conservativehome--2020-06-11--John Pennington: Anti-government ideologues are denying children in Bradford the education they need

Cllr John Pennington is the Leader of the Conservative Group on Bradford Council West Yorkshire consists of five Labour-controlled Authorities .
One intends to sit on the fence regarding schools reopening ; three intend to delay ; and one will actively work towards fully reopening .
Strange that the latter has the least pressure from a Union who by their detrimental actions elsewhere are stopping children from learning .
In Bradford , the Labour-led Council , by clever wording , almost discourage head teachers from reopening by highlighting the need to properly consider the health and safety risks , risks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stringent enough for the children of key workers already accommodated .
The message gives the impression that school returns are potentially unsafe , thereby discouraging especially the vulnerable children to return .
It is incredibly frustrating that Bradford Council seems to be making a political issue out of this .
The Council have adopted a win win position which leads to confusion and inconsistency across the district with the potential that some schools will open whilst others stay shut .
Indeed one school has already indicated they will not open at all before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have listened to the concerns of schools , parents , and unions , and share concerns about the stance being taken by the Government in the reopening of schools .
The teachers union are trying to persuade their members not to co-operate with Government plans for a limited return to school , arguing of particular risks to teachers and clearly favouring a delay until the start of the new school year .
Here we have a union supported by the Labour-led Council but they do not shout for fear of upsetting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of .
One of our Labour MP ’ s has gained column inches by calling for schools to be kept shut .
After following all the correct procedures , two Bradford schools have been forced to close on advice from Public Health England .
One closed when two related pupils tested positive for coronavirus and another , a staff member .
The premises require a deep clean which can take up to a week and both staff and children have to self isolate .
Some schools have been open for most of lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accommodate keyworker children and the vulnerable , the latter have been the most affected .
School heads are under extreme pressure , reassuring the safety of children , staff , parents , and families , compounded by having to make weekly data returns with an almost running commentary and up to 50 questions .
It is to be expected that head teachers and staff have reservations , so support and encouragement should be given so that they do not become negative .
Councils also need to ensure that resources are available to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or soap are simply not adequate .
Hundreds of children from disadvantaged backgrounds across the district suffer from digital inequality .
Pupils who normally rely on schools and libraries to gain access to the internet are unable to do so during lockdown .
Recent research suggests that two-thirds of pupils have not been accessing online lessons .
Through another excellent Government scheme , Bradford Council has secured 2,151 computers as well as laptops , tablets , and 4G routers to help with home schooling during the pandemic .
Provided free , this will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Year 10 students who are due to take GCSE ’ s next year .
I do ask for caution , even while the Treasury ’ s generosity must be taken full advantage of .
It is one thing to source and distribute such valuable learning aids but they must be put to maximum use and for the intended purpose .
The quoted phrase , working with other agencies , gives me the shivers .
It can mean a pat on the back for distribution , a tick in the box for job done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only just starting , someone somewhere needs to be responsible for the whole process .
In the age of digital tracking , surely it is not beyond the wit of man ( or woman ) to track the equipment to ensure that it is being used by the correct person for the purpose intended .
If there is no activity or incorrect use we should ask why .
Perhaps help is needed .
Failure to comply will necessitate return or being paid for , followed by redistribution to a good home and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too long in many situations I have witnessed departments distributing items like confetti because they have “ not cost anything ” ; well it has cost you and I the taxpayer .
If the process is not monitored I can easily envisage the equipment either not reaching the intended recipient or simply being sold on ; Rishi Sunak deserves better .
In Bradford , we are currently winning the battle locally if not in the Press , with a calmer return to work .
The Local Government Minister has re-iterated that families who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to school will not be penalised .
My message is never bite the hand that feeds you and that councils need a more sophisticated message to Government other than ‘ we want more money ’ .
Believe me , times are going to have to change .

Cllr John Pennington is the Leader of the Conservative Group on Bradford Council
West Yorkshire consists of five Labour-controlled Authorities. One intends to sit on the fence regarding schools reopening; three intend to delay; and one will actively work towards fully reopening. Strange that the latter has the least pressure from a Union who by their detrimental actions elsewhere are stopping children from learning.
In Bradford, the Labour-led Council, by clever wording, almost discourage head teachers from reopening by highlighting the need to properly consider the health and safety risks, risks now not deemed to be safe or stringent enough for the children of key workers already accommodated. The message gives the impression that school returns are potentially unsafe, thereby discouraging especially the vulnerable children to return. It is incredibly frustrating that Bradford Council seems to be making a political issue out of this. The Council have adopted a win win position which leads to confusion and inconsistency across the district with the potential that some schools will open whilst others stay shut. Indeed one school has already indicated they will not open at all before the summer holidays. The Council state they have listened to the concerns of schools, parents, and unions, and share concerns about the stance being taken by the Government in the reopening of schools.
The teachers union are trying to persuade their members not to co-operate with Government plans for a limited return to school, arguing of particular risks to teachers and clearly favouring a delay until the start of the new school year. Here we have a union supported by the Labour-led Council but they do not shout for fear of upsetting the Treasury whose taxpayers money they want more of. One of our Labour MP’s has gained column inches by calling for schools to be kept shut.
After following all the correct procedures, two Bradford schools have been forced to close on advice from Public Health England. One closed when two related pupils tested positive for coronavirus and another, a staff member. The premises require a deep clean which can take up to a week and both staff and children have to self isolate. Some schools have been open for most of lockdown, over 10 or more weeks to accommodate keyworker children and the vulnerable, the latter have been the most affected. School heads are under extreme pressure, reassuring the safety of children, staff, parents, and families, compounded by having to make weekly data returns with an almost running commentary and up to 50 questions. It is to be expected that head teachers and staff have reservations, so support and encouragement should be given so that they do not become negative. Councils also need to ensure that resources are available to provide PPE and distancing aids, hand sanitiser or soap are simply not adequate.
Hundreds of children from disadvantaged backgrounds across the district suffer from digital inequality. Pupils who normally rely on schools and libraries to gain access to the internet are unable to do so during lockdown. Recent research suggests that two-thirds of pupils have not been accessing online lessons. Through another excellent Government scheme, Bradford Council has secured 2,151 computers as well as laptops, tablets, and 4G routers to help with home schooling during the pandemic. Provided free, this will be of particular help to the underprivileged Year 10 students who are due to take GCSE’s next year.
I do ask for caution, even while the Treasury’s generosity must be taken full advantage of. It is one thing to source and distribute such valuable learning aids but they must be put to maximum use and for the intended purpose. The quoted phrase, working with other agencies, gives me the shivers. It can mean a pat on the back for distribution, a tick in the box for job done, when in fact the job is only just starting, someone somewhere needs to be responsible for the whole process. In the age of digital tracking, surely it is not beyond the wit of man (or woman) to track the equipment to ensure that it is being used by the correct person for the purpose intended.
If there is no activity or incorrect use we should ask why. Perhaps help is needed. Failure to comply will necessitate return or being paid for, followed by redistribution to a good home and a repeat of the process. For far too long in many situations I have witnessed departments distributing items like confetti because they have “not cost anything”; well it has cost you and I the taxpayer. If the process is not monitored I can easily envisage the equipment either not reaching the intended recipient or simply being sold on; Rishi Sunak deserves better.
In Bradford, we are currently winning the battle locally if not in the Press, with a calmer return to work. The Local Government Minister has re-iterated that families who do not wish to return their children to school will not be penalised. My message is never bite the hand that feeds you and that councils need a more sophisticated message to Government other than ‘we want more money’. Believe me, times are going to have to change.


conservativehome--2020-06-11--Marx, Engels and what their omission from the statue-toppling campaign tells us

Another day , another quest for statue toppling – in the name of anti-racism .
This time Robert Baden-Powell , the founder of the scouting movement , is set to be removed on Poole Quay on the basis his views have aged badly .
Forget that the scouts have brought thousands of boys from different backgrounds together for a common good , activists have said there is “ no excuse for his documented homophobia , racism and enthusiastic support of Hitler ” .
Where does this madness end , one wonders ?
No one can be sure – but what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather selective about their choice of problematic figures .
They have compiled a hit list of statues to be brought down , in a website titled Topple the Racists .
Sir Robert Peel and Nelson ’ s column – yes really – are in their sights , among other targets .
But Marx and Engels don ’ t make the cut , simply confirming many people ’ s suspicion ; that this campaign has become Far Left ideological warfare .
As far as the revolutionaries are concerned , the fathers of Communism are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see anti-capitalist movements as perfect ; synonymous with progress and equality .
Or perhaps they don ’ t want to acknowledge inconvenient truths – as it does not suit their agenda .
Either way , the lack of consistency shows .
After all , anyone who ’ s well-versed in history will know that founding fathers have their own troubles .
Take Marx , who once praised the work of racist French ethnologist Pierre Tremaux ; writing to Engels , he said Tremaux had “ proved that the common Negro type is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ .
Some of his comments went even further than that , and Hitler admired him .
Following the United States annexation of California after the Mexican war , Marx wrote : “ Is it a misfortune that magnificent California was seized from the lazy Mexicans who did not know what to do with it ?
” Though of Jewish origin , his essay On the Jewish Question is infamous for its anti-Semitism , with lines such as : “ What is the secular basis of Judaism ?
Practical need , self-interest… The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Jew ” .
But where are the protests calling for his tomb to be dismantled in Highgate cemetery ?
And does anyone want to rename the Marx Memorial Library something a bit more appropriate for our times ?
Sadiq Khan ?
Anyone ?
Engels , additionally , needs a review .
In 1849 , he penned an article in which he claimed “ only three standard-bearers of progress… still retain their vitality – the Germans , the Poles and the Magyars .
Hence they are now revolutionary .
All the other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destined to perish before long in the revolutionary world storm ” .
Should the statue of him in Manchester come down too ?
There ’ s even The Guardian ; it has been revealed that the paper supported the confederacy ’ s “ self-determination ” in the American civil war – even writing that “ it was an evil day both for America and the world when [ Lincoln ] was chosen President of the United States ” .
Should we be shouting outside the paper ’ s offices – demanding everything has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ConservativeHome doesn ’ t vouch for statue toppling or historical erasure ; it ’ s anarchic , and treats the past as though it can be purged for its ills .
We believe this censorship is just the beginning ; the parameters of what ’ s unacceptable will widen further and further , and before you know it , it ’ ll be your books in the firing line .
Heads must roll – albeit bronzed ones for now .
But the protestors should at least be consistent .
If they intend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of date now ( to put it politely ) , they better tackle the full ideological spectrum .
The fact Marx and Engels have not made the cut tells you everything you need to know .

Another day, another quest for statue toppling – in the name of anti-racism. This time Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the scouting movement, is set to be removed on Poole Quay on the basis his views have aged badly. Forget that the scouts have brought thousands of boys from different backgrounds together for a common good, activists have said there is “no excuse for his documented homophobia, racism and enthusiastic support of Hitler”.
Where does this madness end, one wonders? No one can be sure – but what seems clear is that the revolutionaries are rather selective about their choice of problematic figures. They have compiled a hit list of statues to be brought down, in a website titled Topple the Racists. Sir Robert Peel and Nelson’s column – yes really – are in their sights, among other targets. But Marx and Engels don’t make the cut, simply confirming many people’s suspicion; that this campaign has become Far Left ideological warfare.
As far as the revolutionaries are concerned, the fathers of Communism are immune to criticism. No doubt they see anti-capitalist movements as perfect; synonymous with progress and equality. Or perhaps they don’t want to acknowledge inconvenient truths – as it does not suit their agenda. Either way, the lack of consistency shows.
After all, anyone who’s well-versed in history will know that founding fathers have their own troubles. Take Marx, who once praised the work of racist French ethnologist Pierre Tremaux; writing to Engels, he said Tremaux had “proved that the common Negro type is the degenerate form of a much higher one“. Some of his comments went even further than that, and Hitler admired him.
Following the United States annexation of California after the Mexican war, Marx wrote: “Is it a misfortune that magnificent California was seized from the lazy Mexicans who did not know what to do with it?” Though of Jewish origin, his essay On the Jewish Question is infamous for its anti-Semitism, with lines such as: “What is the secular basis of Judaism? Practical need, self-interest… The bill of exchange is the real god of the Jew”.
But where are the protests calling for his tomb to be dismantled in Highgate cemetery? And does anyone want to rename the Marx Memorial Library something a bit more appropriate for our times? Sadiq Khan? Anyone?
Engels, additionally, needs a review. In 1849, he penned an article in which he claimed “only three standard-bearers of progress… still retain their vitality – the Germans, the Poles and the Magyars. Hence they are now revolutionary. All the other large and small nationalities and peoples are destined to perish before long in the revolutionary world storm”.
Should the statue of him in Manchester come down too?
There’s even The Guardian; it has been revealed that the paper supported the confederacy’s “self-determination” in the American civil war – even writing that “it was an evil day both for America and the world when [Lincoln] was chosen President of the United States”. Should we be shouting outside the paper’s offices – demanding everything has to be renamed?
Make no mistake, ConservativeHome doesn’t vouch for statue toppling or historical erasure; it’s anarchic, and treats the past as though it can be purged for its ills. We believe this censorship is just the beginning; the parameters of what’s unacceptable will widen further and further, and before you know it, it’ll be your books in the firing line. Heads must roll – albeit bronzed ones for now.
But the protestors should at least be consistent. If they intend to topple Baden-Powell because his comments look out of date now (to put it politely), they better tackle the full ideological spectrum. The fact Marx and Engels have not made the cut tells you everything you need to know.


Bailey must stand

Earlier this week the Financial Times ran a story entitled : The suggestion was that Shaun Bailey should be replaced as candidate .
It added that Sajid Javid , the former Chancellor of the Exchequer , had been “ sounded out.
” Appropriately enough for the Financial Times , the paper ’ s journalists had been talking to donors .
The report stated : “ Some of the party ’ s most prominent financial backers are also sceptical of Mr Bailey ’ s chances and have told current co-chair Ben Elliot that he should be replaced.
” “ There is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He ’ s a nice guy but he ’ s barely broken 20 per cent in the polls .
The year delay means we have the opportunity to reset the race.
” “ Shaun just doesn ’ t have it .
At every donor meeting he is wheeled out but he just fails to connect .
Being a politician doesn ’ t seem to come naturally to him.
” The report claimed that “ there is a view at Conservative party HQ that Mr Bailey was selected too soon ” .
The exasperation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has important responsibilities – for policing , for transport , on the housing supply .
The Labour incumbent , Sadiq Khan , has failed on an epic scale on all of them .
It used to be that knife crime was the most prominent .
During the lockdown , the mismanagement of Transport for London has risen up the agenda .
Yet Labour is so well entrenched in the capital that Khan ’ s position seems unassailable .
In December ’ s General Election , the Conservatives won 21 seats out of 73 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change in a year .
It was heroic of Boris Johnson to offer himself as a Mayoral candidate in 2007 , despite all the sophisticated Party high ups patiently explaining to him that victory was impossible .
The next year Johnson was triumphantly elected .
But since then demographic change has made London even more difficult territory for the Conservatives .
I suppose if Javid was the candidate then he could point out that Khan wasn ’ t the only one to be the son of a Pakistani bus driver .
More seriously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial career before entering politics and his crime fighting credentials as Home Secretary .
But none of that would transform the race – which Javid has the sense to realise , hence he has evidently rejected any supposed overtures .
So let ’ s stick with Bailey .
Yes , the odds are overwhelmingly against us , but rather than moaning about that obvious problem , we should give it us best shot .
But I do wish that Bailey would find his mojo .
He needs to rediscover his voice as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conservatism .
That includes ridiculing and confronting all the virtue signalling gestures and political correctness of the current regime in City Hall .
Most emphatically it does not mean “ taking the knee ” .
Yet Bailey wrote in the Daily Mail “ Justice and policing in Britain still have a long way to go before they are perfect .
That ’ s why it was so moving to see several police officers near Downing Street ‘ take the knee ’ yesterday , adopting the gesture that American footballer Colin Kaepernick created as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to cheer every policeman and policewoman who did that.
” Kaepernick “ took the knee ” during the playing of the US national anthem .
The unpatriotic gesture was divisive and damaging .
The vast majority of the National Football League – black and white – have not participated in it .
Adapted over here the proposal seems to be that white people should do it on the logic that we share collective guilt for Derek Chauvin ’ s murder of George Floyd .
No .
We are individually accountable for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the United States has promoted this racist doctrine of collective racial guilt ( along with such extremist policies as “ defund the police ” and overthrow capitalism ) .
It is thoroughly pernicious .
The simple and clear response should be that all lives matter .
Clusters of middle class white people on one knee might look ridiculous – especially when they combine this contrite posture with the defiance of a clenched fist , a gesture culturally appropriated from the “ black power ” movement .
Yet the action is seriously misguided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow that racism should be ignored .
While the Conservatives are the party of law and order , the police should get no special exemption in this respect .
Police officers behaving in a discriminatory way should not be accepted .
It is also right to keep track of whether such matters are just problems with “ one or two individuals ” in an organisation or whether it is endemic .
We can argue about the term “ institutional racism ” but certainly racism was widespread , even routine , in the Metropolitan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is much less so now .
It is in the interests of all of us for the police to devote their efforts to catching criminals , not fitting up the innocent .
Any police officer unable or unwilling to do their job effectively – whether due to prejudice , corruption , idleness , or incompetence – should be dismissed .
Bailey was on stronger form last night with a Twitter thread where he declared that the Mayor ’ s “ hastily announced commission to tear down statues and rename roads across London is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He says : “ London has historically been an international city , and that means we have an international history .
I ’ m proud for example that Parliament Square hosts statues not only of British leaders , but international giants like Gandhi , Lincoln and Mandela….Communists as well as fascists destroyed historical artefacts , art and statues as their power grew .
Why ?
Because when you control the past , you control the present .
I for one , don ’ t feel comfortable with the Mayor of London engaging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a society built on history means living with the past….The answer to this issue isn ’ t for the Mayor to act like a dictator , seeking to erase large parts of London ’ s history .
The answer is to build more statues , reflecting our present day values and role models….Because the alternative is mob-rule .
Last weekend a mob were seeking to take down a statue of someone we can all agree was a detestable man .
But what happens if next week ’ s mob is made up of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down Gandhi ’ s statue , or Mandela ’ s ?
…London ’ s black youth unemployment is 29 % .
Crime , which disproportionately affects poorer and diverse communities , is spiralling out of control .
Public transport is bankrupt and the affordable homes the Mayor promised were never built .
Real action is needed for a fairer and equal city , for everyone who lives here .
That ’ s where the Mayor ’ s focus should be .
Not appeasing the mob .
Instead of trying to forget the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future.
” That ’ s more like it .
We Conservatives in London must get off our knees .
We should stop apologising .
That doesn ’ t mean becoming a mouthpiece for the Government .
But nor does it mean appeasing the Left by issuing unconvincing claims that we agree with whatever their latest demand might be .
Socialist hegemony in our capital is a reality that will be hard to change .
Selecting good candidates is important .
However , more fundamental is fighting the battle of ideas – to apply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a robust and coherent way .
We can scarcely expect Londoners to accept the Conservative case until we start putting that case to them .

Earlier this week the Financial Times ran a story entitled:
“Conservative doubts grow over candidate for London mayor”
The suggestion was that Shaun Bailey should be replaced as candidate. It added that Sajid Javid, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, had been “sounded out.” Appropriately enough for the Financial Times, the paper’s journalists had been talking to donors. The report stated:
“Some of the party’s most prominent financial backers are also sceptical of Mr Bailey’s chances and have told current co-chair Ben Elliot that he should be replaced.”
One “large Conservative donor” said:
“There is no way Shaun can beat Sadiq. He’s a nice guy but he’s barely broken 20 per cent in the polls. The year delay means we have the opportunity to reset the race.”
Another “large Conservative donor” said:
“Shaun just doesn’t have it. At every donor meeting he is wheeled out but he just fails to connect. Being a politician doesn’t seem to come naturally to him.”
The report claimed that “there is a view at Conservative party HQ that Mr Bailey was selected too soon”.
The exasperation is understandable. The Mayor of London has important responsibilities – for policing, for transport, on the housing supply. The Labour incumbent, Sadiq Khan, has failed on an epic scale on all of them. It used to be that knife crime was the most prominent. During the lockdown, the mismanagement of Transport for London has risen up the agenda. Yet Labour is so well entrenched in the capital that Khan’s position seems unassailable. In December’s General Election, the Conservatives won 21 seats out of 73 in Greater London.
A lot can change in a year. It was heroic of Boris Johnson to offer himself as a Mayoral candidate in 2007, despite all the sophisticated Party high ups patiently explaining to him that victory was impossible. The next year Johnson was triumphantly elected. But since then demographic change has made London even more difficult territory for the Conservatives. I suppose if Javid was the candidate then he could point out that Khan wasn’t the only one to be the son of a Pakistani bus driver. More seriously, he could point to his successful financial career before entering politics and his crime fighting credentials as Home Secretary. But none of that would transform the race – which Javid has the sense to realise, hence he has evidently rejected any supposed overtures.
So let’s stick with Bailey. Yes, the odds are overwhelmingly against us, but rather than moaning about that obvious problem, we should give it us best shot. But I do wish that Bailey would find his mojo. He needs to rediscover his voice as a passionate, unapologetic, independent-minded champion for Conservatism. That includes ridiculing and confronting all the virtue signalling gestures and political correctness of the current regime in City Hall. Most emphatically it does not mean “taking the knee”. Yet Bailey wrote in the Daily Mail
“Justice and policing in Britain still have a long way to go before they are perfect. That’s why it was so moving to see several police officers near Downing Street ‘take the knee’ yesterday, adopting the gesture that American footballer Colin Kaepernick created as a silent statement against racism. I want to cheer every policeman and policewoman who did that.”
Kaepernick “took the knee” during the playing of the US national anthem. The unpatriotic gesture was divisive and damaging. The vast majority of the National Football League – black and white – have not participated in it. Adapted over here the proposal seems to be that white people should do it on the logic that we share collective guilt for Derek Chauvin’s murder of George Floyd. No. We are individually accountable for our actions. The Black Lives Matter campaign in the United States has promoted this racist doctrine of collective racial guilt (along with such extremist policies as “defund the police” and overthrow capitalism). It is thoroughly pernicious. The simple and clear response should be that all lives matter. Clusters of middle class white people on one knee might look ridiculous – especially when they combine this contrite posture with the defiance of a clenched fist, a gesture culturally appropriated from the “black power” movement. Yet the action is seriously misguided.
Of course, it does not follow that racism should be ignored. While the Conservatives are the party of law and order, the police should get no special exemption in this respect. Police officers behaving in a discriminatory way should not be accepted. It is also right to keep track of whether such matters are just problems with “one or two individuals” in an organisation or whether it is endemic. We can argue about the term “institutional racism” but certainly racism was widespread, even routine, in the Metropolitan Police around 40 years ago. That is much less so now. It is in the interests of all of us for the police to devote their efforts to catching criminals, not fitting up the innocent. Any police officer unable or unwilling to do their job effectively – whether due to prejudice, corruption, idleness, or incompetence – should be dismissed.
Bailey was on stronger form last night with a Twitter thread where he declared that the Mayor’s “hastily announced commission to tear down statues and rename roads across London is both a dangerous and divisive idea”. He says:
“London has historically been an international city, and that means we have an international history. I’m proud for example that Parliament Square hosts statues not only of British leaders, but international giants like Gandhi, Lincoln and Mandela….Communists as well as fascists destroyed historical artefacts, art and statues as their power grew. Why? Because when you control the past, you control the present. I for one, don’t feel comfortable with the Mayor of London engaging in the same behaviour. Living in a society built on history means living with the past….The answer to this issue isn’t for the Mayor to act like a dictator, seeking to erase large parts of London’s history. The answer is to build more statues, reflecting our present day values and role models….Because the alternative is mob-rule. Last weekend a mob were seeking to take down a statue of someone we can all agree was a detestable man. But what happens if next week’s mob is made up of the far-right, who decide to tear down Gandhi’s statue, or Mandela’s?…London’s black youth unemployment is 29%. Crime, which disproportionately affects poorer and diverse communities, is spiralling out of control. Public transport is bankrupt and the affordable homes the Mayor promised were never built. Real action is needed for a fairer and equal city, for everyone who lives here. That’s where the Mayor’s focus should be. Not appeasing the mob. Instead of trying to forget the past, we should be focused on the future.”
That’s more like it. We Conservatives in London must get off our knees. We should stop apologising. That doesn’t mean becoming a mouthpiece for the Government. But nor does it mean appeasing the Left by issuing unconvincing claims that we agree with whatever their latest demand might be. Socialist hegemony in our capital is a reality that will be hard to change. Selecting good candidates is important. However, more fundamental is fighting the battle of ideas – to apply our beliefs to the needs of London in a robust and coherent way. We can scarcely expect Londoners to accept the Conservative case until we start putting that case to them.


conservativehome--2020-06-11--Henry Hill: New polling shows Welsh devoscepticism is no longer a fringe interest

New polling shows devoscepticism is no fringe interest Fresh polling has shown that the constitutional debate in Wales is becoming more polarised , with growing support both for independence and for doing away with devolution entirely .
Presenting the findings ( with a nationalist gloss ) on Nation.Cymru , Roger Awan-Scully reveals that a quarter of voters say they would vote ‘ Yes ’ to independence were the question posed tomorrow .
( Experience in Scotland suggests any vote would see this number rise , as the very staging of a referendum legitimised the option ) .
But it isn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polls also showed a sharpening of support for re-integrating Wales into a British constitutional framework , with overwhelming support amongst Welsh Conservative voters .
Scrapping devolution also beats independence in a head-to-head battle .
These findings add to the sense that this is a looming problem for the Tories in Wales , whose Cardiff Bay leadership are devo-enthusiasts who think their path to getting Labour out lies through a pact with Plaid .
Yet hundreds of thousands of Conservative voters sit the devolved contests out , relegating the Party to level pegging with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restive on the issue .
It has fallen to Daniel Kawczynski , the MP for the border constituency of Shrewsbury , to raise the standard of devoscepticism .
Undeterred by the criticism he received from the Welsh Tory leadership , he has returned fire in the Daily Express , warning that devolutionaries are “ chipping away at the Union ” .
His local paper , the Shropshire Star , has also published a debate between Kawczynski and Ken Skates , a Welsh minister , on whether or not devolution is good for Wales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heresy , meanwhile , Labour are engaging in another bout of their usual intellectual necromancy on the constitutional question .
A new group , ‘ Labour for Devolution ’ , are reviving the idea of regional assemblies , calling for each nation and region of the UK to have a parliament equal in power to Holyrood – presumably for no other reason than Edinburgh being devolution ’ s high-water mark and thus avoiding having to ask any awkward questions about bringing powers back .
Meanwhile , in another piece , Fraser has suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would entail rolling back devolution .
That seems like too much to hope for .
The Scottish Government has been extremely fortunate that the woes of the British Government have overshadowed its own domestic failures , but it continues to face questions over the unfolding ‘ care homes crisis ’ .
This morning the Guardian reported that there exists a “ scandalous ” postcode lottery when it comes to testing for staff and residents in the at-risk facilities .
At the weekend the Times also revealed that a second official report , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was not prepared for a pandemic due to staff and resource shortages .
Jackson Carlaw , the leader of the Scottish Conservatives , has challenged the First Minister over her failure to appoint a dedicated minister to oversee care homes once the scale of the threat became apparent .
Murdo Fraser dedicated his column this week to highlighting how ill-equipped a newly-independent Scotland would have been to meet the Covid-19 crisis , whilst Ian Smart has a blog setting out a string of institutional failures across broad swaths of devolved government .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson also attacked Ian Blackford , the SNP ’ s Westminster leader , for his “ obscurantism and myth-making ” about the Government ’ s performances .
Fury over claim Sinn Fein is blocking payments to IRA victims The Government has challenged Sinn Fein after the Republican party was accused of blocking payments to victims of the Troubles – because they wanted ex-prisoners to get payments too , according to the Daily Mail .
Speaking at Prime Minister ’ s Questions , Johnson told a DUP MP that it was ‘ very important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ running , and that it will provide “ a fair , balanced and proportionate way of helping all those who suffered most during the Troubles.
” Under the scheme , which was outlined by the Government earlier this year , victims who suffered either physical or psychological injury will receive between £2,000 and £10,000 per annum – but not those convicted of serious offences or injured by their own actions .
Sinn Fein have refused to nominate a Stormont department to operate the programme .
There is also a dispute over who ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brandon Lewis refusing to commit to its being paid for by Westminster .
In another news , the Irish backstop – which this Government signed up to – is apparently forcing retailers to consider moving operations out of Northern Ireland .
The constitutional damage it will do to the Union grows clearer by the day .
In the event of a no-deal Brexit , will ministers have the courage to resile from it and insist that the proper place for a border is , bluntly , where the Border is ?
Holyrood committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ release of Salmond documents MSPs have expressed frustration at the Scottish Government ’ s slowness to release key documents relating to Alex Salmond , the Daily Record reports .
A special Holyrood committee has been convened to investigate the ‘ fiasco ’ in which an internal probe into the former First Minister ’ s alleged misconduct ended up in court , with Salmond victorious and a judge ruling the inquiry “ tainted by bias and unlawful ” , in the Record ’ s words .
All at a total cost to the taxpayer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to suspend its work when Salmond was charged with various sexual offences , but has been able to resume upon his acquittal .
He ’ s now apparently on a warpath for revenge and ‘ gunning ’ for senior members of the current Nationalist administration .

New polling shows devoscepticism is no fringe interest
Fresh polling has shown that the constitutional debate in Wales is becoming more polarised, with growing support both for independence and for doing away with devolution entirely.
Presenting the findings (with a nationalist gloss) on Nation.Cymru, Roger Awan-Scully reveals that a quarter of voters say they would vote ‘Yes’ to independence were the question posed tomorrow. (Experience in Scotland suggests any vote would see this number rise, as the very staging of a referendum legitimised the option).
But it isn’t all bad news: the polls also showed a sharpening of support for re-integrating Wales into a British constitutional framework, with overwhelming support amongst Welsh Conservative voters. Scrapping devolution also beats independence in a head-to-head battle.
These findings add to the sense that this is a looming problem for the Tories in Wales, whose Cardiff Bay leadership are devo-enthusiasts who think their path to getting Labour out lies through a pact with Plaid. Yet hundreds of thousands of Conservative voters sit the devolved contests out, relegating the Party to level pegging with the Nationalists, and members are increasingly restive on the issue.
It has fallen to Daniel Kawczynski, the MP for the border constituency of Shrewsbury, to raise the standard of devoscepticism. Undeterred by the criticism he received from the Welsh Tory leadership, he has returned fire in the Daily Express, warning that devolutionaries are “chipping away at the Union”. His local paper, the Shropshire Star, has also published a debate between Kawczynski and Ken Skates, a Welsh minister, on whether or not devolution is good for Wales.
Whilst the Tories tentatively explore this heresy, meanwhile, Labour are engaging in another bout of their usual intellectual necromancy on the constitutional question. A new group, ‘Labour for Devolution’, are reviving the idea of regional assemblies, calling for each nation and region of the UK to have a parliament equal in power to Holyrood – presumably for no other reason than Edinburgh being devolution’s high-water mark and thus avoiding having to ask any awkward questions about bringing powers back.
Meanwhile, in another piece, Fraser has suggested that the Opposition’s official plans would entail rolling back devolution. That seems like too much to hope for.
Sturgeon faces continued pressure over care homes
The Scottish Government has been extremely fortunate that the woes of the British Government have overshadowed its own domestic failures, but it continues to face questions over the unfolding ‘care homes crisis’. This morning the Guardian reported that there exists a “scandalous” postcode lottery when it comes to testing for staff and residents in the at-risk facilities.
At the weekend the Times also revealed that a second official report, this one from 2016, warned that Scotland was not prepared for a pandemic due to staff and resource shortages.
Jackson Carlaw, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, has challenged the First Minister over her failure to appoint a dedicated minister to oversee care homes once the scale of the threat became apparent.
Murdo Fraser dedicated his column this week to highlighting how ill-equipped a newly-independent Scotland would have been to meet the Covid-19 crisis, whilst Ian Smart has a blog setting out a string of institutional failures across broad swaths of devolved government.
At Prime Minister’s Questions, Boris Johnson also attacked Ian Blackford, the SNP’s Westminster leader, for his “obscurantism and myth-making” about the Government’s performances.
Fury over claim Sinn Fein is blocking payments to IRA victims
The Government has challenged Sinn Fein after the Republican party was accused of blocking payments to victims of the Troubles – because they wanted ex-prisoners to get payments too, according to the Daily Mail.
Speaking at Prime Minister’s Questions, Johnson told a DUP MP that it was ‘very important’ that the programme get up and running, and that it will provide “a fair, balanced and proportionate way of helping all those who suffered most during the Troubles.”
Under the scheme, which was outlined by the Government earlier this year, victims who suffered either physical or psychological injury will receive between £2,000 and £10,000 per annum – but not those convicted of serious offences or injured by their own actions.
Sinn Fein have refused to nominate a Stormont department to operate the programme. There is also a dispute over who’s going to fund it, with Brandon Lewis refusing to commit to its being paid for by Westminster.
In another news, the Irish backstop – which this Government signed up to – is apparently forcing retailers to consider moving operations out of Northern Ireland. The constitutional damage it will do to the Union grows clearer by the day. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, will ministers have the courage to resile from it and insist that the proper place for a border is, bluntly, where the Border is?
Holyrood committee has ‘serious concerns’ over delayed release of Salmond documents
MSPs have expressed frustration at the Scottish Government’s slowness to release key documents relating to Alex Salmond, the Daily Record reports.
A special Holyrood committee has been convened to investigate the ‘fiasco’ in which an internal probe into the former First Minister’s alleged misconduct ended up in court, with Salmond victorious and a judge ruling the inquiry “tainted by bias and unlawful”, in the Record’s words. All at a total cost to the taxpayer of over £500,000.
The committee was forced to suspend its work when Salmond was charged with various sexual offences, but has been able to resume upon his acquittal. He’s now apparently on a warpath for revenge and ‘gunning’ for senior members of the current Nationalist administration.


conservativehome--2020-06-12--Calling Conservatives: New public appointments announced. Northern Ireland Human Rights Commissioner

Calling Conservatives: New public appointments announced. Northern Ireland Human Rights Commissioners – and more

Eight years ago , the TaxPayers ’ Alliance reported that “ in the last year , five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories ” .
It currently reports that almost half of avowedly political appointees last year owed their allegiance to Labour Party , compared to less than a third for the Conservatives .
Despite the selection of some Party members or supporters to fill important posts , over time , the Conservatives have punched beneath their weight when it comes to public appointments .
One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number as Labour supporters .
To help remedy this , each week we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies , so that qualified Conservatives can be aware of the opportunities presented .
“ The Imperial War Museum ( IWM ) was founded in 1917 to record the story of the Great War .
Its remit was subsequently extended to cover the Second World War and today , IWM is the world ’ s leading authority on conflict and its impact focusing on Britain , its former Empire and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ War to the present .
The IWM is a single institution with a single purpose , fulfilled in different ways at its different branches , both physical and virtual .
In addition to its headquarters building , IWM London , in Southwark , the Museum ’ s branches comprise the Churchill War Rooms and HMS Belfast in London , IWM Duxford in Cambridgeshire , and IWM North in Trafford , Greater Manchester which is housed in a stunning building by Daniel Libeskind .
The IWM has traditionally had a Trustee on its Board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the armed forces , and is currently recruiting for two Trustees to represent the RAF and Navy branches.
” Time : Up to one day per month .
“ Both Non-Executive Board Members roles will exercise their role through influence and advice , supporting as well as challenging the executive , and covering such issues as : support , guidance and challenge on the progress and implementation of the Departments Strategy ( the single departmental plan ) ; performance ( including agreeing key performance indicators ) , operational issues ( including the operational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adherence to relevant standards ( e.g .
commercial , digital ) , and on the effective management of the department ; [ and ] the recruitment , appraisal and suitable succession planning of senior executives , as appropriate within the principles set out by the Civil Service Commission.
” Her Majesty ’ s Inspectorate of Prisons – Her Majesty ’ s Chief Inspector of Prisons “ Reporting directly to Ministers , the successful candidate will have a proven ability to act with integrity and independence from Government , and deliver the services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Inspectorate ’ s methodology focuses on outcomes for those detained within the custodial estate , and encourages establishments to seek improvement in those outcomes where required .
In addition to its annual inspection programme , the Inspectorate has , since 2019 , introduced Independent Reviews of Progress , which will assess progress made by a prison in implementing previous recommendations in up to 20 prisons a year .
The next Chief Inspector will be expected to use their expertise to innovate and evolve the inspection approach to further strengthen the work and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pensions Ombudsman ( TPO ) investigates and determines complaints and disputes about the way that occupational and personal pension schemes are run .
The Pension Protection Fund Ombudsman considers decisions made by the Pension Protection Fund ( PPF ) Board under the PPF ’ s internal procedures and decides on appeals against decisions by the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) Financial Assistance Scheme .
Although the roles are provided for separately in legislation , they are held by one post holder .
Throughout this document the term ‘ PO ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provides an accessible service for dealing with pensions complaints .
Determinations are final and binding on all parties , subject only to appeal in the High Court on a point of law .
Services are provided free of charge.
” “ DFID leads the UK ’ s work to end extreme poverty , deliver the Global Goals , and tackle global challenges in line with the government ’ s UK Aid Strategy .
We are delivering against the Government ’ s manifesto to stand up for the right of every girl in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ education , to end the preventable deaths of mothers , new born babies and children by 2030 and to fight climate change , protect the environment and preserve biodiversity .
We are helping to lead the international response to prevent and mitigate the impacts of the Coronavirus and we work to save lives when humanitarian emergencies hit .
We do this whilst also investing in the systems that help support Global Health Security and improve peoples ’ resilience to shocks and supporting countries receiving aid to become self-sufficient.
” “ The Commission operates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Northern Ireland Office and is a key part of the architecture of human rights protections in Northern Ireland… Candidates for these roles must be able to make a personal contribution to the work of the Commission and will need to demonstrate : the ability to build productive and respectful relationships with fellow Commissioners , senior stakeholders and diverse communities ; knowledge of human rights law , and of the scope and limits of the NIHRCs work in Northern Ireland , and the considerations that influence the environment in which it operates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exercise judgement across a broad spectrum of policy and high level human rights issues ; and a reputation for personal integrity , professional conduct and credibility , with an exceptional sense of propriety.
” “ IE : UK is a joint industry and government partnership , strategically targeting major infrastructure export opportunities around the world .
It is supported by DIT ’ s network of local staff in 116 markets , with the objective of identifying , pursuing , and delivering major strategic infrastructure projects through a consortium-led approach .
The objective of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infrastructure exports and identify gaps in the UK supply chain for FDI to fill .
The IE : UK Board is co-chaired by DIT ‘ s Minister for Exports and a senior industry leader .
The Industry sector co-Chair will benefit from working closely with the Minister for Exports and leading UK based infrastructure companies to help shape the direction of UK export policy and support within the infrastructure sector .
”

Eight years ago, the TaxPayers’ Alliance reported that “in the last year, five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories”.
It currently reports that almost half of avowedly political appointees last year owed their allegiance to Labour Party, compared to less than a third for the Conservatives.
Despite the selection of some Party members or supporters to fill important posts, over time, the Conservatives have punched beneath their weight when it comes to public appointments. One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply don’t apply in the same number as Labour supporters.
To help remedy this, each week we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies, so that qualified Conservatives can be aware of the opportunities presented.
– – – – – – – – – –
Imperial War Museum – RAF Trustee and Navy Trustee
“The Imperial War Museum (IWM) was founded in 1917 to record the story of the Great War. Its remit was subsequently extended to cover the Second World War and today, IWM is the world’s leading authority on conflict and its impact focusing on Britain, its former Empire and the Commonwealth, from the First World War to the present. The IWM is a single institution with a single purpose, fulfilled in different ways at its different branches, both physical and virtual. In addition to its headquarters building, IWM London, in Southwark, the Museum’s branches comprise the Churchill War Rooms and HMS Belfast in London, IWM Duxford in Cambridgeshire, and IWM North in Trafford, Greater Manchester which is housed in a stunning building by Daniel Libeskind. The IWM has traditionally had a Trustee on its Board from each of the three branches of the armed forces, and is currently recruiting for two Trustees to represent the RAF and Navy branches.”
Time: Up to one day per month.
Remuneration: Expenses reasonably incurred.
Closes: 12 June
– – – – – – – – – –
Department for International Trade – Lead Non-Executive Board Member/Non-Executive Board Member
“Both Non-Executive Board Members roles will exercise their role through influence and advice, supporting as well as challenging the executive, and covering such issues as: support, guidance and challenge on the progress and implementation of the Departments Strategy (the single departmental plan); performance (including agreeing key performance indicators), operational issues (including the operational and delivery implications of policy proposals), adherence to relevant standards (e.g. commercial, digital), and on the effective management of the department; [and] the recruitment, appraisal and suitable succession planning of senior executives, as appropriate within the principles set out by the Civil Service Commission.”
Time: Approx. 15-20 days per annum.
Remuneration: £20,000/£15,000 per annum.
Closes: 14 June
– – – – – – – – – –
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons – Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons
“Reporting directly to Ministers, the successful candidate will have a proven ability to act with integrity and independence from Government, and deliver the services under the Inspectorate’s scrutiny. The Inspectorate’s methodology focuses on outcomes for those detained within the custodial estate, and encourages establishments to seek improvement in those outcomes where required. In addition to its annual inspection programme, the Inspectorate has, since 2019, introduced Independent Reviews of Progress, which will assess progress made by a prison in implementing previous recommendations in up to 20 prisons a year. The next Chief Inspector will be expected to use their expertise to innovate and evolve the inspection approach to further strengthen the work and impact of the Inspectorate.”
Time: Full-time.
Remuneration: £135,000 per annum.
Closes: 15 June
– – – – – – – – – –
The Pensions Ombudsman – Chair
“The Pensions Ombudsman (TPO) investigates and determines complaints and disputes about the way that occupational and personal pension schemes are run. The Pension Protection Fund Ombudsman considers decisions made by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF) Board under the PPF’s internal procedures and decides on appeals against decisions by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Financial Assistance Scheme. Although the roles are provided for separately in legislation, they are held by one post holder. Throughout this document the term ‘PO’ will therefore cover both roles. TPO provides an accessible service for dealing with pensions complaints. Determinations are final and binding on all parties, subject only to appeal in the High Court on a point of law. Services are provided free of charge.”
Time: Min. 30 days per annum.
Remuneration: £20,000 per annum.
Closes: 19 June
– – – – – – – – – –
DFID Board – Non-Executive Director
“DFID leads the UK’s work to end extreme poverty, deliver the Global Goals, and tackle global challenges in line with the government’s UK Aid Strategy. We are delivering against the Government’s manifesto to stand up for the right of every girl in the world to have 12 years of quality education, to end the preventable deaths of mothers, new born babies and children by 2030 and to fight climate change, protect the environment and preserve biodiversity. We are helping to lead the international response to prevent and mitigate the impacts of the Coronavirus and we work to save lives when humanitarian emergencies hit. We do this whilst also investing in the systems that help support Global Health Security and improve peoples’ resilience to shocks and supporting countries receiving aid to become self-sufficient.”
Time: Approx. 20 days per annum.
Remuneration: £15,000 per annum.
Closes: 26 June
– – – – – – – – – –
Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission – Commissioners
“The Commission operates as an executive non-departmental public body sponsored by the Northern Ireland Office and is a key part of the architecture of human rights protections in Northern Ireland… Candidates for these roles must be able to make a personal contribution to the work of the Commission and will need to demonstrate: the ability to build productive and respectful relationships with fellow Commissioners, senior stakeholders and diverse communities; knowledge of human rights law, and of the scope and limits of the NIHRCs work in Northern Ireland, and the considerations that influence the environment in which it operates; the ability to analyse information and exercise judgement across a broad spectrum of policy and high level human rights issues; and a reputation for personal integrity, professional conduct and credibility, with an exceptional sense of propriety.”
Time: Approx. 3 days per month.
Remuneration: £7,500 per annum.
Closes: 26 June
– – – – – – – – – –
Infrastructure Exports:UK – Board co-Chair
“IE:UK is a joint industry and government partnership, strategically targeting major infrastructure export opportunities around the world. It is supported by DIT’s network of local staff in 116 markets, with the objective of identifying, pursuing, and delivering major strategic infrastructure projects through a consortium-led approach. The objective of IE:UK is to increase UK infrastructure exports and identify gaps in the UK supply chain for FDI to fill. The IE:UK Board is co-chaired by DIT‘s Minister for Exports and a senior industry leader. The Industry sector co-Chair will benefit from working closely with the Minister for Exports and leading UK based infrastructure companies to help shape the direction of UK export policy and support within the infrastructure sector.”
Time: 3-4 meetings a year.
Remuneration: None.
Closes: 29 June


conservativehome--2020-06-12--The Government has held 86 Coronavirus press conferences. How many has Coffey fronted? None. Why?

Universal Credit is one of the few clear success stories of the Coronavirus crisis – a point on which Conservatives and non-Conservatives agree .
Iain Duncan Smith , the credit ’ s creator , drew attention to its record on this site in April .
Last month , Mike Brewer of the Resolution Foundation praised it as “ a surprise hero of this crisis ” .
By our calculation , the Government has held 86 late afternoon press conferences since March 16 , each fronted by a Cabinet Minister .
So one would have thought that Downing Street , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to trumpet Universal Credit ’ s record .
How often has Therese Coffey been given the opportunity to do so ?
Three times , say – the restricted number of appearances granted to Priti Patel ?
Two ?
Even one ?
No .
The answer is…zero .
None .
The more one thinks about it , the more significant her absence is .
For it casts a bleak light on the way Cabinet Government is currently working .
Obviously , some Ministers are more likely than others to front the press conferences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weekends .
Number Ten is reluctant to give them up altogether because the weekly ones attract an audience running into millions , which allows it to attempt to control the news agenda .
So it is that we must expect to see a lot of Matt Hancock , if only because he is the Minister most likely to be across the detail of Government Covid-19 policy as whole .
But one would reasonably expect the Work and Pensions Secretary to front a press conference at least once , and not only because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far .
After all , her department is responsible for delivering the bulk of the social security system – at a time when , as we learn this morning , growth is plunging ( by a record 20 per cent in April ) and unemployment soaring .
It will doubtless be argued that Coffey isn ’ t one of the Cabinet ’ s strongest performers , and that she blundered when allowed out last month , saying that Ministers may have made policy mistakes “ if advice was wrong ” .
Though if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided a textbook example of Daniel Hannan ’ s definition of a gaffe – “ a statement of the obvious by a public person ” .
A better way of seeing the Work and Pensions Secretary ’ s words was as a preview of the Government ’ s defence when the inevitable inquiry into its handling of the Coronavirus comes .
At any rate , the nub of the issue is that either Boris Johnson has confidence in his most senior Ministers or he doesn ’ t .
If he does , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press conference at least once .
If he doesn ’ t , they shouldn ’ t have been appointed in the first place .
Coffey ’ s non-appearance is part of a wider picture .
She was promoted last year after another inevitable event – the resignation of Amber Rudd from the Cabinet over Brexit policy .
She had voted for Johnson and thus passed the loyalty test .
It is the first of three qualities that Downing Street requires from Cabinet members – the other two being not briefing against the Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ConservativeHome wrote earlier in the week in the wake of the schools debacle , competence is beginning to look more like compliance .
The way we put it is that “ Gavin Williamson was given his marching orders , and told to like them or lump them ” – in effect , to deliver Johnson ’ s goal of all primary schools re-opening by July .
This has proved impossible to square with cutting class sizes in half .
The problem can only be solved by waiving that instruction .
The Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He doesn ’ t simply need to change the personnel – a matter to which this site will return .
More broadly , he needs to rebalance the relationship between Number Ten and his Ministers .
In 2010 , David Cameron set up an activist Downing Street but he also appointed strong Ministers with able SpAds .
Think Duncan Smith and Philippa Stroud , Eric Pickles and Sheridan Westlake , Theresa May and the Nick Timothy/Fiona Hill combination , George Osborne and Rupert Harrison… …Francis Maude plus Simone Finn and Henry Newman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Gove with Henry de Zoete and , eventually , Dominic Cummings .
That energy and enthusiasm is harder to find under a fourth Conservative-led government than a first .
But Johnson ’ s pro-Brexit Government is effectively a break from the previous three .
Or so voters believed when they returned him to Downing Street last autumn with a thumping majority of 80 .
If he doesn ’ t have confidence in his Ministers , why should anyone else ?

Universal Credit is one of the few clear success stories of the Coronavirus crisis – a point on which Conservatives and non-Conservatives agree.
Iain Duncan Smith, the credit’s creator, drew attention to its record on this site in April. Last month, Mike Brewer of the Resolution Foundation praised it as “a surprise hero of this crisis”.
By our calculation, the Government has held 86 late afternoon press conferences since March 16, each fronted by a Cabinet Minister.
So one would have thought that Downing Street, which controls the appearance rota, would have wanted to trumpet Universal Credit’s record.
How often has Therese Coffey been given the opportunity to do so? Three times, say – the restricted number of appearances granted to Priti Patel? Two? Even one?
No. The answer is…zero. None. The more one thinks about it, the more significant her absence is. For it casts a bleak light on the way Cabinet Government is currently working.
Obviously, some Ministers are more likely than others to front the press conferences, which have recently been dropped at weekends.
Number Ten is reluctant to give them up altogether because the weekly ones attract an audience running into millions, which allows it to attempt to control the news agenda.
So it is that we must expect to see a lot of Matt Hancock, if only because he is the Minister most likely to be across the detail of Government Covid-19 policy as whole.
But one would reasonably expect the Work and Pensions Secretary to front a press conference at least once, and not only because of Universal Credit’s sturdy performance so far.
After all, her department is responsible for delivering the bulk of the social security system – at a time when, as we learn this morning, growth is plunging (by a record 20 per cent in April) and unemployment soaring.
It will doubtless be argued that Coffey isn’t one of the Cabinet’s strongest performers, and that she blundered when allowed out last month, saying that Ministers may have made policy mistakes “if advice was wrong”.
Though if you think about it, she simply provided a textbook example of Daniel Hannan’s definition of a gaffe – “a statement of the obvious by a public person”.
A better way of seeing the Work and Pensions Secretary’s words was as a preview of the Government’s defence when the inevitable inquiry into its handling of the Coronavirus comes.
At any rate, the nub of the issue is that either Boris Johnson has confidence in his most senior Ministers or he doesn’t.
If he does, they ought to be capable of handling a press conference at least once. If he doesn’t, they shouldn’t have been appointed in the first place.
Coffey’s non-appearance is part of a wider picture. She was promoted last year after another inevitable event – the resignation of Amber Rudd from the Cabinet over Brexit policy.
She had voted for Johnson and thus passed the loyalty test. It is the first of three qualities that Downing Street requires from Cabinet members – the other two being not briefing against the Prime Minister, and competence.
But as ConservativeHome wrote earlier in the week in the wake of the schools debacle, competence is beginning to look more like compliance.
The way we put it is that “Gavin Williamson was given his marching orders, and told to like them or lump them” – in effect, to deliver Johnson’s goal of all primary schools re-opening by July.
This has proved impossible to square with cutting class sizes in half. The problem can only be solved by waiving that instruction.
The Prime Minister is reportedly planning a reshuffle in July. He doesn’t simply need to change the personnel – a matter to which this site will return.
More broadly, he needs to rebalance the relationship between Number Ten and his Ministers. In 2010, David Cameron set up an activist Downing Street but he also appointed strong Ministers with able SpAds.
Think Duncan Smith and Philippa Stroud, Eric Pickles and Sheridan Westlake, Theresa May and the Nick Timothy/Fiona Hill combination, George Osborne and Rupert Harrison…
…Francis Maude plus Simone Finn and Henry Newman, and (roll of drums) Michael Gove with Henry de Zoete and, eventually, Dominic Cummings.
That energy and enthusiasm is harder to find under a fourth Conservative-led government than a first. But Johnson’s pro-Brexit Government is effectively a break from the previous three.
Or so voters believed when they returned him to Downing Street last autumn with a thumping majority of 80. If he doesn’t have confidence in his Ministers, why should anyone else?


conservativehome--2020-06-12--Iain Dale: Gandhi was racist against black Africans. So by the rioters’ own reasoning, his statue sh

Iain Dale: Gandhi was racist against black Africans. So by the rioters’ own reasoning, his statue should come tumbling down.

Iain Dale presents the evening show on LBC Radio and the For the Many podcast with Jacqui Smith .
One thing we have learned during the Coronavirus pandemic is that science is not a science .
It is an art .
I had always assumed that science was based on incontrovertible facts – and that unlike economics , you could assert something as beyond contradiction .
It seems that just like economists , you can put 364 economists in a room and they will come out with 365 different opinions .
The big emerging question now is about the two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they seem to be doing OK with a one metre or 1.5 metre rule without experiencing increased reinfections .
Yet our scientists seem reluctant to go down that road .
I understand why , but could it not be relaxed in some areas and not others ?
I know that might be confusing for some , but it can ’ t surely be any more confusing than the concept of ‘ social bubbles ’ .
For instance , we know that children very rarely contract Covid-19 , and even if they do , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So surely the two metre rule could be relaxed in schools .
If that doesn ’ t happen , it ’ s difficult to see how all schools can return to relative normality in September .
There is a growing consensus that lockdown happened a week too late .
Hindsight is a wonderful thing – but put yourself in the position of Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson at the time .
On March 13th , SAGE recommended that lockdown should not yet happen .
They feared if it was imposed too early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and there could therefore be a second spike later .
No doubt the Treasury was also warning about the consequences of going too early .
On March 17th , Dominic Cummings attended another meeting of SAGE and is reported by several of those present to have asked why we weren ’ t in lockdown yet .
On March 23rd , six days later , lockdown was announced .
That ten day period between March 13th and 23rd has , according to Neil Ferguson , cost 25,000 lives .
Given that he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ modelling which guided the Government , he ’ s clearly getting his defence in early .
Because , make no mistake , when the public inquiry is convened ( as it surely must be , by the end of the year ) everyone will have to defend the decisions they took , and explain on what evidence the decisions were based .
I do hope the relevant players kept diaries… Ferguson ’ s defence is that he had “ assumed ” care homes would be shielded .
Assumption is a wonderful thing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a scientist can get away with , but a politician can ’ t .
I don ’ t pretend to know the ‘ ins ’ and ‘ outs ’ of what Robert Jenrick is being accused of in relation to Richard Desmond .
It relates to planning permission given to Desmond to build some flats and that , during the weeks afterwards , Desmond donated £12,000 to the Conservative Party .
I guess the insinuation is that somehow the two things are linked .
Here ’ s a simple question : Does anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political party can be bought for £12,000 ?
Seriously ?
However , perception is more important than reality where political donations are concerned .
One thing , though .
It was Chris Pincher who was deputed to answer the Urgent Question from Labour in the Commons earlier this week .
There may well have been a good reason for Jenrick not to appear himself , but it didn ’ t look good .
I ’ ve just commissioned a set of political baseball caps for my online shop .
I ’ ve done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Layla Moran , Donald Trump and Joe Biden .
I ’ m sad to report that Biden isn ’ t proving very popular .
I haven ’ t sold a single one of his .
Still , four months to go… .
Gulp .
I deprecate the tearing down of historical statues in the way that happened at last weekend in Bristol .
If a statue is to be removed it should be done in the proper way .
I hold no candle at all for Edward Colston , but clearly he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s past .
Perhaps an alternative to removing a statue would be for there to be large plaque alongside giving a balanced account of the subject ’ s life ( though good luck to the person writing the text ) .
Alternatively , maybe we should do what the Hungarians have done , and build a theme park where all the statues can be available for viewing .
But if we ’ re going to be consistent about it , and include everyone who has done terrible things or uttered bad thoughts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Marx ’ s mausoleum being included , as Charlotte Gill wrote yesterday .
Or Millicent Fawcett , who did wonderful things for women ’ s rights , but held some very dodgy views on race and empire .
The list could go on .
It ’ s a very dangerous path we are embarking on if we seek to censor history using modern standards of what ’ s acceptable and what ’ s not to be the determining factor .
There are seriously some people who think Churchill ’ s statue should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he held racist views .
Yes , he did .
So did your grandfather .
So did most people of his age .
There ’ s also a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Parliament Square .
Strangely , I hear very few people calling for him to be removed , even though he was a total racist against black Africans .
If we ’ re going to go down this road of removing statues , let ’ s at least be consistent in our justification for it .

Iain Dale presents the evening show on LBC Radio and the For the Many podcast with Jacqui Smith.
One thing we have learned during the Coronavirus pandemic is that science is not a science. It is an art.
I had always assumed that science was based on incontrovertible facts – and that unlike economics, you could assert something as beyond contradiction. It seems that just like economists, you can put 364 economists in a room and they will come out with 365 different opinions.
The big emerging question now is about the two metre rule. In other countries, they seem to be doing OK with a one metre or 1.5 metre rule without experiencing increased reinfections.
Yet our scientists seem reluctant to go down that road. I understand why, but could it not be relaxed in some areas and not others? I know that might be confusing for some, but it can’t surely be any more confusing than the concept of ‘social bubbles’.
For instance, we know that children very rarely contract Covid-19, and even if they do, they don’t seem to suffer. So surely the two metre rule could be relaxed in schools. If that doesn’t happen, it’s difficult to see how all schools can return to relative normality in September.
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There is a growing consensus that lockdown happened a week too late. Hindsight is a wonderful thing – but put yourself in the position of Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson at the time.
On March 13th, SAGE recommended that lockdown should not yet happen. They feared if it was imposed too early, people wouldn’t obey it, and there could therefore be a second spike later. No doubt the Treasury was also warning about the consequences of going too early.
On March 17th, Dominic Cummings attended another meeting of SAGE and is reported by several of those present to have asked why we weren’t in lockdown yet.
On March 23rd, six days later, lockdown was announced.
That ten day period between March 13th and 23rd has, according to Neil Ferguson, cost 25,000 lives. Given that he was the one responsible for much of the modelling which guided the Government, he’s clearly getting his defence in early.
Because, make no mistake, when the public inquiry is convened (as it surely must be, by the end of the year) everyone will have to defend the decisions they took, and explain on what evidence the decisions were based.
I do hope the relevant players kept diaries… Ferguson’s defence is that he had “assumed” care homes would be shielded. Assumption is a wonderful thing. It’s the sort of thing a scientist can get away with, but a politician can’t.
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I don’t pretend to know the ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of what Robert Jenrick is being accused of in relation to Richard Desmond.
It relates to planning permission given to Desmond to build some flats and that, during the weeks afterwards, Desmond donated £12,000 to the Conservative Party.
I guess the insinuation is that somehow the two things are linked. Here’s a simple question: Does anyone seriously believe that a politician or a political party can be bought for £12,000? Seriously?
However, perception is more important than reality where political donations are concerned. One thing, though. It was Chris Pincher who was deputed to answer the Urgent Question from Labour in the Commons earlier this week.
There may well have been a good reason for Jenrick not to appear himself, but it didn’t look good.
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I’ve just commissioned a set of political baseball caps for my online shop. I’ve done five – featuring Johnson, Keir Starmer, Layla Moran, Donald Trump and Joe Biden.
I’m sad to report that Biden isn’t proving very popular. I haven’t sold a single one of his. Still, four months to go…. Gulp.
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I deprecate the tearing down of historical statues in the way that happened at last weekend in Bristol. If a statue is to be removed it should be done in the proper way. I hold no candle at all for Edward Colston, but clearly he is a figure of significance in Bristol’s past.
Perhaps an alternative to removing a statue would be for there to be large plaque alongside giving a balanced account of the subject’s life (though good luck to the person writing the text). Alternatively, maybe we should do what the Hungarians have done, and build a theme park where all the statues can be available for viewing.
But if we’re going to be consistent about it, and include everyone who has done terrible things or uttered bad thoughts, then I look forward to Karl Marx’s mausoleum being included, as Charlotte Gill wrote yesterday. Or Millicent Fawcett, who did wonderful things for women’s rights, but held some very dodgy views on race and empire.
The list could go on. It’s a very dangerous path we are embarking on if we seek to censor history using modern standards of what’s acceptable and what’s not to be the determining factor. There are seriously some people who think Churchill’s statue should be removed from Parliament Square on the basis that he held racist views.
Yes, he did. So did your grandfather. So did most people of his age. There’s also a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Parliament Square. Strangely, I hear very few people calling for him to be removed, even though he was a total racist against black Africans. If we’re going to go down this road of removing statues, let’s at least be consistent in our justification for it.


conservativehome--2020-06-12--Eric Pickles: Flexibility is needed for those falling behind in paying Council Tax

Lord Pickles is a former Communities and Local Government Secretary The Covid-19 outbreak has caused huge suffering in this country and around the world .
The government is rightly straining every sinew to stop the virus and save lives .
Through the furlough scheme , support for the self-employed , and payment holidays on many essential household bills , it ’ s taken action to help protect people ’ s livelihoods .
But even with these protections , many have seen their incomes take a hit .
For some groups it ’ s getting harder and harder to make ends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Citizens Advice , more than six million people haven ’ t been able to pay at least one bill because of coronavirus .
Of these , over two million say they have missed a council tax payment .
In the context of the enormous challenges facing our country right now , just missing a bill might seem a minor issue .
But getting behind on your council tax is one of the most problematic debts someone can have .
With over two million already getting behind – and millions more saying they expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ payment – a crisis is building in household budgets .
Unlike almost all other bills , council tax arrears can send debtors to prison in England .
What ’ s more , the rules are set centrally so local authorities have less discretion around chasing payment .
And one of the rules is that one missed payment can lead to someone becoming liable for the whole year ’ s council tax payment .
This could mean a debt of a hundred pounds or so rocketing to over a thousand in an instant – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when we ’ re close to the start of the financial year .
Councils are also driven by these same rules to recover debts through the courts , which means bailiffs are widely used to collect debt .
Bailiffs add extra costs onto recovery which pushes people further into debt .
There is also evidence from debt charities that they frequently break the rules , treating many people unfairly .
We know councils are finding it tough as well .
They ’ ve been hit by billions in falling incomes as fees and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as widespread non-payment of council tax .
All the while they ’ re still having to pay for vital services for all their residents .
Councils are doing everything they can to protect hard-pressed people right now .
But because of the inflexible rules , it may become impossible for them to avoid acting to recoup debts – including bringing in bailiffs .
Such draconian methods of collection don ’ t work for anyone .
For every pound of debt passed onto bailiffs , less than 30p is returned to the taxpayer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be able to collect arrears more sensibly , but the red tape locks them into this destructive cycle .
So the question that councillors up and down the country will be asking themselves is this : how can they continue to pay for services without piling further debt onto their struggling residents ?
The Government has shown it can take bold action to protect the economy , people ’ s livelihoods , and fund vital services .
Robert Jenrick , the Secretary of State for Local Government , has announced two tranches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – more may yet be needed .
But this must be combined with changes to the Council Tax rules .
Councils need more flexibility on how they can collect debts in a way that lets them consider the effect of Covid-19 on their residents .
And people who have fallen behind on their bills should have the security of knowing that councils will take all reasonable steps to avoid referring their debt to bailiffs and the courts .
Not everything is in the Government ’ s control , we ’ re in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are steps that can be taken that would make a real difference to people trying to make ends meet .
If we ignore them , we ’ d be missing an opportunity to help prevent a long-term legacy of Covid-19 : millions locked into a spiral of worsening debt that began with a letter from their Council .

Lord Pickles is a former Communities and Local Government Secretary
The Covid-19 outbreak has caused huge suffering in this country and around the world. The government is rightly straining every sinew to stop the virus and save lives. Through the furlough scheme, support for the self-employed, and payment holidays on many essential household bills, it’s taken action to help protect people’s livelihoods.
But even with these protections, many have seen their incomes take a hit. For some groups it’s getting harder and harder to make ends meet. According to the charity, Citizens Advice, more than six million people haven’t been able to pay at least one bill because of coronavirus. Of these, over two million say they have missed a council tax payment.
In the context of the enormous challenges facing our country right now, just missing a bill might seem a minor issue. But getting behind on your council tax is one of the most problematic debts someone can have. With over two million already getting behind – and millions more saying they expect they’ll have to miss a payment – a crisis is building in household budgets.
Unlike almost all other bills, council tax arrears can send debtors to prison in England. What’s more, the rules are set centrally so local authorities have less discretion around chasing payment.
And one of the rules is that one missed payment can lead to someone becoming liable for the whole year’s council tax payment. This could mean a debt of a hundred pounds or so rocketing to over a thousand in an instant – a danger that’s greatest now when we’re close to the start of the financial year.
Councils are also driven by these same rules to recover debts through the courts, which means bailiffs are widely used to collect debt. Bailiffs add extra costs onto recovery which pushes people further into debt. There is also evidence from debt charities that they frequently break the rules, treating many people unfairly.
We know councils are finding it tough as well. They’ve been hit by billions in falling incomes as fees and charges dry up during lockdown, as well as widespread non-payment of council tax. All the while they’re still having to pay for vital services for all their residents.
Councils are doing everything they can to protect hard-pressed people right now. But because of the inflexible rules, it may become impossible for them to avoid acting to recoup debts – including bringing in bailiffs.
Such draconian methods of collection don’t work for anyone. For every pound of debt passed onto bailiffs, less than 30p is returned to the taxpayer. Many councils across England are desperate to be able to collect arrears more sensibly, but the red tape locks them into this destructive cycle.
So the question that councillors up and down the country will be asking themselves is this: how can they continue to pay for services without piling further debt onto their struggling residents?
The Government has shown it can take bold action to protect the economy, people’s livelihoods, and fund vital services. Robert Jenrick, the Secretary of State for Local Government, has announced two tranches of funding for councils which has helped – more may yet be needed.
But this must be combined with changes to the Council Tax rules. Councils need more flexibility on how they can collect debts in a way that lets them consider the effect of Covid-19 on their residents. And people who have fallen behind on their bills should have the security of knowing that councils will take all reasonable steps to avoid referring their debt to bailiffs and the courts.
Not everything is in the Government’s control, we’re in the midst of a pandemic. But there are steps that can be taken that would make a real difference to people trying to make ends meet. If we ignore them, we’d be missing an opportunity to help prevent a long-term legacy of Covid-19: millions locked into a spiral of worsening debt that began with a letter from their Council.


Coronavirus Count

Total number of lab-confirmed UK cases : 291,409 ( Up from 290,143 ) .
Total number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths : 41,279 ( Up from 41,128 ) .
Daily number of lab-confirmed UK cases : 1,266 ( Up from 1,003 ) .
Daily number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths : 151 ( Down from 245 ) .
From the Government ’ s website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and risk in the UK .
DAILY NUMBER OF COVID-19 ASSOCIATED DEATHS BY DATE REPORTED From the Government ’ s website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk to the UK has been raised to high ” – From the Government ’ s website Number of coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases and risk in the UK .
OUR PLAN TO REBUILD : THE UK GOVERNMENT ’ S COVID-19 RECOVERY STRATEGY See here .
New as of Monday May 11 .
See here .
New as of Tuesday June 2 .
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON SHIELDING AND PROTECTING PEOPLE WHO ARE CLINICALLY EXTREMELY VULNERABLE FROM COVID-19 See here .
New as of Tuesday June 2 .
See here .
New as of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS .
WHAT YOU CAN DO AND CAN ’ T DO GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR LANDLORDS , TENANTS AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES NEW See here .
Published on Saturday March 28 .
HOW TO AVOID CATCHING OR SPREADING CORONAVIRUS • Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds .
• Always wash your hands when you get home or into work .
• Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available .
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when you cough or sneeze .
• Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards .
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell .
The symptoms of coronavirus are : However , these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness .
The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common , such as cold and flu .
NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You think you might have coronavirus .
• In the last 14 days you ’ ve been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers .
• You ’ ve been in close contact with someone with coronavirus .
• In Scotland call your GP or NHS 24 on 111 out of hours .
• In Wales call 111 ( if available in your area ) or 0845 46 47 .
• Do not go to a GP surgery , pharmacy or hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how it ’ s spread and how to avoid catching it – Government NHS website overview .
• Stay at home advice and how to manage self-isolation .
( All information taken from Government sources .
Updated as of 7.00 on Friday June 12 . )

HEADLINE FACTS
Total number of lab-confirmed UK cases: 292,950 (Up from 291,409).
Total number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths: 41,481 (Up from 41,279).
Daily number of lab-confirmed UK cases: 1,541 (Up from 1,266).
Daily number of COVID-19 associated UK deaths: 202 (Up from 151).
England total cases: 156,410 (Up from 156,018 ).
England total deaths: 37,069 (Up from 36,883).
England death rate: 279.4 (Was 278.7).
Scotland total cases: 15,709 (Up from 15,682).
Scotland total deaths: 2,439 (Up from 2,434).
Scotland death rate: 288.9 (Was 288.4).
Wales total cases: 14,658 (Up from 14,581).
Wales total deaths: 1,435 (Up from 1,425).
Wales death rate: 467.0 (Was 464.6)
Northern Ireland total cases: 4,838 (Up from 4,822)
Northern Ireland total deaths: 538 (Up from 537).
Northern Ireland death rate: 257.1 (Was 256.3).
From the Government’s website Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
DAILY NUMBER OF COVID-19 ASSOCIATED DEATHS BY DATE REPORTED
DAILY NUMBER OF LAB-CONFIRMED ENGLAND CASES
From the Government’s website Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
– – –
RISK
“The risk to the UK has been raised to high” –
From the Government’s website Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
– – –
NHS VOLUNTEER RESPONDER FORM
See here
(The Government’s scheme to recruit 250,000 volunteers.)
– – –
OUR PLAN TO REBUILD: THE UK GOVERNMENT’S COVID-19 RECOVERY STRATEGY
See here. New as of Monday May 11.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON THE LOCKDOWN.
See here. New as of Tuesday June 2.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON SHIELDING AND PROTECTING PEOPLE WHO ARE CLINICALLY EXTREMELY VULNERABLE FROM COVID-19
See here. New as of Tuesday June 2.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE ON SOCIAL DISTANCING
See here. New as of Tuesday June 2.
GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: GENERAL ADVICE
See here.
GOVERNMENT WEBSITE: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS. WHAT YOU CAN DO AND CAN’T DO
See here.
GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE FOR LANDLORDS, TENANTS AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES NEW
See here. Published on Saturday March 28.
– – –
HOW TO AVOID CATCHING OR SPREADING CORONAVIRUS
Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds .
Always wash your hands when you get home or into work .
Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available .
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze .
Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards .
Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of coronavirus are:
A cough.
A high temperature.
Shortness of breath.
However, these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.
The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.
USING 111
NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do.
Use this service if:
You think you might have coronavirus.
In the last 14 days you’ve been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers.
You’ve been in close contact with someone with coronavirus.
In Scotland call your GP or NHS 24 on 111 out of hours.
In Wales call 111 (if available in your area) or 0845 46 47.
In Northern Ireland call 111.
Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.
FURTHER LINKS TO GOVERNMENT ADVICE
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(All information taken from Government sources.
Updated as of 19.00 on Friday June 12.)


conservativehome--2020-06-12--Dowden – “The Government itself does not propose to remove statues or memorial on its property.”

The Culture Secretary has written to all Conservative MPs saying that : • “ Removing statues and renaming streets does harm rather than good.
” • “ The Government itself does not propose to remove statues or memorials on its property.
” • “ Historic England , as the Government ’ s adviser on the historic environment , are against removing so-called “ contested heritage ” .
• “ As Secretary of State , I have spoken to Historic England to ensure that this approach remains the case.
” • “ Historic England encourages contemporary responses to contested heritage that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alteration of protected historical sites or monuments.
” • “ Many memorials are listed and may not be removed without planning permission , which is a quasi-judicial process.
” • “ Street names should not be changed without the formal consent of two-thirds of local taxpayers who reside in the street.
” • “ When change is proposed , consultation – and listening to the whole community rather than just street protestors – is an important part of due process .
• “ We should all respect due process and fair hearing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule.
” • “ We should not support or indulge those who break the law , or attack the police , or descecrate public monuments.
” Most of the above is within Dowden ’ s purview .
Chief Constables who won ’ t enforce the law and statues for which others have responsibility aren ’ t .
It ’ s up to Boris Johnson to take the lead overall .
He needs to be similarly robust .

The Culture Secretary has written to all Conservative MPs saying that:
“Removing statues and renaming streets does harm rather than good.”
“The Government itself does not propose to remove statues or memorials on its property.”
“Historic England, as the Government’s adviser on the historic environment, are against removing so-called “contested heritage”.
“As Secretary of State, I have spoken to Historic England to ensure that this approach remains the case.”
“Historic England encourages contemporary responses to contested heritage that do not lead to removal or significant alteration of protected historical sites or monuments.”
“Many memorials are listed and may not be removed without planning permission, which is a quasi-judicial process.”
“Street names should not be changed without the formal consent of two-thirds of local taxpayers who reside in the street.”
“When change is proposed, consultation – and listening to the whole community rather than just street protestors – is an important part of due process.
“We should all respect due process and fair hearing, rather than tolerate criminal acts and mob rule.”
“We should not support or indulge those who break the law, or attack the police, or descecrate public monuments.”
– – –
Most of the above is within Dowden’s purview. Chief Constables who won’t enforce the law and statues for which others have responsibility aren’t. It’s up to Boris Johnson to take the lead overall. He needs to be similarly robust.