Political Headlines – Antisemitism, grooming gangs, Fiona Onasanya

Today’s Political Headlines include Jewish papers criticising Labour over antisemitism, the Home Secretary’s research into grooming gangs, and Fiona Onasanya’s suspension

Jewish papers join forces to criticise Labour over antisemitism
The Guardian reports that the UK’s three most prominent Jewish newspapers have joined forces with a joint editorial and similar front pages attacking Labour for its failure to fully adopt the internationally accepted definition of antisemitism. The Jewish News, Jewish Telegraph and Jewish Chronicle claim that a Corbyn-led government would pose an ‘existential threat to Jewish life in this country’ and that the party was seen to be ‘institutionally racist’.

Javid orders research into grooming gangs’ ethnic origin
The Times reveals that Home Secretary Sajid Javid has ordered research into why men convicted of grooming-gang sex crimes come disproportionately from a Pakistani background. He said that knowing the ‘particular characteristics’ of the offenders was ‘critical to our understanding’ of the crimes and would ‘support a more targeted response’.

Labour whip charged with perverting course of justice
The Daily Telegraph says that Labour whip Fiona Onasanya has been charged with perverting the course of justice, following allegations that she tried to pass on speeding points a month after she was elected. Her constituency, Peterborough, is one of the most marginal in the country – she defeated Tory incumbent Stewart Jackson by 607 votes at last year’s election.

Gary Lineker backs calls for a referendum on the final Brexit deal
As the Daily Mail reports, Gary Lineker has backed the campaign for a People’s Vote on the final Brexit deal, claiming that this was ‘more important than football’ to him. The People’s Vote campaign is planning a ‘summer of action’ including rallies and protests across the country. The Financial Times says that research by the Centre for Cities shows that Wales would be worst hit by a bad Brexit deal for the financial sector.

Irish foreign minister warns against ‘talking up’ no deal Brexit
The Guardian reports that Simon Coveney, Ireland’s foreign minister and deputy prime minister, has warned that too many people are ‘talking up inappropriately’ the chance of a no deal Brexit, although he believes that this outcome is unlikely. He also called for the UK to show flexibility in the Brexit negotiations.

Heatwaves could kill 7000 a year, MPs warn
The Sun says that a report by the Commons Environmental Audit Committee claims that heatwaves could kill over 7000 people a year by 2050 if ministers don’t take action. The report also warns that roads could ‘melt’. It calls for annual heatwave plans and an alert system to be set up, as well as changes to building regulations.

Labour to hire lawyers to draw up nationalisation plans
According to The Times, Labour has agreed to hire lawyers to draw up draft legislation and to ensure that its nationalisation plans are legally sound. The party is also considering devolving more powers to local and regional government, with Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell to launch a consultation later this year.

MPs call on Chancellor to cut tax relief on pensions
The Financial Times carries details of a new report by the Commons Treasury Committee which recommends that the Chancellor should cut back tax relief on pensions contributions used mostly by the well-off and make savings incentives more attractive to the poor. The measures would also save the Treasury money.

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