Why has Labour welcomed a right wing Tory defector?
May 8, 2024
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Conservative MP Natalie Elphicke's surprising defection to Labour is discussed, along with Rachel Reeves' contentious exchange with her. Topics include the implications for both parties, Astra Zeneca's vaccine withdrawal, and vaccine hesitancy. The episode also touches on rare vaccine side effects, public perception, and historical vaccine hesitancy factors.
Natalie Elphick, former Conservative MP for Dover, has crossed the floor to join Kia Stammer's Labour Party, highlighting a shift in party ideologies. Her defection raises questions about the impact on Labour and her controversial past statements. Elphick's move underscores the perceived rightward direction of the Conservative Party and Stammer's attraction to former Tories.
AstraZeneca's COVID-19 Vaccine Withdrawal
AstraZeneca's decision to withdraw its COVID-19 vaccine due to a drop in demand raises concerns about the broader vaccine hesitancy issue. The vaccine's safety profile and rare side effects have influenced public perception. Dr. Adam Finn's insights underscore the balance between vaccine benefits and apprehensions within the medical community.
The Stormy Daniels Trial Revelations
Stormy Daniels' testimony in court regarding an encounter with Donald Trump captivates public attention. The trial delves into allegations of hush money and its potential impact on the 2016 election. Details of the encounter and subsequent legal implications shed light on a high-profile case with significant political ramifications.
Challenges of Vaccine Uptake and Misinformation
Addressing vaccine hesitancy poses challenges amid misinformation and social media influence. Dr. Adam Finn discusses the complexities of maintaining vaccination rates and the role of healthcare systems in overcoming reluctance. The ongoing battle against vaccine-preventable diseases emphasizes the need for balanced public health messaging and engagement.
Very little political news is truly jaw dropping. But this morning's was. Natalie Elphicke, on the Conservative right of the party, and MP for Dover, has defected to Labour.
She crossed the floor before Prime Minister's Questions and was warmly welcomed by Keir Starmer. It was not so long ago that Rachel Reeves was telling Elphicke to "fuck off", after her comments about Marcus Rashford. And it was not so long ago Elphicke herself was defending her convicted sex offender husband as being the 'victim of dirty politics'. Is this really the new face of Labour?
Later, why has Astra Zeneca pulled it's Covid vaccine from the shelf. Is this about legal woes? Or commercial ones? And where is this country now on vaccine hesitancy?
Editor: Tom Hughes
Senior Producer: Gabriel Radus
Producer: Alex Barnett
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
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