Jess Philips, one of the rebellious MPs, shares her decision to vote for a ceasefire in Gaza based on the humanitarian crisis. The podcast also discusses the Supreme Court judgment on the legality of the Rwanda scheme and the government's plan. Additionally, they talk about modifying the European Convention on Human Rights, government policy on illegal immigration, and challenges post-Brexit. The hosts reflect on a listener's joke merit badges and discuss freedom of expression.
Labour's rebellion showcased Keir Starmer's principled leadership and resolve, countering claims of flip-flopping.
Jess Phillips' resignation highlighted meaningful disagreements among colleagues in difficult circumstances.
Deep dives
Labour rebels vote against Kia Stama's whip on Gaza ceasefire motion
A significant number of Labour MPs rebelled against Kia Stama's position on whether there should be a ceasefire in Gaza. The rebellion came after the SNP called for a ceasefire and dozens of Labour MPs voted with the SNP. This raised questions about whether Kia Stama should have whipped the vote, but he stood firm in his position. While the rebellion has been portrayed as damaging, it also showcased Stama's principled leadership and resolve, countering claims that he is a flip-flopper.
Jess Phillips resigns from her post after voting for a ceasefire
Jess Phillips, one of the Labour MPs who voted for a ceasefire in Gaza, handed in her resignation after the vote. She expressed her support for a ceasefire based on the humanitarian crisis outlined by the UN Secretary General. The decision to resign was made after discussions took place within the Labour party about differing opinions on the matter. Phillips emphasized that it was not about angry rebellion, but rather about meaningful disagreements among colleagues in difficult circumstances.
Government's Plan B for Rwanda scheme faces significant challenges
The UK government's Plan B for the Rwanda scheme, which offers financial incentives for migrants to return to Rwanda, faces significant challenges. It includes emergency legislation to override the recent Supreme Court judgment that declared the scheme unlawful. The government's plan is to replace the memorandum of understanding with a treaty with Rwanda, but legal experts cast doubt on whether this would be sufficient to change the underlying facts regarding the safety of individuals sent to Rwanda. The government's determination to push forward with Plan B despite potential political and legal obstacles has raised concerns about its governance and diplomatic consequences.
Dominic Grieve voices skepticism about the effectiveness of Plan B
Former Attorney General Dominic Grieve expresses doubts about the UK government's Plan B for the Rwanda scheme. Although modifications to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) are possible, Grieve highlights that the government's approach of potentially overriding domestic legislation and international treaty obligations could be damaging and counterproductive. He argues that the government's rush to salvage the scheme is a result of the initial promise to address illegal immigration. Grieve warns that pushing through Plan B could have political, legal, and diplomatic repercussions, which may not deliver the desired outcomes.
Jess Philips - one of the 8 frontbenchers who voted against the Labour whip last night - gives her first interview to us since resigning last night from her position as Shadow Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding- to 'vote with her constituents and her heart'.
Will this damage party morale and weaken Keir Starmer?
Or will it show a different side to the politics of disagreement?
Also, Rishi Sunak is undaunted by yesterday's excoriating judgmenet from the Supreme Court, making his Rwanda plan unlawful. He's got a new plan though don't worry! But will it actually get off (quite literally) the ground?
Editor: Tom Hughes
Senior Producer: Gabriel Radus
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Producers: Jack McKay & Arvind Badewal
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