Tory plan to scrap judge-led Sentencing Council criticised as ‘bonkers’

The Conservatives, led by shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick, have announced plans to abolish the Sentencing Council, aiming to shift control of sentencing policy directly to ministers. This move raises concerns about the potential for political influence over judicial decisions, which could undermine the independence of the legal system. It's a significant development that could reshape how justice is administered in the UK.

Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, faced backlash after expressing discomfort during a visit to Handsworth, Birmingham, where he noted the absence of white faces. His comments sparked controversy as they seemed to undermine the importance of diversity and integration in communities. This incident highlights ongoing discussions about race and representation in the UK, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue and understanding among different cultural groups.

The Conservative Party, once a dominant force in British politics, is now facing a stark reality as it struggles to maintain its influence. Chris Mason highlights the party's diminished state, reflecting a significant shift in the political landscape. This matters because it signals potential changes in governance and public policy, affecting millions across the UK.

The article discusses the current turmoil within the Conservative Party, highlighting how it is spiraling into chaos without a clear direction. Zoe Williams points out that recent speeches, like that of Kemi Badenoch, have failed to resonate with party members, indicating a disconnect between leadership and the base. This matters because it reflects a broader trend of political instability, which could have significant implications for governance and the political landscape in the UK.

The Conservative Party, led by Mel Stride, has announced a controversial plan to cut £47 billion from public spending, which includes a significant £23 billion reduction in welfare. This proposal would deny benefits to overseas nationals, forcing them to return to their home countries if they do not meet the new criteria. This move raises concerns about the impact on vulnerable populations and the broader implications for social security in the UK, highlighting a growing divide in public policy regarding welfare support.

Senior politicians, including past and present prime ministers, have come together to honor Dame Jilly Cooper, a dedicated Conservative supporter and a passionate advocate for the countryside. Her contributions to rural issues and her unwavering commitment to the Conservative Party have left a lasting impact, making her a respected figure in British politics. This tribute highlights the importance of her work and the legacy she leaves behind.

The Conservatives have revealed plans to abolish the Sentencing Council, an independent body that advises courts on sentencing, in response to concerns over 'two-tier justice'. This move has sparked significant debate as it raises questions about the fairness and consistency of the justice system, potentially impacting how sentences are determined across different cases. Critics argue that dismantling this body could undermine judicial independence and lead to more arbitrary sentencing.

A recent poll by Sky News reveals that half of Conservative Party members do not support Kemi Badenoch as their leader for the upcoming election. This sentiment raises concerns about her viability as a candidate and the party's direction moving forward, highlighting potential divisions within the party as they prepare for a critical electoral battle.

Kemi Badenoch is attempting to revive the Conservative Party's spirit at the Tory conference, but the outlook remains grim. Despite her bold promise to reinvigorate the party, many believe it is on the brink of extinction. This situation is significant as it reflects the challenges facing the Conservatives in the UK, highlighting the struggle to connect with voters and regain their support amidst declining popularity.

In her latest column, Nesrine Malik reflects on the Conservative Party's 14 years in power and the current state of its conference, which feels more like a sideshow. She admits to having misjudged the party's prospects, especially given its ability to win elections amid Brexit chaos and austerity measures. This commentary is significant as it highlights the challenges the Conservatives face and the potential rise of Reform as a political alternative, prompting discussions about the future of British politics.

Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, has sparked controversy at the party conference by proposing that a future Tory government could exit the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) to facilitate increased deportations from the UK. This move is part of a broader strategy to dismantle various treaties that the party believes hinder their immigration policies. The implications of such a shift could significantly impact human rights protections in the UK, raising concerns among advocates and the public about the treatment of migrants and the country's commitment to international agreements.

Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, expressed confidence in her leadership approach as the party's conference kicks off in Manchester. She believes that her strategies will ultimately yield positive results, highlighting her commitment to the party's future. This statement is significant as it reflects her determination to navigate challenges and rally support within the party during a crucial time.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has dismissed President Trump's assertion that bipartisan negotiations to prevent a government shutdown are in progress. This comes amid the Supreme Court's decision to reject Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal against her conviction for recruiting minors for sexual abuse by Jeffrey Epstein. Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence, remains a significant figure in discussions about accountability and justice in high-profile sexual abuse cases. The rejection of her appeal highlights ongoing concerns about the legal ramifications of such crimes and the political landscape surrounding them.

The Metropolitan Police have made significant strides in combating phone theft by disrupting a major international smuggling ring believed to have trafficked around 40,000 stolen phones from the UK to China over the past year. This operation marks the largest crackdown on phone theft in London, highlighting the police's commitment to tackling organized crime and protecting consumers. By dismantling this network, the police not only aim to recover stolen property but also to deter future thefts, making the streets safer for everyone.

Fred Ramsdell, one of the recipients of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Medicine, is currently unreachable as he enjoys a hiking trip in Idaho, living life to the fullest. This lighthearted situation highlights the joy of discovery and the importance of recognizing achievements, even when the winners are off enjoying nature. Ramsdell shares this honor with Mary Brunkow and Shimon Sakaguchi for their significant contributions to medical science, reminding us that groundbreaking work can come from anywhere.

Job centre staff are facing overwhelming challenges as they struggle to provide personalized support for disabled individuals seeking employment. With some coaches managing caseloads of up to 200 people, the government's push for tailored assistance seems increasingly difficult to achieve. This situation highlights the urgent need for more resources and support to ensure that disabled individuals have equal opportunities in the job market.

In a significant political moment, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has condemned the recent appearance of Hamas graffiti in Melbourne, labeling it as 'disgraceful.' He emphasized that this is a 'difficult day' for the Jewish community, which should be focused on remembrance and commemoration. This incident highlights ongoing tensions and the need for respectful dialogue in Australia, especially in light of current global events. Additionally, Labor is set to introduce new legislation aimed at enhancing emergency response systems, showcasing a proactive approach to governance.

Snapchat users are expressing their frustration over the platform's announcement of upcoming fees for storing old photos and videos. While Snap claims that only a small number of users will be impacted, many are voicing their disagreement online. This matters because it highlights the growing tension between social media platforms and their users regarding monetization practices, potentially affecting user loyalty and engagement.