tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21088594057166753972024-03-13T01:44:19.516+00:00Kevin BrennanWelsh Labour Member of Parliament for Cardiff West.Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comBlogger511125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-80498619027395949922024-01-18T11:22:00.002+00:002024-01-31T11:24:51.789+00:00Why can't the Government answer perfectly straightforward questions?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Business of the House (18 January 2024)</b></p><p><b>Kevin Brennan Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />Will the Leader of the House have another go at improving written ministerial answers? I recently asked the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities a very simple question about what meetings Ministers had had with Welsh and Scottish counterparts on the implementation of the new ombudsman scheme. The answer from the Minister for Housing, Planning and Building Safety was:<br /><br />“<i>Ministers and officials have regular engagement with the devolved administrations on a range of issues</i>.”<br /><br />That passes the Lloyd George test: it was short, accurate and told me absolutely nothing I did not know already. In this day and age, can we not at least have a culture among Ministers of answering perfectly straightforward and factual questions in a perfectly straightforward and factual way, and will she help to facilitate that, please?<br /><br /><b>Penny Mordaunt Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons</b><br />The hon. Gentleman will know that a great deal of time and effort is taken in the drafting departments in Government Departments. My noble Friend Lord True and I run regular training sessions, as do the officials in my office. We are always on the lookout for good and bad practice so that we can ensure that people know what Members of Parliament need, and we inform those individuals of what is helpful to us in dealing with casework and in which format we might need information. I am always open to example of good and bad practice being passed to my office, and I will certainly raise it with the relevant Department.<br /></p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-53471061648534617742024-01-15T10:56:00.002+00:002024-01-31T10:59:58.733+00:00Important to minimise any civilian casualties in action on Houthis<div class="videoWrapper">
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<p><b>Defending the UK and Allies (15 January 2024)</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />Some in the House may recall that one of my constituents was held captive by the Houthis for five years, simply for being in possession of a British passport. The House will know that we were able to get him safely returned, but we should be under no illusions about the nature of the Houthis. May I re-emphasise the importance of minimising civilian casualties in any action the UK is involved with? Will the Prime Minister impress that not only on our highly professional armed forces, but our partners in any further action taken by the UK?<br /><br /><b>Rishi Sunak The Prime Minister, Leader of the Conservative Party</b><br />I can give the hon. Gentleman that assurance. Again, our initial assessment is that we were successful in minimising civilian casualties in this case.<br /><br /></p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-285576494736556602024-01-08T10:40:00.006+00:002024-01-31T10:46:50.602+00:00The UK Government should condemn the extremist language by some Israeli diplomats<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Israel and Palestine (8 January 2024)</b><br /><b><br />Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />"I am struggling to understand what the Government’s response is, apart from surprise at the use of extremist language. What chance can there be for the humanitarian truce that is needed now, and for a sustainable ceasefire and a lasting peace, when extremist views are uttered not just by terrorist organisations but by some Ministers and diplomats representing the Israeli Government?<br /><b><br />Andrew Mitchell Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) (Minister for Development), Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) (Minister for Development and Africa)</b><br />Many wild statements have been made, some with which Members will agree and others with which they will not, but the British Government’s purpose is to achieve a sustainable ceasefire and to meet the immense humanitarian need. It is then to lift people’s eyes, when this terrible conflict is over, to the possibilities of peace that a political track can deliver.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-78291033149713287982023-12-22T14:46:00.008+00:002024-01-31T11:38:31.912+00:00Sustainable ceasefire letter - Gaza update to constituents<p>Dear Constituent, </p><p>Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding the Israel-Gaza crisis. As always, I value your<br />engagement on this critical issue and share your desire for a peaceful resolution. I have<br />previously written a statement on this crisis which can be read <a href="http://www.kevinbrennan.co.uk/2023/11/letter-to-constituents-on-israel-hamas.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The levels of death and<br />destruction over the past weeks has been intolerable. Many innocent Palestinians, including<br />women and children, have been killed as part of military operations. There must be full<br />accountability for all actions, and Labour has called for the International Criminal Court to<br />address the conduct of all parties in Gaza and Hamas’s attacks in Israel.</p><p>The recent cessation of hostilities, though too brief, offered a glimpse of hope. However, with<br />its end, we found ourselves once again witnessing an escalation of violence. The Labour<br />Party, along with international partners, is urging all parties not to squander the progress made<br />during this period. <u>I want to see a sustainable ceasefire as quickly as possible</u>. Hostilities must<br />end as quickly as possible with hostages released and more humanitarian aid into Gaza. </p><p>As the situation unfolds, it is paramount that all sides adhere strictly to international<br />humanitarian law. The preservation of innocent lives and civilian infrastructure, such as<br />schools and hospitals, is not just a moral imperative but a legal one. The distressing levels of<br />death and destruction, particularly impacting Palestinian civilians, underline the urgent need<br />for full accountability and a reassessment of military operations.</p><p>The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the onset of winter, demands immediate and<br />scaled-up aid. The people of Gaza require substantial assistance in terms of food, water, fuel,<br />shelter, and medical supplies. This aid is critical not only for immediate survival but also to<br />prevent further health crises. It's essential to address the rights of those displaced by the<br />conflict, ensuring their ability to return home and rebuild their lives. Gaza must not be<br />relegated to a permanent state of displacement and humanitarian need. The UK and our<br />international partners must work tirelessly to find a pathway to a sustainable ceasefire and a<br />lasting political solution, one that addresses the threat posed by Hamas, ends illegal<br />settlements and settler violence in the West Bank, and plans for the reconstruction and<br />renewal of Gaza.</p><p>Labour remains committed to a two-state solution, with a sovereign Palestinian state<br />alongside a safe and secure Israel. This is the only credible basis for long-term peace. We<br />recognise that this goal requires diligent and sustained diplomatic efforts. In these times the<br />voices from the extremes of both sides are often amplified, only prolonging and deepening the<br />violence. Recent events have shown that diplomacy can lead to positive outcomes.<br />Palestinians must be assured their future will not be like the past, and that they and their<br />children will be able to enjoy the security, opportunities and rights that we take for granted. </p><p>I assure you that I am conveying your concerns directly in our frontbench discussions. We are<br />not in Government, but we stand firm in our call for a sustainable ceasefire as a necessary step<br />towards lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. Thank you once again<br />for your engagement on this important issue.</p><p>Yours sincerely<br /> </p><p> </p><p>Kevin Brennan MP<br />Member of Parliament for Cardiff West</p><p> </p><p> </p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-76905837202798135022023-12-13T11:26:00.002+00:002023-12-13T11:26:31.850+00:00Statement on Mark Drakeford stepping down as First Minister<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPevM-I1ass4CoZy09BHOWOjCkyl2cUyZje__0G2R7pPDBN3FkKzGFDsaSd92uKppzTQXE5baQRrf1BFD5wOJenjJEKlVSzL-h8uBDe09j0gQXk9wti7_g4frGe_dKq0gMQBxniR-GHzOdtuWEyhKAYp7pw9XdagDBG0ATlDiru1sf2TCZ7chw_LjPRlu/s4608/DSCF3439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPevM-I1ass4CoZy09BHOWOjCkyl2cUyZje__0G2R7pPDBN3FkKzGFDsaSd92uKppzTQXE5baQRrf1BFD5wOJenjJEKlVSzL-h8uBDe09j0gQXk9wti7_g4frGe_dKq0gMQBxniR-GHzOdtuWEyhKAYp7pw9XdagDBG0ATlDiru1sf2TCZ7chw_LjPRlu/s16000/DSCF3439.JPG" /></a></div><br />Mark has been an exemplary public servant and will leave a lasting legacy as a result of his absolute dedication to social justice and the welfare of people of Wales. <br /><br />I have had the privilege of working closely with him and witnessed his extraordinary work commitment and thoughtful approach to politics. <br /><br />His moral leadership of Wales during COVID will forever be contrasted with the moral bankruptcy of the leadership of the UK government at the same time. <p></p><p><br />I know the personal trauma that Mark suffered with the sudden loss of his wife Clare and have been deeply moved by his determination to continue to serve the people of Wales and to deliver the commitments promised in the Welsh Labour manifesto.</p><p>Typically he has done exactly what he promised and is standing down as First Minster to allow a successor sufficient time to prepare for future elections.</p><p>I look forward to continuing to work with Mark as my Senedd colleague for Cardiff West and to enjoy his company as a true friend.<br /><br /></p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-17943593633046437012023-11-27T11:30:00.006+00:002024-01-31T11:32:14.605+00:00Shouldn't the UK Government allow refugees from Gaza to live with their UK families?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Israel and Hamas: Humanitarian Pause (27 November 2023)</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />My constituent Adam Abu Warda has close family in Gaza and is extremely anxious that they should have the opportunity to get out and come to the UK, as other MPs have said. What is the Government’s policy on our constituents wishing to get their very close family out of Gaza to bring them to the UK?<br /><br /><b>Andrew Mitchell Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) (Minister for Development), Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) (Minister for Development and Africa)</b><br />We are seeking, within the rules the hon. Gentleman will be aware of, to facilitate, in every way we can, those people leaving Gaza. As I said to one of our colleagues, it would not be sensible for me to look at the granular detail of the specific case he raises on the Floor of the House but, if he has contacted the emergency consular support team in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and has any concerns about the responses he is getting, I am of course very happy, to look at it myself.<br /></p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-89027896053872646032023-11-23T12:46:00.003+00:002023-11-23T12:46:45.726+00:00Why doesn't the Six Nations have protected free-to-air TV status?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Prison Capacity<br />Justice Questions (21 November 2023)</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />The Secretary of State’s emergency early release scheme is meant to tackle a capacity crisis that is entirely of this Government’s making, and it excludes only serious violence. Surely domestic abuse and stalking are serious offences, yet they are not excluded from early release. What kind of signal does that give to victims, the public, and indeed perpetrators of violence against women and girls?<br /><br /><b>Alex Chalk The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice</b><br />We are proud that under this Government sentences for offences such as rape have gone up by a third. We have a situation in which charges are up, the conviction rate is higher and sentences are longer—and, unlike under the Labour Government, people are spending a higher proportion of those sentences in custody. We think that is the right thing to do. To the hon. Member’s point, the exclusions in place go beyond what he indicated, so he is factually incorrect; they also include sex offences and terrorist offences. Here is a really important point: where the custodial authorities are satisfied that there is a specific risk, there is an opportunity to ensure that release is blocked. That is important, because we will always stand up for victims of crime.<br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />Argument weak? Go long and do not answer the question—the classic response from this Government. The truth is that without any Government announcement of a start date, prisons began releasing offenders over a month ago. These men are already walking our streets, but the Government will not tell us how many, or why they were behind bars in the first place. Why do the Government not believe that the public deserve to know who is being released back into the community when a court decided that they should be in prison?<br /><br /><b>Alex Chalk The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice</b><br />We will make whatever appropriate announcements in due course; we will not demur from that. We will also not apologise for having, under this Government, a higher custodial population than before. We are taking robust steps to ensure that the public are protected, which means unashamedly that those who commit the most serious offences—those such as murder in the context of sexual or sadistic conduct—go to prison for the rest of their lives. Will the hon. Member support that? I wonder. We are also using the evidence so that those capable of rehabilitation are rehabilitated. One thing that we will not ever put at risk is the threat to women and girls. As the Under-Secretary of State for Justice, my hon. Friend Laura Farris, indicated, we have taken steps to ensure that victims of domestic abuse will be properly protected under the Government.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-85520088323819637482023-11-15T22:00:00.003+00:002023-11-23T12:45:00.000+00:00Prime Minister can't even name one David Cameron foreign policy achievement<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Prime Minister's Questions<br />15 November 2023<br /></b><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Shadow Minister (Victims and Sentencing)</b><br />The Prime Minister has just said that David Cameron had unprecedented experience, so what would he say was his finest foreign policy achievement?<br /><br /><b>Rishi Sunak The Prime Minister, Leader of the Conservative Party</b><br />There are many, many to pick from, but what I would say is that under his leadership this country hosted what was widely considered to be one of the most successful G8 summits of recent times.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-37708877358669842472023-11-15T19:09:00.002+00:002024-01-05T14:51:05.303+00:00Statement on tonight's vote and Labour's amendmentThank you to everyone who has written to me about the terrible situation in Gaza. For those who have not had a chance to read it, I have previously written a statement on the situation which can be read <a href="http://www.kevinbrennan.co.uk/2023/11/letter-to-constituents-on-israel-hamas.html">here</a>.<br /><br />In relation specifically to votes on Gaza in the King’s Speech debate in parliament, I supported the Labour amendment. I think it is important that people are aware of the wording of the amendment, because there is an impression being given that it is not focused on the practical steps needed to achieve an end to the fighting as soon as possible.<br /><br />Here is the text of the Labour amendment:<br /><blockquote>“This House wishes to see an end to the violence in Israel and Palestine; unequivocally condemn the horrific terrorist attack and murder of civilians by Hamas, call for the immediate release of all hostages and reaffirm Israel’s right to defend its citizens from terrorism; believe all human life is equal and that there has been too much suffering, including far too many deaths of innocent civilians and children, over the past month in Gaza; reaffirm the UK’s commitment to the rules-based international order, international humanitarian law and the jurisdiction of the ICC to address the conduct of all parties in Gaza and Hamas’s attacks in Israel; call on Israel to protect hospitals and lift the siege conditions allowing food, water, electricity, medicine and fuel into Gaza; request the Government continue to work with the international community to prevent a wider escalation of the conflict in the region, guarantee that people in Gaza who are forced to flee during this conflict can return to their homes and seek an end to the expansion of illegal settlements and settler violence in the West Bank; and, while acknowledging the daily humanitarian pauses to allow in aid and the movement of civilians, believe they must be longer to deliver humanitarian assistance on a scale that begins to meet the desperate needs of the people of Gaza, which is a necessary step to an enduring cessation of fighting as soon as possible and a credible, diplomatic and political process to deliver the lasting peace of a two-state solution.”</blockquote><p>With so many innocent civilians and children lost over the past month in this terrible conflict, my support for this amendment stems from a fierce desire to achieve an enduring cessation of fighting as soon as possible<br /><br />Kevin Brennan<br />MP for Cardiff West</p><p><br /></p><p><b>* VIEW MORE RECENT LETTER <a href="http://www.kevinbrennan.co.uk/2023/12/gaza-update-to-constituents.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</b><br /></p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-70485147404689274152023-11-02T10:00:00.006+00:002024-01-05T14:51:35.667+00:00Letter to constituents on the Israel-Hamas war<p>I take this issue very seriously as, like you, I want to see an end to the violence and ultimately a lasting peaceful resolution. As I have mentioned previously, these are very grave and complex events with the facts on the ground changing by the minute. I am distraught by the devastation occurring in Gaza and I vehemently assert that Israel, notwithstanding its right to defend itself against attack after the biggest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, must act in line with international law. The situation on the ground can only be described as a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. There must be a pause in fighting to provide aid to those desperately in need. Like the First Minister I hope that this could be a step which would enable the conditions for a more stable ceasefire to come about.<br /><br />The current aid being provided through the Rafah Crossing is simply insufficient; we must see more humanitarian aid provided to Gaza. Israel must not block any attempt to provide aid, nor must it blockade fuel, food, and water from entering the region for humanitarian reasons. I welcome all efforts made to increase aid entering the region and this can only be achieved in full with a pause in hostilities on both sides.<br /><br />Even with a pause in fighting the ugly truth is that Hamas will be planning to strike once again. Hamas’ ideology is to destroy Israel and they are against a two-state solution with peace and secure borders for both Palestinians and Israelis. Neither is it realistic to expect Israel to abandon its hostages who were taken amid atrocity. A situation which emboldens Hamas and leaves it with the power to carry out additional attacks will ultimately only prolong the suffering of the Palestinian people. Peace can never be obtained as long as Hamas is there threatening to destroy that peace. The Palestinian people should not needlessly suffer any more than they already have.<br /><br />I am appalled by the news of human suffering coming from Gaza. In particular it is devastating to receive the reports of children and families killed in their homes and elsewhere. Enduring the fear that Gazan families are currently facing is almost unimaginable. We must do all that we can to preserve innocent lives including denuding that humanitarian pause. The Labour position is to implore Israel and Hamas to pause their fighting so that aid can be delivered to those who need it most and innocent civilians are protected. We also call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas. I call on Israel to take every step in its fight with Hamas to minimise civilian casualties and suffering, because collective punishment is a war crime that cannot be justified under any circumstance. <br /><br />The release of hostages and the fight with Hamas must be carried out with an absolute focus to protect and preserve the lives of civilians inevitably be caught up in the crossfire. I understand that this is easier said than done, but it is simply the minimum requirement for a State unlike a terrorist organisation acting with no regard for international law. Labour is working with international partners to support every effort to make this possible. I want to assure you that I have communicated all my constituents’ concerns about the conflict in meetings to the party leadership. <br /><br />Not enough diplomatic attention has been paid to the Israel-Palestine conflict for far too long. In recent years there has been a trend to look away from all the suffering that has occurred in this region because of the difficulty of finding a peaceful outcome. It is a problem that I believe will never be resolved through military means, strident slogans, or indifference. Recent events have confirmed that it is time to make a renewed effort to change this. I unequivocally back all efforts towards finding a way to peace in the region free from occupation and terrorism. <br /><br />Despite the despairing rhetoric of extremists, a two-state solution is still firmly the way to achieve a lasting peace in the region. Benjamin Netanyahu’s undermining of any two-state solution, planting illegal settlements as facts on the ground, has not brought security. To ensure a future where Israel is secure from terrorism and Palestine is a sovereign state without settlements and occupation, it is vital to engage in constructive dialogue. This dialogue must underscore the worldwide recognition of the Palestinian people’s right to freedom and equality, unaffected by the threats of unlawful settlements. There is no more looking away. But Hamas must be stopped, and Israel must get back its hostages. Gazans must be given guarantees that they can return to their homes safely and they are provided with humanitarian aid that they so desperately need. <br /><br />My heart goes out to all those deeply impacted in the region but also those living in fear in our own country. With Jewish schools closing and hijabis abused on public transport, the rise of Antisemitism and Islamophobia is heart-breaking. I never thought that Jewish people in Cardiff would be telling me about their fear revealing their religion in public – including children in our schools - because of the abuse and threats they receive. I never thought that my Muslim constituents would report abuse they have received simply for expressing their religious beliefs and culture. I know very well from experience the danger that heightened tensions pose to safety on our own streets, and it is a priority for me to encourage and reinforce the excellent interfaith relations that we have traditionally benefitted from in our city, and which can help to reduce tensions and the threat of violence.<br /><br />All our citizens and residents have the right to peaceful protests and the right to protection from hate speech. I applaud all efforts by multiple groups to stamp out the vile racism, xenophobia, and hatred resulting from inflamed tensions. We cannot let hatred divide our country and our people. We should continue to stand up against all forms of hatred and bigotry. <br /><br />Thank you for raising your concerns with me once again. I take all that you say very seriously and use it to help shape my dialogue with colleagues in the Labour Party. Like you, I want to see an end to the fighting as soon as possible. Now is the time to renew our efforts to achieve a permanent end to the fighting, and not just a delay. Only through this approach can we ultimately hope to achieve the liberation of Palestine and the security of Israel. </p><p> </p><p><b>* VIEW MORE RECENT LETTER <a href="http://www.kevinbrennan.co.uk/2023/12/gaza-update-to-constituents.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</b> <br /></p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-50062742630287448692023-07-20T09:46:00.004+01:002023-08-18T09:50:49.389+01:00What is the government doing to ensure creative industries can flourish?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Creative Industries: Skills and Training<br />20 July 2023</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />Last night was the summer reception of UK Music, and I was there as chair of the all-party parliamentary group on music, along with the shadow Secretary of State and the Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee. If Ministers had been able to come, they would have heard an appeal for more education in the creative sectors in our schools and for more support for our grassroots venues, which are the research and development of the creative industries, particularly the music industry, and which are suffering from a crisis at the moment. What more are the Government going to do to support education at that level so that skills and training in our creative industries can enable them to keep flourishing into the future?<br /><br /><b>Lucy Frazer The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport</b><br />I hope the hon. Gentleman read the sector vision, which included £5 million in additional funding for grassroots music venues—something we discussed at the Select Committee. We, too, think it is important to have those creative subjects in school; that is why art, design and music are already in the national curriculum and remain compulsory in all maintained schools up to the age of 14. But that is not all we are doing. He mentioned music, which is incredibly important. That is why we have our new joint national plan for music education, including £25 million of funding for musical instruments and equipment for schools, and, as I mentioned, we had our first meeting of the cultural education panel, which is looking at how we can ensure we help young people to get more creativity both in and outside school to ensure we have that creative excellence.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-54289252777893482792023-07-13T09:58:00.005+01:002023-08-18T11:23:59.327+01:00Prime Minister seems incapable of operating in a statesman like fashion<div class="videoWrapper">
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<img src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ofoCYeMXL-Q/hqdefault.jpg" id="vidthumb"></div><p><b>NATO Summit<br />13 July 2023</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />In welcoming the Prime Minister’s statement, I gently encourage him to adopt a slightly different tone rather than phrases such as “new-found affection” for NATO. He knows the seminal role of the post-war Labour Government, in particular the Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin, in the creation of NATO. [Interruption.] I suggest they read some history books. He also knows that Labour’s policy of support for NATO is as strong now as it was 75 years ago. Will he welcome that fact and work in a statesmanlike way with the Leader of the Opposition, in the national interest?<br /><br /><b>Rishi Sunak The Prime Minister, Leader of the Conservative Party</b><br />I was not quibbling at all with the leadership shown by Labour politicians 75 years ago; I was quibbling with that shown just a few years ago.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-66458548356747077252023-07-13T09:52:00.006+01:002023-08-18T11:24:02.789+01:00Secondary ticket sites are selling Taylor Swift tickets for £3k<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Business of the House<br />13 July 2023</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />Can we have a debate on secondary ticketing? As the father of a Swiftie— I know that the shadow Deputy Leader of the House, my hon. Friend Jessica Morden, is the mother of a Swiftie—I was appalled to see that, within an hour of tickets going on sale for the Taylor Swift concert at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, a ticket was on sale in the lower tier for £3,352 on Viagogo. Why have the Government not done more to protect our daughters from these sorts of rip-off merchants?<br /><br /><b>Penny Mordaunt Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons</b><br />That is a shocking example. There is one further session of Department for Culture, Media and Sport questions before the summer recess, and I encourage the hon. Gentleman to raise that matter with the Secretary of State.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-15638837254693204342023-07-06T10:09:00.005+01:002023-08-18T11:24:05.699+01:00If the Tories end rail ticket offices, it will be a huge mistake<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Rail Ticket Offices<br />6 July 2023 </b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />Tim Loughton was right: sometimes it is just too complicated to purchase a ticket without using a ticket office. I recently had that experience, and buying my ticket from the ticket office was £50 cheaper than if I had purchased it from the machine. I am afraid that the Beatles analogy he started is right: he’s got a ticket to ride, and he don’t care.<br /><b><br />Huw Merriman Minister of State (Department for Transport)</b><br />I was not even aware that I had started a Beatles analogy. Actually, this is more important than joking about music; this is about reassuring passengers that we can deliver a better experience but also an experience that they are very familiar with, in terms of the other transactions they make across the retail space. More and more people are doing that online, and they start doing it online by being taught how to do it. The idea is that ticketing staff who are currently behind glass, not seeing those passengers, will help to deliver that and ensure that those passengers have a better experience and do not need to queue up next time, because they can do it in a seamless manner. Where that operation does not exist because of the machine, we are looking to upgrade. I will take any examples he has, to ensure that passengers get the best price but can do it online or via a machine.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-52748159980303165372023-06-21T10:13:00.003+01:002023-08-18T11:24:09.685+01:00Last three Tory Prime Ministers - the liar, the lettuce and weak<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Prime Minister's Questions<br />21 June 2023</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />Just to recap, during this Parliament we have had one Tory Prime Minister who turned out to be a proven liar, and a second Tory Prime Minister who was outlasted by a lettuce. After this week’s pathetic no-show by the Prime Minister, what one word would he use to describe himself? Might it be “weak”?<br /><br /><b>Rishi Sunak The Prime Minister, Leader of the Conservative Party</b><br />What is weak is those in the party opposite being unable to stand up to the people who fund them and stand behind hard-working families in this country.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-77207410323250502312023-06-08T10:23:00.002+01:002023-08-18T11:24:12.522+01:00How does cuts to legal aid help the Home Office blacklog?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Business of the House<br />8 June 2023</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />Can we have a debate about legal aid for visa and asylum applications? I know that other hon. Members are finding it impossible for constituents to get a solicitor to assist them when they are entitled to that support. Perhaps Ministers could then explain how cutting off support and aid for people who need that advice reduces the backlog we are all struggling with, both in the Home Office and in our constituency offices.<br /><br /><b>Penny Mordaunt Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons</b><br />The hon. Gentleman raises a very sensible point, and I would be happy to make sure the Home Secretary has heard his remarks.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-89306956469812469582023-05-25T10:39:00.003+01:002023-08-18T11:24:15.172+01:00Can we have a debate on community safety and the regulation of e-bikes?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Business of the House<br />25 May 2023 </b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />May we have a debate on community safety, including the regulation of e-bikes and e-scooters? In doing so, may I express my condolences to the grieving families of Harvey Evans and Kyrees Sullivan, who died in the tragic incident in Ely in my constituency this week? May I also express solidarity with the residents who suffered the effects of the aftermath and the police officers who were injured in the ensuing disruption? May I also welcome the call from the grieving families for calm in the community to allow the independent investigation into the events that took place, so we can get to the truth of both the tragic fatalities of such young lives and the events that followed?<br /><br /><b>Penny Mordaunt Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons</b><br />I am sure the whole House would want to join the hon. Gentleman in sending our condolences and our thoughts to the Evans and Sullivan families, and praise the families and other voices in the community who have called for calm and explained the role of the police, who are doing a very valuable job for that community. I shall make sure the Department has heard the hon. Gentleman’s concerns today. I am sure that if he were to apply for a debate, it would be well attended.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-42165706606295466842023-05-10T10:35:00.002+01:002023-08-18T11:24:18.023+01:00Why isn't more being done to bring power sharing back to NI?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Northern Ireland: Power Sharing<br />10 May 2023</b><br /><b><br />Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />Given the hugely advantageous position Northern Ireland now finds itself in, as was outlined by the Prime Minister when the Windsor accord was announced, is it not time that power sharing was restored and that the Secretary of State perhaps considered a deadline for the restoration of power sharing?<br /><br /><b>Chris Heaton-Harris The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland</b><br />The hon. Gentleman speaks many a wise word. However, the one thing I have learned in my role as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is that deadlines are deadly and it is pointless setting timelines on things. The right thing to do is to get the job done properly so that when the Executive come back, they can be there for a very long time, and that is what everyone is working towards.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-47068340261632760062023-05-03T10:28:00.002+01:002023-08-18T11:24:21.311+01:00Can the UK Government give assurances that AI will be regulated?<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Artificial Intelligence Technologies: Regulation<br />3 May 2023 </b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />One area in which our global leadership is a reality, not just rhetoric, is the creative industries. What assurance can the Government give to our music makers, writers and others that AI will be properly regulated to make sure their creative content is protected, and so we can maintain our global leadership?<br /><b><br />Chloe Smith Assistant Whip, The Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology</b><br />The hon. Gentleman makes a very good point, which comes from his deep expertise in music and the creative industries more generally. I look forward to my conversations with the industry on this very subject this afternoon. The UK has world-leading copyright and intellectual property protections, and we know how important they are for the continued success of the creative industries. We want to maintain them, and they will therefore be a focus as we take this work forward.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-65726185612567263822023-04-28T10:58:00.002+01:002023-08-18T11:24:26.268+01:00Kevin Brennan MP reacts to the resignation of BBC Chair Richard Sharp<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-55491982019291814802023-04-27T10:47:00.006+01:002023-08-18T11:24:28.952+01:00Government won't help my NHS working constituent get home from Sudan<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Sudan Update<br />27 April 2023 </b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />May I have some real clarity from the Foreign Secretary about people who are not British nationals but who are nevertheless in the position of one of my constituents? My constituent has been working for Public Health Wales for the last two years and living in my constituency, and they went to Sudan to celebrate Eid with their family. They are now trapped there and, I understand, are being told that they will not get help from the British Government enabling them to return to their home and workplace in my constituency. Is that the Foreign Secretary’s policy, and if it is, can he change it forthwith?<br /><br /><b>James Cleverly Foreign Secretary, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office</b><br />The eligibility criteria have been part of our travel advice throughout this situation. I completely understand the point that the hon. Gentleman is making, but, as I said earlier, we cannot expand the criteria just for those mentioned by Members. To do so could substantially and unsustainably increase the number of people to whom we have given the implication that we could evacuate them. As I have said, the window is limited, the ability to evacuate beyond that is completely unpredictable, and we have a duty to ensure that we do everything we can to evacuate British nationals and dependants as per the criteria already published.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-69190201629510544512023-04-27T10:43:00.002+01:002023-08-18T11:24:33.780+01:00Electoral Commission should condemn these misleading Tory leaflets<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Postal Votes<br />27 April 2023</b><br /><br /><b>Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />I think the Speaker’s Committee should have discussions about this issue. Has my hon. Friend seen some recent examples of Conservative party leaflets, where people are being encouraged to return postal vote applications to Tory headquarters rather than back to the local authority, and where millions of people are being disenfranchised through lack of voter ID? Leaflets have also gone out—in Norwich, for example—saying that people do not need ID to vote. Should not the Electoral Commission take the view that although such practices may technically be legal, they are in fact harmful to our democracy?<br /><br /><b>Cat Smith Labour, Lancaster and Fleetwood</b><br />The code of conduct is of course voluntary, but the code of conduct for campaigners states that parties can provide applications for postal votes but the forms must include the address for the electoral registration officer as the preferred address, even if an alternative address is provided. Campaigners should send on any application forms they receive to the relevant address within two working days, and the commission recommends that any concerns that the code has been breached should be raised first with the candidate, political party or campaigner in question, and any further concerns should be drawn to the attention of the commission. The commission is aware of the Conservative party leaflet in Norwich and has had conversations with the party.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-36306698404066467122023-04-20T10:56:00.005+01:002023-08-18T11:24:36.781+01:00Government's treatment of Afghan refugees hasn't been good enough<div class="videoWrapper">
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</div><p><b>Business of the House<br />20 April 2023 </b><br /><b><br />Kevin Brennan Labour, Cardiff West</b><br />May we have a debate about the treatment of refugees from Afghanistan? I recently visited a group who are housed near Cardiff, including consultants, doctors, people who had translated for us in Afghanistan and people who fought alongside our armed forces there. Even after all this time since they were evacuated, they have still not been housed and face great difficulty getting into employment. They also told me that they were beginning to suffer from abuse because of the dog-whistle politics on refugee status that is sadly going on at the moment. Without pivoting to such dog-whistle politics, will the Leader of the House take the opportunity to explain to the public that those refugees helped us in our foreign policy aims in Afghanistan, and tell us what the Government would do in such a debate to explain what will be done to help them?<br /><b><br />Penny Mordaunt Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons</b><br />I thank the hon. Gentleman for raising this important matter, which I know many Members will be concerned about. It is a key example of where we want to help not just those in greatest need, but people to whom we have a particular moral responsibility. Afghan refugees, especially those who served alongside us, supported our armed forces, helped us with translation and other services, or worked with some of our aid agencies, are exactly such people. I shall make sure that the relevant Minister has heard what the hon. Gentleman has said. If he wishes to pass me details about the particular site in Cardiff, I would be happy to pass those on too.</p>Administratorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03466410599545528349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2108859405716675397.post-34303600543682911472023-03-12T11:14:00.006+00:002023-08-18T11:24:40.170+01:00Kevin Brennan MP comments on BBC's suspension of Gary Lineker<div class="videoWrapper">
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