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Thailand likely detects a new, more dangerous mpox variant
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Best Song of Past 100 Years? Your Vote?
To think a couple of young guys wrote all of that when they were only in their early twenties. Genius. But so was Pink Floyd when they were at a similar age. They made what might be considered the best album of all time; Dark Side. -
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Fiery Crash Kills Driver After Truck Hits Parked Cars Outside Restaurant
Picture from bystanders. The incident occurred in Chachoengsao when an 18-wheeler truck driver lost control and crashed into several parked cars outside a noodle restaurant, smashing into a power pole and igniting in flames. Despite efforts to save the driver, he tragically died in the wreckage. At around 16:20 on September 17, Pol. Lt. Nontasit Phongsirikornkul, the investigative officer of Bang Nam Priao Police Station, Chachoengsao, received reports of a crash involving an 18-wheeler truck on Suwinthawong Road in Sala Daeng Subdistrict. The truck had smashed into cars parked outside a restaurant and burst into flames, killing the truck driver. Several vehicles were severely damaged. Upon arriving at the scene, authorities discovered a white Hino truck with license plate number from Chachoengsao had collided with a Honda sedan, a Toyota Revo pickup truck and a Toyota Vios sedan. All vehicles were heavily damaged, with one power pole completely knocked over. Fire had engulfed the front of the truck, but locals managed to contain it before it spread. The truck driver's body was found trapped in the vehicle, his legs pinned under the dashboard. Rescue teams used hydraulic cutters to extract his body, which was badly burned. Eyewitnesses revealed that the accident began when a LPG gas truck scraped against the 18-wheeler, causing the truck to lose control and plow into the parked vehicles. The impact caused the power pole to snap, resulting in electrical sparks. Passersby rushed to help, with some using buckets of water to try to extinguish the fire. However, the fire quickly grew, forcing the rescuers to abandon their efforts. Unfortunately, the driver's legs were stuck, and he was unable to escape as the flames overtook him. Wanlisa, the owner of one of the damaged sedans, recounted the terrifying moment. She had just parked her car with her family in Chachoengsao, intending to return to Bangkok after a day out. Fortunately, the family had just stepped out of the car to eat when the accident happened. "It was pure luck that no one in my family was hurt. We had only just parked, and moments later, we heard a loud crash and saw the truck plowing into the parked cars," she said, visibly shaken by the ordeal. Authorities have since sent the truck driver's body to Bang Nam Priao Hospital for further examination. The gas truck driver is in police custody and will be questioned about the incident. Tow trucks were brought in to remove the damaged vehicles, and further investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash. Police have stated that they will proceed with legal action once all the facts have been gathered and interviews with the involved parties are complete. Video of the incident from Thai news media below. -- 2024-09-18 RPReplay_Final1726603691.mp4 -
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 18 September 2024
PM Paetongtarn Faces Threat with Impeachment Over Cabinet Pick Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing increased vulnerability to an impeachment lawsuit filed against her. The lawsuit accuses her of breaching political ethics by appointing an allegedly corrupt individual as a minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338454-pm-paetongtarn-faces-threat-with-impeachment-over-cabinet-pick/ -
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PM Paetongtarn Faces Threat with Impeachment Over Cabinet Pick
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is facing increased vulnerability to an impeachment lawsuit filed against her. The lawsuit accuses her of breaching political ethics by appointing an allegedly corrupt individual as a minister. This move could have serious implications for her position, given the political history and recent events in Thailand's political landscape. Ruangkrai Leekitwatana filed the lawsuit to the Constitutional Court via the Election Commission, highlighting Paetongtarn's nomination of Surapong Piyachote as deputy transport minister in her cabinet. Surapong has a contentious past, having been accused of involvement in vote-buying activities during his run for head of the Kanchanaburi provincial administration four years ago. Key figures within the Pheu Thai party express concern that Paetongtarn, daughter of de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, might end up being judged guilty by the court. This could potentially result in her impeachment and removal from office, echoing the fate of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted under a similar lawsuit. Surapong had earlier held the same ministerial seat under the former prime minister, raising questions of consistency in the legal and ethical evaluation by Thailand's Constitutional Court. The court had previously ruled on former prime minister’s dishonesty and lack of ethics in the appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a convicted lawyer. This ruling could set a precedent for the current case against Paetongtarn. In addition to this lawsuit, other accusations loom over Paetongtarn. Many claim that her father, Thaksin, unlawfully orchestrated political moves within the Pheu Thai party and among its coalition partners. Allegations include his influence in securing his daughter’s nomination during a clandestine meeting following Srettha’s removal, reported Thai Newsroom. Thaksin's controversial return from self-exile last year and his favourable treatment during a prison sentence add further complexities. He allegedly played a significant role in reshaping the coalition government, leading to whispers of continued behind-the-scenes manipulation. The political future of Paetongtarn remains uncertain, with potential ramifications not just for her but for the entire nation’s political stability. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-18 -
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Harris Leads Trump by 6 Points Following Debate Performance
Vice President Kamala Harris surged ahead with a six-point lead over former President Donald Trump after last week's presidential debate, according to a new poll released by Morning Consult. This latest poll marks a significant shift in the race, which had previously been a close contest between the two candidates. Prior to the debate, most polls had shown Harris and Trump in a near tie. However, Harris’ strong performance on various key issues seems to have altered the political landscape. Eli Yokley, a political analyst at Morning Consult, stated in an email that “a majority of likely voters — including 1 in 5 Republicans — believe Harris won the debate, and [her] performance appears to be crystalizing her national lead over the former president.” The Morning Consult poll was conducted between September 13 and 15, surveying 11,022 likely U.S. voters. The poll, which has an unweighted margin of error of +/-1 percentage point, revealed Harris with 51% of support compared to 45% for Trump. Morning Consult described this as a "new record" for Harris, making her the first Democratic presidential nominee to reach this level of support. "Her 51% of support among likely voters, which is also at a record high, is driven largely by her best figures to date among Democrats, Biden 2020 voters, liberals, women, 18- to 34-year-olds, and millennials," the poll noted. The poll's methodology focused on registered voters likely to participate in the upcoming election. Respondents were asked to rate their likelihood of voting on a scale of 1 to 10, with "1" representing those who would definitely not vote and "10" indicating those certain to vote. Only individuals who rated themselves as an "8" or higher were considered likely voters. The poll did not account for voters who were initially undecided but were later asked to indicate which candidate they were leaning toward. Both Harris and Trump are targeting young voters, a group that includes many undecided or persuadable individuals. While Trump has been trying to appeal to younger male voters through appearances on popular podcasts and at UFC events, Harris has focused on young women, many of whom have become more politically engaged in recent years, especially around issues like reproductive rights. Harris’ momentum was further boosted when pop star Taylor Swift publicly endorsed her on Instagram, where Swift has a massive following of 284 million. The singer's post encouraging voter registration led to 338,000 visits to Vote.gov within 15 hours, potentially increasing Harris’ support among young voters. According to Yokley, Harris "is enjoying a positive news cycle among the likely electorate this year that's earning her positive marks and aligns with her best numbers yet in the head-to-head contest" against Trump. Credit: AXIOS 2024-09-18 -
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Kyle Clifford Charged with Murders of BBC's John Hunt’s Wife and Daughters
In a heartbreaking incident that shocked the community, 26-year-old Kyle Clifford has been charged with the murders of Carol Hunt, 61, and her two daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25. The tragic event, which unfolded on July 9 at the family’s home in Bushey, Hertfordshire, involved a brutal crossbow attack. Clifford, who has been in custody since July 10, is now set to appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court to face multiple charges, including three counts of murder, false imprisonment, and possession of offensive weapons. Hertfordshire Police had been unable to question Clifford immediately after the attack, as he was receiving medical treatment for an injury. However, with Clifford now charged, the judicial process can move forward, offering some hope of justice to the grieving family. Detective Chief Inspector Nick Gardner of the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit reflected on the gravity of the situation: “Our thoughts remain with the Hunt family and their loved ones as they continue to come to terms with their loss. Over the past couple of months, we have been working hard to gather as much evidence as possible and establish the full circumstances of what happened that day. Today, we have managed to secure charges against Kyle Clifford in connection with the murders of Carol, Hannah, and Louise Hunt. Although it has taken some time to reach this stage, we can now move forward with the judicial process and seek justice for their family.” Carol Hunt, the wife of BBC racing commentator John Hunt, and their two daughters were found gravely injured in their Ashlyn Close home, leaving the close-knit family in unimaginable pain. In a statement released in July, John Hunt and his surviving daughter, Amy, expressed their profound grief, stating that their devastation "cannot be put into words." They further described the aftermath of the attack as "an extremely difficult time for us." Tributes poured in from friends, family, and colleagues, highlighting the impact the Hunt family had on those who knew them. Many described them as a "gentle, beautiful family," whose loss is deeply felt across their community. Hannah’s boyfriend, Alex Klein, took to social media to share his sorrow, posting a heartfelt message alongside a photo of the couple. He wrote: “RIP the love of my life, I will never forget you, stolen from me too soon. The brightest light in my life. My brave queen for life. Until we meet again... I love you Hansy.” Support for John Hunt and his family extended beyond their immediate circle, with colleagues from BBC and ITV publicly expressing their sympathies. BBC Radio 5 Live host Mark Chapman, visibly emotional, shared his thoughts ahead of the coverage of England’s Euro 2024 semi-final, dedicating a moment to Hunt. He said: “John Hunt is our colleague and our friend, not just to the current 5 Live sports team, but to all of those who’ve worked here with him over the past 20 years, and also to all of you who have enjoyed his superb commentaries. So, on behalf of everybody connected to 5 Live Sports, our love and thoughts and support are with John and his family.” Clifford, who hails from Rendlesham Road in Enfield, north London, will make a remote appearance in court. As the legal process begins, there remains a strong sense of grief and solidarity among those affected by this unspeakable tragedy. Lisa Ramsarran, chief crown prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in Thames and Chiltern, reiterated this sentiment, stating: “Our thoughts remain with the Hunt family and all those who have been affected by this tragic incident.” The pain of the Hunt family and the broader community will be long-lasting, but there is hope that justice will be served as the case proceeds. Credit: The Independent 2024-09-18 -
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Ensuring the UK Does Not Repeat The Mistakes of Allowing Grooming Gangs to Flourish
Suella Braverman. Too many still won’t admit the truth about child grooming gangs. We must secure justice for thousands of girls and also ensure that this type of industrial-scale cover-up isn’t repeated. There are some people you never forget. For me, I’ll always remember that meeting in Rochdale with the brave women who had survived brutal sexual abuse. They told me how, as young girls, they had been preyed upon, trafficked and raped, mainly by Pakistani and Afghan men. One woman told me how the violent sexual abuse had started when she was just 12 and how she had thereafter fallen pregnant. I heard how one woman had been raped by more than 150 men by the time she was 16. They told me how police officers, social workers, teachers and councillors all knew about the paedophilia but turned a blind eye for fear of being called racist. They spoke angrily about how the authorities refused to believe them. The truth was covered up out of fear of inflaming racial tension. They told me how grateful they were to the handful of professionals like Maggie Oliver – a policewoman whistle-blower – who saved their lives. The truth is that the Rochdale and Rotherham grooming scandals are one of the biggest injustices in our country and no one should ever forget what happened, and what still happens, in many parts of our country. Last week, sentences totalling more than 100 years were handed down to seven Rotherham perpetrators. Credit must be given to the police and CPS for pursuing these investigations, eventually. Child sexual abuse cases can take years to build, involve the handling of complex and sensitive evidence and depend on the courage of the victims who have to re-live the ordeal in court for convictions to be secured. The survivors have shown immense fortitude. As Home Secretary I was passionate about making progress on this national scandal. Last year we set up a specialist task force, led by the National Crime Agency, to galvanise the investigative work with the police. I worked with the task force closely; it secured over 500 new arrests in its first year. Sadly, much was left undone by the time of the general election and so there is still a lot more to do. We must secure justice for thousands of girls and also ensure that this type of industrial-scale cover-up isn’t repeated. A legal duty on professionals to report sexual abuse is needed to break through the inertia and fear that prevail in many of our organisations. This was one of the key recommendations in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse and needs to come into force. The police have been heavily criticised for their mishandling of the Rochdale cases for more than a decade – most recently in an independent report earlier this year. But have there been any consequences for their neglect? None. More accurate recording of the data is needed to smash the taboos around some incidents of child sexual abuse. As the independent reports confirm, in Rotherham, Rochdale and Telford, the perpetrators were mainly Pakistani. This truth that dared not speak its name was a reason for the institutional silence and that’s why we need to keep talking about it now. This is not to smear a whole class of people but to be honest about a serious problem in some of our towns and cities. And we need greater powers to deport foreign-born offenders after conviction. It cannot be right that a foreign criminal who has breached our values and rules in such an egregious way can still enjoy residency in our country. It will require political courage to confront these problems if we are serious about securing justice for the survivors and protecting children in the future. This Labour Government must put child safety above political correctness, but I’m not so sure they will. I hope they prove me wrong. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-18 -
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The Cost of Delay: Amber Thurman's Preventable Death Highlights Dangers of Abortion Bans
Amber Nicole Thurman’s story is one of tragedy and loss. The 28-year-old medical assistant from Georgia lost her life due to complications that could have been prevented. After taking abortion pills, Thurman experienced a rare complication where some fetal tissue remained in her body. She sought medical help at Piedmont Henry Hospital in suburban Atlanta, needing a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, which would have removed the remaining tissue and treated her infection. However, in the summer of 2022, Georgia passed a law criminalizing abortions with limited exceptions. The hospital delayed providing the D&C for 20 hours, and by the time they finally performed the procedure, it was too late. Thurman’s infection had spread, her organs were failing, and she died. This death, according to an official state committee, was preventable. Tasked with reviewing pregnancy-related deaths to improve maternal health, the committee determined that the hospital’s delay in providing the necessary medical care played a significant role in Thurman’s death. “There is a good chance” that performing a D&C earlier could have saved her life, the committee concluded. Thurman’s case is one of at least two in Georgia where women have died due to delays in accessing abortion care, according to ProPublica. As abortion bans take effect across the U.S., similar cases are coming to light. Doctors and advocates have long warned that such laws, with their vague and non-medical language, would force healthcare providers to choose between protecting their patients’ health and avoiding prosecution. Dr. Melissa Kottke, an OB-GYN at Emory University, cautioned legislators in 2019, saying doctors would feel compelled to wait for their patients to get sicker before intervening. The law in Georgia does allow exceptions to save the mother’s life, but critics argue that the wording of these exceptions is unclear and difficult to interpret. Medical professionals, fearful of facing up to 10 years in prison, may delay necessary treatment. In Thurman’s case, although she presented with severe symptoms of sepsis, including critically low blood pressure, the hospital chose to wait, testing her for sexually transmitted infections and pneumonia instead of performing the D&C. Thurman’s death occurred two weeks after Georgia’s abortion ban went into effect. Her mother and six-year-old son now live with the painful absence of a woman who loved being a mother. Her son, who was at the center of her world, now faces life without her. Amber Thurman’s story is a sobering reminder of the real-life consequences of abortion bans. As states across the country continue to restrict access to abortion, stories like hers are becoming more frequent, shining a light on the dangers of political interference in medical care. Credit: ProPublica 2024-09-18 -
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Hillary Clinton Criticizes Elon Musk for Disturbing Comments About Taylor Swift
In a recent interview, Hillary Clinton voiced her disapproval of Elon Musk’s unsettling remarks about Taylor Swift. Clinton called out Musk for what she described as a deeply inappropriate and misogynistic attack on the pop superstar. The conversation took place during an episode of Kara Swisher's podcast *On*, where Clinton linked Musk’s behavior to a broader culture of toxic masculinity shared by influential figures like Donald Trump. Swisher, the podcast host, was quick to pick up on Clinton’s mention of Musk, asking her to elaborate on what she had called Trump’s "alter ego." Clinton referred to Musk’s recent comments in which he bizarrely suggested that he would forcibly impregnate Swift after her public endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. During the debate night last week, Musk had tweeted, "Fine Taylor … you win … I will give you a child and guard your cats with my life." According to Clinton, Musk’s suggestion of forcibly "impregnating" Swift was "kind of another way of saying rape." “I can’t understand why he says what he says,” Clinton admitted, expressing her disbelief at Musk’s behavior. She pointed to a recurring theme among figures like Trump and Musk: “misogyny is such a part of their worldview, and they gravitate toward toughness and brutality and machoism.” Clinton added that whether it’s technology tycoons or political figures, their demeaning attitudes toward women are all too common. Clinton also took a moment to praise Taylor Swift, describing her as a “self-made billionaire who brings joy to people and imparts life lessons, particularly to girls and women.” Swift’s success, according to Clinton, makes her a target for figures like Musk and Trump. “They can’t stand it,” Clinton said, referring to their apparent discomfort with strong, independent women. Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris, Clinton suggested, likely provoked an even stronger reaction from Trump and Musk. The timing, coming right after the recent debate and adding to Harris’s momentum, may have only intensified their anger. "Swift’s endorsement was always going to trigger Trump," Clinton observed, noting the predictable backlash from the former president’s camp. In her criticism of Musk and Trump, Clinton highlighted a pervasive issue in modern-day power dynamics, where successful women like Swift continue to face aggressive and misogynistic attacks from powerful men who feel threatened by their accomplishments. Credit: Daily Beast 2024-09-18 -
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Meta Bans RT & Other Russian State Media for Foreign Interference
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and other popular apps, announced a significant move on Monday by banning Russia Today (RT), Rossiya Segodnya, and other Russian state-affiliated media networks from its platforms. The social media giant cited that these outlets had engaged in deceptive tactics, using covert operations to influence public opinion online. In a written statement, Meta explained, “After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets. Rossiya Segodnya, RT, and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity.” This decision signals Meta’s most decisive action yet against Russian state media, as it prepares to enforce the ban over the coming days across its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads. This action marks a dramatic shift from Meta’s previous steps, which had included more limited actions such as blocking ads from Russian state media and reducing the reach of their posts. Now, the full ban escalates the tech giant’s stance in a much more aggressive manner. It also comes in the wake of a legal battle in the United States, where earlier this month, two RT employees were charged with money laundering. U.S. officials claim that the scheme was part of an effort to hire an American company to produce content aimed at influencing the upcoming 2024 election. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also weighed in, stating last Friday that nations should treat the activities of Russian state broadcasters, like RT, as covert intelligence operations. In response to these moves, RT has mocked U.S. actions, accusing the United States of trying to suppress its ability to operate as a journalistic entity. According to Meta, Russian state-controlled media outlets have previously tried to evade detection and may continue to do so, using increasingly deceptive methods. Meta expects that these attempts at influence operations will likely persist, but the company is committed to remaining vigilant and enforcing these bans rigorously. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-18 -
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“Queers for Palestine” Offered $1 Million to host a gay pride parade in Gaza or West Bank
The New Tolerance Campaign (NTC), a watchdog organization, has announced it will donate $1 million to any US-based LGBTQ advocacy group willing to host a Pride parade in Gaza or the West Bank. The offer is open to groups like “Queers for Palestine,” which have gained visibility in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, despite homosexuality remaining highly taboo in Palestinian territories. Gay and transgender individuals in Gaza and the West Bank face severe persecution, including acts of violence. Gregory T. Angelo, president of the NTC and former leader of the Log Cabin Republicans, emphasized that the campaign serves as a wake-up call to those advocating LGBTQ equality in Palestinian regions. "This campaign emerged to call out these purported advocates of LGBT equality and put our money where their mouths are,” he said. Angelo expressed hope that the campaign would either highlight the dangers faced by LGBTQ individuals in Palestinian territories or create an opportunity for peace and pluralism in the region. NTC has secured the $1 million prize and is publicizing the offer through mobile billboards near locations like Columbia University in New York, the headquarters of the Human Rights Campaign in Washington, D.C., and UCLA in Los Angeles. Angelo noted that the flashy prize was designed to capture attention, but the core objective is to advance equality and human rights. The campaign also allows Americans to send direct messages to senior leadership at organizations like GLAAD and the LGBTQ Task Force, urging them to advocate for LGBTQ rights in Palestinian territories. Angelo pointed out that in the U.S., anti-Israel protesters often claim that LGBTQ people are mistreated domestically. However, he countered that by stating the U.S. offers significant legal protections, including anti-discrimination laws and nationwide same-sex marriage, which stand in stark contrast to the treatment of LGBTQ individuals in the Palestinian territories. “Contrast that with what you see over in the Palestinian territories where same-sex marriage isn’t something that’s even a possibility or discussed. There are no protections in terms of employment for sexual orientation or gender,” he said. In 2019, Palestinian Authority police banned LGBTQ events in the West Bank, threatening to arrest anyone participating. Meanwhile, Israel promotes itself as a safe haven for LGBTQ rights, with Tel Aviv celebrated as a top destination for gay and lesbian travelers. Angelo, who visited the West Bank in 2013, said he was stunned by the difference in human rights between Israel and the Palestinian territories. The NTC describes itself as a group that holds institutions accountable for violating their stated values of tolerance. Through campaigns like this, the organization seeks to confront double standards and promote a consistent commitment to tolerance and human rights. Credit: NYP 2024-09-18 -
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UK and Italy Strengthen Cooperation on Curbing Illegal Migration
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has commended Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for her success in tackling illegal migration. During a visit to Italy, Starmer noted that Italy has seen a 60% drop in the number of illegal migrants arriving by sea, attributing this to Meloni’s efforts to target the criminal gangs profiting from illegal immigration. He emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation and stated that the UK and Italy would work closely together on this issue, sharing data and intelligence. Starmer also expressed interest in Italy's offshore asylum processing plan, which involves opening two centres in Albania to handle asylum claims. In a joint press conference with Meloni in Rome, Starmer praised Italy’s approach. "You've made remarkable progress working with countries along migration routes as equals to address the drivers of migration at the source and to tackle the gangs," he said. He highlighted that irregular arrivals to Italy by sea have significantly reduced since 2022 and stressed his commitment to addressing illegal migration in the UK. Starmer visited Italy's national immigration coordination centre with Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, where the discussion centred on the tragic consequences of illegal migration, including the recent shipwreck in the Channel that claimed eight lives, bringing the total death toll this year to 46. Starmer also addressed his rejection of the previous UK government's controversial plan to send undocumented migrants to Rwanda while their asylum claims were processed. Drawing from his background as a chief prosecutor, he underlined the need for international collaboration to fight smuggling gangs. "I've never accepted... that we can't do the same with smuggling gangs. And now of course Italy has shown that we can," he said. During the visit, Starmer expressed his admiration for Italy’s agreement with Albania, which involves the establishment of migrant centres where undocumented migrants will be housed while their asylum claims are processed. Starmer noted that the centres are not yet operational but highlighted the potential of such a plan. He added that the reduction in migrant arrivals to Italy could be credited to Italy's deals with Tunisia and Libya, where financial assistance is exchanged for cooperation in stopping migrant departures. Starmer emphasized that preventing people from leaving their countries in the first place is more effective than dealing with those who have already arrived. Starmer's visit did not come without criticism. Labour MP Kim Johnson expressed concern, telling The Guardian that it was "disturbing that Starmer is seeking to learn lessons from a neo-fascist government, particularly after the anti-refugee riots and far-right racist terrorism that swept Britain this summer." Nevertheless, Starmer maintained his pragmatic stance, stating, "We are pragmatists first and foremost. When we see a challenge, we discuss with our friends and allies the different approaches that are being taken." Italy’s hard-right government has recently renewed a deal with Libya, initially signed in 2017, which provides the Libyan coastguard with training and funding to help deter migrants from leaving or to return those caught at sea. As a result of these measures, Italy’s interior ministry reported a significant drop in sea arrivals. Between January 1 and September 13, 44,675 people arrived in Italy, compared to 125,806 during the same period the previous year. While the EU as a whole has seen a 39% decrease in illegal migrant crossings, experts note that many migrants are simply changing their routes, with Channel crossings up 13% this year, according to the EU’s border agency, Frontex. Credit: France 24. 2024-09-18 -
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Prime Minister Starmer Defends Taking Donations Amid Criticism
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has indicated that he will continue accepting donations from Lord Alli, a prominent Labour donor, despite controversy over clothing provided to his wife. The Prime Minister faced questions about gifts from the peer, including clothes and alterations for Lady Starmer following Labour's election victory in July. Starmer acknowledged receiving gifts but stated he would follow parliamentary rules regarding their declaration. The Prime Minister’s actions have drawn scrutiny, as it is alleged that he failed to declare the donations within the required timeframe, breaching parliamentary regulations. The donations, including clothing and personal shopping services from Lord Alli, were not initially registered in the MPs’ interests, but Starmer made a late declaration after seeking advice from parliamentary authorities. Lord Alli has been a longstanding supporter of Starmer, previously donating various items such as spectacles and accommodation. While questioned on the matter during a trip to Italy, Starmer downplayed the controversy, asserting that “all Members of Parliament get gifts” and emphasizing a distinction between declarations and corruption. He added, "The rules say, over a certain value, you’ve got to declare the gifts, so everybody can see what it was, how much it was, who it came from… that’s a good framework." The Conservative Party has called for an investigation, with a formal request sent to the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner. Tory MP Daniel Greenberg raised concerns over Starmer's delayed declaration and referenced a report suggesting that Lord Alli, despite holding no formal government role, had been granted a temporary Downing Street security pass and played an influential role in key Cabinet appointments. Starmer defended his actions, explaining that his team sought advice following the election on the proper procedure for declarations, and any delay was part of a “genuine and proper exercise.” He maintained that he had complied with all necessary rules and continued to argue that the issue at hand was one of transparency, not corruption. "There’s a massive difference between declarations and corruption," he told reporters. Starmer also addressed his receipt of complimentary football tickets, which he has accepted more than 20 times during his time in Parliament. These included tickets to Arsenal matches, where he is a regular supporter. Starmer explained that due to security concerns, he cannot sit in the stands and therefore must accept hospitality. "Never going to an Arsenal game again because I can’t accept hospitality is pushing it a bit far," he remarked. Foreign Secretary David Lammy defended the Prime Minister, arguing that donations helped ensure that Starmer and his wife could "look their best" while representing the country. Lammy compared the situation to that of the U.S., where presidents and first ladies are provided with a taxpayer-funded wardrobe. However, Starmer made it clear that he did not support such a system in the UK. The matter continues to stir debate, with calls for clarity on the Prime Minister's future handling of donations and the broader issue of transparency within the government. Despite the backlash, Starmer insists he will follow the rules, stating, “Wherever there are gifts from anyone, I’m going to comply with the rules.” Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-18 -
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Israel Hamas War the Widening Middle East Conflict
Middle East latest: At least nine dead from blasts - as pagers said to be 'a new brand Hezbollah hadn't used before' | Lebanon detonations latest Dozens of members of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have been seriously wounded after pagers they use to communicate exploded, security officials say. Eleven people have now been killed in the pager explosions that swept across Lebanon, according to health minister Bassem Ghanem. The number of dead continues to rise as Lebanon grapples with the aftermath of the incident. A further 4,000 people were said to have been injured - with 400 of them reportedly in critical condition. The agency also cited security sources who said that some detonations took place after pagers rang, causing the owners to put them in their hands, or bring them up to their faces. https://news.sky.com/story/middle-east-latest-eight-dead-in-pager-explosions-include-hezbollah-fighters-militant-group-says-12978800
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