News

Following Boris Johnson’s resignation who could replace him as Prime Minister?

Published

2 years ago

July 11, 2022

MOST prime ministers would have resigned over any one of the scandals to engulf Boris Johnson’s government. Johnson, never one for tradition or rules, rode out nearly every crisis – but the Chris Pincher affair was the final straw.

Led by Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak, over 50 members of Johnson’s government resigned in a day and a half. Johnson has now resigned as party leader, vowing to remain PM until a new leader is chosen.

Johnson was not a typical leader, and his successor will have a difficult job.

They will need to strengthen the Conservative party before the next general election (which could come sooner rather than later).

They will need to distance themselves from the more problematic aspects of Johnson’s legacy, while steadying the ship and appealing to the electorate.

Here are the likely runners and riders for this seemingly impossible task:

Ben Wallace

While not perhaps as well known as some of the candidates, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace is considered a serious contender. He has been pivotal in the UK’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and was clear in the run-up to the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan that action was needed to evacuate UK citizens and others in danger. He did not resign from Johnson’s cabinet, which might count against him, but he certainly looks like a strong candidate. Early polling suggests Wallace is the candidate to beat, but the campaign will test his early popularity.

Penny Mordaunt

Minister of State for Trade Policy Penny Mordaunt is not necessarily a household name, but she is very respected within the Conservative party. Mordaunt was a short-lived but well-respected defence minister and recently Royal Navy reservist. She previously served as secretary of state for international development (before the department was merged with the Foreign Office). Like Wallace, Mordaunt stuck by Johnson over the last few days, but her popularity within the party might allow her to overcome that issue, particularly if she can play up her pro-Brexit credentials.

Rishi Sunak

The former chancellor was considered the leader in waiting in the early stages of the pandemic. His early successes with the furlough scheme elevated his status and profile, but his star faded fairly quickly. Questions over his wife’s tax status and wealth generally made Sunak seem out of touch with voters. He was also, along with Johnson, fined by police over lockdown parties in Downing Street. While he remains a strong candidate, he might have wished that his opportunity to stand for leader had come sooner.

Sajid Javid

Javid has the distinction of having resigned from a Johnson cabinet twice. His first resignation, from his role as chancellor just before the pandemic, was driven by his desire to appoint his own staff. He was invited back into cabinet after Matt Hancock’s resignation. While considered by many within the party as a very capable MP, with a working-class background that would count in his favour, some worry Javid showed a lack of judgment in rejoining the Johnson cabinet.

Nadhim Zahawi

Zahawi came to public prominence when he spearheaded the vaccine rollout. His time as education secretary has been viewed positively, but his move to the Treasury less than two days before telling Johnson to resign have made some question his motives. Perception that he allowed personal ambition to override his moral compass is likely to hurt Zahawi. He will need to answer for this when asked by the party and country.

Liz Truss

Currently overseas on official business, the foreign secretary will undoubtedly be thankful not to have been caught up in the chaos of this week. But is she too absent? While considered by many a “safe pair of hands” she is not a dynamic candidate for leader, and it is doubtful whether she can become an electoral asset to the party. If the Conservatives want a safe choice instead of another “exciting” leader to follow Johnson, Truss may have a shot.

Dominic Raab

The deputy prime minister is another potential leader in waiting. He has occupied a number of cabinet roles including secretary of state for Brexit, foreign secretary and now justice minister. While he certainly has a high-ranking position, he has had a number of missteps. As Brexit minister, he finished off the negotiations his predecessor David Davis began, then resigned because he couldn’t accept the deal he helped to finalise. As foreign secretary, he was criticised for his lack of speed during the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. That, coupled with his earlier comments calling British workers the “worst idlers in the world” before he joined the cabinet, make him a long shot for Downing Street.

The rest of the pack

On the backbenches, there are expected to be at least three potential candidates – former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt, prominent Brexiteer Steve Baker, and well-respected backbench MP Tom Tugendhat. For any backbencher wanting to catapult themselves into Downing Street, the ride is likely to be bumpy. A track record of success is usually needed. This is harder for a backbencher, either because they have never been in cabinet, or because they have left cabinet (usually after being asked to). These individuals have a long road ahead of them.

There will be others who may want to scope out their prospects with the party. Cabinet secretaries Priti Patel or even Jacob Rees-Mogg might test the water, but they are likely to find it cold.

The battle ahead will inevitably have its twists and turns, and it is almost impossible to predict the outcome. Many within the Conservative party, and perhaps the country, will be hoping for less exciting times than they have recently lived through.

Crime

Police offer advice after 60 reports of stolen quad bikes from farms

Published

4 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is advising the rural community to make sure security measures are in place to protect quad bikes and other farm equipment, in response to a spate of thefts.

There have been over 60 reports of stolen quad bikes across the force in 2024.

Farmers and other owners of quad bikes are reminded to be vigilant of suspicious vehicles and people in their community and to report any concerns to police.

Dyfed-Powys Police has acquired 150 SelectaDNA Rural Kits to support their efforts in combating rural crime. These advanced DNA asset-marking kits will be used to offer free property marking services to farmers, helping them protect their valuable equipment and machinery.

In addition to property marking, our Rural Crime Team officers, who are also qualified Crime Prevention Tactical Advisors (CPTAC), will visit farms to conduct comprehensive crime prevention audits. These audits are designed to ensure farms have the best security measures in place to deter criminal activity and safeguard their livelihoods.

The SelectaDNA Rural Kits use a unique DNA solution that can be applied to tools, vehicles, machinery, and other valuable assets. This marking is virtually invisible but can be detected under UV light, providing an indisputable link between stolen property and its rightful owner. This has proven to be a powerful deterrent against theft and an invaluable tool in recovering stolen items.

Rural communities are often targeted by criminals due to their remote locations and the high value of farming equipment.By offering free property marking and crime prevention visits, Dyfed-Powys Police aim to empower farmers with effective tools and advice to protect their assets and reduce the risk of crime.

Sergeant Paul Roberts from our Rural Crime Team, said: “I ask that local farmers and other quad bike owners take appropriate action to minimise the opportunities of these thefts occurring. This includes removing keys from ignitions after use and locking barns or outbuildings wherever the vehicles may be kept.

“I’m aware that thefts of quad bikes and farming machinery causes disruption to farmers’ work, as well as the financial implications, and I would like to reassure the public that police are thoroughly investigating these matters.

“I encourage anyone living in rural communities to remain vigilant to this type of theft, and to report any suspicious vehicles or behaviour to police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The Rural Crime Team will be attending marts across the force, where community members can bring items such as tools, machinery, and bikes to be marked.

Farmers can also arrange a visit from our Rural Crime Team to mark equipment and conduct a security audit by emailing [email protected]

Visit our website for more information and advice about rural crime and what prevention measure you can take – https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/

News

Family pays tribute to ‘budding artist’ after tragic loss

Published

4 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE FAMILY of a 14-year-old girl who died on Friday (Nov 15) has paid tribute to a “budding artist, rugby player and social media lover.”

Seren Jenkins, from Tycroes, Ammanford, tragically passed away following a medical emergency at Ammanford Rugby Club.

In a heartfelt statement, her family said: “We as a family are devastated by the loss of Seren.

“She was a loving daughter, big and little sister.

“Seren lived her short life to the full and was a budding artist, rugby player and social media lover.

“Seren was loved by all who knew her and no doubt will also be remembered for her sense of humour.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the emergency services at the scene and everybody for the GoFundMe page donations for Seren, where proceeds will likely be donated to various asthma services, the Wales Air Ambulance, and a possible memorial for her friends to remember her.

“We would also like to thank people for their kind words and support at this horrific time, but would now like to ask for this time to grieve in private.”

A GoFundMe page set up in Seren’s memory has received widespread support, reflecting the community’s shock and sadness at her loss.

Seren’s family described her as someone who brought joy to all who knew her, with a zest for life and a talent for art and rugby. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and laughter.

News

Teenager’s death not linked to bullying or social media, says coroner

Published

4 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A “KIND, strong” teenager who tragically took her own life was not driven to her actions by bullying or social media, the Pembrokeshire Coroner has concluded following a five-day inquest.

Megan Evans, aged 14, was found in her home in Milford Haven on February 7, 2017. Described by her family as “a kind and beautiful soul,” Megan was remembered for her intelligence, thoughtfulness, and the love and laughter she brought to her home.

Her death prompted a significant examination of the pressures faced by teenagers today, particularly concerning bullying and the influence of social media. However, Pembrokeshire Coroner Paul Bennett stated there was no evidence to suggest these factors played a role in Megan’s death.

Coroner’s findings

Dyfed-Powys Police’s digital crime investigation unit analyzed Megan’s social media activity and found “no evidence of targeted abuse or bullying directed at Megan.” The coroner also reviewed the school’s anti-bullying measures, which included assemblies, PSE lessons, and an intranet reporting tool.

“Pupils knew what route they could take should bullying arise,” said Mr. Bennett. “That does not mean that pupils did avail themselves of those options.” He added that perceptions of bullying could vary widely, stating that “bullying to one may be banter to another.”

The inquest heard that Megan had been upset by incidents at school, including one five days before her death. However, Mr. Bennett found no link between these events and her decision to take her own life. He also ruled out other factors such as reprimands about her uniform or concerns about her father’s health as contributing to her actions.

“Megan Catherine Evans died as a result of self-suspension, having intended to take her own life. The decision to do so was not influenced by bullying or social media,” Mr. Bennett concluded.

Family’s heartbreak

Megan’s family expressed profound sadness over the coroner’s findings. Earlier in the week, they pledged to honor her legacy by continuing to fight for kindness and love.

“She is missed more than we could ever express,” they said. “She made the world a better place just by being in it.”

However, Megan’s mother, Nicola Harteveld, took to social media to voice her anger and frustration with the coroner’s conclusions.

“It’s utterly heartbreaking and beyond disgusting to see a conclusion that tries to blur the lines between bullying and banter,” she wrote. “Megan is dead—she clearly did not take it as banter. How is it acceptable to claim that such words don’t amount to targeted bullying or abuse?”

Her comments have sparked widespread support online, with many echoing her concerns. One local woman commented: “Banter—it most certainly is not. Those words kill. What has this life become when so-called professionals see no wrong in this type of behavior?” Others called for accountability, suggesting the case should be subject to judicial review.

Megan’s death sent shockwaves through the Milford Haven community. Tributes poured in after her passing, and her story became a rallying point for discussions on mental health, bullying, and the pressures faced by young people. Milford Haven School has since emphasized its commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for pupils.

Headteacher Jane Smith said in a statement: “Megan’s death was a tragedy that deeply affected everyone at our school. We continue to work tirelessly to ensure all students feel supported and to address any concerns they may have.”

Local organizations have also stepped in, launching campaigns to promote mental health awareness and kindness. A vigil held in Megan’s memory shortly after her death drew hundreds of attendees, many of whom highlighted the urgent need for change.

Expert perspectives on bullying and banter

The distinction between bullying and banter, highlighted by the coroner, has drawn criticism from experts and advocates. Child psychologist Dr. Sarah Davies noted: “For some young people, what may seem like lighthearted jokes can have devastating emotional impacts. We must listen to their experiences and validate their feelings rather than dismissing them as misunderstandings.”

Mental health charity Mind Cymru echoed these concerns, urging schools and communities to take every report of harmful behavior seriously. “Words have power, and the way we address this issue has consequences for how young people perceive support systems around them.”

The tragedy of Megan Evans has reignited conversations about how to protect young people from harm and foster kindness both online and offline. Megan’s family remains steadfast in their commitment to honoring her memory, calling for accountability and cultural change.

“She deserved so much more,” said Nicola Harteveld. “We will continue to fight for her and for others who are struggling.”