Tories AND Labour accused of ‘shocking’ racism
Diane Abbott, an independent MP and former Labour member, has accused both the Conservative and Labour parties of 'shocking' racism in the recent Tory donor controversy. The row centres on businessman Frank Hester's alleged racist and sexist comments about Abbott, for which he has since apologised but insisted he's not racist or sexist. Hester donated £10 million to the Conservatives, which has sparked debate over whether the party should return the funds. Abbott criticised the Conservatives for their long-standing role in perpetuating racism, including personal attacks against her. She also expressed disappointment with the Labour party's response, which initially focused on the financial aspect rather than the racism and sexism involved. The scandal has led to widespread criticism, with political figures across the spectrum, including business secretary Kemi Badenoch and former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng, condemning Hester's remarks. Rishi Sunak, under increasing pressure, said that Hester's apology should be accepted. Internally, his party faces disagreements over handling the donation, with the Scottish Conservatives calling for a review.
Archbishops of Canterbury and York urge caution on extremism redefinition
Justin Welby and Stephen Cottrell have expressed concerns over Michael Gove's plans to redefine extremism, warning that the redefinition could mistakenly target innocent individuals, exacerbating division and infringing on freedoms of speech and worship. Welby said that extremism is a shifting problem across all faiths, posing significant dangers, including the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia. He stressed the importance of involving diverse groups in defining extremism, cautioning against a government-only approach. The current definition of extremism includes opposition to fundamental British values like democracy and mutual respect for different faiths. The archbishops are concerned that Gove's forthcoming redefinition may disproportionately affect Muslim communities, increasing hate and abuse. They urged broader consultation and offered the CofE's assistance in facilitating community discussions. In response, the Government reiterated plans to appoint an independent adviser on anti-Muslim hatred.
NHS: children to no longer be prescribed puberty blockers
NHS England has announced that children will no longer be prescribed puberty blockers at gender identity clinics, except as part of clinical research trials. This significant policy shift follows an independent review and a dramatic increase in referrals to the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) - from under 250 to over 5,000 in a decade. Puberty blockers, used to pause physical puberty changes, have been at the centre of debate due to concerns about consent and long-term effects. The trust which runs GIDS will close at the end of March, replaced by two new services at Great Ormond Street and Alder Hey hospitals. These will offer a more holistic approach to care, including experts in neurodiversity, paediatrics, and mental health. Currently, fewer than 100 children are on puberty blockers and will continue their treatment. This decision has been described as a 'landmark' by health minister Maria Caulfield, who has emphasised child safety and evidence-based care. See also
Widow who had 'husband's ashes' made into jewellery told to identify his body
In a distressing incident involving a firm of funeral directors in Hull, East Yorkshire, a widow was shocked to discover that her husband’s ashes, which had been made into jewellery, might not be his. After investigating, the police have removed the bodies of 35 individuals and suspected human ashes. The woman, who lost her husband eight months ago, is now faced with the harrowing task of identifying his body. This development is part of a broader police inquiry, which has led to the arrest and subsequent bail of two individuals. Many families have raised concerns about receiving incorrect ashes following funerals. A friend of another affected family from Beverley described how women in the family had turned ashes into crystal jewellery, only to learn the deceased had been in a freezer all this time, raising questions about which ashes had been used. The police have received over 1,000 calls from the public and are conducting formal identification procedures for the recovered bodies and ashes.
