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Theresa May urged to adopt Labour-style approach to Brexit - politics live Theresa May urged to adopt Labour-style approach to Brexit - politics live
(35 minutes later)
12.25pm BST
12:25
Ed Miliband and Iain Duncan Smith to guest present Jeremy Vine Show
Talking of Ed Miliband, he’s got a new job. The former Labour leader will guest present Radio 2’s Jeremy Vine Show for the week beginning Monday 19 June, while Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader, will guest present for the following.
Phil Jones, editor of the programme, said:
This follows a tradition of Radio 2’s popular current affairs show, being occasionally guest presented by prominent politicians which began with figures such as Neil Kinnock and the late Charles Kennedy in the early 1990s. Political coverage is the bedrock of the programme and this is a sign of how important politics is to Radio 2, especially at such a key time in the nation’s history. Each day we will cover the big stories that affect our listeners and continue to inform, educate and entertain the Radio 2 audience.
12.17pm BST
12:17
It is not just the departure of two Brexit department ministers that has caused surprise. Some of other apparent sackings raised eyebrows too. (I say apparent sackings, because ministers do sometimes choose to leave the government of their own volition, although none of the four MPs on the Downing Street list last night has said publicly they wanted to go.)
Losing Robert Halfon, the skills minister, and Mike Penning, the defence minister, is surprising because they are both champions of the blue-collar Conservatism that Theresa May is supposed to champion. Penning is a former soldier and fireman and one of the few Tory MPs with experience of a working class job. Halfon has long been an advocated of “white van Conservatism”.
Among those paying tribute to Halfon today has been Ed Miliband. Halfon tweeted this.
It's been an honour to have served as Apprenticeships Minister. I'm proud we have a record 900K apprentices & to have passed the FE/TE Bill.
And in response Miliband tweeted this.
A political opponent but I always thought he was the one man who had an idea what blue collar Conservatism meant. Fired by the Maybot... https://t.co/iNe83YRHI2
Here is the FT’s George Parker on Halfon and Penning.
really surprised about Halfon and Penning - excellent ambassadors for Tories in the real world
And this is from Sky’s Beth Rigby.
Me too - exactly the type of blue-collar Tories that embodied May's 'JAMs' pitch #reshuffle https://t.co/Lpdy9LhBNQ
And Sir Oliver Heald says he was sacked as a justice minister because he was too old.
Enjoyed my time as a Justice Minister. Great department, great officials. Sad to leave. Have been asked to make way for a younger person.
Heald is 62. In any other walk of life he would probably be able to take this to a tribunal.
He has been replaced by Dominic Raab, who is 43.
Updated
at 12.20pm BST
11.54am BST11.54am BST
11:5411:54
Two of Brexit department's four ministers leave week before Brexit talks startTwo of Brexit department's four ministers leave week before Brexit talks start
Last night Downing Street announced a new round of ministerial appointments, along with the news that four ministers have left the government: Mike Penning, Sir Oliver Heald, Robert Halfon and David Jones.Last night Downing Street announced a new round of ministerial appointments, along with the news that four ministers have left the government: Mike Penning, Sir Oliver Heald, Robert Halfon and David Jones.
Jones was a minister in the Brexit department. The department has also lost another minister, Lord Bridges, although No 10 has not announced this. Bridges has resigned to pursue business interests, according to a Whitehall source. A Old Etonian and a former Conservative party official, Bridges was made a peer by David Cameron.Jones was a minister in the Brexit department. The department has also lost another minister, Lord Bridges, although No 10 has not announced this. Bridges has resigned to pursue business interests, according to a Whitehall source. A Old Etonian and a former Conservative party official, Bridges was made a peer by David Cameron.
The departure of two DExEU (Department for Exiting the European Union) officials just a week before Brexit talks begin might be regarded as less than ideal. There were only four DExEU ministers. Two of them have now left, although a new one, Lady Anelay, was appointed yesterday.The departure of two DExEU (Department for Exiting the European Union) officials just a week before Brexit talks begin might be regarded as less than ideal. There were only four DExEU ministers. Two of them have now left, although a new one, Lady Anelay, was appointed yesterday.
The BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale says Bridges will be a loss to the government.The BBC’s diplomatic correspondent James Landale says Bridges will be a loss to the government.
George Bridges standing down as DExEU Lords' minister a big loss for Tories. Old Major hand who knew about minority government #reshuffleGeorge Bridges standing down as DExEU Lords' minister a big loss for Tories. Old Major hand who knew about minority government #reshuffle
Dominic Cummings, the former Vote Leave campaign director and former special adviser to Michael Gove, is using his Twitter account to argue that the whole depatment is a shambles.Dominic Cummings, the former Vote Leave campaign director and former special adviser to Michael Gove, is using his Twitter account to argue that the whole depatment is a shambles.
1 of Heywood's many disastrous decisions was creating the shambles of DEXU. Whitehall is exact OPPOSITE structure to what Brexit talks need1 of Heywood's many disastrous decisions was creating the shambles of DEXU. Whitehall is exact OPPOSITE structure to what Brexit talks need
Doesn't matter what ministers you shuffle in/out, when the management structure as fkd as Downing St/DEXU individuals = irrelevantDoesn't matter what ministers you shuffle in/out, when the management structure as fkd as Downing St/DEXU individuals = irrelevant
Top Whitehall officials are screaming that DEXU under Heywood/DD is total shambles & disaster likely: news today just tip of icebergTop Whitehall officials are screaming that DEXU under Heywood/DD is total shambles & disaster likely: news today just tip of iceberg
11.19am BST11.19am BST
11:1911:19
Damian CarringtonDamian Carrington
Donald Trump was “wrong” to pull the US out of the global Paris climate change accord, the new environment secretary Michael Gove has said.Donald Trump was “wrong” to pull the US out of the global Paris climate change accord, the new environment secretary Michael Gove has said.
“I think he is wrong,” Gove told ITV’s Good Morning Britain show.“I think he is wrong,” Gove told ITV’s Good Morning Britain show.
I think that we need international cooperation in order to deal with climate change. The only way in which you can deal with this challenge, the only way in which we can enhance the environment to pass on to our children in a better state is by working across borders.I think that we need international cooperation in order to deal with climate change. The only way in which you can deal with this challenge, the only way in which we can enhance the environment to pass on to our children in a better state is by working across borders.
Theresa May was criticised for failing to join other EU leaders in condemning Trump’s decision, which met with near universal derision.Theresa May was criticised for failing to join other EU leaders in condemning Trump’s decision, which met with near universal derision.
Gove, touring the broadcast studios, told BBC Radio 5 Live that he will re-examine the science of the controversial badger cull, which is aimed at curbing tuberculosis in cattle, and seen over 14,000 badgers shot. Almost all scientists outside government say the cull is ineffective and that the disturbance it causes could actually increase TB infections.Gove, touring the broadcast studios, told BBC Radio 5 Live that he will re-examine the science of the controversial badger cull, which is aimed at curbing tuberculosis in cattle, and seen over 14,000 badgers shot. Almost all scientists outside government say the cull is ineffective and that the disturbance it causes could actually increase TB infections.
Gove said he would also reconsider the government’s planned ban on elephant ivory sales, which currently excludes “antique” ivory more than 70 years old. Campaigners say any trade in ivory give the opportunity for newly poached and illegal ivory to be laundered.Gove said he would also reconsider the government’s planned ban on elephant ivory sales, which currently excludes “antique” ivory more than 70 years old. Campaigners say any trade in ivory give the opportunity for newly poached and illegal ivory to be laundered.
One of the biggest challenges is replacing the huge EU subsidy scheme for farmers after Brexit. On on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, he confirmed the Conservative manifesto pledge that subsidies would remain at today’s levels until 2022.One of the biggest challenges is replacing the huge EU subsidy scheme for farmers after Brexit. On on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, he confirmed the Conservative manifesto pledge that subsidies would remain at today’s levels until 2022.
Farmers are also extremely concerned that Brexit may mean the migrant workers who pick much of their harvest will not be available after Brexit. Gove said:Farmers are also extremely concerned that Brexit may mean the migrant workers who pick much of their harvest will not be available after Brexit. Gove said:
As we bring migration down to sustainable levels, we’ll do so in consultation with industry and one of our most important manufacturing industries is agriculture, so we need to make sure that the workforce is there and the support is there.As we bring migration down to sustainable levels, we’ll do so in consultation with industry and one of our most important manufacturing industries is agriculture, so we need to make sure that the workforce is there and the support is there.
Gove’s appointment was attacked on Monday by the Green party MP Caroline Lucas, who said he was “entirely unfit” to hold the post. But Gove said it was a “misrepresentation” to say he had often voted against measures to tackle climate change.Gove’s appointment was attacked on Monday by the Green party MP Caroline Lucas, who said he was “entirely unfit” to hold the post. But Gove said it was a “misrepresentation” to say he had often voted against measures to tackle climate change.
My own approach has always been to argue for strong action to deal with man-made climate change.My own approach has always been to argue for strong action to deal with man-made climate change.
11.16am BST11.16am BST
11:1611:16
Henry McDonaldHenry McDonald
While Arlene Foster arrives in Westminster with the Democratic Unionist party’s 10 MPs, the talks back home in Northern Ireland aimed at restoring power sharing have stuttered and spluttered once more.While Arlene Foster arrives in Westminster with the Democratic Unionist party’s 10 MPs, the talks back home in Northern Ireland aimed at restoring power sharing have stuttered and spluttered once more.
There will now be no more roundtable talks between all the parties with the DUP busy over in London negotiating with Theresa May and the Tories. The cross community Alliance Party said today that this latest halt to all party discussions in Belfast hardly inspired confidence in the talks process there. Dr Stephen Farry, Alliance’s deputy leader said:There will now be no more roundtable talks between all the parties with the DUP busy over in London negotiating with Theresa May and the Tories. The cross community Alliance Party said today that this latest halt to all party discussions in Belfast hardly inspired confidence in the talks process there. Dr Stephen Farry, Alliance’s deputy leader said:
This has been branded an intensive three-week process. However, no roundtable between the parties until Thursday at least means the first week will have effectively passed by without meaningful discussions between the parties at the same table.This has been branded an intensive three-week process. However, no roundtable between the parties until Thursday at least means the first week will have effectively passed by without meaningful discussions between the parties at the same table.
I understand there is a new UK government and changes in the government in the Republic but there remains no impetus to this process, which doesn’t inspire confidence. We need people to step up to the plate and do so without delay. The consequences of not doing so are too severe.I understand there is a new UK government and changes in the government in the Republic but there remains no impetus to this process, which doesn’t inspire confidence. We need people to step up to the plate and do so without delay. The consequences of not doing so are too severe.
His point about big changes in Dublin brings us to the other big political development on this side of the Irish Sea today. This is Enda Kenny’s last day as Taoiseach before he hands over the reins of power to the new Fine Gael Leader Leo Vradakar.His point about big changes in Dublin brings us to the other big political development on this side of the Irish Sea today. This is Enda Kenny’s last day as Taoiseach before he hands over the reins of power to the new Fine Gael Leader Leo Vradakar.
Kenny will resign after speeches are made paying tribute to the Irish prime minister who in his final hours in office expressed concern about how the Tory-DUP axis at Westminster might negatively impact on the Stormont devolution talks.Kenny will resign after speeches are made paying tribute to the Irish prime minister who in his final hours in office expressed concern about how the Tory-DUP axis at Westminster might negatively impact on the Stormont devolution talks.
11.12am BST11.12am BST
11:1211:12
In his Today programme interview Michael Gove, the environment secretary, suggested that the government would need to adopt a more generous approach to public spending. Here is Peter Walker and Henry McDonald’s story.In his Today programme interview Michael Gove, the environment secretary, suggested that the government would need to adopt a more generous approach to public spending. Here is Peter Walker and Henry McDonald’s story.
11.08am BST11.08am BST
11:0811:08
Iain Duncan Smith urges government to rethink public sector pay freezeIain Duncan Smith urges government to rethink public sector pay freeze
Theresa May’s failure to win a majority is encouraging some Tories to demand a new approach to Brexit. But it is also leading to calls for a rethink on austerity, and this is what the Times has splashed on this morning.Theresa May’s failure to win a majority is encouraging some Tories to demand a new approach to Brexit. But it is also leading to calls for a rethink on austerity, and this is what the Times has splashed on this morning.
TIMES: Austerity is over, May tells Tories #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/8ZclskEr29TIMES: Austerity is over, May tells Tories #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/8ZclskEr29
Here’s an extract from the Times’ splash (paywall.)Here’s an extract from the Times’ splash (paywall.)
Sources said that [Theresa May] accepted that voters’ patience with austerity was at an end after Boris Johnson, David Davis and a series of Tory MPs told her that she had misjudged the public mood.Sources said that [Theresa May] accepted that voters’ patience with austerity was at an end after Boris Johnson, David Davis and a series of Tory MPs told her that she had misjudged the public mood.
In a Panorama documentary broadcast last night Gavin Barwell, who was appointed as May’s chief of staff after losing his Croydon Central seat in the election, said austerity cost the Tories votes.In a Panorama documentary broadcast last night Gavin Barwell, who was appointed as May’s chief of staff after losing his Croydon Central seat in the election, said austerity cost the Tories votes.
There’s a conversation I particularly remember with a teacher who had voted for me in 2010 and 2015 and said ‘you know I understand the need for a pay freeze for a few years to deal with the deficit but you’re now asking for that to go on potentially for 10 or 11 years and that’s too much’. That is something that Jeremy Corbyn was able to tap into.There’s a conversation I particularly remember with a teacher who had voted for me in 2010 and 2015 and said ‘you know I understand the need for a pay freeze for a few years to deal with the deficit but you’re now asking for that to go on potentially for 10 or 11 years and that’s too much’. That is something that Jeremy Corbyn was able to tap into.
Iain Duncan Smith, the Conservative former leader and former work and pensions secretary, may not want a rethink on Brexit (see 10.58am), but he told BBC News that, on austerity, he did favour a new approach.Iain Duncan Smith, the Conservative former leader and former work and pensions secretary, may not want a rethink on Brexit (see 10.58am), but he told BBC News that, on austerity, he did favour a new approach.
I resigned over a year ago because I disagreed with George Osborne’s direction of travel. And I have for some time asked us to rethink whole areas of where we are. The length of time that we were likely now to be asking public servants and others to put up with reduced, flattened salaries has been an issue for me and for many other people. We would like to see that revisited.I resigned over a year ago because I disagreed with George Osborne’s direction of travel. And I have for some time asked us to rethink whole areas of where we are. The length of time that we were likely now to be asking public servants and others to put up with reduced, flattened salaries has been an issue for me and for many other people. We would like to see that revisited.
10.58am BST10.58am BST
10:5810:58
Iain Duncan Smith hits back at Tories trying to shift Brexit policyIain Duncan Smith hits back at Tories trying to shift Brexit policy
William Hague’s Telegraph article (see 9.08am) is significant because there is a briefing war going on between different factions in the cabinet over whether or not Theresa May’s failure to obtain a majority will, or should, lead to a change in government policy on Brexit.William Hague’s Telegraph article (see 9.08am) is significant because there is a briefing war going on between different factions in the cabinet over whether or not Theresa May’s failure to obtain a majority will, or should, lead to a change in government policy on Brexit.
Yesterday the Evening Standard, which is edited by George Osborne, the former chancellor, did its best to stir things up with a splash depicting it as conflict between the “sensibles” and the “Creationists”. Osborne wants Brexit to be as open, pro-business and pro-immigration as possible, and so there are no prizes for guessing who the “sensibles” are.Yesterday the Evening Standard, which is edited by George Osborne, the former chancellor, did its best to stir things up with a splash depicting it as conflict between the “sensibles” and the “Creationists”. Osborne wants Brexit to be as open, pro-business and pro-immigration as possible, and so there are no prizes for guessing who the “sensibles” are.
Our second edition @EveningStandard has more on Cabinet splits + on the Queen's Speech delay before it was confirmed - quite extraordinary. pic.twitter.com/qKdcEHRR2dOur second edition @EveningStandard has more on Cabinet splits + on the Queen's Speech delay before it was confirmed - quite extraordinary. pic.twitter.com/qKdcEHRR2d
The Daily Telegraph has picked up on the same issue for its splash this morning.The Daily Telegraph has picked up on the same issue for its splash this morning.
Tuesday's Telegraph: "Tories and Labour hold secret talks on soft Brexit" #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @hendopolis) pic.twitter.com/FYvdWkCGujTuesday's Telegraph: "Tories and Labour hold secret talks on soft Brexit" #tomorrowspaperstoday (via @hendopolis) pic.twitter.com/FYvdWkCGuj
This is what the Telegraph story says about said “secret talks”.This is what the Telegraph story says about said “secret talks”.
Senior Labour sources told The Telegraph that conversations have taken place to allow back-channels between the two parties to negotiate amendments to Brexit bills which would soften the exit.Senior Labour sources told The Telegraph that conversations have taken place to allow back-channels between the two parties to negotiate amendments to Brexit bills which would soften the exit.
If there is no agreement to set up a Brexit Commission, one alternative would be for Labour backbenchers to table amendments, with agreement from pro-remain Conservatives, which would be easier for Tory MPs to support than if they came from Mr Corbyn’s own team.If there is no agreement to set up a Brexit Commission, one alternative would be for Labour backbenchers to table amendments, with agreement from pro-remain Conservatives, which would be easier for Tory MPs to support than if they came from Mr Corbyn’s own team.
The shadow cabinet would then “fall in behind” the same amendment, the source said, making it look like the change had not been won by Mr Corbyn himself.The shadow cabinet would then “fall in behind” the same amendment, the source said, making it look like the change had not been won by Mr Corbyn himself.
They claimed that many Conservative MPs are “horrified” by Mrs May’s decision to hammer home her message that “no deal would be better than a bad deal” - seen as a devastating outcome for many low-paid workers.They claimed that many Conservative MPs are “horrified” by Mrs May’s decision to hammer home her message that “no deal would be better than a bad deal” - seen as a devastating outcome for many low-paid workers.
These reports are likely to alarm Tory MPs who are staunchly pro-Brexit and on BBC News this morning one of them, Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader and former work and pensions secretary, said that it would be a mistake to shift policy on Brexit. He said only “a minority” wanted this and that all they would achieve would be to generate a “row”.These reports are likely to alarm Tory MPs who are staunchly pro-Brexit and on BBC News this morning one of them, Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader and former work and pensions secretary, said that it would be a mistake to shift policy on Brexit. He said only “a minority” wanted this and that all they would achieve would be to generate a “row”.
The party overall is settled. What we want is to engage and discuss these matters with people, but in essence those negotiations are due to start very, very shortly, ie next week, and the Conservative government needs to get on and make sure they now start talking to our European allies and friends ...The party overall is settled. What we want is to engage and discuss these matters with people, but in essence those negotiations are due to start very, very shortly, ie next week, and the Conservative government needs to get on and make sure they now start talking to our European allies and friends ...
I think the Conservative party, people in cabinet who may well seem to think that they are going to start reopening all of this, the answer is I would not try and reopen this before you start the negotiations. Because all that you’ll get is what we don’t want at the moment, which is another argument and row going on in the governing party. It had a settled position. We had agreed that position before we went into the last election.I think the Conservative party, people in cabinet who may well seem to think that they are going to start reopening all of this, the answer is I would not try and reopen this before you start the negotiations. Because all that you’ll get is what we don’t want at the moment, which is another argument and row going on in the governing party. It had a settled position. We had agreed that position before we went into the last election.
So in a sense what you’ve got is a minority of people who are just trying to prise this open again. And my answer is: it should not be opened, we should just get on with it really.So in a sense what you’ve got is a minority of people who are just trying to prise this open again. And my answer is: it should not be opened, we should just get on with it really.
10.10am BST10.10am BST
10:1010:10
Lisa O'CarrollLisa O'Carroll
The former Irish taoiseach and former EU ambassador John Bruton told a gathering at the Irish embassy last night that he believed the EU divorce bill was designed to tease out Britain’s financial red lines before they get down to substantive talks.The former Irish taoiseach and former EU ambassador John Bruton told a gathering at the Irish embassy last night that he believed the EU divorce bill was designed to tease out Britain’s financial red lines before they get down to substantive talks.
The one thing the UK has is money – if it puts out its card on money, it has no other negotiating [position].The one thing the UK has is money – if it puts out its card on money, it has no other negotiating [position].
The German chancellor, Angela Merkel, put the EU on a potential collision course with Theresa May earlier this year by insisting it made “no sense” to negotiate a future UK-EU relationship without first reaching agreement on the UK’s financial commitment to the EU.The bill has been estimated at anything between £50bn and £85bn.The German chancellor, Angela Merkel, put the EU on a potential collision course with Theresa May earlier this year by insisting it made “no sense” to negotiate a future UK-EU relationship without first reaching agreement on the UK’s financial commitment to the EU.The bill has been estimated at anything between £50bn and £85bn.
Speaking after giving the Henry Grattan speech at the Irish embassy on Monday, Bruton also told the audience that he had been told that Boris Johnson was being obstructive for no reason in day to day relations with the EU.Speaking after giving the Henry Grattan speech at the Irish embassy on Monday, Bruton also told the audience that he had been told that Boris Johnson was being obstructive for no reason in day to day relations with the EU.
“I think the UK is being obstructive .... a lot of this is in private so there is no electoral gain for Boris Johnson or anybody else,” he said. He said he thought the attitude had to change because “failure in this negotiation is going to be very damaging for everyone.”“I think the UK is being obstructive .... a lot of this is in private so there is no electoral gain for Boris Johnson or anybody else,” he said. He said he thought the attitude had to change because “failure in this negotiation is going to be very damaging for everyone.”
10.05am BST10.05am BST
10:0510:05
Heather StewartHeather Stewart
Listening to Michael Gove talking about a collaborative approach to Brexit on Today this morning I was reminded that in his original Vote Leave victory speech on the morning after the referendum result was declared in 2015, he called for representatives of “different political traditions” to be involved in shaping what he called Britain’s “gradual divergence” from the rest of the EU.Listening to Michael Gove talking about a collaborative approach to Brexit on Today this morning I was reminded that in his original Vote Leave victory speech on the morning after the referendum result was declared in 2015, he called for representatives of “different political traditions” to be involved in shaping what he called Britain’s “gradual divergence” from the rest of the EU.
“It’s important that representatives from every part of the United Kingdom, every community, every religion and different political traditions are involved in shaping our future, and we should draw on wisdom from great minds outside politics”, he said at the time.“It’s important that representatives from every part of the United Kingdom, every community, every religion and different political traditions are involved in shaping our future, and we should draw on wisdom from great minds outside politics”, he said at the time.
Many of Theresa May’s colleagues complained over the ensuing year that she wasn’t terribly good at drawing on wisdom from within her own cabinet, let alone outside politics. Perhaps the new parliamentary arithmetic will force her into adopting something more like the approach her old rival Gove favoured at the outset?Many of Theresa May’s colleagues complained over the ensuing year that she wasn’t terribly good at drawing on wisdom from within her own cabinet, let alone outside politics. Perhaps the new parliamentary arithmetic will force her into adopting something more like the approach her old rival Gove favoured at the outset?
9.48am BST9.48am BST
09:4809:48
Gove says government must proceed with 'maximum possible consensus' on BrexitGove says government must proceed with 'maximum possible consensus' on Brexit
Here is the key quote from Michael Gove’s interview on the Today programme earlier. Gove, the new environment secretary and one of the leaders of the Vote Leave campaign, said the government should proceed with the “maximum possible consensus’” on Brexit.Here is the key quote from Michael Gove’s interview on the Today programme earlier. Gove, the new environment secretary and one of the leaders of the Vote Leave campaign, said the government should proceed with the “maximum possible consensus’” on Brexit.
It’s also the case that we need to recognise that we as Conservatives were not returned with a majority. And that means we need to proceed with the maximum possible consensus and we also need to ensure that the concerns of people who voted remain - many of whom now actually want us to press ahead with leaving the European union as quickly and in as orderly fashion as possible - we need to make sure that their concerns are part of our conversation.It’s also the case that we need to recognise that we as Conservatives were not returned with a majority. And that means we need to proceed with the maximum possible consensus and we also need to ensure that the concerns of people who voted remain - many of whom now actually want us to press ahead with leaving the European union as quickly and in as orderly fashion as possible - we need to make sure that their concerns are part of our conversation.
9.39am BST9.39am BST
09:3909:39
SNP shelves fundraising for second independence referendum campaignSNP shelves fundraising for second independence referendum campaign
Severin CarrellSeverin Carrell
The Scottish National party has withdrawn a £1m fundraising appeal to help fight a second Scottish independence referendum, the Herald has reported, after its heavy election defeats on Friday.The Scottish National party has withdrawn a £1m fundraising appeal to help fight a second Scottish independence referendum, the Herald has reported, after its heavy election defeats on Friday.
The SNP launched the ref.scot campaign when Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister and SNP leader, launched her quest for a second independence vote by spring 2019. That goal has now been dropped, and Sturgeon admitted on Friday she had to re-evaluate her referendum strategy after the loss of 21 SNP seats in the general election.The SNP launched the ref.scot campaign when Nicola Sturgeon, the first minister and SNP leader, launched her quest for a second independence vote by spring 2019. That goal has now been dropped, and Sturgeon admitted on Friday she had to re-evaluate her referendum strategy after the loss of 21 SNP seats in the general election.
The SNP’s remaining 35 MPs have to elect a new Westminster leader after Angus Robertson, who previously held the role, lost his Moray seat to the Tories.The SNP’s remaining 35 MPs have to elect a new Westminster leader after Angus Robertson, who previously held the role, lost his Moray seat to the Tories.
With that vote taking place tomorrow, four MPs have put their names forward: Drew Hendry, the former leader of Highland council; Ian Blackford, a former SNP party treasurer; Joanna Cherry QC, an advocate; and Tommy Sheppard, a former comedy club director and previously deputy leader of Hackney council’s Labour group.With that vote taking place tomorrow, four MPs have put their names forward: Drew Hendry, the former leader of Highland council; Ian Blackford, a former SNP party treasurer; Joanna Cherry QC, an advocate; and Tommy Sheppard, a former comedy club director and previously deputy leader of Hackney council’s Labour group.
Robertson remains the SNP’s deputy leader despite losing his seat. The party’s rules only require the deputy leader to be an party member.Robertson remains the SNP’s deputy leader despite losing his seat. The party’s rules only require the deputy leader to be an party member.
The disappearance of the fundraising appeal, which had raised £482,000 with 10 days of its 100-day operation still to go, was first spotted by the Times reporter Daniel Sanderson on Friday morning.The disappearance of the fundraising appeal, which had raised £482,000 with 10 days of its 100-day operation still to go, was first spotted by the Times reporter Daniel Sanderson on Friday morning.
Interesting - the SNP appears to have ditched its crowdfunder from its indyref2 website. First screengrab from May 13. #ge2017 pic.twitter.com/2xBKbUH6GYInteresting - the SNP appears to have ditched its crowdfunder from its indyref2 website. First screengrab from May 13. #ge2017 pic.twitter.com/2xBKbUH6GY
The Herald reports today that the SNP confirmed the appeal had been taken down, although the campaign website remained online. “Our fundraising efforts were focused on the general election,” a spokesman said.The Herald reports today that the SNP confirmed the appeal had been taken down, although the campaign website remained online. “Our fundraising efforts were focused on the general election,” a spokesman said.
UpdatedUpdated
at 9.56am BSTat 9.56am BST
9.37am BST9.37am BST
09:3709:37
Inflation up to 2.9%, a four-year highInflation up to 2.9%, a four-year high
Inflation has gone up to 2.9%, a four-year high.Inflation has gone up to 2.9%, a four-year high.
That increase is higher than expected, and bad news for living standards, obviously.That increase is higher than expected, and bad news for living standards, obviously.
My colleague Graeme Wearden has more on his business live blog.My colleague Graeme Wearden has more on his business live blog.
9.32am BST9.32am BST
09:3209:32
The BBC’s Norman Smith is in Downing Street for the cabinet meeting. And he is following the rule that you can never go wrong with a cat pic on Twitter.The BBC’s Norman Smith is in Downing Street for the cabinet meeting. And he is following the rule that you can never go wrong with a cat pic on Twitter.
Morning folks. Those cabinet meetings are just so dull. Brexit.. blah blah.. Brexit blah... #LazontheLoose pic.twitter.com/smhpbqy3jBMorning folks. Those cabinet meetings are just so dull. Brexit.. blah blah.. Brexit blah... #LazontheLoose pic.twitter.com/smhpbqy3jB
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The cabinet is meeting this morning. There was a meeting of the political cabinet yesterday, but this is the first meeting of the new cabinet devoted to government business. It is due to start at 9.30am.The cabinet is meeting this morning. There was a meeting of the political cabinet yesterday, but this is the first meeting of the new cabinet devoted to government business. It is due to start at 9.30am.
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Hague urges May to adopt Labour-style approach to Brexit and to set up cross-party commissionHague urges May to adopt Labour-style approach to Brexit and to set up cross-party commission
In his interviews this morning Michael Gove, the new environment secretary and one of the leaders of the Vote Leave campaign, stressed the importance of achieving a consensus on Brexit (see 8.12am) - although he said almost nothing about what this might mean in practice.In his interviews this morning Michael Gove, the new environment secretary and one of the leaders of the Vote Leave campaign, stressed the importance of achieving a consensus on Brexit (see 8.12am) - although he said almost nothing about what this might mean in practice.
For a much clearer idea of what this might mean, do read William Hague’s column in the Daily Telegraph today (paywall). Hague is a former Tory leader and a former foreign secretary. He backed remain in the EU referendum, but he won the Tory leadership in 1997 because he was seen as a Eurosceptic and he probably has more clout with hardline Tory leavers than many of his remain colleagues.For a much clearer idea of what this might mean, do read William Hague’s column in the Daily Telegraph today (paywall). Hague is a former Tory leader and a former foreign secretary. He backed remain in the EU referendum, but he won the Tory leadership in 1997 because he was seen as a Eurosceptic and he probably has more clout with hardline Tory leavers than many of his remain colleagues.
Essentially Hague is backing calls for a cross-party commission to take charge of Brexit. This is an idea also being pushed by, among others, Nicola Sturgeon, the Scottish first minister (here), and Yvette Cooper, the senior Labour MP (here, in the Guardian).Essentially Hague is backing calls for a cross-party commission to take charge of Brexit. This is an idea also being pushed by, among others, Nicola Sturgeon, the Scottish first minister (here), and Yvette Cooper, the senior Labour MP (here, in the Guardian).
But the Hague argument is quite detailed. Here are the main points.But the Hague argument is quite detailed. Here are the main points.
Hague says Theresa May needs to adopt a new approach to Brexit because a minimalist one is risky.Hague says Theresa May needs to adopt a new approach to Brexit because a minimalist one is risky.
In the worst-case scenario, we end up with a poor Brexit deal rejected in parliament but with no alternative available, presided over by ministers suffering mounting public and business dissatisfaction, leading to the election of a Labour government led, in effect, by Marxists.In the worst-case scenario, we end up with a poor Brexit deal rejected in parliament but with no alternative available, presided over by ministers suffering mounting public and business dissatisfaction, leading to the election of a Labour government led, in effect, by Marxists.
Faced with such dangers, sitting tight is not an option. Napoleon’s maxim that “the side that stays within its fortifications is beaten” applies fully to this situation. Breaking out of these problems will require a change both of style and substance, treating last week’s terrible outcome as an opportunity and a duty to tackle intractable issues in new ways.Faced with such dangers, sitting tight is not an option. Napoleon’s maxim that “the side that stays within its fortifications is beaten” applies fully to this situation. Breaking out of these problems will require a change both of style and substance, treating last week’s terrible outcome as an opportunity and a duty to tackle intractable issues in new ways.
He says May should make the economy, not controlling immigration, the priority in the Brexit talks.He says May should make the economy, not controlling immigration, the priority in the Brexit talks.
Change the emphasis given to the UK’s objectives, with a clear indication that economic growth will have priority over controlling the number of people entering the country for work. This would show a readiness to accommodate the views of Scottish Conservatives, business organisations and, to some degree, opposition parties, within certain parameters.Change the emphasis given to the UK’s objectives, with a clear indication that economic growth will have priority over controlling the number of people entering the country for work. This would show a readiness to accommodate the views of Scottish Conservatives, business organisations and, to some degree, opposition parties, within certain parameters.
Hague does not put it like this, but essentially he is urging May to adopt a Labour-style approach to Brexit. Labour’s Brexit policy is in some respects ambiguous, and in many respects very similar to the government’s, but one key difference is that the party says the economy, not curbing immigration, must come first. It is calling for a “jobs-first Brexit”, a phrase Jeremy Corbyn used three times when he appeared on the Andrew Marr Show on Sunday.Hague does not put it like this, but essentially he is urging May to adopt a Labour-style approach to Brexit. Labour’s Brexit policy is in some respects ambiguous, and in many respects very similar to the government’s, but one key difference is that the party says the economy, not curbing immigration, must come first. It is calling for a “jobs-first Brexit”, a phrase Jeremy Corbyn used three times when he appeared on the Andrew Marr Show on Sunday.
Hague suggests that that UK should stay in the European Economic Area (ie, adopt the Norway option) for two years after Brexit, as part of the transition.Hague suggests that that UK should stay in the European Economic Area (ie, adopt the Norway option) for two years after Brexit, as part of the transition.
He suggests the UK should grant free movement to EU citizens after Brexit if they have a job. This would be one stop short of full free movement, he says.He suggests the UK should grant free movement to EU citizens after Brexit if they have a job. This would be one stop short of full free movement, he says.
We can negotiate the “bold and ambitious free trade agreement” that the British people would like to see if we take a pragmatic approach to how we use the control we will have won back.We can negotiate the “bold and ambitious free trade agreement” that the British people would like to see if we take a pragmatic approach to how we use the control we will have won back.
There are various ways of doing this. One of them – put forward in this column before – is to bring in work permits for workers from the EU but agree to grant them to anyone who gets a job in Britain, unless they have a criminal record, or extremist connections. They would not receive any support if out of work, and the same rights would have to apply to British citizens throughout the EU. This approach, just one significant step short of free movement, would set the stage for a promising trade negotiation, and avoid damaging our own industries relying on European workers, from banking to fruit picking.There are various ways of doing this. One of them – put forward in this column before – is to bring in work permits for workers from the EU but agree to grant them to anyone who gets a job in Britain, unless they have a criminal record, or extremist connections. They would not receive any support if out of work, and the same rights would have to apply to British citizens throughout the EU. This approach, just one significant step short of free movement, would set the stage for a promising trade negotiation, and avoid damaging our own industries relying on European workers, from banking to fruit picking.
He calls for a cross-party commission to help decide who the government implements Brexit.He calls for a cross-party commission to help decide who the government implements Brexit.
Call in the CBI, the Institute of Directors, the British Chambers of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, the TUC, the first ministers of the devolved governments, and the leaders of all the opposition parties – yes, even Corbyn – leading MPs of all parties, and say: “If you are willing to discuss how to make this work within these parameters, come in and we will be open to your views. There isn’t a perfect solution, but on how to conduct a transitional period and how to help the economy through Brexit as a priority we will work with you. Otherwise, we will just have to try to do this without you.”Call in the CBI, the Institute of Directors, the British Chambers of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, the TUC, the first ministers of the devolved governments, and the leaders of all the opposition parties – yes, even Corbyn – leading MPs of all parties, and say: “If you are willing to discuss how to make this work within these parameters, come in and we will be open to your views. There isn’t a perfect solution, but on how to conduct a transitional period and how to help the economy through Brexit as a priority we will work with you. Otherwise, we will just have to try to do this without you.”
Hague admits that getting consensus would be difficult. But he says that, even if the government fails to obtain agreement, it will get credit for changing “both the style and the substance” of its approach.Hague admits that getting consensus would be difficult. But he says that, even if the government fails to obtain agreement, it will get credit for changing “both the style and the substance” of its approach.
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Q: Will you guarantee that farmers will keep the funding they get from EU subsidies to the end of this parliament, to 2022?Q: Will you guarantee that farmers will keep the funding they get from EU subsidies to the end of this parliament, to 2022?
Yes, says Gove. He says that was a manifesto commitment.Yes, says Gove. He says that was a manifesto commitment.
Q: Will farmers still be able to hire foreign workers?Q: Will farmers still be able to hire foreign workers?
Gove says he wants to listen to what the farming sector says about this.Gove says he wants to listen to what the farming sector says about this.
Q: You have generally voted against measures to combat climate change?Q: You have generally voted against measures to combat climate change?
Gove says that is a misrepresentation.Gove says that is a misrepresentation.
Mishal Husain cites two examples of votes.Mishal Husain cites two examples of votes.
Gove says he was a member of a government and voted with the party whip.Gove says he was a member of a government and voted with the party whip.
He says before he became a minister he did argue for measures to combat climate change.He says before he became a minister he did argue for measures to combat climate change.
He says that in the Times he wrote in favour of Roger Harrabin, the BBC’s environment analyst, praising his work in raising awareness about climate change.He says that in the Times he wrote in favour of Roger Harrabin, the BBC’s environment analyst, praising his work in raising awareness about climate change.
Q: How did it feel to be called back by Theresa May less than a year after she sacked you?Q: How did it feel to be called back by Theresa May less than a year after she sacked you?
Gove says he is a “great fan” of May. He says as home secretary she did a lot to tackle Islamist extremism.Gove says he is a “great fan” of May. He says as home secretary she did a lot to tackle Islamist extremism.
Q: You accused May of “failing to drain the swamp” in relation to extremism.Q: You accused May of “failing to drain the swamp” in relation to extremism.
No I didn’t, says Gove.No I didn’t, says Gove.
Q: That is what you briefed the Times.Q: That is what you briefed the Times.
Gove says that is a mischaracterisation.Gove says that is a mischaracterisation.
He praises May for tacking the factors that encourage extremism, the “upstream” issues.He praises May for tacking the factors that encourage extremism, the “upstream” issues.
And that’s it.And that’s it.
I will post a summary of all the Gove interviews soon.I will post a summary of all the Gove interviews soon.
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Q: The DUP want something in return for backing the Tories. They want to avoid customs checks on the Irish border. Could we stay in the customs union?Q: The DUP want something in return for backing the Tories. They want to avoid customs checks on the Irish border. Could we stay in the customs union?
Gove says the DUP wants a stable government.Gove says the DUP wants a stable government.
The talks with the DUP are about ensuring this.The talks with the DUP are about ensuring this.
As for the border, he says there are a number of “pragmatic steps” that can be taken to ensure trade is as frictionless as possible.As for the border, he says there are a number of “pragmatic steps” that can be taken to ensure trade is as frictionless as possible.
Q: So you think that can be achieved by the government’s plans?Q: So you think that can be achieved by the government’s plans?
Yes, says Gove.Yes, says Gove.
Q: The DUP want to end the bedroom tax and keep the triple lock. Will the price of the pact with them be ending austerity?Q: The DUP want to end the bedroom tax and keep the triple lock. Will the price of the pact with them be ending austerity?
Gove does not accept the premise of the question. He says he wants to relieve the next generation from the burden of debt.Gove does not accept the premise of the question. He says he wants to relieve the next generation from the burden of debt.
He says the phrases austerity and cuts programme come from “a part of the political lexicon” (ie, they are Labour terms, he is saying).He says the phrases austerity and cuts programme come from “a part of the political lexicon” (ie, they are Labour terms, he is saying).
He says public spending has to be kept at a sustainable level.He says public spending has to be kept at a sustainable level.
But the government has to respond to “legitimate public concerns” about public services being funded properly.But the government has to respond to “legitimate public concerns” about public services being funded properly.
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Q: But what does this mean in practice? What will change from the Lancaster House speech?Q: But what does this mean in practice? What will change from the Lancaster House speech?
Gove says May made it clear she was determined to honour the result of the referendum.Gove says May made it clear she was determined to honour the result of the referendum.
But we know have to think about what comes next.But we know have to think about what comes next.
He says he is now environment secretary. As we leave the common agricultural policy, we need to ensure we maintain high-quality environmental protection.He says he is now environment secretary. As we leave the common agricultural policy, we need to ensure we maintain high-quality environmental protection.
Q: William Hague has proposed a cross-party Brexit commission. Do you back that?Q: William Hague has proposed a cross-party Brexit commission. Do you back that?
Gove says there is already a cross-party Brexit committee in the Commons. He used to sit on it.Gove says there is already a cross-party Brexit committee in the Commons. He used to sit on it.
He says he does not want to endorse specific ideas.He says he does not want to endorse specific ideas.
Q: So you would oppose this idea?Q: So you would oppose this idea?
Gove says this idea is Hague’s copyright.Gove says this idea is Hague’s copyright.
He says the Brexit department has been talking to the widest possible group of people.He says the Brexit department has been talking to the widest possible group of people.
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