labourlist--2020-12-21--“A socially just Scotland in a modern United Kingdom” – Starmer’s full speech

Below is the full text of the speech delivered by Keir Starmer this morning .
Good morning .
I want to start by addressing the emerging situation relating to the pandemic .
The news over the last 24 hours has been deeply disturbing .
The number of coronavirus cases has nearly doubled in the last week .
Over 67,000 people have now tragically died .
And hospital admissions are rising .
We can not be in any doubt .
The virus is now out of control .
International flights have been banned .
International borders have been shut .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s ports .
Make no mistake this is now a real emergency .
I have faith in the British people to once again step up to the challenge .
As they have done at every stage of the pandemic .
But they expect the government to do the same .
We can have no more over-promising and false hope , confused messages and slow decision-making .
We need strong , clear and decisive leadership .
The Prime Minister needs to be straight with people about precisely what is going on .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He must address the nation today after this morning ’ s COBRA meeting .
And hold daily press conferences until the disruption has eased .
He must also get the Brexit deal he promised done this week .
This is not a game of brinkmanship .
This is people ’ s lives .
People ’ s jobs .
And people ’ s businesses .
They need a deal .
They expect a deal .
And a deal is what must happen .
I renew my pledge to act in the national interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult days .
We will support further restrictions where they are necessary .
We will work with government to help businesses get through the winter months .
And we will offer constructive solutions to keep our NHS open and the vaccine distributed .
As we struggle against the pandemic , and the profound health and economic consequences of it , making the case for our United Kingdom could never be more important , we entered this pandemic together .
We faced the enduring challenges of the pandemic together .
We will come out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebuild together .
The duty to rebuild will be a shared duty .
It is a duty not just in England , Scotland , Wales or Northern Ireland .
It is a duty across all four nations together .
And believe you me , future generations will not forgive us if we shirk that responsibility .
That is why the case I want to make today is the case for the United Kingdom .
Of course there ’ s a case for the United Kingdom that ’ s measured in power , prosperity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all stronger because we choose to pool our resources to share the risks and rewards .
We are all better off because we can live , work and trade across borders , rather than behind them .
And as one United Kingdom we ’ re better able to weather the storms of a global financial crash , a pandemic , or the climate emergency .
But for me the case for the United Kingdom goes much deeper than that .
The United Kingdom is shaped not just by our shared institutions , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the history and experiences that shaped them and the amazing things we ’ ve achieved together .
Together we ’ ve fought slavery , we ’ ve fought poverty , we ’ ve fought fascism and we ’ re fighting Covid .
The first baby born in the NHS – Aneira Thomas – was born in South Wales and named after the great Nye Bevan .
Our welfare state was born out of the struggles of early Scottish activists who fought against the Scottish Poor Laws .
Britain ’ s great achievements in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the greater because they drew on all our talents .
The Open University was founded by a Scot , Jennie Lee and we ’ re a world leader in education , research and knowledge because of our great universities and our shared tradition of learning .
The Labour Party was first led by Keir Hardie – a Scot – who ended up representing a Welsh constituency and such was the influence of that boy from Lanarkshire , that many years later a family in Oxted , East Surrey , decided to call their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this : our nations are bound by our history , our values and our identity ; our families live across borders ; our businesses operate across borders ; we ’ re interconnected and we ’ re interdependent .
That ’ s not just a precious inheritance , or a description of the past , it ’ s what we are .
It ’ s what I want for our children , for the next generation .
I don ’ t believe in putting up borders across any part of our United Kingdom , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families who have stood together for so long .
It ’ s not , England , or Scotland , or Wales , or Northern Ireland .
I ’ ve had enough of hearing that .
It ’ s England , and Scotland , and Wales , and Northern Ireland , together .
I believe in that core Labour principle : that we achieve more together than we do alone .
All four nations working together to build a more open , more optimistic and outward-looking country .
A United Kingdom that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moral force for good in the world .
And that ’ s why I ’ m so determined to preserve and to renew the United Kingdom .
But just as I believe in the United Kingdom , I equally believe in devolving power and opportunity across it .
This is the common thread that joins so many great figures of the Scottish labour movement .
From John Mackintosh and Donald Dewar , to John Smith and Gordon Brown .
A tradition that doesn ’ t simply see devolution as a process of shifting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but that sees devolution as a means to an end .
To empower .
To democratise .
And to deliver social justice .
The challenge for Labour now is how to carry on that tradition , to renew the case for devolution and to harness the energy , dynamism and creativity of all corners of the country .
Devolution in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland was one of the proudest achievements of the last Labour government .
Against , I might add , the opposition of the Conservatives and the indifference of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power in Holyrood in 2007 , and then in Westminster in 2010 , that renewal hasn ’ t happened .
In Westminster , successive Conservative governments have eroded the fabric of the United Kingdom .
First , with a decade of austerity , which undermined our public services , widened inequalities and made communities across the country poorer and less secure .
And then came Brexit .
Now , I know the Prime Minister is the only person in Britain who still wants to talk about Brexit .
So I will just say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you were on , we can surely all agree that the cavalier and chaotic approach the Conservatives have taken in the last four years has frayed the bonds of the United Kingdom .
Take , for example , the internal markets bill – which was railroaded through Westminster without concern for the impact it would have on devolution or the damage it would cause across the UK .
That bill could have been a huge opportunity to push power outwards , but instead the Prime Minister showed his instinct is to hoard power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we shouldn ’ t be surprised , because we now know that the Prime Minister thinks Scottish devolution has been ‘ a disaster ’ .
And the reason Johnson ’ s comment struck home is because it spoke to a wider truth : the Conservatives simply don ’ t believe in devolution .
They never have .
And they are blind to the damage that their cavalier attitude is doing to our United Kingdom .
They have no plan to counter Scottish separatism other than to defend the status quo .
And – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terminology – in Brexit and in austerity they ’ ve given separatists two big boxing gloves to pummel the United Kingdom .
Scotland was once rightly proud and world renowned for providing an exceptional education to children from all backgrounds .
For being a society where anyone could reach their potential .
But after 13 years of the SNP in power , sadly that ’ s no longer the case .
International comparisons show that children in Scotland are now lagging behind children in England – and in many advanced countries – for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the largest average class sizes in any major economy .
The attainment gap between the poorest and wealthiest children rises through each stage of primary education in Scotland .
Under the last Labour government child poverty fell by 150,000 in Scotland .
But under the SNP , child poverty has risen sharply and is forecast to reach one in three Scottish children by 2030 .
And I ’ m afraid it ’ s the same story on public health .
Life expectancy in Scotland is now the lowest in Western Europe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas expected to die 13 years before those in least deprived areas .
The Scottish NHS hasn ’ t hit its cancer waiting times for seven years .
And in the first wave of Covid , the death rate in Scotland , was the third highest in Europe .
Tragically the percentage of Covid deaths in care homes was also far higher than anywhere else in the UK .
And just last week , we saw the appalling extent of the drugs crisis in Scotland : Scotland now has the worst death rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also failed to build the modern , dynamic economy Scotland deserves , or to protect Scottish manufacturing jobs – as we ’ ve seen with the shambolic handling of the BiFab plants in Fife and Lewis – and the loss of £52m of taxpayers ’ money .
So it ’ s no wonder that Nicola Sturgeon wants to make next May ’ s elections a referendum on another referendum .
Because on education , health and social justice the SNP has no story to tell .
Against that backdrop , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a positive alternative to the Scottish people .
To show that you don ’ t have to choose between a broken status quo and the uncertainty and divisiveness of separatism .
And it ’ s our duty – my duty – to make the alternative case for a devolved and socially just Scotland in a modern United Kingdom .
I ’ m under no illusion about the scale of the task Labour faces .
We ’ ve lost four general elections and the last three Scottish parliamentary elections .
For over a decade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to decide anything , or to change anyone ’ s lives .
That has to stop .
And fast .
Because when Labour loses elections we fail in our historic mission .
We fail the people of Scotland .
And we allow the fabric of the United Kingdom to be weakened .
So , I want to talk directly to people in Scotland who have given up on Labour – and given up on the United Kingdom .
I ’ ve spoken to many of you since becoming leader .
I ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I ’ ve listened to your frustrations .
I hear what you ’ re saying .
I understand why you feel as you do .
And I ’ m not surprised .
For a decade there ’ s been a Conservative government in Westminster with priorities you don ’ t share .
And there ’ s been a Labour opposition that keeps losing .
When those are the alternatives , I can see why you ’ ve reached the conclusion you have .
But Boris Johnson isn ’ t Britain .
Just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The United Kingdom is much more than that , more than any individual .
It has been before – and can be again – a great force for social justice .
For Security .
And for solidarity .
Under my leadership , we will do everything we can to win back your trust , in Labour – but equally importantly , in the United Kingdom .
I know that won ’ t be easy .
Labour has a mountain to climb , nowhere more than in Scotland .
And nowhere matters more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ step on that journey is to reaffirm Labour ’ s commitment to a United Kingdom based on social justice and solidarity .
And to set out the means to that end : a new phase of radical economic and political devolution across the United Kingdom .
I want devolution and social justice to be the hallmarks of the next Labour government .
In fact , I may be the first person ever to run to be Prime Minister of this country on a manifesto that will aim to win power – and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Westminster .
That ’ s because I believe there ’ s a desire across the United Kingdom for politics and power to be much closer to people .
We saw this in the Brexit referendum and we ’ ve been ignoring it for years .
Unless we grasp the nettle and deliver real devolution of power and resources , we won ’ t be able to renew our United Kingdom for the 2020s and 2030s .
We won ’ t be able to tackle the root causes of the appalling inequalities and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and nations .
And we won ’ t be able to make Britain the country I know it can be : The best place to grow up in and the best place to grow old in .
The case for the next phase of devolution was urgent before Covid , but the pandemic has put rocket boosters under it .
Our Labour council leaders , mayors and metro mayors have stood up for their communities against a centralised Westminster-knows best response .
A national crisis on this scale should have been the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ empower local communities – to bring the country together .
But too often the UK government ’ s approach has been to pit council against council ; town against town ; city against city , mayor against mayor .
It ’ s no surprise that the many local leaders I ’ ve spoken to have felt distanced and ignored on decisions that have had huge consequences on people ’ s jobs , lives and their communities .
This has got to change .
And that ’ s why I ’ m announcing today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will launch a UK-wide constitutional commission to consider how power , wealth and opportunity can be devolved to the most local level .
This won ’ t be an exercise in shifting power from one parliament to another – of moving a few jobs out of London , or to devolve and to forget .
This will be the boldest project Labour has embarked on for a generation .
And every bit as bold and radical as the programme of devolution that Labour delivered in the 1990s and 2000s .
It will consider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And it will focus on delivering real – and lasting – economic and political devolution across our towns , our communities and to people across the country .
It ’ ll start with listening to people in their local communities about what they want .
It ’ ll look at the successes of devolution so far , but also where it ’ s fallen short .
It ’ ll consider everything from how people can have more of a say in what happens in their community , to how we can break down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ll consider how we can make sure that powers coming back from Brussels are not just centralised in Westminster… but are shared across the regions and nations of the United Kingdom .
It will be particularly important for the commission to hear from and work with our great mayors and council leaders – and to use their experience and ideas to guide our next steps .
The commission will make the positive case for the UK and it will champion devolution , but beyond that it will rule nothing out and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It will have one overriding priority : to push power closer to people .
And to deliver a more democratic and socially just United Kingdom .
It will put our nations and regions at its centre : our metro mayors , mayors , local leaders and councillors .
It will involve all parts of the labour movement : our members , trade unions and supporters .
And it will welcome community organisations , grassroots groups , and movements for change .
Above all , it will hear direct from the British people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and everyone involved in the commission will hear from as many people as possible from across the UK .
That might have to start on a Zoom screen , but as soon we can , Labour will be out in local communities , in town halls , offices , colleges , factories and community centres .
Because if this is going to work and to drive the radical change I know is needed across this country this can not , and will not , be a project of Westminster , by Westminster and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the people of the United Kingdom .
I ’ m delighted that our last Labour Prime Minister , Gordon Brown has agreed to be an adviser in the setting up of the commission .
Of course , a project of this scale and this urgency should be initiated by the UK government .
But in the absence of that leadership from the Prime Minister , Labour will do what is necessary in opposition .
And , just as in 1997 , we will make devolution a reality under the next Labour government .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ But I expect the Scottish section – working with Scottish Labour and our leader , Richard Leonard , to be completed as soon as possible .
Because frankly , there ’ s no time to waste .
The Scottish parliamentary elections are just over five months away .
Labour will fight those elections , making the case , for a socially just Scotland in a modern United Kingdom .
And we ’ ll make clear that five more years of separatism and division isn ’ t the answer to any of the challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Covid , improving Scotland ’ s schools and NHS , protecting jobs and the economy , addressing the climate emergency or providing greater security at home and abroad .
Ultimately , there ’ s nothing that separatism can offer to a child living in poverty in Glasgow .
Just as there ’ s nothing that nationalism can offer a child living in poverty in Camden .
And the last thing Scotland needs now is more years of division .
So , Labour will argue passionately against another independence referendum .
We will argue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tomorrow .
It would be entirely the wrong priority to hold another Scottish independence referendum in the teeth of the deepest recession for 300 years – while still fighting this pandemic , when there is such uncertainty about how Brexit , and coronavirus will affect us , and when the costs and consequences of independence are still so uncertain .
That ’ s why Nicola Sturgeon ’ s call for an independence referendum in the ‘ early part ’ of the next Scottish parliament – perhaps even next year – is so misguided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would cause , no responsible First Minister should contemplate it – and no responsible Prime Minister would grant it .
There should not be another independence referendum while our economic and health outlook is so precarious , nor until there has been a proper assessment of the costs , consequences and uncertainties of separation – including the future of Scotland ’ s currency , our armed forces and national security , as well as the potential impact on the pensions , jobs , taxes and social security of the Scottish people .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independence will not answer these questions .
That is why our commission must also ensure that there is a fresh – and tangible – offer in front of the Scottish people .
A path to a socially just and secure Scotland within a modern UK .
Because only then can we ensure that the discussion on our constitution is not a re-run of 2014 : with the huge uncertainty of separation pitted against an outdated status quo .
The labour movement has a long and proud tradition of fighting for greater devolution and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has never been about power itself , but a means to build a fairer , more socially just society .
Under my leadership , that will be our focus again .
And if we get this right , then I believe Labour can play a key role in defeating the forces of separatism .
And once again make clear that it ’ s only by harnessing the strength and dynamism of the whole United Kingdom that we can tackle the huge challenges we all face .
Because a separatist agenda won ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And it won ’ t make us stronger on the international stage , and it won ’ t make us better able to lead in the global fight against climate change .
Separatism will leave us all weaker – just as defending the status quo will .
That ’ s why it ’ s time to build a new partnership between our nations and regions .
To make Britain fit for the decades ahead .
That is the challenge we face , and the Labour Party I lead must rise to that challenge @

Below is the full text of the speech delivered by Keir Starmer this morning.
Good morning. I want to start by addressing the emerging situation relating to the pandemic. The news over the last 24 hours has been deeply disturbing. The number of coronavirus cases has nearly doubled in the last week. Over 67,000 people have now tragically died. And hospital admissions are rising. We cannot be in any doubt. The virus is now out of control. International flights have been banned. International borders have been shut. And there is now severe disruption at Britain’s ports. Make no mistake this is now a real emergency.
I have faith in the British people to once again step up to the challenge. As they have done at every stage of the pandemic. But they expect the government to do the same. We can have no more over-promising and false hope, confused messages and slow decision-making. We need strong, clear and decisive leadership. The Prime Minister needs to be straight with people about precisely what is going on. And precisely what he is doing about it. He must address the nation today after this morning’s COBRA meeting. And hold daily press conferences until the disruption has eased.
He must also get the Brexit deal he promised done this week. This is not a game of brinkmanship. This is people’s lives. People’s jobs. And people’s businesses. They need a deal. They expect a deal. And a deal is what must happen. I renew my pledge to act in the national interest to help us through these dark and difficult days. We will support further restrictions where they are necessary. We will work with government to help businesses get through the winter months. And we will offer constructive solutions to keep our NHS open and the vaccine distributed.
As we struggle against the pandemic, and the profound health and economic consequences of it, making the case for our United Kingdom could never be more important, we entered this pandemic together. We faced the enduring challenges of the pandemic together. We will come out of it together. And we must rebuild together. The duty to rebuild will be a shared duty. It is a duty not just in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. It is a duty across all four nations together. And believe you me, future generations will not forgive us if we shirk that responsibility.
That is why the case I want to make today is the case for the United Kingdom. Of course there’s a case for the United Kingdom that’s measured in power, prosperity, trade and security. We are all stronger because we choose to pool our resources to share the risks and rewards. We are all better off because we can live, work and trade across borders, rather than behind them. And as one United Kingdom we’re better able to weather the storms of a global financial crash, a pandemic, or the climate emergency.
But for me the case for the United Kingdom goes much deeper than that. The United Kingdom is shaped not just by our shared institutions, but by the people who made them, the history and experiences that shaped them and the amazing things we’ve achieved together. Together we’ve fought slavery, we’ve fought poverty, we’ve fought fascism and we’re fighting Covid.
The first baby born in the NHS – Aneira Thomas – was born in South Wales and named after the great Nye Bevan. Our welfare state was born out of the struggles of early Scottish activists who fought against the Scottish Poor Laws. Britain’s great achievements in science, innovation and discovery are all the greater because they drew on all our talents. The Open University was founded by a Scot, Jennie Lee and we’re a world leader in education, research and knowledge because of our great universities and our shared tradition of learning. The Labour Party was first led by Keir Hardie – a Scot – who ended up representing a Welsh constituency and such was the influence of that boy from Lanarkshire, that many years later a family in Oxted, East Surrey, decided to call their son Keir too.
My point is this: our nations are bound by our history, our values and our identity; our families live across borders; our businesses operate across borders; we’re interconnected and we’re interdependent. That’s not just a precious inheritance, or a description of the past, it’s what we are. It’s what I want for our children, for the next generation. I don’t believe in putting up borders across any part of our United Kingdom, in dividing people, communities, and families who have stood together for so long. It’s not, England, or Scotland, or Wales, or Northern Ireland. I’ve had enough of hearing that. It’s England, and Scotland, and Wales, and Northern Ireland, together.
I believe in that core Labour principle: that we achieve more together than we do alone. All four nations working together to build a more open, more optimistic and outward-looking country. A United Kingdom that’s a force for social justice and a moral force for good in the world. And that’s why I’m so determined to preserve and to renew the United Kingdom. But just as I believe in the United Kingdom, I equally believe in devolving power and opportunity across it.
This is the common thread that joins so many great figures of the Scottish labour movement. From John Mackintosh and Donald Dewar, to John Smith and Gordon Brown. A tradition that doesn’t simply see devolution as a process of shifting power from one place to another, but that sees devolution as a means to an end. To empower. To democratise. And to deliver social justice. The challenge for Labour now is how to carry on that tradition, to renew the case for devolution and to harness the energy, dynamism and creativity of all corners of the country.
Devolution in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland was one of the proudest achievements of the last Labour government. Against, I might add, the opposition of the Conservatives and the indifference of the SNP. But since Labour lost power in Holyrood in 2007, and then in Westminster in 2010, that renewal hasn’t happened. In Westminster, successive Conservative governments have eroded the fabric of the United Kingdom. First, with a decade of austerity, which undermined our public services, widened inequalities and made communities across the country poorer and less secure. And then came Brexit.
Now, I know the Prime Minister is the only person in Britain who still wants to talk about Brexit. So I will just say this: whichever side of the divide you were on, we can surely all agree that the cavalier and chaotic approach the Conservatives have taken in the last four years has frayed the bonds of the United Kingdom. Take, for example, the internal markets bill – which was railroaded through Westminster without concern for the impact it would have on devolution or the damage it would cause across the UK. That bill could have been a huge opportunity to push power outwards, but instead the Prime Minister showed his instinct is to hoard power, not to devolve it.
Perhaps we shouldn’t be surprised, because we now know that the Prime Minister thinks Scottish devolution has been ‘a disaster’. And the reason Johnson’s comment struck home is because it spoke to a wider truth: the Conservatives simply don’t believe in devolution. They never have. And they are blind to the damage that their cavalier attitude is doing to our United Kingdom. They have no plan to counter Scottish separatism other than to defend the status quo. And – to borrow the Prime Minister’s terminology – in Brexit and in austerity they’ve given separatists two big boxing gloves to pummel the United Kingdom.
Scotland was once rightly proud and world renowned for providing an exceptional education to children from all backgrounds. For being a society where anyone could reach their potential. But after 13 years of the SNP in power, sadly that’s no longer the case. International comparisons show that children in Scotland are now lagging behind children in England – and in many advanced countries – for the first time. Scotland now has one of the largest average class sizes in any major economy. The attainment gap between the poorest and wealthiest children rises through each stage of primary education in Scotland.
Under the last Labour government child poverty fell by 150,000 in Scotland. But under the SNP, child poverty has risen sharply and is forecast to reach one in three Scottish children by 2030. And I’m afraid it’s the same story on public health. Life expectancy in Scotland is now the lowest in Western Europe – with Scottish men in the poorest areas expected to die 13 years before those in least deprived areas. The Scottish NHS hasn’t hit its cancer waiting times for seven years. And in the first wave of Covid, the death rate in Scotland, was the third highest in Europe. Tragically the percentage of Covid deaths in care homes was also far higher than anywhere else in the UK. And just last week, we saw the appalling extent of the drugs crisis in Scotland: Scotland now has the worst death rate from drugs in Europe.
The SNP has also failed to build the modern, dynamic economy Scotland deserves, or to protect Scottish manufacturing jobs – as we’ve seen with the shambolic handling of the BiFab plants in Fife and Lewis – and the loss of £52m of taxpayers’ money. So it’s no wonder that Nicola Sturgeon wants to make next May’s elections a referendum on another referendum. Because on education, health and social justice the SNP has no story to tell. Against that backdrop, it’s Labour’s duty to offer a positive alternative to the Scottish people.
To show that you don’t have to choose between a broken status quo and the uncertainty and divisiveness of separatism. And it’s our duty – my duty – to make the alternative case for a devolved and socially just Scotland in a modern United Kingdom. I’m under no illusion about the scale of the task Labour faces. We’ve lost four general elections and the last three Scottish parliamentary elections. For over a decade we’ve been in no position to decide anything, or to change anyone’s lives. That has to stop. And fast. Because when Labour loses elections we fail in our historic mission. We fail the people of Scotland. And we allow the fabric of the United Kingdom to be weakened.
So, I want to talk directly to people in Scotland who have given up on Labour – and given up on the United Kingdom. I’ve spoken to many of you since becoming leader. I’ve heard the arguments you’ve made and I’ve listened to your frustrations. I hear what you’re saying. I understand why you feel as you do. And I’m not surprised. For a decade there’s been a Conservative government in Westminster with priorities you don’t share. And there’s been a Labour opposition that keeps losing. When those are the alternatives, I can see why you’ve reached the conclusion you have.
But Boris Johnson isn’t Britain. Just as Nicola Sturgeon isn’t Scotland. The United Kingdom is much more than that, more than any individual. It has been before – and can be again – a great force for social justice. For Security. And for solidarity. Under my leadership, we will do everything we can to win back your trust, in Labour – but equally importantly, in the United Kingdom. I know that won’t be easy. Labour has a mountain to climb, nowhere more than in Scotland. And nowhere matters more to me than Scotland. The first step on that journey is to reaffirm Labour’s commitment to a United Kingdom based on social justice and solidarity.
And to set out the means to that end: a new phase of radical economic and political devolution across the United Kingdom. I want devolution and social justice to be the hallmarks of the next Labour government. In fact, I may be the first person ever to run to be Prime Minister of this country on a manifesto that will aim to win power – and then push as much power as possible away from Westminster. That’s because I believe there’s a desire across the United Kingdom for politics and power to be much closer to people. We saw this in the Brexit referendum and we’ve been ignoring it for years. Unless we grasp the nettle and deliver real devolution of power and resources, we won’t be able to renew our United Kingdom for the 2020s and 2030s. We won’t be able to tackle the root causes of the appalling inequalities and injustices that we see across our regions and nations. And we won’t be able to make Britain the country I know it can be: The best place to grow up in and the best place to grow old in.
The case for the next phase of devolution was urgent before Covid, but the pandemic has put rocket boosters under it. Our Labour council leaders, mayors and metro mayors have stood up for their communities against a centralised Westminster-knows best response. A national crisis on this scale should have been the time for central government to work with and empower local communities – to bring the country together. But too often the UK government’s approach has been to pit council against council; town against town; city against city, mayor against mayor. It’s no surprise that the many local leaders I’ve spoken to have felt distanced and ignored on decisions that have had huge consequences on people’s jobs, lives and their communities. This has got to change.
And that’s why I’m announcing today that in the New Year, Labour will launch a UK-wide constitutional commission to consider how power, wealth and opportunity can be devolved to the most local level. This won’t be an exercise in shifting power from one parliament to another – of moving a few jobs out of London, or to devolve and to forget. This will be the boldest project Labour has embarked on for a generation. And every bit as bold and radical as the programme of devolution that Labour delivered in the 1990s and 2000s. It will consider all parts of the United Kingdom. And it will focus on delivering real – and lasting – economic and political devolution across our towns, our communities and to people across the country.
It’ll start with listening to people in their local communities about what they want. It’ll look at the successes of devolution so far, but also where it’s fallen short. It’ll consider everything from how people can have more of a say in what happens in their community, to how we can break down barriers to democracy and participation. It’ll consider how we can make sure that powers coming back from Brussels are not just centralised in Westminster… but are shared across the regions and nations of the United Kingdom. It will be particularly important for the commission to hear from and work with our great mayors and council leaders – and to use their experience and ideas to guide our next steps.
The commission will make the positive case for the UK and it will champion devolution, but beyond that it will rule nothing out and I will look at the conclusions without preconceptions. It will have one overriding priority: to push power closer to people. And to deliver a more democratic and socially just United Kingdom. It will put our nations and regions at its centre: our metro mayors, mayors, local leaders and councillors. It will involve all parts of the labour movement: our members, trade unions and supporters. And it will welcome community organisations, grassroots groups, and movements for change.
Above all, it will hear direct from the British people. The shadow cabinet and I, and everyone involved in the commission will hear from as many people as possible from across the UK. That might have to start on a Zoom screen, but as soon we can, Labour will be out in local communities, in town halls, offices, colleges, factories and community centres. Because if this is going to work and to drive the radical change I know is needed across this country this cannot, and will not, be a project of Westminster, by Westminster and for Westminster. It will be of the people of the United Kingdom.
I’m delighted that our last Labour Prime Minister, Gordon Brown has agreed to be an adviser in the setting up of the commission. Of course, a project of this scale and this urgency should be initiated by the UK government. But in the absence of that leadership from the Prime Minister, Labour will do what is necessary in opposition. And, just as in 1997, we will make devolution a reality under the next Labour government. This will of course take time. But I expect the Scottish section – working with Scottish Labour and our leader, Richard Leonard, to be completed as soon as possible. Because frankly, there’s no time to waste.
The Scottish parliamentary elections are just over five months away. Labour will fight those elections, making the case, for a socially just Scotland in a modern United Kingdom. And we’ll make clear that five more years of separatism and division isn’t the answer to any of the challenges facing the Scottish people. Whether on Covid, improving Scotland’s schools and NHS, protecting jobs and the economy, addressing the climate emergency or providing greater security at home and abroad. Ultimately, there’s nothing that separatism can offer to a child living in poverty in Glasgow. Just as there’s nothing that nationalism can offer a child living in poverty in Camden.
And the last thing Scotland needs now is more years of division. So, Labour will argue passionately against another independence referendum. We will argue that today, we will argue that tomorrow. It would be entirely the wrong priority to hold another Scottish independence referendum in the teeth of the deepest recession for 300 years – while still fighting this pandemic, when there is such uncertainty about how Brexit, and coronavirus will affect us, and when the costs and consequences of independence are still so uncertain. That’s why Nicola Sturgeon’s call for an independence referendum in the ‘early part’ of the next Scottish parliament – perhaps even next year – is so misguided. Given the damage and division this would cause, no responsible First Minister should contemplate it – and no responsible Prime Minister would grant it.
There should not be another independence referendum while our economic and health outlook is so precarious, nor until there has been a proper assessment of the costs, consequences and uncertainties of separation – including the future of Scotland’s currency, our armed forces and national security, as well as the potential impact on the pensions, jobs, taxes and social security of the Scottish people. The sterile debate between the status quo and independence will not answer these questions. That is why our commission must also ensure that there is a fresh – and tangible – offer in front of the Scottish people. A path to a socially just and secure Scotland within a modern UK. Because only then can we ensure that the discussion on our constitution is not a re-run of 2014: with the huge uncertainty of separation pitted against an outdated status quo.
The labour movement has a long and proud tradition of fighting for greater devolution and social justice. For Labour, devolution has never been about power itself, but a means to build a fairer, more socially just society. Under my leadership, that will be our focus again. And if we get this right, then I believe Labour can play a key role in defeating the forces of separatism. And once again make clear that it’s only by harnessing the strength and dynamism of the whole United Kingdom that we can tackle the huge challenges we all face. Because a separatist agenda won’t solve inequality, injustice or poverty. And it won’t make us stronger on the international stage, and it won’t make us better able to lead in the global fight against climate change. Separatism will leave us all weaker – just as defending the status quo will. That’s why it’s time to build a new partnership between our nations and regions. To make Britain fit for the decades ahead. That is the challenge we face, and the Labour Party I lead must rise to that challenge.


labourlist--2020-12-21--Labour leaders across UK back demand for “new constitutional offer”

Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has brought together Welsh and Scottish Labour leaders and English mayors from across the country to demand a “ new constitutional offer ” and a “ new deal for a better Britain ” .
The group , which includes Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford , Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard , London mayor Sadiq Khan and Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham , is calling for “ radical reform of the UK ” .
Brown has declared that the Labour figures believe there is “ little cooperation between London and the regions and nations ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside Whitehall are not being listened to ” .
The group has urged the government and Labour in Westminster to “ modernise and strengthen the union by pushing power out of Whitehall ” and back a constitutional commission to begin work on plans for constitutional change .
The call comes ahead of Keir Starmer delivering a speech on the launch of a UK-wide constitutional commission with the aim of spreading “ power , wealth and opportunity ” out of Westminster .
Brown said : “ This is not an abstract question about constitutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s structures directly hinder our ability to support the NHS , to provide good jobs , and to protect the most vulnerable in our society .
“ And , as we ’ ve seen from the pandemic , they stymy efforts to improve disease control , support for employment and industry , the management of public services , and social security .
It is time for Westminster to listen to the voices outside SW1 .
“ As a first step , we all suggest that a convention preceded by citizens ’ assemblies should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We then propose a constitutional commission to examine fundamental reform .
“ We can do Britain better than this .
The pandemic means that this is no longer just a Scottish issue : we are seeing rising dissent in Wales and a new northern revolt in England .
We must now see Whitehall and Westminster pay heed.
” Commenting this morning , Welsh Labour leader Drakeford welcomed the call from Scottish Labour for the “ review of our constitution through direct engagement with citizens across the UK and through a constitutional convention ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Welsh Labour and the Labour Welsh government have long argued that across the whole UK we need to address the series of inter-locking constitutional issues facing us in a coherent way which fully engages the public .
“ In Wales , like Scotland , there is an urgent need for constitutional reform , recognising that the current devolution settlements are too vulnerable to a government bent on centralising power .
“ Constitutional change is , though , a means to an end – to enable the nations and regions of the UK to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aspirations of their electorates while continuing to pool and share resources equitably to the benefit of all.
” Gordon Brown is set to advise the commission being unveiled by Starmer .
The former Labour Prime Minister earlier this year made the case for a “ radical alternative to nationalism ” in order to rescue the union .
The commission has been billed as the “ boldest project Labour has embarked on for a generation ” , and its launch is intended to set the tone for Labour ’ s campaign in the run-up @ @ @ @ @ @

Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has brought together Welsh and Scottish Labour leaders and English mayors from across the country to demand a “new constitutional offer” and a “new deal for a better Britain”.
The group, which includes Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford, Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard, London mayor Sadiq Khan and Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, is calling for “radical reform of the UK”.
Brown has declared that the Labour figures believe there is “little cooperation between London and the regions and nations” and they are concerned that “key voices outside Whitehall are not being listened to”.
The group has urged the government and Labour in Westminster to “modernise and strengthen the union by pushing power out of Whitehall” and back a constitutional commission to begin work on plans for constitutional change.
The call comes ahead of Keir Starmer delivering a speech on the launch of a UK-wide constitutional commission with the aim of spreading “power, wealth and opportunity” out of Westminster.
Brown said: “This is not an abstract question about constitutions. These flaws in our country’s structures directly hinder our ability to support the NHS, to provide good jobs, and to protect the most vulnerable in our society.
“And, as we’ve seen from the pandemic, they stymy efforts to improve disease control, support for employment and industry, the management of public services, and social security. It is time for Westminster to listen to the voices outside SW1.
“As a first step, we all suggest that a convention preceded by citizens’ assemblies should get underway to listen to communities. We then propose a constitutional commission to examine fundamental reform.
“We can do Britain better than this. The pandemic means that this is no longer just a Scottish issue: we are seeing rising dissent in Wales and a new northern revolt in England. We must now see Whitehall and Westminster pay heed.”
Commenting this morning, Welsh Labour leader Drakeford welcomed the call from Scottish Labour for the “review of our constitution through direct engagement with citizens across the UK and through a constitutional convention”.
The First Minister added: “Welsh Labour and the Labour Welsh government have long argued that across the whole UK we need to address the series of inter-locking constitutional issues facing us in a coherent way which fully engages the public.
“In Wales, like Scotland, there is an urgent need for constitutional reform, recognising that the current devolution settlements are too vulnerable to a government bent on centralising power.
“Constitutional change is, though, a means to an end – to enable the nations and regions of the UK to design policy which meets the needs and aspirations of their electorates while continuing to pool and share resources equitably to the benefit of all.”
Gordon Brown is set to advise the commission being unveiled by Starmer. The former Labour Prime Minister earlier this year made the case for a “radical alternative to nationalism” in order to rescue the union.
The commission has been billed as the “boldest project Labour has embarked on for a generation”, and its launch is intended to set the tone for Labour’s campaign in the run-up to 2021 Scottish parliamentary elections.


labourlist--2020-12-21--Liz Truss reminds us of the need to fight for fairness for the many not the few

As Disability History Month draws to a close , the government has chosen to attack the foundations of UK equalities legislation under which disabled people and other protected groups are afforded rights .
Whilst we look back on our successes in securing improved civil rights , the “ fight for fairness ” speech delivered by Liz Truss last week sought to unravel much of that progress .
It is a stark reminder of how capable Tories are in wrecking hard-fought rights and reinforcing the need to ‘ fight for fairness ’ for the many not the few .
This year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity to raise awareness on equal access , celebrate our achievements and take stock on our position in society .
It is 100 years since blind trade unionists marched to London for ‘ justice not charity ’ , securing improved pay and conditions for people employed in sheltered workshops run by local authorities .
It is 50 years since Alf Morris steered the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act through parliament .
This laid the foundations for social support and access to buildings .
It is 25 years since the landmark Disability Discrimination @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pass similar legislation had been defeated .
The Act was designed to promote best practice , brought in reasonable adjustments and enforce compliance when employers or service providers discriminated .
It was a decade ago when the last Labour government harmonised a myriad of equality-related laws and extended rights to other groups .
The Equality Act provided a framework across protected strands to build on , shape and reform .
Many in the disability movement have argued that harmonising equality laws and bodies was a retrograde step .
They forget many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of protection .
Yet setbacks have become apparent in enforcement and representation .
Calls for a fundamental overhaul of the Equality Act is very risky .
Liz Truss wants to reverse our progress by swapping the pink bus with a blue horse and trap to whip through detrimental changes .
Her speech arguably signalled a move to end the public sector equality duty , weaken Equality and Human Rights Commission enforcement action on protected grounds discrimination and yet again manipulate data to change the narrative .
Evidence-based policy is vital .
Report after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inequality and poverty .
Recommendations are plentiful .
The government consistently fails to deliver despite the evidence base and action needed .
For example , data on Covid-19 UK deaths show that 59 % have included disabled people .
The government has failed to recognise the disproportionate impact of coronavirus on disabled people .
Not only have we been disregarded in vaccine allocations , but rights to access care and support have been undermined .
The Labour and trade union movement can be proud of its contribution to developing disability rights .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protected characteristics , we need to build on that framework by improving life chances for disadvantaged groups , challenging discrimination and prejudice , providing equality of opportunity for everyone .
For disabled people , that means the UN Convention on the Rights of Disabled Persons being incorporated into UK law , strengthening enforcement and representation to better implement equality laws and establishing a National Independent Living Service .
Those measures would go a long way to empower disabled people to ‘ fight for fairness ’ .

As Disability History Month draws to a close, the government has chosen to attack the foundations of UK equalities legislation under which disabled people and other protected groups are afforded rights. Whilst we look back on our successes in securing improved civil rights, the “fight for fairness” speech delivered by Liz Truss last week sought to unravel much of that progress. It is a stark reminder of how capable Tories are in wrecking hard-fought rights and reinforcing the need to ‘fight for fairness’ for the many not the few.
This year’s Disability History Month was an opportunity to raise awareness on equal access, celebrate our achievements and take stock on our position in society. It is 100 years since blind trade unionists marched to London for ‘justice not charity’, securing improved pay and conditions for people employed in sheltered workshops run by local authorities. It is 50 years since Alf Morris steered the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act through parliament. This laid the foundations for social support and access to buildings.
It is 25 years since the landmark Disability Discrimination Act became law. 14 previous attempts to pass similar legislation had been defeated. The Act was designed to promote best practice, brought in reasonable adjustments and enforce compliance when employers or service providers discriminated.
It was a decade ago when the last Labour government harmonised a myriad of equality-related laws and extended rights to other groups. The Equality Act provided a framework across protected strands to build on, shape and reform.
Many in the disability movement have argued that harmonising equality laws and bodies was a retrograde step. They forget many of the benefits derived from a wider scope of protection. Yet setbacks have become apparent in enforcement and representation.
Calls for a fundamental overhaul of the Equality Act is very risky. Liz Truss wants to reverse our progress by swapping the pink bus with a blue horse and trap to whip through detrimental changes. Her speech arguably signalled a move to end the public sector equality duty, weaken Equality and Human Rights Commission enforcement action on protected grounds discrimination and yet again manipulate data to change the narrative.
Evidence-based policy is vital. Report after report has set out stark forms of inequality and poverty. Recommendations are plentiful. The government consistently fails to deliver despite the evidence base and action needed. For example, data on Covid-19 UK deaths show that 59% have included disabled people. The government has failed to recognise the disproportionate impact of coronavirus on disabled people. Not only have we been disregarded in vaccine allocations, but rights to access care and support have been undermined.
The Labour and trade union movement can be proud of its contribution to developing disability rights. However, hand in hand with other equality protected characteristics, we need to build on that framework by improving life chances for disadvantaged groups, challenging discrimination and prejudice, providing equality of opportunity for everyone.
For disabled people, that means the UN Convention on the Rights of Disabled Persons being incorporated into UK law, strengthening enforcement and representation to better implement equality laws and establishing a National Independent Living Service. Those measures would go a long way to empower disabled people to ‘fight for fairness’.


labourlist--2020-12-22--The government must act urgently on air quality. Inaction is costing lives

The government must act urgently on air quality .
Wednesday ’ s ruling in the heart-breaking inquest into the death of Ella Kissi-Debrah confirms not only that the government has a long way to go in tackling environmental racism in the UK , but also that it must do considerably more to address the central role that racial injustice plays in climate destruction globally .
The coroner in the inquest into the death of Ella Kissi-Debrah , a nine-year-old from Lewisham in south-east London , ruled that “ exposure to excessive air pollution ” materially contributed to Ella ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that dangerous levels of air pollution existed close to Ella ’ s home , consistently exceeding EU limits .
This is the first time that air pollution has been listed as a cause of death in the UK , but the UK ’ s air quality crisis is not news and nor is its disproportionate impact on Black communities .
The Black Lives Matter movement has forced the public to recognise how racism continues to pervade our policies and institutions , and air quality regulation is no exception .
In the most ethnically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are deadly .
London air pollution is already killing 9,500 people each year and , despite accounting for just 13.3 % of the city ’ s population , Black , African and Caribbean people account for 15.3 % of all Londoners exposed to nitrogen dioxide .
In Newham , seven in every 100 deaths is caused by air pollution .
The ruling in Ella ’ s inquest came on the same day that the Supreme Court overturned a decision that found the government ’ s airports strategy unlawful for its incompatibility with UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for potential Heathrow expansion and the devastating consequences this would have on air quality and climate change .
The impacts of airport expansion on Black families in the UK can already be seen in east London , where the most ethnically diverse boroughs already face life-limiting air pollution levels .
City Airport has been allowed to expand , concentrate flight plans and increase passengers , while the road-building lobby has continued to target the area for hugely polluting expansion plans .
This is mirrored elsewhere , as in the US , where race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ influence on exposure to pollutants than poverty .
Our carbon emissions are exacerbating the health impacts caused by air pollution .
The heating of the air caused by climate change traps air pollutants close to the ground , further reducing air quality .
Not only does reduced air quality cause cardiovascular disease , strokes and cancer , but Black mothers exposed to high temperatures or air pollution were found in a US study to be more likely to give birth to premature or underweight babies or have a stillbirth .
This is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always been at the root of the climate crisis , driving centuries of colonisation , resource extraction and inaction towards supporting those already hit by climate destruction .
Globally , Black people are bearing an unequal share of the danger and damage from climate change and pollution .
During the pandemic , the disproportionate impact of climate change and pollution on Black people is felt worse than ever .
Public Health England has found that Black people have “ between 10 and 50 % higher risk of death ” compared to white people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a causal link between air quality and Covid incidence and mortality , so those in polluted towns and boroughs are placed at even greater risk .
Pre-existing social inequalities already contributed to the UK at one point recording the highest Covid death rate in Europe .
How many more lives must be lost before the government acts on air quality and pollution ?
The UK government is hosting the 26th UN Climate Change Conference ( COP26 ) next year , yet it is failing to lead the way on air quality .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ air targets , fails to enshrine World Health Organisation guidelines on PM2.5 and NO2 limits in law or set out the policy framework required to achieve their targets .
Despite claiming to show climate leadership , at Saturday ’ s climate ambition summit – marking five years since the 2015 Paris Agreement – the government made inadequate pledges to reduce emissions by 68 % on their 1990 levels by 2030 .
We welcome London mayor Sadiq Khan ’ s response to the conclusion in Ella ’ s inquest .
“ Toxic air pollution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
“ Ministers and the previous mayor have acted too slowly in the past , but they must now learn the lessons from the coroner ’ s ruling and do much more to tackle the deadly scourge of air pollution in London and across the country.
” The needless loss of life resulting caused by our government ’ s inaction on air quality was one of the driving forces behind the Labour Campaign for Human Rights establishing our new climate justice campaign .
We exist to ensure that the Labour Party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breakdown , and advances the rights of the communities most affected .
Families like Ella ’ s have been at the forefront of challenging racial injustice in the UK , yet Black lives continue to be disregarded in environmental policy and climate action .
The government must immediately address the UK ’ s air pollution crisis and put in place robust systems for improving air quality .
In the run-up to COP26 in November 2021 , the UK needs to recognise the inequitable outcomes that climate change and pollution are continuing to cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that put racial justice and social justice at the centre of climate action .

The government must act urgently on air quality. Wednesday’s ruling in the heart-breaking inquest into the death of Ella Kissi-Debrah confirms not only that the government has a long way to go in tackling environmental racism in the UK, but also that it must do considerably more to address the central role that racial injustice plays in climate destruction globally.
The coroner in the inquest into the death of Ella Kissi-Debrah, a nine-year-old from Lewisham in south-east London, ruled that “exposure to excessive air pollution” materially contributed to Ella’s death in 2013. The inquest heard that dangerous levels of air pollution existed close to Ella’s home, consistently exceeding EU limits. This is the first time that air pollution has been listed as a cause of death in the UK, but the UK’s air quality crisis is not news and nor is its disproportionate impact on Black communities.
The Black Lives Matter movement has forced the public to recognise how racism continues to pervade our policies and institutions, and air quality regulation is no exception. In the most ethnically diverse areas in the UK pollution levels are deadly. London air pollution is already killing 9,500 people each year and, despite accounting for just 13.3% of the city’s population, Black, African and Caribbean people account for 15.3% of all Londoners exposed to nitrogen dioxide. In Newham, seven in every 100 deaths is caused by air pollution.
The ruling in Ella’s inquest came on the same day that the Supreme Court overturned a decision that found the government’s airports strategy unlawful for its incompatibility with UK climate targets. This opens the door for potential Heathrow expansion and the devastating consequences this would have on air quality and climate change.
The impacts of airport expansion on Black families in the UK can already be seen in east London, where the most ethnically diverse boroughs already face life-limiting air pollution levels. City Airport has been allowed to expand, concentrate flight plans and increase passengers, while the road-building lobby has continued to target the area for hugely polluting expansion plans. This is mirrored elsewhere, as in the US, where race has been shown to have a stronger influence on exposure to pollutants than poverty.
Our carbon emissions are exacerbating the health impacts caused by air pollution. The heating of the air caused by climate change traps air pollutants close to the ground, further reducing air quality. Not only does reduced air quality cause cardiovascular disease, strokes and cancer, but Black mothers exposed to high temperatures or air pollution were found in a US study to be more likely to give birth to premature or underweight babies or have a stillbirth.
This is a symptom of the systemic racism that has always been at the root of the climate crisis, driving centuries of colonisation, resource extraction and inaction towards supporting those already hit by climate destruction. Globally, Black people are bearing an unequal share of the danger and damage from climate change and pollution.
During the pandemic, the disproportionate impact of climate change and pollution on Black people is felt worse than ever. Public Health England has found that Black people have “between 10 and 50% higher risk of death” compared to white people. Now, there is strong evidence of a causal link between air quality and Covid incidence and mortality, so those in polluted towns and boroughs are placed at even greater risk. Pre-existing social inequalities already contributed to the UK at one point recording the highest Covid death rate in Europe. How many more lives must be lost before the government acts on air quality and pollution?
The UK government is hosting the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) next year, yet it is failing to lead the way on air quality. The environment bill, whilst setting new air targets, fails to enshrine World Health Organisation guidelines on PM2.5 and NO2 limits in law or set out the policy framework required to achieve their targets. Despite claiming to show climate leadership, at Saturday’s climate ambition summit – marking five years since the 2015 Paris Agreement – the government made inadequate pledges to reduce emissions by 68% on their 1990 levels by 2030.
We welcome London mayor Sadiq Khan’s response to the conclusion in Ella’s inquest. “Toxic air pollution is a public health crisis,” he said. “Ministers and the previous mayor have acted too slowly in the past, but they must now learn the lessons from the coroner’s ruling and do much more to tackle the deadly scourge of air pollution in London and across the country.”
The needless loss of life resulting caused by our government’s inaction on air quality was one of the driving forces behind the Labour Campaign for Human Rights establishing our new climate justice campaign. We exist to ensure that the Labour Party commits to tackling the causes of climate breakdown, and advances the rights of the communities most affected.
Families like Ella’s have been at the forefront of challenging racial injustice in the UK, yet Black lives continue to be disregarded in environmental policy and climate action. The government must immediately address the UK’s air pollution crisis and put in place robust systems for improving air quality. In the run-up to COP26 in November 2021, the UK needs to recognise the inequitable outcomes that climate change and pollution are continuing to cause for Black communities and set ambitious targets that put racial justice and social justice at the centre of climate action.


labourlist--2020-12-23--Angela Rayner’s Christmas message: “Thank you to all of our key workers”

Labour party chair and deputy leader Angela Rayner has used her Christmas message released today to thank “ all of our key workers who have kept us safe and kept our country going ” during the coronavirus pandemic .
Reflecting on the difficulties seen over the course of 2020 , Rayner has told the public that her “ heart goes out to everyone who is struggling , missing a loved one or isolated from their family ” over the festive period .
After paying tribute to “ the sacrifice of our key workers ” and “ the spirit of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I hope that , even in the most difficult of circumstances , everyone is able to have a Merry Christmas.
” Below is the full text of Angela Rayner ’ s Christmas message .
I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas .
This year the coronavirus pandemic has affected all of us .
Many of us have lost loved ones .
And this Christmas , my heart goes out to everyone who is struggling , missing a loved one or isolated from their family .
Christmas is a time when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has just gone .
And I want to say a massive thank you .
Thank you to the care workers and NHS staff who have risked their lives to save others .
Thank you to the supermarket staff and delivery drivers who have kept us all fed and connected .
Thank you to all of our key workers who have kept us safe and kept our country going .
There is nothing that I can say that will even come close to doing you justice .
We all owe you a debt which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I sit down for my Christmas dinner , I ’ ll be thinking of my old work mates from when I was a care worker in Stockport .
Because for our care workers and so many other key workers , their work doesn ’ t stop on Christmas Day .
I hope that at some point this Christmas you get a well-earned break .
And next year , we will fight to make sure that you get the pay rise and the respect that you deserve .
This year has been a tough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country has suffered more than almost any other .
But thanks to the sacrifice of our key workers on the frontline , and the spirit of the British people in keeping each other safe , there is a light at the end of the tunnel .
And I hope that , even in the most difficult of circumstances , everyone is able to have a Merry Christmas .

Labour party chair and deputy leader Angela Rayner has used her Christmas message released today to thank “all of our key workers who have kept us safe and kept our country going” during the coronavirus pandemic.
Reflecting on the difficulties seen over the course of 2020, Rayner has told the public that her “heart goes out to everyone who is struggling, missing a loved one or isolated from their family” over the festive period.
After paying tribute to “the sacrifice of our key workers” and “the spirit of the British people”, her message concludes: “I hope that, even in the most difficult of circumstances, everyone is able to have a Merry Christmas.”
My heart goes out to everyone who is struggling this Christmas. And to our key workers, there are no words that can do you justice. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. pic.twitter.com/lUkHBphRp2 — 🌈 Angela Rayner 🌈 (@AngelaRayner) December 23, 2020
Below is the full text of Angela Rayner’s Christmas message.
I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. This year the coronavirus pandemic has affected all of us. Many of us have lost loved ones.
And this Christmas, my heart goes out to everyone who is struggling, missing a loved one or isolated from their family. Christmas is a time when we all reflect on the year that has just gone.
And I want to say a massive thank you. Thank you to the care workers and NHS staff who have risked their lives to save others.
Thank you to the supermarket staff and delivery drivers who have kept us all fed and connected. Thank you to all of our key workers who have kept us safe and kept our country going.
There is nothing that I can say that will even come close to doing you justice. We all owe you a debt which can never be repaid.
And when I sit down for my Christmas dinner, I’ll be thinking of my old work mates from when I was a care worker in Stockport.
Because for our care workers and so many other key workers, their work doesn’t stop on Christmas Day.
I hope that at some point this Christmas you get a well-earned break. And next year, we will fight to make sure that you get the pay rise and the respect that you deserve.
This year has been a tough year for all of us. Our country has suffered more than almost any other.
But thanks to the sacrifice of our key workers on the frontline, and the spirit of the British people in keeping each other safe, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
And I hope that, even in the most difficult of circumstances, everyone is able to have a Merry Christmas.


labourlist--2020-12-23--Labour demands clarity on January return for schools and colleges

Labour has demanded that the Education Secretary provide clarity for parents , teachers and students on the return of schools and colleges in January following reports that the government is considering keeping them closed .
In a letter to Gavin Williamson , Labour ’ s Kate Green and Wes Streeting have urged the Education Secretary to outline what plans the government has after reports emerged that ministers are considering a switch to remote learning .
The Shadow Education Secretary and shadow minister for schools stressed the need for Williamson to provide clarity now , rather than wait until just a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students and staff are due to return to the classroom ” .
Commenting on the letter , Green said : “ Once again when schools , pupils and parents need certainty , the government has created chaos .
The government has lost control of the virus and children ’ s education is suffering as a result .
“ Gavin Williamson ’ s late announcement on testing has created huge stress and confusion , and now the Prime Minister has said these plans published just five days ago may not happen .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and schools with clear information about what will happen in January and what support they will receive.
” The Education Secretary last week announced the staggered return of schools in January with the roll-out of mass testing .
Schools , unions and organisations issued a joint response , calling the government proposals “ inoperable ” .
According to the plan , lateral flow test kits will be sent to schools .
Students and staff identified as having had close contact with a Covid case will be able to get a daily test over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests .
GMB argued that school staff not medically trained should not be performing the tests .
The union highlighted the chance of returning a false positive in these tests when performed by scientists is 20 % , doubling to 42.5 % when self-administered .
The National Education Union has called for schools to be allowed to stay closed until January 18th , with remote learning in place , after scientists warned that the new variant of Covid may infect children “ slightly more effectively ” .
“ We support the desire of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effective system of mass testing , ” NEU joint secretaries Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney told the Prime Minister .
“ However , we are concerned that such a system will not be in place for January 4th.
” As well as asking that schools be allowed to remain shut for longer , the union has suggested that the government begin vaccinating education staff and that it should ask local public health directors to spearhead the mass testing efforts .
Williamson said secondary schools would reopen in January on a staggered basis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children and those of key workers “ prioritised ” for testing and expected to return as normal after the break .
He announced that other pupils would receive “ full-time remote education , as close as possible to that which students would get in class , during the first week of term with face-to-face education for all starting on 11 January ” .
But Labour has highlighted that five days after the plans were published by the government , the Prime Minister was unable to guarantee that they would not change .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party has demanded that Williamson : • “ Urgently publish scientific evidence on the spread of the virus in schools and colleges and the risk this poses to students , staff and wider transmission within the community , including the new strain ; • “ Guarantee that every student will be able access learning from home , if required ; • “ Put in place plans to safeguard vulnerable children in the event that schools and colleges close ; • “ Involve the unions and school and college representatives in planning for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing ; • “ Confirm whether plans for mass testing will go ahead ; and • “ Immediately clarify when school and college staff can expect to be vaccinated against coronavirus.
” The government proposals are non-statutory but the minister has not said whether action will be taken against schools not complying .
Williamson threatened legal action for schools switching to remote learning against departmental guidance .
Robert Jenrick this morning said decisions on schools should not be made by local councils .
He argued : “ What we don ’ t want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judgments on a piecemeal basis as to whether to open or close schools .
“ That ’ s not right .
There needs to be a clear message throughout the country .
We will be bringing young people back in January .
We want to keep schools open.
” He added : “ We ’ re going to try to ensure that those young people , particularly in the affected age categories , get the testing before coming back to the classroom to protect themselves and teachers in the wider community .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary of State for Housing , Communities and Local Government told Times Radio that schools would “ definitely ” return in January and said further guidance would be made available in the next few days for schools to make plans .
Below is the full text of the letter sent by Green and Streeting .
News reports , prominently in The Daily Telegraph , suggest that ministers are planning to close schools throughout January due to fears that covid-19 is spreading faster among children .
The Prime Minister was equivocal in Monday ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return in January as planned .
An issue of this magnitude can not be left to speculation and off-the-record briefings .
We expect to hear clearly from you and the Prime Minister about the situation for schools and colleges and what you intend to do about it .
If schools are not able to reopen safely in January it will be a direct result of the government ’ s failure to get transmission under control .
Labour have said time and again that school is the best place for pupils .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they can be there safely , then you must urgently ensure that there is a credible plan in place to keep them learning and safe in the weeks ahead .
The chaotic handling of plans for mass testing in schools and colleges has already raised serious questions about the impact that your dither and delay will have on their planned return in January .
Parents , students and staff deserve answers now about how you intend to keep students learning and provide a safe working environment for staff .
Firstly , what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of the virus in schools and colleges and the risk this poses to students , staff and wider transmission within the community ?
Will you publish the scientific advice government receives on this ?
The Telegraph reports concerns from government scientists that the virus is spreading faster among children .
Is this correct ?
What evidence has the government collected about transmission within school and college settings ?
These reports understandably raise concerns about the safe return of students and staff in January .
There is already a crisis of confidence in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the shambolic end to the term and the chaotic plans to roll out mass testing in January .
These concerns must be addressed immediately , openly , and honestly to avoid further panic and confusion and to allow school and college leaders to plan the term ahead .
What is your plan for the return of schools and colleges in January ?
Can you outline the circumstances in which schools and colleges will or will not reopen at the beginning of next term ?
When will parents , students , and staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department publish a credible plan for BTECs and other technical and vocational exams in January ?
These are urgent questions which need answers now , not a matter of hours or days before students and staff are due to return to the classroom .
Can you guarantee that every student will be able access learning from home , if required ?
Keeping students learning must be a priority .
If scientific evidence directs that schools and colleges should revert to remote learning and teaching , you must ensure that no student is left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s approach to closing the digital divide to ensure that all pupils have access to suitable devices and internet access has been flat-footed and incompetent .
You u-turned on cutting the laptop allocation to schools shortly before Christmas , can you now guarantee that every student learning from home has technology needed to do so ?
If not , why not ?
What plans will the government put in place to safeguard vulnerable children ?
During the first lockdown , hundreds of vulnerable children did not attend school , yet the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online in the new year , what plans will you put in place to safeguard vulnerable children , ensure they are attending school as required and can continue learning ?
How will you involve the unions and school and college representatives in planning for the beginning of next term and the roll out of mass testing ?
Unions and professional organisations want the return of schools and mass testing to be a success , and the government should be using their expertise to deliver this .
You must realise that these organisations are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are doing all they can to keep students learning and urgently work with them to restore trust among staff .
Is the plan for mass testing still going ahead ?
We have been calling on your department to introduce for mass testing in schools for months but were dismayed at the government ’ s late announcement last week .
The stress created by this late announcement is now being compounded by the lack of clear guidance .
On Friday , Nick Gibb told the Today Programme “ the detail , operational details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work this through ” .
Given we are now just a few days away from Christmas when can schools and colleges expect this ?
This must include clarity on what training will be provided to schools , what resources will be provided to deliver testing and what staffing costs will be reimbursed .
When can school and college staff expect to receive a vaccine ?
The Health Secretary said has suggested that the government could look to move school staff up the order for vaccination .
Can you confirm whether this is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those already identified as clinically vulnerable – can expect to receive a vaccine ?
We do not believe that you understand or appreciate the immense pressure that has faced staff , students and parents during the course of this year .
Your government has added to that pressure through a combination of poor planning and incompetence .
Their safety is paramount .
Keeping students learning must be a national priority .
We expect you to set out a plan to achieve that objective immediately .
We look forward to your response .

Labour has demanded that the Education Secretary provide clarity for parents, teachers and students on the return of schools and colleges in January following reports that the government is considering keeping them closed.
In a letter to Gavin Williamson, Labour’s Kate Green and Wes Streeting have urged the Education Secretary to outline what plans the government has after reports emerged that ministers are considering a switch to remote learning.
The Shadow Education Secretary and shadow minister for schools stressed the need for Williamson to provide clarity now, rather than wait until just a “matter of hours or days before students and staff are due to return to the classroom”.
Commenting on the letter, Green said: “Once again when schools, pupils and parents need certainty, the government has created chaos. The government has lost control of the virus and children’s education is suffering as a result.
“Gavin Williamson’s late announcement on testing has created huge stress and confusion, and now the Prime Minister has said these plans published just five days ago may not happen.
“The government must provide pupils, parents, and schools with clear information about what will happen in January and what support they will receive.”
The Education Secretary last week announced the staggered return of schools in January with the roll-out of mass testing. Schools, unions and organisations issued a joint response, calling the government proposals “inoperable”.
According to the plan, lateral flow test kits will be sent to schools. Students and staff identified as having had close contact with a Covid case will be able to get a daily test over seven days while teachers will get weekly tests.
GMB argued that school staff not medically trained should not be performing the tests. The union highlighted the chance of returning a false positive in these tests when performed by scientists is 20%, doubling to 42.5% when self-administered.
The National Education Union has called for schools to be allowed to stay closed until January 18th, with remote learning in place, after scientists warned that the new variant of Covid may infect children “slightly more effectively”.
“We support the desire of the government to have an accurate and effective system of mass testing,” NEU joint secretaries Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney told the Prime Minister. “However, we are concerned that such a system will not be in place for January 4th.”
As well as asking that schools be allowed to remain shut for longer, the union has suggested that the government begin vaccinating education staff and that it should ask local public health directors to spearhead the mass testing efforts.
Williamson said secondary schools would reopen in January on a staggered basis, with only exam year groups, vulnerable children and those of key workers “prioritised” for testing and expected to return as normal after the break.
He announced that other pupils would receive “full-time remote education, as close as possible to that which students would get in class, during the first week of term with face-to-face education for all starting on 11 January”.
But Labour has highlighted that five days after the plans were published by the government, the Prime Minister was unable to guarantee that they would not change. In the letter to the minister, the party has demanded that Williamson:
“Urgently publish scientific evidence on the spread of the virus in schools and colleges and the risk this poses to students, staff and wider transmission within the community, including the new strain;
“Guarantee that every student will be able access learning from home, if required;
“Put in place plans to safeguard vulnerable children in the event that schools and colleges close;
“Involve the unions and school and college representatives in planning for the return of schools and roll out of testing;
“Confirm whether plans for mass testing will go ahead; and
“Immediately clarify when school and college staff can expect to be vaccinated against coronavirus.”
The government proposals are non-statutory but the minister has not said whether action will be taken against schools not complying. Williamson threatened legal action for schools switching to remote learning against departmental guidance.
Robert Jenrick this morning said decisions on schools should not be made by local councils. He argued: “What we don’t want to see is local authorities making individual judgments on a piecemeal basis as to whether to open or close schools.
“That’s not right. There needs to be a clear message throughout the country. We will be bringing young people back in January. We want to keep schools open.”
He added: “We’re going to try to ensure that those young people, particularly in the affected age categories, get the testing before coming back to the classroom to protect themselves and teachers in the wider community. That will mean a staggered start.”
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government told Times Radio that schools would “definitely” return in January and said further guidance would be made available in the next few days for schools to make plans.
Below is the full text of the letter sent by Green and Streeting.
Dear Gavin,
News reports, prominently in The Daily Telegraph, suggest that ministers are planning to close schools throughout January due to fears that covid-19 is spreading faster among children. The Prime Minister was equivocal in Monday’s press conference around whether schools would return in January as planned. An issue of this magnitude cannot be left to speculation and off-the-record briefings. We expect to hear clearly from you and the Prime Minister about the situation for schools and colleges and what you intend to do about it.
If schools are not able to reopen safely in January it will be a direct result of the government’s failure to get transmission under control. Labour have said time and again that school is the best place for pupils. If you and your government have failed to ensure that they can be there safely, then you must urgently ensure that there is a credible plan in place to keep them learning and safe in the weeks ahead.
The chaotic handling of plans for mass testing in schools and colleges has already raised serious questions about the impact that your dither and delay will have on their planned return in January. Parents, students and staff deserve answers now about how you intend to keep students learning and provide a safe working environment for staff.
Firstly, what does the science tell us about the spread of the virus in schools and colleges and the risk this poses to students, staff and wider transmission within the community? Will you publish the scientific advice government receives on this? The Telegraph reports concerns from government scientists that the virus is spreading faster among children. Is this correct? What evidence has the government collected about transmission within school and college settings?
These reports understandably raise concerns about the safe return of students and staff in January. There is already a crisis of confidence in the government among school and college staff after the shambolic end to the term and the chaotic plans to roll out mass testing in January. These concerns must be addressed immediately, openly, and honestly to avoid further panic and confusion and to allow school and college leaders to plan the term ahead.
What is your plan for the return of schools and colleges in January? Can you outline the circumstances in which schools and colleges will or will not reopen at the beginning of next term? When will parents, students, and staff receive this information? When will your Department publish a credible plan for BTECs and other technical and vocational exams in January? These are urgent questions which need answers now, not a matter of hours or days before students and staff are due to return to the classroom.
Can you guarantee that every student will be able access learning from home, if required? Keeping students learning must be a priority. If scientific evidence directs that schools and colleges should revert to remote learning and teaching, you must ensure that no student is left behind. Throughout this crisis your Department’s approach to closing the digital divide to ensure that all pupils have access to suitable devices and internet access has been flat-footed and incompetent. You u-turned on cutting the laptop allocation to schools shortly before Christmas, can you now guarantee that every student learning from home has technology needed to do so? If not, why not?
What plans will the government put in place to safeguard vulnerable children? During the first lockdown, hundreds of vulnerable children did not attend school, yet the government did nothing. If learning is moved online in the new year, what plans will you put in place to safeguard vulnerable children, ensure they are attending school as required and can continue learning?
How will you involve the unions and school and college representatives in planning for the beginning of next term and the roll out of mass testing? Unions and professional organisations want the return of schools and mass testing to be a success, and the government should be using their expertise to deliver this. You must realise that these organisations are representing genuine concerns of their members, who are doing all they can to keep students learning and urgently work with them to restore trust among staff.
Is the plan for mass testing still going ahead? We have been calling on your department to introduce for mass testing in schools for months but were dismayed at the government’s late announcement last week. The stress created by this late announcement is now being compounded by the lack of clear guidance. On Friday, Nick Gibb told the Today Programme “the detail, operational details will be published next week as we work this through”. Given we are now just a few days away from Christmas when can schools and colleges expect this? This must include clarity on what training will be provided to schools, what resources will be provided to deliver testing and what staffing costs will be reimbursed.
When can school and college staff expect to receive a vaccine? The Health Secretary said has suggested that the government could look to move school staff up the order for vaccination. Can you confirm whether this is the case, and when staff – beyond those already identified as clinically vulnerable – can expect to receive a vaccine?
We do not believe that you understand or appreciate the immense pressure that has faced staff, students and parents during the course of this year. Your government has added to that pressure through a combination of poor planning and incompetence. Their safety is paramount. Keeping students learning must be a national priority. We expect you to set out a plan to achieve that objective immediately.
We look forward to your response.


labourlist--2020-12-22--Keir Starmer political peerage nominations unveiled

Nominations to the House of Lords for the 2020 political peerages have been unveiled today , with Keir Starmer appointing five of the 16 set to take up seats in the upper chamber of the UK parliament .
Those nominated by Starmer include his political secretary and former Darlington MP Jenny Chapman , former Gedling MP Vernon Coaker and Board of Deputies of British Jews chief executive and former Lincoln MP Gillian Merron .
The Labour leader also appointed councillor Judith Blake , Labour leader of Leeds City Council , and former MEP for North West England Wajid Khan in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afternoon .
Coaker , who sat in the Commons as a Labour MP between 1997 and 2019 and held ministerial positions under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown , issued a statement on social media following the announcement of his nomination .
He said he was “ honoured ” to have been picked by the Labour leader , and declared : “ I am ready to continue to fight for those Labour values that I believe are more important than ever on a local , national and international level.
” The Prime Minister made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party co-treasurer and city tycoon Peter Cruddas , despite the House of Lords appointment commission advising Boris Johnson that it could not support the nomination .
The commission is an independent , non-statutory body .
The Prime Minister has the right to overrule it and nominate against the advice of the panel but rarely exercises this power – and he has faced fresh accusations of cronyism with the appointment .
Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said : “ After months of revelations about the cronyism at the heart of this government , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has chosen to end the year with a peerage to Peter Cruddas , the man who once corruptly offered access to government in exchange for cash .
“ Whether it ’ s the Dominic Cummings saga , wasting hundreds of millions of taxpayer cash on contracts that don ’ t deliver or giving peerages to disgraced donors , it ’ s never been more clear : there is one rule for the Conservatives and their chums , another for the rest of the country.
” Cruddas resigned from his position as co-treasurer in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access for cash .
Undercover footage emerged of him offering access to the Prime Minister and the Chancellor for up to £250,000 .
Cruddas donated £50,000 to Johnson ’ s leadership campaign , as well as giving more than £3.5m to the Conservative Party and £1.5m to the Vote Leave campaign .
He also co-founded the Vote Leave campaign .
Below is the full list of nominations .
Nominations from the leader of the Conservative Party : • Rt Hon Sir Richard Benyon – former parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Department for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP for Newbury .
• Dame Jacqueline Foster – formerly deputy leader of the Conservative Party in the European parliament and MEP for North West England .
• Syed Kamall – formerly Leader of the Conservative Party in the European parliament and MEP for London .
Nominations from the leader of the Labour Party : • Vernon Coaker – formerly minister of state for schools and MP for Gedling .
• Gillian Merron – chief executive of the Board of Deputies of British Jews , former minister of state for public health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Etherton PC QC – master of the rolls and head of civil justice .
• Sir Simon McDonald KCMG KCVO – lately permanent under-secretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Head of the diplomatic service .
• Sir Andrew Parker KCB – lately director general of MI5 , the Security Service .
• The Rt Revd .
And Rt Hon Dr John Sentamu – lately Archbishop of York .

Nominations to the House of Lords for the 2020 political peerages have been unveiled today, with Keir Starmer appointing five of the 16 set to take up seats in the upper chamber of the UK parliament.
Those nominated by Starmer include his political secretary and former Darlington MP Jenny Chapman, former Gedling MP Vernon Coaker and Board of Deputies of British Jews chief executive and former Lincoln MP Gillian Merron.
The Labour leader also appointed councillor Judith Blake, Labour leader of Leeds City Council, and former MEP for North West England Wajid Khan in the list published by the government this afternoon.
Coaker, who sat in the Commons as a Labour MP between 1997 and 2019 and held ministerial positions under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, issued a statement on social media following the announcement of his nomination.
He said he was “honoured” to have been picked by the Labour leader, and declared: “I am ready to continue to fight for those Labour values that I believe are more important than ever on a local, national and international level.”
The Prime Minister made seven recommendations, including the former Tory Party co-treasurer and city tycoon Peter Cruddas, despite the House of Lords appointment commission advising Boris Johnson that it could not support the nomination.
The commission is an independent, non-statutory body. The Prime Minister has the right to overrule it and nominate against the advice of the panel but rarely exercises this power – and he has faced fresh accusations of cronyism with the appointment.
Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said: “After months of revelations about the cronyism at the heart of this government, it’s somehow appropriate the Prime Minister has chosen to end the year with a peerage to Peter Cruddas, the man who once corruptly offered access to government in exchange for cash.
“Whether it’s the Dominic Cummings saga, wasting hundreds of millions of taxpayer cash on contracts that don’t deliver or giving peerages to disgraced donors, it’s never been more clear: there is one rule for the Conservatives and their chums, another for the rest of the country.”
Cruddas resigned from his position as co-treasurer in 2012 after he was found offering political access for cash. Undercover footage emerged of him offering access to the Prime Minister and the Chancellor for up to £250,000.
Cruddas donated £50,000 to Johnson’s leadership campaign, as well as giving more than £3.5m to the Conservative Party and £1.5m to the Vote Leave campaign. He also co-founded the Vote Leave campaign.
Below is the full list of nominations.
Nominations from the leader of the Conservative Party:
Rt Hon Sir Richard Benyon – former parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and MP for Newbury.
Peter Cruddas – businessman and philanthropist.
Dame Jacqueline Foster – formerly deputy leader of the Conservative Party in the European parliament and MEP for North West England.
Stephanie Fraser – chief executive of Cerebral Palsy Scotland.
Dean Godson – director of Policy Exchange.
Daniel Hannan – formerly MEP for South East England.
Syed Kamall – formerly Leader of the Conservative Party in the European parliament and MEP for London.
Nominations from the leader of the Labour Party:
Cllr Judith Blake CBE – leader of Leeds City Council.
Jennifer Chapman – formerly MP for Darlington.
Vernon Coaker – formerly minister of state for schools and MP for Gedling.
Wajid Khan – formerly MEP for North West England.
Gillian Merron – chief executive of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, former minister of state for public health and MP for Lincoln.
Nominations for crossbench peerages: