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Tory Minister Conor Burns Reinstated After Inappropriate Behavior Allegations Dismissed

Burns Claims Party ‘Stitch-Up’ Following Restoration of Whip Amid Controversy

Conor Burns, the former trade minister who was dismissed after allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” at a Conservative conference, has had his party whip restored following the Conservative Party’s conclusion that there was no case to answer.

Burns accused his own party of orchestrating a “stitch-up,” claiming he was “thrown to the wolves” after publicly criticizing Liz Truss’s brief time as Prime Minister. He expressed his frustration over how the allegations were handled, stating, “I knew I was innocent and the truth will out, and it has,” in comments to a local newspaper in Bournemouth.

The controversy began when a witness alleged that Burns had touched a young man’s thigh in a hotel bar; however, the alleged victim did not file a complaint. This has led to calls for Burns to have been suspended rather than dismissed outright. Burns suggested that his criticism of Truss’s handling of post-Brexit trade deals played a role in his sacking, remarking, “It felt and smelt like a stitch-up, and that is what it was.”

He criticized the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the allegations, calling it “completely unacceptable” for individuals to be left in limbo without clarity on the accusations against them.

A Conservative Party spokesperson confirmed that after receiving a complaint and conducting an investigation in accordance with its code of conduct, the party found no basis for further action, stating, “The matter is now closed and Mr. Burns’s membership will be reinstated at the nearest possible opportunity.”

Burns, who has served as the MP for Bournemouth West since 2010 and was a close ally of Boris Johnson during his tenure, faced swift dismissal, contrasting with the drawn-out handling of the Chris Pincher scandal under Johnson’s leadership. He reflected on the impact of the past two months, describing the experience as a “living nightmare” for himself and his family, particularly his elderly parents.

Just three days prior to his dismissal, Burns had publicly mocked Truss’s record as international trade secretary and had suggested Kemi Badenoch as her successor.

Trump Advocates for His Reinstatement as President, Making Unfounded Claims of Election Fraud

Former President Asserts Fraud Allegations Override Constitutional Norms in Truth Social Rant

Donald Trump has called for his reinstatement as president, or for a repeat of the 2020 election, based on unfounded claims of widespread fraud. In a Saturday morning post on Truth Social, the twice-impeached former president alleged that “massive and widespread fraud and deception” by Democrats and big tech companies undermined the election results.

He posed the question: “Do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION?” Trump further asserted that the alleged fraud was so significant that it justified disregarding all laws, including the Constitution. “A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution,” he claimed. “Our great ‘Founders’ did not want, and would not condone, False & Fraudulent Elections!”

Trump’s online tirade began in response to a Fox News report indicating that the FBI had engaged with Twitter and other social media platforms prior to the 2020 election to mitigate the spread of disinformation. This report is connected to a lawsuit filed by the attorneys general of Louisiana and Missouri, which accuses senior government officials of collaborating with tech companies to censor content under the pretext of combating misinformation.

Multiple reports and testimonies during congressional hearings have documented foreign interference attempts in the 2020 election. Intelligence assessments indicated that Russian operatives targeted Biden’s campaign, while China and Iran were believed to prefer Trump’s defeat.

Late Friday, Trump accused the FBI and Justice Department of colluding with big tech companies to undermine his campaign and rig the election. He stated, “Now additional evidence, different but just as illegal and sinister as the many other forms of cheating used, is flowing out of the crevices of this corrupt wound,” in a somewhat graphic manner.

Across five posts, he criticized law enforcement and the judicial system, labeling them “totally corrupt” and accusing them of “harassing, cajoling, and intimidating Big Tech companies.” He claimed their actions were akin to “STUFFING THE BALLOT BOXES, only far more sophisticated and impactful.”

In one post, he remarked that while his allegations would receive no investigation, the authorities would continue probing “boxes” of classified documents that were taken from the White House to his Mar-a-Lago estate after his presidency.

As a multitude of legal issues surrounds him, Trump continues to direct his ire at the FBI and the judicial system, amidst ongoing scrutiny of his actions, his family’s dealings, and his business practices during his final months in office.

Estonia Enhances Defense with $200 Million Purchase of U.S. Rocket Artillery System

NATO Member Strengthens Military Capabilities Amid Regional Tensions

Estonia, a NATO member and neighbour to Russia, is significantly enhancing its defense capabilities through the acquisition of an advanced U.S. rocket artillery system, marking the largest arms procurement project in the Baltic nation’s history, defense officials announced on Saturday.

The deal, signed on Friday, involves the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and is valued at over $200 million. This comprehensive package includes essential equipment such as ammunition, rockets, and training support.

According to the Estonian Center for Defense Investment, the HIMARS rockets have a range of 70 to 300 kilometres (43 to 186 miles). Lockheed Martin Corp. is anticipated to begin deliveries in 2024. While the exact number of rocket launchers was not disclosed by Estonian officials, local media reports suggest that the purchase involves six HIMARS units.

“The HIMARS multiple rocket launchers represent a significant advancement in Estonia’s defense capabilities,” stated Lt. Col. Kaarel Mäesalu, head of capability development at the Estonian Defense Forces. “This system enables us to effectively engage the enemy even before our infantry units make contact.”

Estonia’s Baltic neighbours, Latvia and Lithuania, either possess or are in the process of acquiring their own HIMARS systems, reflecting a regional trend towards bolstering military preparedness.

The U.S. has supplied Ukraine with similar rocket launchers in response to Russia’s invasion, and the Estonian Defense Ministry noted that HIMARS systems have been instrumental in targeting Russian military assets, including ammunition depots, transport hubs, and command centres, with high precision beyond the reach of traditional howitzers employed by Ukraine.

Rule-breaking former ministers should face legal action, say MPs in new report

Rule-breaking former ministers should face legal action, say MPs in new report

MPs recommend tougher measures for Government accountability and ethical conduct.

The Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee has published a new report calling for legal action against former ministers and civil servants who violate rules regarding the “revolving door” between Government and private sector jobs. The MPs propose expanding and legally enforcing the Business Appointment Rules, which govern the post-Government employment of ministers and senior officials, to provide a stronger deterrent against improper conduct.

This recommendation comes amid concerns raised by high-profile scandals like Greensill, Partygate, and the resignations of two independent ethics advisers to the former Prime Minister. MPs urge the Government to take decisive steps to strengthen systems regulating standards and ethical behaviour in public office.

The Committee also expressed concern over the reappointment of Home Secretary Suella Braverman by the Prime Minister, arguing that it sets a “dangerous precedent” for how breaches of the Ministerial Code are handled. The leaking of restricted material should lead to significant sanctions, according to the new rules implemented by Boris Johnson’s Government earlier this year. The report stresses that a new Prime Minister should not have the power to “wipe the slate clean” when it comes to reappointing ministers.

Further criticisms were directed at the Prime Minister’s position on the new ethics adviser, specifically regarding their ability to investigate past breaches of the Ministerial Code. The Prime Minister has stated that the new ethics adviser will not be allowed to examine historical allegations, including those involving Home Secretary Braverman, which the Committee deems “unsatisfactory.”

The Committee also challenges the Government’s approach to parliamentary scrutiny of public appointments, describing it as a “tick box” exercise. MPs advocate for a greater role for Select Committees, including endorsing appointments for the Chairs of ethics watchdogs and ensuring ministers publicly justify any deviation from recruitment panel advice.

In conclusion, the Committee calls for all Government ethics watchdogs to be enshrined in law, establishing clearer roles and ensuring they remain distinct from one another, rather than being merged into a single ethics regulator.

Lords debates war in Ukraine

Lords debates war in Ukraine

House of Lords discusses Ukraine war and nuclear threats.

On Thursday, December 1, members of the House of Lords engaged in a significant debate addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine and the alarming threats of tactical nuclear weapon use.

The debate was introduced by Lord Harries of Pentregarth, a Crossbench member and former Bishop of Oxford, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

This general debate allowed Lords to share their insights and expertise, fostering a platform for thoughtful dialogue on one of the most pressing global issues.

Participants analyzed the implications of the conflict on international stability and highlighted the potential dangers of escalating military aggression.

The Lords also sought to bring attention to humanitarian concerns, underscoring the importance of supporting Ukraine and addressing the global consequences of the war.

General debates like this enable members to draw the government’s focus to critical matters and propose informed responses to international crises.

The House of Lords remains a key forum for raising awareness and guiding policy discussions on global conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.

New Member of Parliament for City of Chester

New Member of Parliament for City of Chester

Samantha Dixon elected as MP for City of Chester in by-election.

Samantha Dixon, representing the Labour Party, has been elected as the new Member of Parliament for the City of Chester in the by-election held on Thursday, December 1, 2022.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former MP Chris Matheson in October 2022.

Dixon’s victory marks a continuation of Labour’s representation in the constituency, with her election reaffirming the party’s local support.

The City of Chester seat has traditionally been a closely watched constituency, and the by-election results drew significant attention due to the political context surrounding the resignation.

This election underscores the ongoing political engagement in the area and the electorate’s decision to maintain continuity in representation under the Labour banner.

Dixon is expected to bring her focus on community issues and policy priorities to Parliament as she begins her term as the new MP for the City of Chester.

Her election contributes to the Labour Party’s broader efforts to solidify its position in key constituencies across the UK.

MPs to Probe Home Office Raid of the Aid Budget with New Development Minister

MPs to Probe Home Office Raid of the Aid Budget with New Development Minister

Development Minister Andrew Mitchell to outline his priorities for UK aid.

The International Development Committee will hear from Andrew Mitchell MP, the new Minister for Development and Africa, on his priorities for aid spending during a session on Tuesday, December 6, at 2:30 pm in the Thatcher Room, Portcullis House.

Mr. Mitchell, who previously served as Secretary of State for International Development from May 2010 to September 2012, has criticized the merger of the Department for International Development with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 2020. He has also raised concerns about subsequent cuts to aid budgets.

The session will offer him a platform to elaborate on his vision for the future of UK aid and his approach to addressing current challenges within the sector.

Recently, the Committee initiated an inquiry into the use of aid funding to support refugees in the UK. This has sparked debate over whether such expenditures represent an efficient and ethical application of public resources.

The inquiry aims to assess whether this allocation aligns with the overarching objectives of aid spending, which traditionally focuses on promoting global development and welfare.

The Minister will also face questions on how the government intends to restore confidence in its aid strategy amid concerns from stakeholders and international partners.

This session highlights the ongoing scrutiny of UK aid policies, particularly in light of significant structural changes and fiscal constraints affecting the sector.

George & Tammy’: A Deep Dive into the Lives of Country Legends

Stars Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain Prepare for Roles by Immersing Themselves in Iconic Music

In anticipation of their forthcoming series “George & Tammy,” actors Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain dedicated months to mastering the songs that made George Jones and Tammy Wynette household names. Their preparation included working closely with a vocal coach and even making a pilgrimage to Nashville for recording sessions.

“The studio where we recorded was right next to the cemetery where George and Tammy are buried,” Shannon shared. “We would visit their graves. It felt like a spiritual journey for us.”

The duo, both Grammy winners and members of the Country Music Hall of Fame, performed some of the genre’s most iconic songs, including “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “Stand By Your Man,” “Tennessee Whiskey,” and “D-I-V-O-R-C-E.” However, the reality of Jones and Wynette’s relationship during their peak was far from the fairy tale many fans envisioned for the couple often referred to as “the first lady and president of country music.”

Set to premiere on December 2 on Showtime, the six-part limited series reveals the complexities of their lives, highlighting how they coped with the pressures of fame and addiction, allowing their personal struggles, love, and heartache to shape their unforgettable performances. Chastain, whose production company Freckle Films was involved in the project, expressed her fascination with their story, particularly after viewing videos of their live performances, where their authentic and sometimes chaotic stage presence stood out.

“I was eager to learn what drove the emotions we saw on stage,” said the Oscar-winning actress.

Wynette passed away in 1998 at 55 due to heart failure stemming from chronic health problems, while Jones died in 2013 at the age of 81. Initially conceived as a feature film, the series was adapted by writer Abe Sylvia from the autobiography of Georgette Jones, the couple’s daughter.

“One of the central themes of the show is our tendency to look for someone else to save us through love, which is an impossible expectation,” Sylvia remarked during the Los Angeles premiere. “George and Tammy see in each other a potential source of salvation, which runs throughout the narrative.”

Chastain, who previously won an Oscar for her portrayal of Tammy Faye Bakker, drew inspiration from Wynette’s story—an empowered woman navigating a challenging environment filled with powerful men eager to exploit her talent.

“Nashville was particularly tough on women,” Chastain noted. “Yet, she showed immense bravery. She entered the scene as a single mother with a remarkable voice, determined to succeed.”

Meanwhile, Shannon faced the daunting task of portraying Jones during his darkest periods, as his self-destructive behaviour jeopardised both his marriage and career. Known as “No Show Jones” in the ‘60s and ‘70s due to his frequent absences from performances, Shannon reflected on the complexities of Jones’s relationship with music.

“George had a complicated relationship with singing,” Shannon explained. “He loved it, but his traumatic childhood experiences, where he was often forced to sing, lingered in his subconscious. He resented the idea of singing to survive.”

Both actors embraced the opportunity to wear authentic costumes; Chastain donned original stage outfits belonging to Wynette, while Shannon discovered he was taller than Jones, leading the wardrobe department to create replica Nudie suits designed by the legendary Nudie Cohn.

Shannon was particularly struck by the scene in which his character discards an expensive suit on the roadside during one of Jones’s drunken episodes. “That moment symbolises George’s lifestyle,” he said. “He had a great appreciation for fashion and design, but when he was in a bad place, he could easily abandon it all.”

The most challenging aspect for both actors was performing live during filming in front of hundreds of extras.

“You sing a cappella so they can capture your vocal performance,” Shannon described. “You have an in-ear monitor to hear the track, but the extras are right there watching you sing unaccompanied.”

Welsh broadcasters to give evidence to MPs on the future of broadcasting in Wales

Welsh broadcasters to give evidence to MPs on the future of broadcasting in Wales

Committee to explore the impact of changes on traditional broadcasting in Wales.

Senior leaders from S4C, ITV Cymru Wales, and BBC Cymru Wales will give evidence to the Welsh Affairs Committee as MPs hold their second evidence session exploring the future of broadcasting in Wales.

The Committee will question witnesses on the current broadcasting landscape and how changes, such as the rise of on-demand services and subscriptions, are affecting traditional broadcasting. They are also likely to examine the coverage of Welsh politics and sports, and the prominence given to the Welsh language in broadcasts.

Television remains the primary news source for people in Wales, with 74% of adults across Wales still using TV to access news, higher than the percentage using websites/apps or radio. Television channels offering Welsh and English content, such as BBC Cymru Wales, ITV Cymru Wales, and S4C, have faced financial cuts over the past years.

The evidence session will be broadcast live in Welsh.

Statement by the Chair on recent media reports

Statement by the Chair on recent media reports

Chair of the Conduct Committee addresses concerns over Baroness Mone investigation.

In response to recent media coverage of the ongoing investigation by the independent House of Lords Commissioner for Standards into Baroness Mone, the Chair of the Conduct Committee, Baroness Manningham-Buller, issued a statement. This statement was also sent to 38 Degrees, an organization that has launched a petition calling for Lady Mone’s expulsion from the House of Lords.

The Chair explained that under the House of Lords Code of Conduct, complaints against members are reviewed by one of two independent Commissioners for Standards. The investigation into Baroness Mone was initiated after a complaint was received in January 2022. Since then, it has been revealed that the National Crime Agency is also investigating the matter.

Baroness Manningham-Buller clarified that according to the Guide to the Code of Conduct, the Commissioner is unable to finalize or release a report while a criminal investigation is ongoing. This ensures that the internal investigation does not interfere with the criminal process. Once the criminal investigation concludes, the Commissioner will proceed with their report. If Lady Mone is exonerated, the Commissioner will publish their findings. However, if a breach of conduct is found, the report will be submitted to the Conduct Committee for further review.

The Committee will then consider the findings, hear any appeals from the member involved, and, if the appeal is rejected, recommend a sanction to the House of Lords. Sanctions could range from an apology to expulsion from the House, depending on the severity of the breach. Baroness Manningham-Buller assured the public that the Conduct Committee will act swiftly once the report is finalized.