labourlist--2020-12-16--PMQs: Starmer slams PM approach to Christmas as “the next big mistake”

Keir Starmer faced off against Boris Johnson in what the Labour leader described as “ probably ” the last Prime Minister ’ s Questions session of the year this afternoon .
Probably , because there is still no post-Brexit trade deal and MPs may have to sit on New Year ’ s Eve to ratify any agreement reached before the transition period ends .
Neither he nor the PM mentioned Brexit explicitly , however .
The Labour leader instead looked at the pandemic-related decisions made during 2020 .
He slammed Johnson for being too slow to act , and losing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Barnard Castle trip/eye test mention .
How else does the PM explain why the sixth richest economy in the world has one of the highest Covid death tolls , Starmer asked , and has seen longer lockdowns and a slower economic recovery than many other European countries ?
The debate soon turned to the more immediate concerns around Christmas , with the PM pressing ahead with plans to allow increased household mixing .
As cases surge across the country , the pressure was on for Starmer to oppose outright the temporary expansion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as “ the next big mistake ” , the Labour leader highlighted the stark warning from the the Health Service Journal and British Medical Journal that the relaxation of rules will “ cost many lives ” .
He challenged the PM to provide an assessment of the impact it would have on the NHS in January and predictably received no answer .
We can expect that to be a major talking point for the leader of the opposition next month .
He had already called for a review of the restrictions relaxation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ viable ” on Tuesday , but today saw a toughening of Starmer ’ s position – though no direct call for a change in the law .
Backbench Tory Michael Fabricant used a question to the PM to label Starmer a “ smarmy lawyer ” .
The PM , for his part , focused mainly today on accusing Starmer of criticising the government record on handling Covid without putting forward a plan , and for being unable to take a position .
Highlighting recent Labour abstentions , Johnson rounded off the session this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ All I want for Christmas is a view.
” This quite effectively sums up the attack lines for the PM against Starmer this year .
He welcomed the Labour leader to his role in April by attacking him for being too lawyerly .
The Tory leader then dropped this when Starmer made competence ( and Johnson ’ s lack thereof ) the cornerstone of his oppositional style , leaning into the lawyer thing while Johnson acted the fool .
As we look towards the New Year , and a possible Brexit vote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour leader to shrug off now is that of indecision .

Keir Starmer faced off against Boris Johnson in what the Labour leader described as “probably” the last Prime Minister’s Questions session of the year this afternoon. Probably, because there is still no post-Brexit trade deal and MPs may have to sit on New Year’s Eve to ratify any agreement reached before the transition period ends. Neither he nor the PM mentioned Brexit explicitly, however. The Labour leader instead looked at the pandemic-related decisions made during 2020. He slammed Johnson for being too slow to act, and losing public confidence in the pandemic, with a Barnard Castle trip/eye test mention. How else does the PM explain why the sixth richest economy in the world has one of the highest Covid death tolls, Starmer asked, and has seen longer lockdowns and a slower economic recovery than many other European countries?
The debate soon turned to the more immediate concerns around Christmas, with the PM pressing ahead with plans to allow increased household mixing. As cases surge across the country, the pressure was on for Starmer to oppose outright the temporary expansion of Covid bubbles. Describing the plans as “the next big mistake”, the Labour leader highlighted the stark warning from the the Health Service Journal and British Medical Journal that the relaxation of rules will “cost many lives”. He challenged the PM to provide an assessment of the impact it would have on the NHS in January and predictably received no answer. We can expect that to be a major talking point for the leader of the opposition next month. He had already called for a review of the restrictions relaxation and said “doing nothing is not really viable” on Tuesday, but today saw a toughening of Starmer’s position – though no direct call for a change in the law.
Backbench Tory Michael Fabricant used a question to the PM to label Starmer a “smarmy lawyer”. The PM, for his part, focused mainly today on accusing Starmer of criticising the government record on handling Covid without putting forward a plan, and for being unable to take a position. Highlighting recent Labour abstentions, Johnson rounded off the session this afternoon by telling the Labour leader: “All I want for Christmas is a view.” This sums up the PM’s attack lines against Starmer this year. He welcomed the Labour leader to his role in April by attacking him for being too lawyerly. The Tory leader then dropped this when Starmer made competence (and Johnson’s lack thereof) the cornerstone of his oppositional style, leaning into the lawyer thing while Johnson acted the fool. As we look towards the New Year, and a possible Brexit vote before then, the charge for the Labour leader to shrug off now is that of indecision.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Fresh lockdown in Wales post-Christmas as all nations toughen up messaging

Labour ’ s Mark Drakeford has announced that Wales will go into a fresh lockdown from December 28th , as all four nations have toughened up the messaging around being cautious as rules are relaxed during the festive period .
In Wales , non-essential shops will close after the end of trading on Christmas , hospitality will close at 6pm on Christmas Day , and the country will enter a stay-at-home lockdown from the start of the following week .
“ This pandemic is putting our NHS under intense and sustained strain .
There are more than 2,100 people with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to five general hospitals fully occupied by people with coronavirus , ” Drakeford said .
As well as a third lockdown after Christmas , the First Minister of Wales announced new guidance – though not new legislation – for next week , when people will be legally allowed to form bubbles of three households for five days .
Urging caution despite the relaxed rules , Drakeford said : “ The position from the Welsh government is that only two households should come together to form an exclusive Christmas bubble during the five-day period.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ A smaller Christmas is a safer Christmas and a shorter Christmas is a safer Christmas .
The fewer people we mix with in our homes , the less chance we have of catching or spreading the virus.
” It is understood that the leaders of the four UK nations held a second conference call on Covid rules today , and it was agreed that there would be no changes to the law covering the Christmas period but tougher messaging .
Nicola Sturgeon has also changed the guidance in Scotland , advising that meetings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet other households for only one day in the Christmas period and should avoid staying overnight in someone else ’ s home .
At Prime Minister ’ s Questions this afternoon , UK Labour leader Keir Starmer described the Prime Minister ’ s approach to Christmas as the government ’ s “ next big mistake ” amid concerns over rising infection rates .
UK Labour is not calling directly for a change in the law , but has demanded a review .
Shadow health minister Liz Kendall told the BBC : “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COBRA and look at the evidence again.
” Between December 23rd and 27th , the UK government and devolved administrations have decided that people can form ‘ Christmas bubbles ’ of three households and can travel between tiers and UK nations for this purpose .

Labour’s Mark Drakeford has announced that Wales will go into a fresh lockdown from December 28th, as all four nations have toughened up the messaging around being cautious as rules are relaxed during the festive period.
In Wales, non-essential shops will close after the end of trading on Christmas, hospitality will close at 6pm on Christmas Day, and the country will enter a stay-at-home lockdown from the start of the following week.
“This pandemic is putting our NHS under intense and sustained strain. There are more than 2,100 people with coronavirus symptoms in our hospitals – equivalent to five general hospitals fully occupied by people with coronavirus,” Drakeford said.
As well as a third lockdown after Christmas, the First Minister of Wales announced new guidance – though not new legislation – for next week, when people will be legally allowed to form bubbles of three households for five days.
Urging caution despite the relaxed rules, Drakeford said: “The position from the Welsh government is that only two households should come together to form an exclusive Christmas bubble during the five-day period.”
The First Minister added: “A smaller Christmas is a safer Christmas and a shorter Christmas is a safer Christmas. The fewer people we mix with in our homes, the less chance we have of catching or spreading the virus.”
It is understood that the leaders of the four UK nations held a second conference call on Covid rules today, and it was agreed that there would be no changes to the law covering the Christmas period but tougher messaging.
Update, 4.20pm: The BBC has now reported that in Wales the rules will change – not just the guidance – to mean that only two households can meet indoors over the five Christmas days, rather than three households.
Nicola Sturgeon has also changed the guidance in Scotland, advising that meetings indoors should be limited, people should meet other households for only one day in the Christmas period and should avoid staying overnight in someone else’s home.
At Prime Minister’s Questions this afternoon, UK Labour leader Keir Starmer described the Prime Minister’s approach to Christmas as the government’s “next big mistake” amid concerns over rising infection rates.
UK Labour is not calling directly for a change in the law, but has demanded a review. Shadow health minister Liz Kendall told the BBC: “We would definitely like the government to convene COBRA and look at the evidence again.”
Between December 23rd and 27th, the UK government and devolved administrations have decided that people can form ‘Christmas bubbles’ of three households and can travel between tiers and UK nations for this purpose.


labourlist--2020-12-16--WATCH: Infections going up in most Tier 2 and 3 areas, Starmer points out

Keir Starmer used Prime Minister ’ s Questions today to highlight that the majority of Tier 2 and Tier 3 areas in the country are seeing coronavirus infections go up instead of down , indicating that the system is not working .
The Labour leader said : “ Two weeks ago , he unveiled that latest Covid plan .
He told the House , as he has done so many times before , that his plan would suppress the virus .
But the latest figures show the opposite.
” He added : “ Let me tell the House : in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , infections are going up .
In over half of the Tier 3 areas , infections are going up .
Exactly the concern I put to the Prime Minister two weeks ago , when he said ‘ just back us anyway ’ .
” The opposition leader highlighted that his prediction areas would go up the tiers rather than down is being proved right .
Johnson suggested at the time that it “ should be possible for areas to move down the tiering scale ” .
London and parts of Essex and Hertfordshire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allocated Tier 2 last month .
This move was made early , ahead of the first scheduled tier allocations review taking place today .

Keir Starmer used Prime Minister’s Questions today to highlight that the majority of Tier 2 and Tier 3 areas in the country are seeing coronavirus infections go up instead of down, indicating that the system is not working.
The Labour leader said: “Two weeks ago, he unveiled that latest Covid plan. He told the House, as he has done so many times before, that his plan would suppress the virus. But the latest figures show the opposite.”
He added: “Let me tell the House: in three out of four Tier 2 areas, infections are going up. In over half of the Tier 3 areas, infections are going up. Exactly the concern I put to the Prime Minister two weeks ago, when he said ‘just back us anyway’.”
The opposition leader highlighted that his prediction areas would go up the tiers rather than down is being proved right. Johnson suggested at the time that it “should be possible for areas to move down the tiering scale”.
London and parts of Essex and Hertfordshire have entered Tier 3 today after being allocated Tier 2 last month. This move was made early, ahead of the first scheduled tier allocations review taking place today.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Labour: Heathrow expansion plan does not meet our tests

Jim McMahon has reiterated that the Heathrow expansion plan does not meet Labour ’ s tests after a Supreme Court ruling today overturned a previous judgement that the decision to go ahead had been taken unlawfully .
The Shadow Transport Secretary commented after the court gave its judgement this morning , which overruled a court of appeal decision in February and means that the project will now be able to apply for planning permission .
McMahon said : “ Labour has long been clear that any airport expansion must pass our tests on air quality , noise pollution , delivering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet our obligations on climate change .
“ Proposals for an additional runway at Heathrow have not met those tests .
We will continue to judge any proposal for airport expansion against the same tests .
We know it will take considerable time before the industry returns to normal after the pandemic .
“ Ministers should be focusing on delivering the comprehensive financial support package they promised the aviation sector and its supply chain , which supports more than a million jobs and protects the environment.
” The court of appeal had decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a duty to take the Paris climate agreement into account , which seeks to limit global warming , and that it had failed to do so when considering the Heathrow expansion .
Sadiq Khan urged the government then to drop the plans .
He tweeted today : “ This decision to allow Heathrow Airport a third runway will have a damaging impact on air quality , noise and London ’ s ability to achieve net-zero carbon by 2030.
” Labour ’ s mayor of London repeated his clear opposition to the expansion plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to drop these damaging plans and work with us on a cleaner , greener recovery.
” The airport can now seek a development consent order , a type of planning permission for nationally significant infrastructure projects , but a decision on this will take into account the stricter targets recently announced on emissions .
Local Labour MP and former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell said he was “ disappointed ” by the ruling but told Sky News that it is “ most probably irrelevant ” now that the government has pledged to cut 68 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There ’ s no way they ’ d be able to meet that target if they let the third runway go ahead , ” the Hayes and Harlington Labour MP said .
“ I actually think the government is in a position now where it will rule out the third runway.
” The Labour-affiliated GMB trade union welcomed the decision from the Supreme Court this morning , with acting general secretary Warren Kenny hailing it as a “ welcome boost at the end to a gruelling year for aviation workers ” .
Kenny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much-needed injection of hope for economic recovery and the creation of many thousands of good , unionised jobs at Heathrow and in the wider supply chain .
“ The government has no more excuses now .
It ’ s time for ministers to step up and back Heathrow and the wider aviation industry with the support it needs to get itself flying once again.
” Before the pandemic , the airport was one of the busiest airports in the world with 80 million passengers per year .
The £14bn plans to expand Heathrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the airport each day .
The House of Commons voted overwhelmingly in favour of Heathrow Airport expansion in June 2018 , including a majority of Labour MPs who were given a free vote by Jeremy Corbyn despite the plan not meeting the party ’ s tests .
Len McCluskey had written to all MPs the night before of the vote , urging them to “ make the right choice ” and back the expansion plans that he said offered “ the opportunity to create hundreds of thousands of new jobs ” .
Unite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the third runway would enable collective bargaining for thousands more members and the creation of many more unionised jobs at Heathrow and other airports .

Jim McMahon has reiterated that the Heathrow expansion plan does not meet Labour’s tests after a Supreme Court ruling today overturned a previous judgement that the decision to go ahead had been taken unlawfully.
The Shadow Transport Secretary commented after the court gave its judgement this morning, which overruled a court of appeal decision in February and means that the project will now be able to apply for planning permission.
McMahon said: “Labour has long been clear that any airport expansion must pass our tests on air quality, noise pollution, delivering countrywide economic benefits and enabling us to meet our obligations on climate change.
“Proposals for an additional runway at Heathrow have not met those tests. We will continue to judge any proposal for airport expansion against the same tests. We know it will take considerable time before the industry returns to normal after the pandemic.
“Ministers should be focusing on delivering the comprehensive financial support package they promised the aviation sector and its supply chain, which supports more than a million jobs and protects the environment.”
The court of appeal had decided earlier this year that the government has a duty to take the Paris climate agreement into account, which seeks to limit global warming, and that it had failed to do so when considering the Heathrow expansion.
Sadiq Khan urged the government then to drop the plans. He tweeted today: “This decision to allow Heathrow Airport a third runway will have a damaging impact on air quality, noise and London’s ability to achieve net-zero carbon by 2030.”
Labour’s mayor of London repeated his clear opposition to the expansion plan, adding: “I urge Heathrow to drop these damaging plans and work with us on a cleaner, greener recovery.”
The airport can now seek a development consent order, a type of planning permission for nationally significant infrastructure projects, but a decision on this will take into account the stricter targets recently announced on emissions.
Local Labour MP and former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell said he was “disappointed” by the ruling but told Sky News that it is “most probably irrelevant” now that the government has pledged to cut 68% of emissions by 2030.
“There’s no way they’d be able to meet that target if they let the third runway go ahead,” the Hayes and Harlington Labour MP said. “I actually think the government is in a position now where it will rule out the third runway.”
The Labour-affiliated GMB trade union welcomed the decision from the Supreme Court this morning, with acting general secretary Warren Kenny hailing it as a “welcome boost at the end to a gruelling year for aviation workers”.
Kenny said: “This judgment is a much-needed injection of hope for economic recovery and the creation of many thousands of good, unionised jobs at Heathrow and in the wider supply chain.
“The government has no more excuses now. It’s time for ministers to step up and back Heathrow and the wider aviation industry with the support it needs to get itself flying once again.”
Before the pandemic, the airport was one of the busiest airports in the world with 80 million passengers per year. The £14bn plans to expand Heathrow would bring an additional 700 planes to the airport each day.
The House of Commons voted overwhelmingly in favour of Heathrow Airport expansion in June 2018, including a majority of Labour MPs who were given a free vote by Jeremy Corbyn despite the plan not meeting the party’s tests.
Len McCluskey had written to all MPs the night before of the vote, urging them to “make the right choice” and back the expansion plans that he said offered “the opportunity to create hundreds of thousands of new jobs”.
Unite the Union’s general secretary emphasised that the third runway would enable collective bargaining for thousands more members and the creation of many more unionised jobs at Heathrow and other airports.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Downing Street rejects calls to cancel Covid Christmas bubble plans

Boris Johnson has rejected calls to cancel the Christmas Covid bubbling plans despite scientists warning that the increased household mixing will “ cost many lives “ .
But the messaging and guidance is changing , echoing the Prime Minister ’ s warning late last month to be “ jolly careful ” .
The government is expected to tell people today to effectively isolate before they bubble with another household , to think carefully about meeting with elderly relatives at all and not to travel if possible .
Keir Starmer called yesterday for an urgent review of the restrictions relaxation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not really viable ” .
The Labour leader will have a chance to take a firmer position in PMQs this afternoon if he so chooses .
Robert Jenrick was on the telly this morning making sure the message from Downing Street is clear as mud .
“ Easter can be the new Christmas , ” the government minister told viewers .
But , it is fine to carry on as you were planning to anyway… But , but , but – it is also “ incumbent on each and every family ” to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The government is derogating its duty and , once again , instead putting the onus on the public to ‘ do the right thing ’ .
You can be sure the subsequent spike will be put down to too many doing the wrong thing .
“ You can ’ t legislate for every eventuality , ” Jenrick protested .
True , but on the day 11 million people enter Tier 3 restrictions and most of the rest of the country remains in Tier 2 – under which households are banned from mixing indoors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is one eventuality for which ministers can legislate .
As London enters Tier 3 this morning , councils in the capital continue to grapple with dilemma of whether schools should be open this week .
Following legal threats from the government after boroughs Greenwich and Islington advised schools to close slightly early ahead of the coming Christmas rules relaxation , two further councils have defied the government .
Despite the DfE telling schools they must stay open , Redbridge Council has tweeted that it will “ support our local schools if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Waltham Forest has shared a statement saying it has “ recommended ” they do the same .
London has the worst rates of Covid in the country and prevalence is highest among secondary school-age children .
Downing Street announced yesterday the roll-out of mass testing in schools , with lateral flow test kits to be sent to schools , as DfE figures show that 60 % of state-funded secondaries sent one or more pupils home last week , with an average of 24 pupils in state secondary schools isolating per confirmed Covid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but pointed out it has been calling for this for weeks .
Students and staff identified as having had close contact with a Covid case will be able to get a daily test over seven days from January , while teachers will get weekly tests .
GMB has argued that school staff not medically trained should not be performing these tests .
The trade union called the plan “ dangerous ” and highlighted that the chance of returning a false positive in a lateral flow test when performed by scientists is 20 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administered .
Schools and testing will no doubt come up at PMQs this afternoon , while Covid Christmas rules should feature as we are now just seven days away from the rules relaxation .
The Labour leader could also mention the “ bumper bonus ” 40 % pay rise awarded to Dominic Cummings this year .
He clearly ended up on the Prime Minister ’ s nice list despite breaking lockdown rules .
Sign up to LabourList ’ s morning email for everything Labour , every weekday morning .

Boris Johnson has rejected calls to cancel the Christmas Covid bubbling plans despite scientists warning that the increased household mixing will “cost many lives“. But the messaging and guidance is changing, echoing the Prime Minister’s warning late last month to be “jolly careful”. The government is expected to tell people today to effectively isolate before they bubble with another household, to think carefully about meeting with elderly relatives at all and not to travel if possible. Keir Starmer called yesterday for an urgent review of the restrictions relaxation and told Johnson that “doing nothing is not really viable”. The Labour leader will have a chance to take a firmer position in PMQs this afternoon if he so chooses.
Robert Jenrick was on the telly this morning making sure the message from Downing Street is clear as mud. “Easter can be the new Christmas,” the government minister told viewers. But, it is fine to carry on as you were planning to anyway… But, but, but – it is also “incumbent on each and every family” to decide the best course of action. The government is derogating its duty and, once again, instead putting the onus on the public to ‘do the right thing’. You can be sure the subsequent spike will be put down to too many doing the wrong thing. “You can’t legislate for every eventuality,” Jenrick protested. True, but on the day 11 million people enter Tier 3 restrictions and most of the rest of the country remains in Tier 2 – under which households are banned from mixing indoors – people might be forgiven for thinking this is one eventuality for which ministers can legislate.
As London enters Tier 3 this morning, councils in the capital continue to grapple with dilemma of whether schools should be open this week. Following legal threats from the government after boroughs Greenwich and Islington advised schools to close slightly early ahead of the coming Christmas rules relaxation, two further councils have defied the government. Despite the DfE telling schools they must stay open, Redbridge Council has tweeted that it will “support our local schools if they choose to move to online learning” while Waltham Forest has shared a statement saying it has “recommended” they do the same. London has the worst rates of Covid in the country and prevalence is highest among secondary school-age children.
Downing Street announced yesterday the roll-out of mass testing in schools, with lateral flow test kits to be sent to schools, as DfE figures show that 60% of state-funded secondaries sent one or more pupils home last week, with an average of 24 pupils in state secondary schools isolating per confirmed Covid case. Labour welcomed the news, but pointed out it has been calling for this for weeks. Students and staff identified as having had close contact with a Covid case will be able to get a daily test over seven days from January, while teachers will get weekly tests. GMB has argued that school staff not medically trained should not be performing these tests. The trade union called the plan “dangerous” and highlighted that the chance of returning a false positive in a lateral flow test when performed by scientists is 20%, doubling to 42.5% when self administered.
Schools and testing will no doubt come up at PMQs this afternoon, while Covid Christmas rules should feature as we are now just seven days away from the rules relaxation. The Labour leader could also mention the “bumper bonus” 40% pay rise awarded to Dominic Cummings this year. He clearly ended up on the Prime Minister’s nice list despite breaking lockdown rules. Sign up to LabourList’s morning email for everything Labour, every weekday morning.


labourlist--2020-12-16--WATCH: Labour warns of Covid Christmas bubble “hangover”

Steve Reed has warned that the planned easing of coronavirus restrictions to allow for increased household mixing over the Christmas period due to start next week could result in a “ massive hangover ” in the New Year .
Discussing the plans , which the Prime Minister has so far rejected calls from scientists to cancel , the Shadow Communities and Local Government Secretary advised caution as he reflected on the possible ramifications .
He said : “ The last thing that any of us want is to have a free-for-all over Christmas that then results in a massive hangover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wonder why we allowed it to go ahead in that way .
“ Particularly if we end up with the NHS being overwhelmed with patients again , particularly if we end up in a protracted lockdown in the New Year with all the damage that will do to people ’ s health , lives and livelihoods , and the economy.
” His comments come as government minister Robert Jenrick has made clear that the onus on keeping transmission of the virus down over the next two weeks will be placed on the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the plans .
The Communities and Local Government Secretary said during an interview with Sky News this morning that “ Easter could be the new Christmas for many people ” , but told viewers “ it is a matter for you to come to your own judgement ” .
He also protested that the government “ can ’ t legislate for every eventuality ” .
Under the current rules defined by the government , people from different households are not currently allowed to mix indoors in Tier 2 or 3 .
A snap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respondents believed the relaxation of Covid rules over Christmas should be dropped and only 31 % said the easing of rules over the festive period should go ahead .
Keir Starmer called for an emergency COBRA meeting to urgently review the rules on Tuesday and warned the Prime Minister that “ doing nothing is not really viable ” amid rising concerns over a surge in the number of Covid cases .

Steve Reed has warned that the planned easing of coronavirus restrictions to allow for increased household mixing over the Christmas period due to start next week could result in a “massive hangover” in the New Year.
Discussing the plans, which the Prime Minister has so far rejected calls from scientists to cancel, the Shadow Communities and Local Government Secretary advised caution as he reflected on the possible ramifications.
He said: “The last thing that any of us want is to have a free-for-all over Christmas that then results in a massive hangover in January when we look back and wonder why we allowed it to go ahead in that way.
“Particularly if we end up with the NHS being overwhelmed with patients again, particularly if we end up in a protracted lockdown in the New Year with all the damage that will do to people’s health, lives and livelihoods, and the economy.”
"The last thing that any of us want is to have a free-for-all over Christmas that then results in a massive hangover in January"
Shadow Communities Secretary, Steve Reed MP tells #BBCBreakfast he welcomes a review of the Christmas guidance. https://t.co/dQ9Dq9LRDG pic.twitter.com/SESQ9CKKpk — BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) December 16, 2020
His comments come as government minister Robert Jenrick has made clear that the onus on keeping transmission of the virus down over the next two weeks will be placed on the public as the government refuses to U-turn on the plans.
The Communities and Local Government Secretary said during an interview with Sky News this morning that “Easter could be the new Christmas for many people”, but told viewers “it is a matter for you to come to your own judgement”.
He also protested that the government “can’t legislate for every eventuality”. Under the current rules defined by the government, people from different households are not currently allowed to mix indoors in Tier 2 or 3.
A snap country-wide YouGov poll suggested 57% of respondents believed the relaxation of Covid rules over Christmas should be dropped and only 31% said the easing of rules over the festive period should go ahead.
Keir Starmer called for an emergency COBRA meeting to urgently review the rules on Tuesday and warned the Prime Minister that “doing nothing is not really viable” amid rising concerns over a surge in the number of Covid cases.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Why I’m supporting the IWGB union’s #ClappedAndScrapped campaign

For Christmas this year , I ’ m donating a part of my salary to an amazing group of key workers in my city of Nottingham who need our support now more than ever .
When the pandemic hit , the whole nation saw delivery workers for what they have always been : essential .
During the first lockdown , they were hailed as heroes and applauded every Thursday .
Now the companies exploiting them want to go back to business as usual – but couriers in the Independent Workers ’ Union of Great Britain ( IWGB ) are taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all our backs throughout this crisis , and now we need to show them we ’ ve got their backs , too .
I first got involved with the IWGB couriers in Nottingham last year when they teamed up with eating outlets to help feed rough sleepers .
I was really struck by the fact that these precarious workers , themselves forced to campaign over poverty pay and basic rights , took it upon themselves to show meaningful solidarity with others in need .
With one eye on the future , they also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead our city ’ s first ever workers ’ climate strike .
This is exactly the kind of visionary grassroots leadership that inspires me and can win real change .
The couriers we clapped for in lockdown have worked for years without many of the basic rights that others take for granted .
Often working for less than the minimum wage , they don ’ t have secure contracts , sick pay or the right to annual leave .
Workers can be terminated based on nothing more than one malicious customer complaint and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no right to a hearing , no trade union representation and no chance of appeal .
None of this changed when they were named key workers , even though couriers were called on to work through lockdown at risk to themselves .
Companies like Deliveroo claim their workers don ’ t need basic rights because they ’ re mostly students doing casual work for extra cash who want flexibility .
This creates a false trade off between flexibility and the basic rights everyone should have .
Most of the couriers I ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their delivery work to pay their bills and feed their kids .
Despite the so-called evictions ban , tens of thousands of people have been made homeless during the pandemic , many of them young precarious workers getting little to no financial help from the government .
Prevented by poverty pay from building up their own savings , many are one pay cheque away from losing their home , which also poses serious public health implications .
Lack of sick pay has already forced countless workers to choose between working through symptoms and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For self-isolation to work , people must be able to afford to stay home , so this kind of exploitation puts everyone at risk .
That ’ s why I ’ m proud to be one of over 50 MPs calling out Deliveroo for putting thousands of people at risk and undermining efforts to slow the spread of Covid-19 by ignoring the IWGB ’ s demands .
Over 65 MPs have also demanded a fair terminations process and that ’ s something we need to see from all ‘ gig economy ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ClappedAndScrapped campaign , which has brought our Nottingham riders together with couriers nationwide , challenges not just unfair terminations but the whole ‘ gig economy ’ culture that ignores , undervalues and dismisses our key workers , all of whom have played such a vital role during this crisis .
That includes couriers : whether they deliver Covid-19 samples , medicine , groceries or yes , even takeout to people like my mum .
She ’ s on the ‘ extremely vulnerable ’ list but didn ’ t want to take food parcels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So , when the lentils at home ran out and the supermarkets couldn ’ t deliver , it was the Deliveroo and UberEats riders that kept her going .
There are thousands – perhaps millions – of stories like that .
Rain or shine , they worked every day to get us through this difficult time .
My Christmas donation to the IWGB couriers isn ’ t an act of charity , it ’ s an act of solidarity .
I want to use my privilege to support these key workers in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they deserve .
I call on everyone to do the same this Christmas , in whatever way you ’ re able to .
Support the IWGB ’ s # ClappedAndScrapped campaign , email your MP , make some noise on social media and donate what you can .
The so-called ‘ gig economy ’ creates a loophole for big corporations to start dodging their most basic moral obligations .
Minimum wage , annual leave , sick pay – these rights were hard won , and meant to be universal .
Those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as BAME and migrant workers , are hardest hit , but this erosion of essential rights that were meant to be for everyone threatens everyone .
As the pandemic is slowly coming to an end , it ’ s time to ask ourselves what kind of society we want to return to .
I want to build a society where workers are valued , respected and treated fairly .
The best way of achieving that is by supporting their unions and campaigns , and may this be our resolution for 2021 .

For Christmas this year, I’m donating a part of my salary to an amazing group of key workers in my city of Nottingham who need our support now more than ever. When the pandemic hit, the whole nation saw delivery workers for what they have always been: essential. During the first lockdown, they were hailed as heroes and applauded every Thursday. Now the companies exploiting them want to go back to business as usual – but couriers in the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) are taking a stand. They’ve had all our backs throughout this crisis, and now we need to show them we’ve got their backs, too.
I first got involved with the IWGB couriers in Nottingham last year when they teamed up with eating outlets to help feed rough sleepers. I was really struck by the fact that these precarious workers, themselves forced to campaign over poverty pay and basic rights, took it upon themselves to show meaningful solidarity with others in need. With one eye on the future, they also linked up with youth climate strikers to lead our city’s first ever workers’ climate strike. This is exactly the kind of visionary grassroots leadership that inspires me and can win real change.
The couriers we clapped for in lockdown have worked for years without many of the basic rights that others take for granted. Often working for less than the minimum wage, they don’t have secure contracts, sick pay or the right to annual leave. Workers can be terminated based on nothing more than one malicious customer complaint and can expect no due process whatsoever: no right to a hearing, no trade union representation and no chance of appeal.
None of this changed when they were named key workers, even though couriers were called on to work through lockdown at risk to themselves. Companies like Deliveroo claim their workers don’t need basic rights because they’re mostly students doing casual work for extra cash who want flexibility. This creates a false trade off between flexibility and the basic rights everyone should have. Most of the couriers I’ve met are supporting families and rely on their delivery work to pay their bills and feed their kids.
Despite the so-called evictions ban, tens of thousands of people have been made homeless during the pandemic, many of them young precarious workers getting little to no financial help from the government. Prevented by poverty pay from building up their own savings, many are one pay cheque away from losing their home, which also poses serious public health implications.
Lack of sick pay has already forced countless workers to choose between working through symptoms and risking destitution for themselves and their families. For self-isolation to work, people must be able to afford to stay home, so this kind of exploitation puts everyone at risk. That’s why I’m proud to be one of over 50 MPs calling out Deliveroo for putting thousands of people at risk and undermining efforts to slow the spread of Covid-19 by ignoring the IWGB’s demands. Over 65 MPs have also demanded a fair terminations process and that’s something we need to see from all ‘gig economy’ companies.
The IWGB’s #ClappedAndScrapped campaign, which has brought our Nottingham riders together with couriers nationwide, challenges not just unfair terminations but the whole ‘gig economy’ culture that ignores, undervalues and dismisses our key workers, all of whom have played such a vital role during this crisis.
That includes couriers: whether they deliver Covid-19 samples, medicine, groceries or yes, even takeout to people like my mum. She’s on the ‘extremely vulnerable’ list but didn’t want to take food parcels from those in need during lockdown. So, when the lentils at home ran out and the supermarkets couldn’t deliver, it was the Deliveroo and UberEats riders that kept her going. There are thousands – perhaps millions – of stories like that. Rain or shine, they worked every day to get us through this difficult time.
My Christmas donation to the IWGB couriers isn’t an act of charity, it’s an act of solidarity. I want to use my privilege to support these key workers in their fight for the basic rights and respect that they deserve. I call on everyone to do the same this Christmas, in whatever way you’re able to. Support the IWGB’s #ClappedAndScrapped campaign, email your MP, make some noise on social media and donate what you can.
The so-called ‘gig economy’ creates a loophole for big corporations to start dodging their most basic moral obligations. Minimum wage, annual leave, sick pay – these rights were hard won, and meant to be universal. Those who already enjoyed the fewest rights, such as BAME and migrant workers, are hardest hit, but this erosion of essential rights that were meant to be for everyone threatens everyone.
As the pandemic is slowly coming to an end, it’s time to ask ourselves what kind of society we want to return to. I want to build a society where workers are valued, respected and treated fairly. The best way of achieving that is by supporting their unions and campaigns, and may this be our resolution for 2021.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Tracy Brabin steps down from Labour frontbench to focus on mayoral bid

Shadow minister for cultural industries Tracy Brabin has announced that she is stepping down from the Labour frontbench to focus on her mayoral campaign after being selected as the party ’ s West Yorkshire candidate .
Alison McGovern , who already serves as shadow sport minister in Labour ’ s digital , culture , media and sport team led by Jo Stevens , will now also take up the role around cultural industries , which have been hard-hit by Covid .
Announcing the move , the Batley and Spen MP tweeted : “ In order to concentrate fully on becoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have taken the decision to step down as shadow minister for the cultural industries .
“ Everyone I have been lucky enough to work with while in this role ( and for years before ! )
know how much I love these industries – and in these difficult times they need someone who can champion and support them fully .
“ So I ’ m delighted that @ Alison_McGovern will take on this role , I know she ’ ll do an excellent job as she does with Sport .
That said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A key plank of my campaign for the West Yorkshire Mayor is a creative new deal .
“ So to the wonderful people who have shared their skills and knowledge and opened their doors to me in recent years , I ’ m going to be in touch very , very soon .
“ I wish the fabulous Shadow DCMS team @ JoStevensLabour @ alexsobel @ ChrisM4Chester @ RachaelMaskell @ ChiOnwurah @ FeryalClark all the very best and I ’ ll be working closely with them from today onwards !
“ I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the opportunity and I look forward to campaigning shoulder to shoulder with him in the months ahead .
“ To all the wonderful companies and people in the creative industries , I know how difficult this year has been for you .
Your work is invaluable to our country and I ’ ll be with you 100 % as you try to recover in 2021 .
My doors ( and mailbox ) is always open.
” Brabin received 4,389 first-preference votes from local party members in the internal contest that concluded on Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ race against Susan Hinchcliffe and Hugh Goulbourne .
The former actor and television writer first elected to parliament in 2016 has committed to giving up her Westminster seat if elected as mayor of West Yorkshire , and will campaign on the pledge to launch a ‘ creative new deal ’ .
In a piece for LabourList , Brabin wrote : “ Calderdale is already vying to be the ‘ Hollywood of the North ’ , BackStage Academy and Production Park in South Kirby are leading the way in creative skills and manufacturing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leeds and Sky ’ s £10m commitment to Black , Asian and minority ethnic content means opportunities for our diverse communities .
Screen Yorkshire leads the country in training and apprenticeships .
“ West Yorkshire can be a world leader bringing tourism , jobs , skills , opportunities , regeneration and investment into our communities .
”

Shadow minister for cultural industries Tracy Brabin has announced that she is stepping down from the Labour frontbench to focus on her mayoral campaign after being selected as the party’s West Yorkshire candidate.
Alison McGovern, who already serves as shadow sport minister in Labour’s digital, culture, media and sport team led by Jo Stevens, will now also take up the role around cultural industries, which have been hard-hit by Covid.
Announcing the move, the Batley and Spen MP tweeted: “In order to concentrate fully on becoming the Labour mayor of West Yorkshire I have taken the decision to step down as shadow minister for the cultural industries.
“Everyone I have been lucky enough to work with while in this role (and for years before!) know how much I love these industries – and in these difficult times they need someone who can champion and support them fully.
“So I’m delighted that @Alison_McGovern will take on this role, I know she’ll do an excellent job as she does with Sport. That said, I’m not going anywhere. A key plank of my campaign for the West Yorkshire Mayor is a creative new deal.
“So to the wonderful people who have shared their skills and knowledge and opened their doors to me in recent years, I’m going to be in touch very, very soon.
“I wish the fabulous Shadow DCMS team @JoStevensLabour @alexsobel @ChrisM4Chester @RachaelMaskell @ChiOnwurah @FeryalClark all the very best and I’ll be working closely with them from today onwards!
“I’d like to thank @Keir_Starmer for the opportunity and I look forward to campaigning shoulder to shoulder with him in the months ahead.
“To all the wonderful companies and people in the creative industries, I know how difficult this year has been for you. Your work is invaluable to our country and I’ll be with you 100% as you try to recover in 2021. My doors (and mailbox) is always open.”
Brabin received 4,389 first-preference votes from local party members in the internal contest that concluded on Friday, which saw her win the selection race against Susan Hinchcliffe and Hugh Goulbourne.
The former actor and television writer first elected to parliament in 2016 has committed to giving up her Westminster seat if elected as mayor of West Yorkshire, and will campaign on the pledge to launch a ‘creative new deal’.
In a piece for LabourList, Brabin wrote: “Calderdale is already vying to be the ‘Hollywood of the North’, BackStage Academy and Production Park in South Kirby are leading the way in creative skills and manufacturing.
“Channel 4’s relocation to Leeds and Sky’s £10m commitment to Black, Asian and minority ethnic content means opportunities for our diverse communities. Screen Yorkshire leads the country in training and apprenticeships.
“West Yorkshire can be a world leader bringing tourism, jobs, skills, opportunities, regeneration and investment into our communities.”
Update, December 17th: Alison McGovern has commented that the culture role is “home turf” for her. She has previously worked for the Art Fund charity and Creativity, Culture and Education foundation.
“I know that culture is the means by which everyone can tell their story, show themself, and who they want to be. It is profoundly necessary in our country. We all need culture,” she added.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Momentum set to launch “support process” after NCG member suspended

Labour left organisation Momentum is set to launch a “ support process ” for suspended party members after one of its own top elected representatives was suspended by Labour this week pending investigation .
Alan Gibbons , a member of Momentum ’ s national coordinating group ( NCG ) and the secretary of Liverpool Walton Constituency Labour Party ( CLP ) , was administratively suspended from the party on Tuesday .
The specific grounds are not known , but the move came after his local party passed a motion calling for the whip to be restored to Jeremy Corbyn .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ by general secretary David Evans .
LabourList now understands that Momentum is preparing to launch a process that will more easily allow socialist lawyers to support Momentum members who have been suspended from Labour for helping to pass such motions .
A spokesperson for Momentum told LabourList : “ The mass suspension of members like Alan , with no evidence , is yet another example of the anti-democratic crackdown waged by the Labour leadership on ordinary Labour members .
“ This crackdown is not only wrong in principle , but it also undermines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy and ideas of the mass membership and local Labour Parties .
“ Momentum is absolutely committed to opposing these suspensions , and this week we will be launching a support process for our members who have been wrongly suspended .
Labour needs profound democratic reform .
Our campaign for an elected general secretary is just the start.
” The left-wing organisation revealed last week that it is preparing to launch a campaign for the Labour Party to change its rulebook and enable all members to have a say in who takes up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future .
In a piece for piece for Tribune today , Gibbons wrote : “ I am organising with other wrongly suspended members , and with the thousands of socialists who oppose the crackdown on principled , socialist Labour Party members.
” The Liverpool Walton activist has received support from many high-profile figures on the party ’ s left since his suspension .
John McDonnell described him as a “ principled socialist , who wins respect for the party for the work he does in the community ” .
His own MP Dan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CLP secretary .
You will not find a more committed , passionate and caring champion for their community .
Suspending members without explanation is no way to treat people who give everything to our party.
” Neighbouring MP Ian Byrne also expressed solidarity , saying : “ This man and his family work tirelessly to lift up our class , tackling inequality , injustice and poverty .
Alan embodies the best of the Labour Party and our communities.
” Former party chair Ian Lavery , Socialist Campaign Group secretary Richard Burgon and Unite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those in the labour movement who have spoken out in support of Gibbons .
A Labour Party spokesperson said : “ The Labour Party takes all complaints seriously and they are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures and any appropriate action is taken .
”

Labour left organisation Momentum is set to launch a “support process” for suspended party members after one of its own top elected representatives was suspended by Labour this week pending investigation.
Alan Gibbons, a member of Momentum’s national coordinating group (NCG) and the secretary of Liverpool Walton Constituency Labour Party (CLP), was administratively suspended from the party on Tuesday.
The specific grounds are not known, but the move came after his local party passed a motion calling for the whip to be restored to Jeremy Corbyn. This kind of motion has been banned by general secretary David Evans.
LabourList now understands that Momentum is preparing to launch a process that will more easily allow socialist lawyers to support Momentum members who have been suspended from Labour for helping to pass such motions.
A spokesperson for Momentum told LabourList: “The mass suspension of members like Alan, with no evidence, is yet another example of the anti-democratic crackdown waged by the Labour leadership on ordinary Labour members.
“This crackdown is not only wrong in principle, but it also undermines our most fundamental electoral asset: the energy and ideas of the mass membership and local Labour Parties.
“Momentum is absolutely committed to opposing these suspensions, and this week we will be launching a support process for our members who have been wrongly suspended. Labour needs profound democratic reform. Our campaign for an elected general secretary is just the start.”
The left-wing organisation revealed last week that it is preparing to launch a campaign for the Labour Party to change its rulebook and enable all members to have a say in who takes up the top job of general secretary in future.
In a piece for piece for Tribune today, Gibbons wrote: “I am organising with other wrongly suspended members, and with the thousands of socialists who oppose the crackdown on principled, socialist Labour Party members.”
The Liverpool Walton activist has received support from many high-profile figures on the party’s left since his suspension. John McDonnell described him as a “principled socialist, who wins respect for the party for the work he does in the community”.
His own MP Dan Carden said: “Alan is my CLP secretary. You will not find a more committed, passionate and caring champion for their community. Suspending members without explanation is no way to treat people who give everything to our party.”
Neighbouring MP Ian Byrne also expressed solidarity, saying: “This man and his family work tirelessly to lift up our class, tackling inequality, injustice and poverty. Alan embodies the best of the Labour Party and our communities.”
Former party chair Ian Lavery, Socialist Campaign Group secretary Richard Burgon and Unite assistant general secretary Howard Beckett are among those in the labour movement who have spoken out in support of Gibbons.
A Labour Party spokesperson said: “The Labour Party takes all complaints seriously and they are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures and any appropriate action is taken.”


labourlist--2020-12-16--PM urges people to follow guidance, not rules, as four-nations approach ends

Boris Johnson has urged people to follow stricter coronavirus guidance over Christmas but rejected calls to change the law ahead of rules being eased – and the four nations in the UK has come to an end this afternoon .
In his latest coronavirus briefing , the Prime Minister confirmed that plans to allow up to three households to mix between December 23rd and 27th in England will go ahead as he does not want to “ ban Christmas ” .
But the Welsh Labour government led by First Minister Mark Drakeford has now announced that it will be changing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bubbles to two households rather than three .
Boris Johnson told the public : “ We ’ re collectively , across the UK , governments at every level , asking you to think hard and in detail about the days ahead and whether you can do more to protect yourself and others.
” “ We ’ re keeping the laws the same but we all want to send the same message , ” he added inaccurately , as Wales will be changing the law .
“ A smaller Christmas is going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a safer Christmas .
“ When we say that three households can meet on three days , I want to stress that these are maximums , not targets to aim for .
And of course it ’ s always going to be safest to minimise the number of people you meet.
” The Prime Minister asked viewers to minimise the number of people they meet in the days leading up to the Christmas period and urged them not to travel from high-prevalence Covid areas to those with fewer cases .
He also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delay seeing ” elderly relatives until they have received a vaccine , to “ think carefully about avoiding crowds in the Boxing Day sales ” and said nobody should gather in large groups for the New Year .
Johnson has claimed that a four-nation approach has been taken in determining the Christmas rules .
But the decision in Wales to diverge from England via a change in law , not only a change in guidance , has seen this scrapped .
In Scotland , the limit on no more than eight people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place .
Nicola Sturgeon warned today that the safest way to spend Christmas was “ unequivocally ” within your own household only .
The fresh divergence follows the announcement from Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford earlier today that the devolved nation will go into a fresh lockdown from December 28th , immediately after the festive period .
Johnson ’ s press conference followed Prime Minister ’ s Questions , during which Keir Starmer described the arrangements to allow households to mix indoors for five days as “ the next big mistake ” in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
The Labour leader used the session in parliament today to highlight the increasing infection rates in Tier 2 and 3 areas , and echoed concerns voiced by medical professionals in recent days .
But he stopped short of calling directly for a change in law .
Starmer wrote to the Prime Minister on Tuesday demanding an urgent review of the rules relaxation , arguing that the government had “ lost control of infections , putting our economy and our NHS at grave risk in the New Year ” .
Health Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid cases are doubling every seven days in some areas .
The Health Service Journal and British Medical Journal have warned that the Christmas bubble plan will “ cost many lives ” .

Boris Johnson has urged people to follow stricter coronavirus guidance over Christmas but rejected calls to change the law ahead of rules being eased – and the four nations in the UK has come to an end this afternoon.
In his latest coronavirus briefing, the Prime Minister confirmed that plans to allow up to three households to mix between December 23rd and 27th in England will go ahead as he does not want to “ban Christmas”.
But the Welsh Labour government led by First Minister Mark Drakeford has now announced that it will be changing the legal regulations to specifically limit Christmas bubbles to two households rather than three.
Boris Johnson told the public: “We’re collectively, across the UK, governments at every level, asking you to think hard and in detail about the days ahead and whether you can do more to protect yourself and others.”
“We’re keeping the laws the same but we all want to send the same message,” he added inaccurately, as Wales will be changing the law. “A smaller Christmas is going to be a safer Christmas and a shorter Christmas is a safer Christmas.
“When we say that three households can meet on three days, I want to stress that these are maximums, not targets to aim for. And of course it’s always going to be safest to minimise the number of people you meet.”
The Prime Minister asked viewers to minimise the number of people they meet in the days leading up to the Christmas period and urged them not to travel from high-prevalence Covid areas to those with fewer cases.
He also suggested that people “might want to delay seeing” elderly relatives until they have received a vaccine, to “think carefully about avoiding crowds in the Boxing Day sales” and said nobody should gather in large groups for the New Year.
Johnson has claimed that a four-nation approach has been taken in determining the Christmas rules. But the decision in Wales to diverge from England via a change in law, not only a change in guidance, has seen this scrapped.
In Scotland, the limit on no more than eight people from three households meeting indoors will remain in place. Nicola Sturgeon warned today that the safest way to spend Christmas was “unequivocally” within your own household only.
The fresh divergence follows the announcement from Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford earlier today that the devolved nation will go into a fresh lockdown from December 28th, immediately after the festive period.
Johnson’s press conference followed Prime Minister’s Questions, during which Keir Starmer described the arrangements to allow households to mix indoors for five days as “the next big mistake” in the government’s approach to the pandemic.
The Labour leader used the session in parliament today to highlight the increasing infection rates in Tier 2 and 3 areas, and echoed concerns voiced by medical professionals in recent days. But he stopped short of calling directly for a change in law.
Starmer wrote to the Prime Minister on Tuesday demanding an urgent review of the rules relaxation, arguing that the government had “lost control of infections, putting our economy and our NHS at grave risk in the New Year”.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told parliament on Tuesday that Covid cases are doubling every seven days in some areas. The Health Service Journal and British Medical Journal have warned that the Christmas bubble plan will “cost many lives”.


labourlist--2020-12-16--Angela Rayner demands inquiry into Tory call to weaponise fake news

Angela Rayner has demanded that the Conservative Party launch an investigation into a newsletter circulated by the Wellingborough Conservative Association urging its members to ‘ weaponise ’ fake news .
In a letter to Amanda Milling , Labour ’ s deputy leader called on the chair of the Tory Party to condemn the contents of the document – or confirm whether the advice it offers is now official Conservative Party policy .
“ The public rightly expect honesty and integrity from political parties , elected politicians , candidates and local party activists , ” Rayner said .
“ A Conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to openly lie raises serious questions that demand urgent answers.
” The letter from Rayner follows Keir Starmer raising the newsletter , which told Tory members that Donald Trump was successful because he “ weaponises fake news ” , in the latest Prime Minister ’ s Questions session this afternoon .
“ I for one often wonder where the Prime Minister gets his advice .
Well , now I know , ” Starmer told parliament today .
“ My final question to the Prime Minister is this : is he the inspiration for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ author ?
” The newsletter states : “ If you make enough dubious claims , fast enough , honest speakers are overwhelmed .
If someone tweets ten dubious claims per day and it takes you a week to disprove each one , then you are doomed… “ Fake news often makes headlines and crowds out genuine news .
Honest politicians therefore find themselves pushed off the front pages.
” It advises that aspiring politicians should “ say the first thing that comes into your head ” and suggests that this “ will probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opponent out of his stride and takes away his headline ” .
The newsletter adds : “ You may get a bad headline saying that you spoke something silly , but you can live that down .
Meanwhile your opponent is knocked off the news-feed… Sometimes , it is better to give the WRONG answer at the RIGHT time , than the RIGHT answer at the WRONG time.
” The Conservative Party has been contacted for comment .
Below is the full text of the letter sent by Rayner .
I am writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behaviour within one of the Conservative Party ’ s local associations in Wellingborough .
An official newsletter has been circulated by Wellingborough Conservative Association praising Donald Trump ’ s dishonesty and lying , encouraging Conservatives to “ make enough dubious claims ” to ensure “ honest speakers are overwhelmed ” , and “ weaponise fake news ” in order to “ crowd out ” the truth .
That one young local Conservative activist who raised concerns about the content of the newsletter was removed from the Conservative candidates ’ list and has received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him that his political career would be destroyed if he did not fall into line ” .
The public rightly expect honesty and integrity from political parties , elected politicians , candidates and local party activists .
A Conservative Party newsletter that encourages members and politicians to openly lie raises serious questions that demand urgent answers : 1 .
Will you now launch an investigation into the actions of Wellingborough Conservative Association , including who wrote the newsletter , how it was paid for and who had oversight of ?
2 .
Will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Conservative Party who wrote , edited or distributed the newsletter ?
3 .
Was the Member of Parliament for Wellingborough , Peter Bone MP , aware of the contents of this newsletter ?
If so , did he approve the contents of the newsletter and will he now make his position clear ?
4 .
Is it true that a local activist , Jack Summers , was removed from a list of Conservative candidates because he raised concerns about the content of the leaflet ?
If so , who took this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at CCHQ aware of it ?
5 .
Will an investigation be launched into allegations that Jack Summers has received “ several threatening phone calls warning him his political career would be destroyed if he did not fall into line ” after raising concerns about the contents of the newsletter ?
6 .
Will you , as Chair of the Conservative Party publicly condemn the content of the newsletter and the threatening behaviour towards Jack Summers , and issue guidance to Conservative Associations and Conservative Party members , including Members of Parliament and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honesty and integrity in our politics ?
7 .
If not , can you confirm whether it is now Conservative Party policy to “ weaponise fake news ” and censure party members who speak out against it , and have other Conservative MPs , local associations , party members and activists also been encouraged to do so ?
After the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary refused to speak out when President Trump was claiming victory and alleging fraud in the US presidential election , this newsletter seems to demonstrate that the Conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s playbook and implementing a political strategy of weaponising fake news , making dishonest statements and telling brazen lies in order to “ crowd out ” and “ overwhelm ” the truth .
Given the importance of honesty and integrity in our politics , values which I am sure that you would want to uphold as Chair of the Conservative Party , I look forward to your early response to the questions I have asked .
Angela Rayner MP Deputy leader of the Labour Party and party chair

Angela Rayner has demanded that the Conservative Party launch an investigation into a newsletter circulated by the Wellingborough Conservative Association urging its members to ‘weaponise’ fake news.
In a letter to Amanda Milling, Labour’s deputy leader called on the chair of the Tory Party to condemn the contents of the document – or confirm whether the advice it offers is now official Conservative Party policy.
“The public rightly expect honesty and integrity from political parties, elected politicians, candidates and local party activists,” Rayner said. “A Conservative Party newsletter that encourages members and politicians to openly lie raises serious questions that demand urgent answers.”
The letter from Rayner follows Keir Starmer raising the newsletter, which told Tory members that Donald Trump was successful because he “weaponises fake news”, in the latest Prime Minister’s Questions session this afternoon.
“I for one often wonder where the Prime Minister gets his advice. Well, now I know,” Starmer told parliament today. “My final question to the Prime Minister is this: is he the inspiration for the newsletter, or is he the author?”
The newsletter states: “If you make enough dubious claims, fast enough, honest speakers are overwhelmed. If someone tweets ten dubious claims per day and it takes you a week to disprove each one, then you are doomed…
“Fake news often makes headlines and crowds out genuine news. Honest politicians therefore find themselves pushed off the front pages.”
It advises that aspiring politicians should “say the first thing that comes into your head” and suggests that this “will probably be nonsense, but it knocks your opponent out of his stride and takes away his headline”.
The newsletter adds: “You may get a bad headline saying that you spoke something silly, but you can live that down. Meanwhile your opponent is knocked off the news-feed… Sometimes, it is better to give the WRONG answer at the RIGHT time, than the RIGHT answer at the WRONG time.”
The Conservative Party has been contacted for comment.
Below is the full text of the letter sent by Rayner.
Dear Amanda,
I am writing to you following deeply concerning reports regarding behaviour within one of the Conservative Party’s local associations in Wellingborough.
The allegations include:
An official newsletter has been circulated by Wellingborough Conservative Association praising Donald Trump’s dishonesty and lying, encouraging Conservatives to “make enough dubious claims” to ensure “honest speakers are overwhelmed”, and “weaponise fake news” in order to “crowd out” the truth.
That one young local Conservative activist who raised concerns about the content of the newsletter was removed from the Conservative candidates’ list and has received, “several threatening phone calls warning him that his political career would be destroyed if he did not fall into line”.
The public rightly expect honesty and integrity from political parties, elected politicians, candidates and local party activists. A Conservative Party newsletter that encourages members and politicians to openly lie raises serious questions that demand urgent answers:
1. Will you now launch an investigation into the actions of Wellingborough Conservative Association, including who wrote the newsletter, how it was paid for and who had oversight of?
2. Will disciplinary action be taken against any member of the Conservative Party who wrote, edited or distributed the newsletter?
3. Was the Member of Parliament for Wellingborough, Peter Bone MP, aware of the contents of this newsletter? If so, did he approve the contents of the newsletter and will he now make his position clear?
4. Is it true that a local activist, Jack Summers, was removed from a list of Conservative candidates because he raised concerns about the content of the leaflet? If so, who took this decision, and were you or staff at CCHQ aware of it?
5. Will an investigation be launched into allegations that Jack Summers has received “several threatening phone calls warning him his political career would be destroyed if he did not fall into line” after raising concerns about the contents of the newsletter?
6. Will you, as Chair of the Conservative Party publicly condemn the content of the newsletter and the threatening behaviour towards Jack Summers, and issue guidance to Conservative Associations and Conservative Party members, including Members of Parliament and local Councillors, about the importance of honesty and integrity in our politics?
7. If not, can you confirm whether it is now Conservative Party policy to “weaponise fake news” and censure party members who speak out against it, and have other Conservative MPs, local associations, party members and activists also been encouraged to do so?
After the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary refused to speak out when President Trump was claiming victory and alleging fraud in the US presidential election, this newsletter seems to demonstrate that the Conservative Party is copying from Donald Trump’s playbook and implementing a political strategy of weaponising fake news, making dishonest statements and telling brazen lies in order to “crowd out” and “overwhelm” the truth.
Given the importance of honesty and integrity in our politics, values which I am sure that you would want to uphold as Chair of the Conservative Party, I look forward to your early response to the questions I have asked.
Yours sincerely,
Angela Rayner MP
Deputy leader of the Labour Party and party chair


labourlist--2020-12-16--Ahead of the May 2021 elections, Bristol West Labour must unify and organise

A year ago , despite the cold , dark and wet conditions , Labour Party members in Bristol West campaigned day and night across the South West to deliver a transformative Labour government .
This commitment made the result even more heart-breaking .
Whilst we returned four Labour MPs in Bristol , the party nationally endured its worst general election result in over 80 years .
Despite ten years of Tory government , Labour ended up 123 parliamentary seats short of a parliamentary majority , and will require an electoral swing of 10.3 percentage points in the next general election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Such a large national swing has only been achieved in two of the 21 general elections held over the last 80 years .
The result hurt so much because it left us far from being able to deliver the agenda that we know this country needs .
High investment in public services , a mass affordable house building programme and proper funding for high-skilled , well-paid , and unionised jobs in the green energy industry .
All of these will remain policy ideals , not reality , whilst Labour remains out of power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not lose sight of the scale of the challenge ahead .
There is no law of politics that means Labour will form a government again .
There is a growing gap in this country between largely younger , city-dwelling voters , living in areas that have benefited from economic investment and access to educational opportunities on the one hand , and older voters and those based outside of cities , living in areas of economic disinvestment on the other .
Our party must reach out and bridge that gap by uniting our country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For grassroots Labour Party members , the way forward is clear .
Given the electoral mountain that our party faces , if we want to see a Labour government again , we must pull together now and organise to get one .
Bristol West Labour must play its part and contribute to that effort .
I am one of a group of members who is part of the Unity Team here in Bristol West .
If elected at February ’ s rescheduled AGM , we will unite our Constituency Labour Party ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ representation in the South West .
Bristol West is one of the largest CLPs in the country , with over 4,000 members .
We will ensure that each one can channel their energy and experience to where it is most needed .
Firstly , our CLP must help to deliver a Labour-run Bristol City Council , Bristol mayor , West of England mayor and Avon and Somerset police and crime commissioner in next May ’ s elections .
Due to the ongoing pandemic , campaigning will be different , which means we must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s phone banking technology as quickly as possible and provide new ways for members to come together and campaign .
Secondly , we will develop campaign networks with local Labour parties in neighbouring marginal constituencies .
If Labour is to form the next government , it simply must win seats like Filton and Bradley Stoke and Kingswood in the South West .
In the 2019 general election , Labour ’ s share of the vote fell in both constituencies – we must turn that tide .
Through campaign networks , we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunities to campaign in Filton and Bradley Stoke and Kingswood , to fundraise there and to share their experience and skills with members there .
Not only will this help the party build up its campaigning resources in these crucial constituencies , it will also enable Labour to maintain a real presence in their communities .
Finally , we pledge to create an open and inclusive local party , where we can all forge the collective bonds that we are going to need in the years ahead .
We will never forget that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party than divides us and will work tirelessly to unify our CLP .
We look forward to working with all members to unite and build the groundwork to deliver the change that we know our communities need .

A year ago, despite the cold, dark and wet conditions, Labour Party members in Bristol West campaigned day and night across the South West to deliver a transformative Labour government. This commitment made the result even more heart-breaking. Whilst we returned four Labour MPs in Bristol, the party nationally endured its worst general election result in over 80 years.
Despite ten years of Tory government, Labour ended up 123 parliamentary seats short of a parliamentary majority, and will require an electoral swing of 10.3 percentage points in the next general election for a majority of just one. Such a large national swing has only been achieved in two of the 21 general elections held over the last 80 years.
The result hurt so much because it left us far from being able to deliver the agenda that we know this country needs. High investment in public services, a mass affordable house building programme and proper funding for high-skilled, well-paid, and unionised jobs in the green energy industry. All of these will remain policy ideals, not reality, whilst Labour remains out of power.
A year on, we must not lose sight of the scale of the challenge ahead. There is no law of politics that means Labour will form a government again. There is a growing gap in this country between largely younger, city-dwelling voters, living in areas that have benefited from economic investment and access to educational opportunities on the one hand, and older voters and those based outside of cities, living in areas of economic disinvestment on the other. Our party must reach out and bridge that gap by uniting our country around an agenda of fundamental economic reform.
For grassroots Labour Party members, the way forward is clear. Given the electoral mountain that our party faces, if we want to see a Labour government again, we must pull together now and organise to get one. Bristol West Labour must play its part and contribute to that effort.
I am one of a group of members who is part of the Unity Team here in Bristol West. If elected at February’s rescheduled AGM, we will unite our Constituency Labour Party (CLP) around campaigning to win Labour representation in the South West. Bristol West is one of the largest CLPs in the country, with over 4,000 members. We will ensure that each one can channel their energy and experience to where it is most needed.
Firstly, our CLP must help to deliver a Labour-run Bristol City Council, Bristol mayor, West of England mayor and Avon and Somerset police and crime commissioner in next May’s elections. Due to the ongoing pandemic, campaigning will be different, which means we must provide training opportunities to members in Labour’s phone banking technology as quickly as possible and provide new ways for members to come together and campaign.
Secondly, we will develop campaign networks with local Labour parties in neighbouring marginal constituencies. If Labour is to form the next government, it simply must win seats like Filton and Bradley Stoke and Kingswood in the South West. In the 2019 general election, Labour’s share of the vote fell in both constituencies – we must turn that tide.
Through campaign networks, we will ensure that Bristol West members have regular opportunities to campaign in Filton and Bradley Stoke and Kingswood, to fundraise there and to share their experience and skills with members there. Not only will this help the party build up its campaigning resources in these crucial constituencies, it will also enable Labour to maintain a real presence in their communities.
Finally, we pledge to create an open and inclusive local party, where we can all forge the collective bonds that we are going to need in the years ahead. We will never forget that far more unites us in the Labour Party than divides us and will work tirelessly to unify our CLP. We look forward to working with all members to unite and build the groundwork to deliver the change that we know our communities need.


labourlist--2020-12-17--Rayner: Tories should be “ashamed of themselves” over Unicef intervention

Angela Rayner has said Boris Johnson and his government should be “ ashamed of themselves ” for letting children go hungry after Jacob Rees-Mogg claimed that the intervention in the UK by Unicef is a “ political stunt ” .
The UN agency announced on Wednesday that it would , for the first time in its more than 70-year history , take action in the UK as it pledged a grant of £25,000 to the School Food Matters project to supply breakfasts to children over the holidays .
Rees-Mogg described the action from the UN agency in parliament this morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a “ political stunt ” , accusing the organisation of “ playing politics ” .
He added : “ Unicef should be ashamed of itself.
” Labour ’ s deputy leader slammed the comments by the House of Commons leader , saying : “ The only people who should be ashamed of themselves are Boris Johnson and the rest of his government for letting our children go hungry .
“ In one of the richest countries in the world , our children should not be forced to rely on a charity that usually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to humanitarian disasters .
“ The only scandal here is this rotten Tory government leaving 4.2 million children living in poverty , a number that will only rise due to the coronavirus crisis.
” Rees-Mogg had been responding to a parliamentary question from Labour MP Zarah Sultana .
Addressing MPs this morning , Sultana had told the minister : “ While children go hungry , a wealthy few enjoy obscene riches .
“ From Tory donors handed billions in dodgy contracts to people like the Leader of the House , who is reportedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ payout this year.
” She asked : “ Will [ he ] give government time to discuss the need to make him and his super-rich chums pay their fair share so that we can end the grotesque inequality that scars our society ?
” Commenting on the response from Rees-Mogg , Sultana described the comments from the government minister as “ disgusting ” and tweeted : “ It ’ s shameful for kids to go hungry .
It ’ s not shameful to feed them.
” School Food Matters will use the money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breakfasts to 25 schools over the two-week Christmas holiday break and February half-term in the London borough of Southwark .
Founder and chief executive of the community project Stephanie Slater commented : “ We ’ re so grateful to Unicef for providing this timely funding .
“ The response to our summer breakfast boxes programme has shown us that families are really struggling and many were facing the grim reality of a two-week winter break without access to free school meals and the indignity of having to rely on food banks to feed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commissioned by the charity Food Foundation found 2.4 million children – 17 % – were living in food insecure households .
An extra 900,000 children had been registered for free school meals by October .
Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green described child poverty as a “ pandemic of its own ” earlier this year when the government rejected a motion from the Labour Party to extend free school meals over school holidays .
The Welsh Labour government announced in October this year that it would spend £11m to make sure free school meals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to and including the Easter break in 2021 .
Labour leader Keir Starmer highlighted in parliament recently that while Johnson refused to allocate £20m to fund free school meals for children over the October half term he paid £21m to a single business consultant .

Angela Rayner has said Boris Johnson and his government should be “ashamed of themselves” for letting children go hungry after Jacob Rees-Mogg claimed that the intervention in the UK by Unicef is a “political stunt”.
The UN agency announced on Wednesday that it would, for the first time in its more than 70-year history, take action in the UK as it pledged a grant of £25,000 to the School Food Matters project to supply breakfasts to children over the holidays.
Rees-Mogg described the action from the UN agency in parliament this morning as a “real scandal” and a “political stunt”, accusing the organisation of “playing politics”. He added: “Unicef should be ashamed of itself.”
Labour’s deputy leader slammed the comments by the House of Commons leader, saying: “The only people who should be ashamed of themselves are Boris Johnson and the rest of his government for letting our children go hungry.
“In one of the richest countries in the world, our children should not be forced to rely on a charity that usually works in war zones and in response to humanitarian disasters.
“The only scandal here is this rotten Tory government leaving 4.2 million children living in poverty, a number that will only rise due to the coronavirus crisis.”
Rees-Mogg had been responding to a parliamentary question from Labour MP Zarah Sultana. Addressing MPs this morning, Sultana had told the minister: “While children go hungry, a wealthy few enjoy obscene riches.
“From Tory donors handed billions in dodgy contracts to people like the Leader of the House, who is reportedly in line to receive an £800,000 dividend payout this year.”
She asked: “Will [he] give government time to discuss the need to make him and his super-rich chums pay their fair share so that we can end the grotesque inequality that scars our society?”
Commenting on the response from Rees-Mogg, Sultana described the comments from the government minister as “disgusting” and tweeted: “It’s shameful for kids to go hungry. It’s not shameful to feed them.”
School Food Matters will use the money provided by Unicef to supply 18,000 nutritious breakfasts to 25 schools over the two-week Christmas holiday break and February half-term in the London borough of Southwark.
Founder and chief executive of the community project Stephanie Slater commented: “We’re so grateful to Unicef for providing this timely funding.
“The response to our summer breakfast boxes programme has shown us that families are really struggling and many were facing the grim reality of a two-week winter break without access to free school meals and the indignity of having to rely on food banks to feed their children.”
A recent YouGov poll commissioned by the charity Food Foundation found 2.4 million children – 17% – were living in food insecure households. An extra 900,000 children had been registered for free school meals by October.
Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green described child poverty as a “pandemic of its own” earlier this year when the government rejected a motion from the Labour Party to extend free school meals over school holidays.
The Welsh Labour government announced in October this year that it would spend £11m to make sure free school meals are provided during every school holiday up to and including the Easter break in 2021.
Labour leader Keir Starmer highlighted in parliament recently that while Johnson refused to allocate £20m to fund free school meals for children over the October half term he paid £21m to a single business consultant.


labourlist--2020-12-17--Hancock urged by Labour to “look again” at Christmas as Tier 3 extended

Labour has urged the government to “ look again ” at its easing of Covid rules over Christmas after Matt Hancock announced that large parts of the East and South East of England will now enter the toughest tier of restrictions .
Following the first scheduled review of tier allocations , the Health Secretary this morning revealed that Tier 3 – which involves closing hospitality – would now apply to many more areas from Saturday at one minute past midnight .
This applies to Bedfordshire , Buckinghamshire , Berkshire , Peterborough , the whole of Hertfordshire , Surrey ( with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Rother on the Kent border of East Sussex , Portsmouth , Gosport and Havant in Hampshire .
Bristol and North Somerset will come out of Tier 3 and enter Tier 2 instead , while Herefordshire will enter Tier 1 , Hancock said .
But he added that “ in most places , we are not there yet ” in terms of moving down the scale .
“ Especially with the vaccine already here , we must be cautious as we accelerate the vaccine deployment as per the winter plan , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We ’ ve come so far , we mustn ’ t blow it now.
” Labour ’ s Jonathan Ashworth in response highlighted that the number of people in hospital with Covid is now the highest since April 22nd , and that this figure has risen 20 % since the end of the second lockdown .
“ We saw in Canada and the US huge spikes in infections following Thanksgiving .
We will see a spike here .
This isn ’ t about cancelling Christmas .
Santa will still deliver his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
On the easing of rules next week , he added : “ But is he really telling us that allowing indoor mixing of three households across regions and generations for five days is sensible when the virus is ranging with such ferocity at the moment ?
“ The devastating tragedy is that those who will be most impacted by the virus spreading through the easing are those who will be at the front queue for the vaccine in the next month or two .
So will he look again at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ask his opposite number in government about the resources being allocated to the vaccine programme , when vaccination centres would open and why the existing software system keeps crashing .
Ashworth also referred to “ speculation that the opening of schools will be delayed by a week in January to give time to get mass testing up and running ” .
Tes has reported that the government is considering delaying the start of term .
Hancock emphasised that “ it is up to each of us to take responsibility for our actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also being cautious ” and that “ this is a massive team effort ” in response to concerns over Christmas bubbles .
He said mass vaccination sites are for the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine , rather than the Pfizer one , which means it will be “ some weeks until we will see those rolled out ” , and primary care sites are being set up in the meantime .
On software problems , the minister said the “ niggles ” are “ small ” and being “ brilliantly dealt with ” .
He did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question on schools , but suggested the government would soon offer more information .

Labour has urged the government to “look again” at its easing of Covid rules over Christmas after Matt Hancock announced that large parts of the East and South East of England will now enter the toughest tier of restrictions.
Following the first scheduled review of tier allocations, the Health Secretary this morning revealed that Tier 3 – which involves closing hospitality – would now apply to many more areas from Saturday at one minute past midnight.
This applies to Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Peterborough, the whole of Hertfordshire, Surrey (with the exception of Waverley), Hastings and Rother on the Kent border of East Sussex, Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant in Hampshire.
Bristol and North Somerset will come out of Tier 3 and enter Tier 2 instead, while Herefordshire will enter Tier 1, Hancock said. But he added that “in most places, we are not there yet” in terms of moving down the scale.
“Especially with the vaccine already here, we must be cautious as we accelerate the vaccine deployment as per the winter plan,” the Health Secretary told the House of Commons. “We’ve come so far, we mustn’t blow it now.”
Labour’s Jonathan Ashworth in response highlighted that the number of people in hospital with Covid is now the highest since April 22nd, and that this figure has risen 20% since the end of the second lockdown.
“We saw in Canada and the US huge spikes in infections following Thanksgiving. We will see a spike here. This isn’t about cancelling Christmas. Santa will still deliver his presents,” the Shadow Heath Secretary said.
On the easing of rules next week, he added: “But is he really telling us that allowing indoor mixing of three households across regions and generations for five days is sensible when the virus is ranging with such ferocity at the moment?
“The devastating tragedy is that those who will be most impacted by the virus spreading through the easing are those who will be at the front queue for the vaccine in the next month or two. So will he look again at the Christmas arrangements?”
He went on to ask his opposite number in government about the resources being allocated to the vaccine programme, when vaccination centres would open and why the existing software system keeps crashing.
Ashworth also referred to “speculation that the opening of schools will be delayed by a week in January to give time to get mass testing up and running”. Tes has reported that the government is considering delaying the start of term.
Hancock emphasised that “it is up to each of us to take responsibility for our actions, within the rules of course but also being cautious” and that “this is a massive team effort” in response to concerns over Christmas bubbles.
He said mass vaccination sites are for the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, rather than the Pfizer one, which means it will be “some weeks until we will see those rolled out”, and primary care sites are being set up in the meantime.
On software problems, the minister said the “niggles” are “small” and being “brilliantly dealt with”. He did not give details to address the specific question on schools, but suggested the government would soon offer more information.