worry about their immigration status as they fought this virus on the frontline . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he was `` hugely grateful for all of the frontline health and social care workers from overseas who have worked tirelessly to save lives and provide the best possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And he added : `` This visa extension will help to benefit healthcare professionals who have shown extraordinary dedication during this challenging period to protect all of us and our families from the threat of the virus . ''

Six thousand foreign medics will have their UK visas extended for a year to help battle coronavirus over winter.
Nurses, doctors, midwives and paramedics whose right to work in the country was due to expire before 31 March 2021 are among those who will benefit, as well as any children they have up to the age of 18.
They have all made "huge contributions" during the COVID-19 pandemic and will have their visas extended for free - but still need to fill in a form to prove their identity, said Home Secretary Priti Patel.
Image: Matt Hancock said he was 'hugely grateful' to healthcare workers
Ministers were commended for the move, but told hardworking NHS and private healthcare workers should "never have had to worry about their immigration status" in the first place.
It follows a similar decision earlier this year for foreign medics whose visas were due to expire between 31 March and 1 October.
But the UK has plunged into a second wave of coronavirus.
There were another 22,915 infections reported by the government on Thursday - taking the total to 1,453,256.
Another 501 fatalities were also recorded, meaning there have been 53,775 since the pandemic began - though the UK's statistics agencies say the number of people who have COVID-19 on their death certificate is over 68,000.
Image: Another 501 people have died with coronavirus
In a bid to keep health services running and staffed as much as possible, the government has extended visas for 6,000 people for whom they were soon due to expire.
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The full list of eligible staff is: Biological scientists and biochemists, physical scientists, medical practitioners, psychologists, pharmacists, ophthalmic opticians, dental practitioners, medical radiographers, podiatrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, nurses, midwives, social workers and paramedics.
Image: Medics must still fill in forms to have their visa extended
Dr Chaand Nagpaul, head of the British Medical Association, said he was glad the government listened to the calls to remove the "unnecessary, bureaucratic and costly barrier" for healthcare workers during "an incredibly difficult winter".
"Our international colleagues have worked tirelessly and selflessly during the pandemic, providing care and support as we all faced unprecedented challenges," he said.
"This often came at the expense of their own health and wellbeing, and as we know, in too many cases, we have seen staff who came from overseas to look after people in this country tragically lose their own lives to COVID-19.
"We owe this vital group of staff a huge debt of gratitude and they should never have had to worry about their immigration status as they fought this virus on the frontline."
Image: A leading doctor said NHS workers shouldn't have had to worry about their immigration status in the first place
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he was "hugely grateful for all of the frontline health and social care workers from overseas who have worked tirelessly to save lives and provide the best possible care during this global pandemic".
And he added: "This visa extension will help to benefit healthcare professionals who have shown extraordinary dedication during this challenging period to protect all of us and our families from the threat of the virus."


skynewspolitics--2020-11-19--Brexit trade talks suspended at senior level after positive COVID-19 test

Brexit trade talks will be suspended `` for a short period '' at a senior level after one of the EU 's negotiators tested positive for COVID-19 .
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier revealed on Twitter that `` one of the negotiators in my team '' had returned a positive coronavirus test .
He said he and his UK counterpart , Lord Frost , had `` decided to suspend the negotiations at our level for a short period '' .
`` The teams will continue their work in full respect of guidelines , '' Mr Barnier added .
Lord Frost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's EU adviser , said he was in `` close contact '' with Mr Barnier about the situation .
Both sides have been negotiating in Brussels this week , with little over a month left before the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December .
`` The health of our teams comes first , '' Lord Frost posted on Twitter , as he thanked the European Commission `` for their immediate help and support '' .
Sky News ' Europe correspondent Adam Parsons reported that Mr Barnier would be going into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Lord Frost .
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wished a `` speedy recovery '' to the member of the EU negotiating team .
She added that `` work will continue in full respect of '' COVID rules .
There are around 50 negotiators on each team , although not all of them meet face-to-face .
It is understood the UK team is currently trying to establish who among them might have had contact with the affected EU official .
The two teams have been attempting to thrash out a future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although negotiations have continued to remain stuck on issues such as so-called `` level playing field '' commitments and fisheries .
With both the EU and UK parliament needing to ratify any agreement , it is unlikely talks will be allowed to run all the way until the end of the year .
And , without a resolution soon , both sides might turn to preparations for a no-deal outcome .
This could see the two sides trading from 1 January on World Trade Organisation terms - likely to see the erection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government spokesperson said : `` The commission has informed us that an official in their delegation has tested positive for COVID -19 .
`` We are discussing with them the implications for the negotiations .
We have been , and will continue to , act in line with public health guidelines and to ensure the health and welfare our teams . ''
Analysis : This news could not have come at a worse time By Michelle Clifford , Europe Correspondent Abandoning talks - even for what Michel Barnier called `` a short period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a worse time .
We 've mentioned critical weeks before , but this really is high noon .
The two sides are still trying to thrash out critical issues to secure a deal before the UK 's transition period runs out at the end of the year .
And there 's more than agreement from the chief negotiators that 's needed .
Hundreds of pages of legal documents have already been generated .
They will have to be scrutinised and signed off in European capitals .
And on this side of the channel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ratify any deal .
That was slated to happen in the middle of December .
But there was already talk of that being pushed to beyond Christmas .
Will extra days away from the negotiating table make even that timescale impossible ?
We understand Michel Barnier will keep in regular contact with Lord Frost from quarantine .
But any seasoned negotiator will tell you there 's nothing like looking straight into the eyes of the opposite side at crunch time .
That will only be able to happen via video for the coming @ @

Brexit trade talks will be suspended "for a short period" at a senior level after one of the EU's negotiators tested positive for COVID-19.
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier revealed on Twitter that "one of the negotiators in my team" had returned a positive coronavirus test.
He said he and his UK counterpart, Lord Frost, had "decided to suspend the negotiations at our level for a short period".
"The teams will continue their work in full respect of guidelines," Mr Barnier added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:10 Lord Frost: 'Quite a lot to do' to secure Brexit deal
Lord Frost, who is Prime Minister Boris Johnson's EU adviser, said he was in "close contact" with Mr Barnier about the situation.
Both sides have been negotiating in Brussels this week, with little over a month left before the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December.
"The health of our teams comes first," Lord Frost posted on Twitter, as he thanked the European Commission "for their immediate help and support".
Sky News' Europe correspondent Adam Parsons reported that Mr Barnier would be going into quarantine, although would remain in contact with Lord Frost.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wished a "speedy recovery" to the member of the EU negotiating team.
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She added that "work will continue in full respect of" COVID rules.
There are around 50 negotiators on each team, although not all of them meet face-to-face.
It is understood the UK team is currently trying to establish who among them might have had contact with the affected EU official.
The two teams have been attempting to thrash out a future trade deal ahead of 31 December, although negotiations have continued to remain stuck on issues such as so-called "level playing field" commitments and fisheries.
With both the EU and UK parliament needing to ratify any agreement, it is unlikely talks will be allowed to run all the way until the end of the year.
And, without a resolution soon, both sides might turn to preparations for a no-deal outcome.
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This could see the two sides trading from 1 January on World Trade Organisation terms - likely to see the erection of tariffs in both directions.
A UK government spokesperson said: "The commission has informed us that an official in their delegation has tested positive for COVID -19.
"We are discussing with them the implications for the negotiations. We have been, and will continue to, act in line with public health guidelines and to ensure the health and welfare our teams."
Analysis: This news could not have come at a worse time
By Michelle Clifford, Europe Correspondent
Abandoning talks - even for what Michel Barnier called "a short period" - could not have come at a worse time.
We've mentioned critical weeks before, but this really is high noon.
The two sides are still trying to thrash out critical issues to secure a deal before the UK's transition period runs out at the end of the year.
And there's more than agreement from the chief negotiators that's needed.
Hundreds of pages of legal documents have already been generated. They will have to be scrutinised and signed off in European capitals.
And on this side of the channel, the European Parliament will need to ratify any deal.
That was slated to happen in the middle of December. But there was already talk of that being pushed to beyond Christmas.
Will extra days away from the negotiating table make even that timescale impossible?
We understand Michel Barnier will keep in regular contact with Lord Frost from quarantine.
But any seasoned negotiator will tell you there's nothing like looking straight into the eyes of the opposite side at crunch time. That will only be able to happen via video for the coming days.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-20--Priti Patel advised not to 'swear and shout' at staff last year, former civil servant says

Priti Patel was advised not to `` swear and shout '' at staff last year , a civil servant who resigned amid bullying allegations against the minister has said .
Sir Philip Rutnam stepped down as the Home Office 's permanent secretary accusing her of a `` vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign '' against him .
The government 's adviser on ministerial standards Sir Alex Allan said in his advice that there was `` no evidence that ( Ms Patel ) was aware of the impact of her behaviour and no feedback was given to her at the time '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the FDA union , Sir Philip said : `` I have a high regard for Sir Alex Allan and regret his resignation , but I was at no stage asked to contribute evidence to the Cabinet Office investigation which gave rise to his advice to the Prime Minister .
`` The advice states that no feedback was given to the Home Secretary and that she was therefore unaware of issues that she might otherwise have addressed .
This is not correct .
`` As early as August 2019 , the month after her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must not shout and swear at staff .
I advised her on a number of further occasions between September 2019 and February 2020 about the need to treat staff with respect , and to make changes to protect health , safety and wellbeing .
`` Enormous efforts were made from top to bottom in the Home Office to support the new Home Secretary and respond to her direction , and significant achievements have resulted .
The advice does not fairly reflect this . ''
It comes after Ms Patel praised `` brilliant civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since being forced to apologise .
The home secretary said she was `` sorry that my behaviour has upset people '' , adding that she had `` never intentionally set out to upset anyone '' .
She continued : `` I work with thousands of brilliant civil servants every single day and we work together , day in , day out , to deliver on the agenda of this government .
`` And I 'm absolutely sorry for anyone that I have upset . ''
Her comments followed a ruling from Sir Alex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breach of the ministerial code , even if unintentionally '' .
But Boris Johnson disagreed , deciding that his home secretary had not breached the code over bullying accusations , prompting Sir Alex to resign .
A government source said Sir Alex quit because the prime minister ignored his advice .
A breach of the ministerial code usually leads to a prime minister - the ultimate arbiter of the code - asking the minister in question to step down .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Johnson had been `` found wanting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding that if he were prime minister , Ms Patel would have been sacked .
`` It is one rule for Boris Johnson and his friends , another for everyone else , '' said Sir Keir .
But the prime minister said he had full confidence in his home secretary and `` considers this matter now closed '' .
It also emerged that he had urged Tory MPs , in a WhatsApp message , to `` form a square around the Prittster '' .
Sir Alex said Ms Patel had `` not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ministerial code of treating her civil servants with consideration and respect '' .
He also found evidence of `` shouting and swearing '' from Ms Patel during her time as a minister in different government departments .
On occasions , her approach `` amounted to behaviour that can be described as bullying in terms of the impact felt by individuals '' , he added .
`` To that extent her behaviour has been in breach of the ministerial code , even if unintentionally , '' he said .
Mr Johnson 's official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` reassured that the home secretary is sorry for inadvertently upsetting those whom she was working with '' .
`` He is also reassured that relationships in the Home Office are much improved , and that 's the basis on which he took the decision , '' the spokesman added .
In addition , Downing Street pointed to `` mitigating factors '' around Ms Patel 's behaviour , as outlined in Sir Alex 's findings .
The senior official noted how - `` justifiably in many instances '' - Ms Patel had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` lack of responsiveness '' and her feelings of a `` lack of support '' .
He added there had been `` different and more positive behaviour '' from Ms Patel since the issues were first raised with her .
The inquiry into Ms Patel 's behaviour followed the resignation of the Home Office 's most senior civil servant , Sir Philip Rutnam , in February , amid widespread reports of a bitter feud between himself and Ms Patel .

Priti Patel was advised not to "swear and shout" at staff last year, a civil servant who resigned amid bullying allegations against the minister has said.
Sir Philip Rutnam stepped down as the Home Office's permanent secretary accusing her of a "vicious and orchestrated briefing campaign" against him.
The government's adviser on ministerial standards Sir Alex Allan said in his advice that there was "no evidence that (Ms Patel) was aware of the impact of her behaviour and no feedback was given to her at the time".
Image: Priti Patel with the prime minister, Boris Johnson
But in a statement issued by the FDA union, Sir Philip said: "I have a high regard for Sir Alex Allan and regret his resignation, but I was at no stage asked to contribute evidence to the Cabinet Office investigation which gave rise to his advice to the Prime Minister.
"The advice states that no feedback was given to the Home Secretary and that she was therefore unaware of issues that she might otherwise have addressed. This is not correct.
"As early as August 2019, the month after her appointment, she was advised that she must not shout and swear at staff. I advised her on a number of further occasions between September 2019 and February 2020 about the need to treat staff with respect, and to make changes to protect health, safety and wellbeing.
"Enormous efforts were made from top to bottom in the Home Office to support the new Home Secretary and respond to her direction, and significant achievements have resulted. The advice does not fairly reflect this."
It comes after Ms Patel praised "brilliant civil servants" in her first televised comments since being forced to apologise.
The home secretary said she was "sorry that my behaviour has upset people", adding that she had "never intentionally set out to upset anyone".
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She continued: "I work with thousands of brilliant civil servants every single day and we work together, day in, day out, to deliver on the agenda of this government.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:39 Priti Patel is 'courteous and kind'
"And I'm absolutely sorry for anyone that I have upset."
Her comments followed a ruling from Sir Alex, which found she was "in breach of the ministerial code, even if unintentionally".
But Boris Johnson disagreed, deciding that his home secretary had not breached the code over bullying accusations, prompting Sir Alex to resign.
A government source said Sir Alex quit because the prime minister ignored his advice.
A breach of the ministerial code usually leads to a prime minister - the ultimate arbiter of the code - asking the minister in question to step down.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Johnson had been "found wanting when his leadership has been tested", adding that if he were prime minister, Ms Patel would have been sacked.
"It is one rule for Boris Johnson and his friends, another for everyone else," said Sir Keir.
But the prime minister said he had full confidence in his home secretary and "considers this matter now closed".
It also emerged that he had urged Tory MPs, in a WhatsApp message, to "form a square around the Prittster".
Sir Alex said Ms Patel had "not consistently met the high standards required by the ministerial code of treating her civil servants with consideration and respect".
He also found evidence of "shouting and swearing" from Ms Patel during her time as a minister in different government departments.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 'I don't believe Priti Patel'
On occasions, her approach "amounted to behaviour that can be described as bullying in terms of the impact felt by individuals", he added.
"To that extent her behaviour has been in breach of the ministerial code, even if unintentionally," he said.
Mr Johnson's official spokesman said the prime minister had been "reassured that the home secretary is sorry for inadvertently upsetting those whom she was working with".
"He is also reassured that relationships in the Home Office are much improved, and that's the basis on which he took the decision," the spokesman added.
In addition, Downing Street pointed to "mitigating factors" around Ms Patel's behaviour, as outlined in Sir Alex's findings.
The senior official noted how - "justifiably in many instances" - Ms Patel had been "frustrated" by civil servants' "lack of responsiveness" and her feelings of a "lack of support".
He added there had been "different and more positive behaviour" from Ms Patel since the issues were first raised with her.
The inquiry into Ms Patel's behaviour followed the resignation of the Home Office's most senior civil servant, Sir Philip Rutnam, in February, amid widespread reports of a bitter feud between himself and Ms Patel.