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Local Elections: Labour v Conservatives ends in deadlock

Alex Davenport
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Local Elections: Labour v Conservatives ends in deadlock

The reaction to the results of England’s local elections taking place last week was varied to say the least. According to some, Labour’s performance was excellent, and they routed the Conservatives in various battlegrounds across the country. Others have argued that it represented an excellent night for the Tories, holding off the Labour advance in key areas while winning some of their own. As is often the case with such things, the truth in this case lies somewhere in between.

Last week represented the first meaningful vote since the general election last June, in which Labour made unexpected progress and prevented the Conservatives from winning an overall majority. With that in mind, the context of Labour’s electoral advances formed much of the build-up to these elections. This was particularly true considering many of the wards being contested were in urban areas, where Labour is generally at its strongest and most popular.

At first glance, Labour appears to have benefitted from the elections, having gained 77 councillors to take their overall number to 2,350. The Conservatives, meanwhile lost 33 councillors, leaving them with a total of 1,332 on the night. Labour also won overall control of Plymouth council, one of its key targets, as well as becoming the largest single party in Tower Hamlets and Trafford councils. Many have also pointed to the fact that Labour put in its best performance in London since 1971 as evidence of its success.

Yet for all that, Labour did not make any overall gains in terms of the number of councils it controls, being set back by the substantial loss of Nuneaton council to the Conservatives as well as a failure to win many of its own target councils, including Swindon and Wandsworth. It was far from a terrible performance, as many would still be delighted with Labour’s progress considering the party’s worrying position little over a year ago, but it was also not the result of a party that would cruise to an overall majority in a general election.

https://twitter.com/alexnunns/status/992583608056647680

The Conservatives, meanwhile, may be immediately pleased, or at least relieved, with the local election results, having held off a Labour surge. Being in government at such a crucial time, though, with Brexit talks ongoing and ministerial scandals abounding, they do not appear to have the undisputed support of the country as a whole behind them. Strong and stable they are not.

Both parties have also been mired in controversies of late, with Labour’s leadership being accused of failing to tackle anti-Semitism in its ranks, while the Conservatives recently saw the resignation of Home Secretary Amber Rudd following the Windrush crisis. Neither will have helped their side’s election prospects.

Former Home Secretary Amber Rudd (Source: New Statesman)

At the same time, though, the deadlock highlighted by the local elections represents an opportunity for either party. With not much to separate the two in terms of popularity, it would not take a huge swing in public opinion to decisively shift the balance of power to one side or the other. If either Labour or the Tories can get their house in order while offering a clear message to voters, the opportunity is there to convincingly overtake the other. At a time when the government’s grip on power is fairly weak, and a general election could be around the corner at any time, taking the initiative could be crucial.

Jamie Oliver’s Junk Food Ban: a Way to Make the Poor Poorer

Common Sense Contributors
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By Shafiq Kyazze.

After a recent study named Britain the most obese country in western Europe, pressure is mounting on Theresa May’s government to do something about the issue. Campaigners such as Jamie Oliver are calling on the government to clamp down on what they think is junk food as a way of reducing child obesity.

A letter recently written by Jamie Oliver to Theresa May included statements like “An end to ‘buy one get one free’ and other multi-buy junk food offers,” and “Reformation of junk food to reduce sugar, calories and fat”.

The definition of junk food itself isn’t clear and is quite subjective. For example, some people find cheese nutritious while others see it as a food with high salt and calories. In this instance however, it has been felt that ‘junk food’ is simply food the Upper class like Jamie Oliver don’t fancy eating.

The food being referred to as junk is mostly consumed by the poor. A proposal to ban food offers or impose junk food taxes will make food more expensive for the have-nots who are already suffering from low incomes. Such taxes end up taking a higher portion of low incomes than high incomes according to the Centre for Policy Studies.

Jamie Oliver, a renowned chef and restaurateur wrote a letter to Theresa May urging her to deal with child obesity. (Image Source: York Press)

So what should the government do about child obesity? Rather than banning food, children should be taught how to read nutrition labels on foods. “Teach them how to become more objective, and how to evaluate what is healthy and why certain foods are better for you than others,” according to Sara Dimerman, a psychologist in Thornhill, Ontario, who regularly sees children in her practice.

“Tight restriction and banning of certain foods doesn’t mean that a child will choose a healthy alternative,” Dimerman adds. In Ontario, Canada, programs like Farm to School Grants help kids learn about nutrition and participate in growing and cooking their own food.

In Japan, a country with some of the lowest obesity rates, schools have nutritionists and ensure that children are taught about food and lifestyle-related diseases and are encouraged to choose a traditional Japanese meal over fast food. Furthermore, kids at primary school level are encouraged to partake in food preparation process and serve school lunches to their counterparts.

(Image Source: Business Insider)

In Japan, beginning in elementary school, kids come to understand that what you put into your body matters a great deal in how you think and feel throughout the day — and how you go about your life.

In addition to this, children should be taught the benefits of exercising since lack of exercise is twice as likely to lead to death than obesity. Scientists recommend a 20-minute daily walk with a modest increase in exercise leading to health benefits as well as improving health consciousness.

In short, making food dearer doesn’t necessarily make people healthier, but what it definitely does is take more of their money and make them poorer. Nutritional education and exercise is what makes people healthier.

 

Shafiq is a Chemical engineering student at The University of Manchester. He has a strong background in philosophy and history having been exposed to such issues at a very young age. He has a strong interest in economics, history, politics, philosophy and social issues. Shafiq is also an avid Barcelona fan and is currently a writer for The Common Sense network.

 

 

The Biggest Innovations in Science Right Now

Common Sense Contributors
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The Biggest Innovations in Science Right Now

by Tanya Mwamuka

As a biomedical science student I’m constantly made aware of the brilliance of the human form. So today I’m going to give you a quick run through of four recent innovations in science which are out of this world. Some a little scary, but nonetheless a show of just how ingenious humanity really is.  

 

Artificial womb

Lambs developed for up to four weeks: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia 

The artificial womb allows the development of a foetus outside of a natural biological uterus. The womb, whilst somewhat simple looking is anything but. It consists of what seems to be amniotic fluid filled sack, providing nutrients and oxygen through connected tubes and cables which monitor the development of the organism. Though the idea has been theorised for many years it has now transitioned from a hypothetical to a reality. This was proved by the successful growth of a lamb foetus; kept alive in the uterus for 4 months.  Naturally this hot topic of controversy riddled with the usual accusations of ‘science has gone too far’. Despite this even I who battles internally with the ethics of my chosen study, cannot refute the plethora of benefits it could bring.  The development of the artificial womb is aimed primarily for medicinal purposes. It has the potential of increasing life expectancy for premature babies, and could soon be a replace surrogacy for couples who struggle to conceive ‘traditional’. While the dystopian image of rows upon rows of plastic bag grown babies does give a slight chill, I don’t think anyone can doubt just how amazing this innovation truly is.

 

Gravitational waves detected

The collision of two black holes— detected by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, or LIGO— seen in this still from a computer simulation. (SXS)

I’m taking you back in time with this one. Billions of years ago two black holes merged together which caused a monumental ripple in the fabric of time and space. Scientists have recently detected this by using a instrument called a LIGO for the first time ever. This was something that physicist Albert Einstein had theorised but never had the chance to observe. And if you’re in any doubt of how significant this is, then take note that this innovation was the last year’s Nobel Prize in physics.

 

Gene editing of the human embryo

 

https://www.medicalfacts.nl/2018/02/19/wiskunde-verklaart-waarom-crispr-cas9-soms-het-verkeerde-dna-knipt/

The wave of controversy hits us again.  Geneticists from Oregon were able to successfully edit out a defect out of the DNA of a living human cell. Using CRISPR technology they were able to change the DNA of one cell embryos – repairing a disease which causes mutation. Due to the restriction on embryonic research – which enforces the termination of altered embryos at 14 days, the altered embryonic cells were not developed into humans. On one side it’s easy to be all for this technology, the potential eradication of genetic diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis, Huntington’s  and many more- it would be cruel not to help these sufferers. Then again how far is too far? What characteristics should be considered a ‘defect’? Who decides that what is a defect? Despite this let’s not take away from the science the use of CRSIPR in such a way is incredible, to be able to ‘cut’ away genes as easily as paper to scissors (granted on a molecular level) is just mind blowing. In terms of scientific technique, the use of CRISPR is so easy almost anyone could do it. You can even find CRSIPR kits sold online from websites such as sythengo.

 

Particle Physics meets the Ancient Egypt

Credit: Nature

 A previously unknown void in the Great Pyramid of Giza was recently discovered, and no not by archaeologists but by physicists. Using Moun detectors, researchers uncovered this void which may have stayed a secret otherwise. This is a perfect demonstration of two fields coming together to help to aid each other in discovery. This may very well be a technology used on regular basis to help archaeologists dig further into History.

Every day scientists make incredible discoveries, some by accident and some made by year upon years building on previous research. It truly is amazing what we can do as humans.

 

 

Tanya Mwamuka is currently studying Biomedical Sciences at the University of Manchester and hopes to get into science journalism and media after her degree. She is a lover of fashion and travelling and enjoys learning languages in her spare time. Right now she is learning French.

Formula 1: Up Next, Azerbaijan

Common Sense Contributors
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Baku was considered “Boring”, “One dimensional” among others on various fan forums up until last year that is.

To summarize, the 2017 grand prix was one for the ages, the ensuing chaos which famously involved Vettel running into Hamilton behind the safety car ( caused by the stricken Torro Rosso of Daniel “Torpedo” Kyvat). The Force India’s colliding on the restart, which lead to the effective lead being taken by Daniel Ricciardo with what can only be called as a legendary overtaking move. The leaders Vettel had a penalty and Hamilton suffered an issue with his headrest forcing him to pit.

All of this was capped off by Valtteri Bottas who was last  after colliding with Kimi Raikkonen of Ferrari in the opening laps. However, he managed to pip Lance Stroll to take the Chequered flag for second by 0.101s on the main straight.

Valtteri Bottas- Mercedes AMG Petronas passing Lance Stroll- Williams Martini Racing by going 36kmph faster with his DRS activated(Drag Reduction system meant to aid in overtaking, refer to open rear wing in the right).

As a result of this grand Prix, Daniel Ricciardo established himself as one of the best in over-takers in Formula 1 and the most exciting star available on the market the following year. Lance Stroll answered his critics. This was very much a missed opportunity for pretty much the entire grid barring Sauber and McLaren( 10th with Pascal Wehrlein and 9th with Fernando Alonso).

Question is however, what does this years race promise to be? Considering that this season has started on a very high note illustrating the absolute competitive nature on F1. Here are some potential Questions.

Can Mercedes break their season duck and get back to winning ways?

Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas have started slow, none of the silver arrows made the top step of the podium and its already race four! However, they have made rostrum finishes in the past races and have been bogged down by bad luck/timing with respect to the safety cars. It remains to be seen if their dominant run since 2014 will come to an end. But it is certainly facing its closest challenge and they seem to relish it- at least according to the defending champion himself as he stated in Thursday’s press conference. Sebastian Vettel sits on the top chased by the two Mercedes, and Ricciardo with Kimi Raikkonen not far off and that brings us to the next question…

Kimi ‘Iceman’ Raikkonen is experiencing a resurgence in form. However, can he translate that into a much-needed win?

Kimi has long been a fan favourite; a competent communicator in terms of team radio and his straightforward answers during press conferences. And of course who can forget the ice cream situation. Its these combined with his driving style and the need for a responsive front end that really gets the man going. Since last year’s the final races, dating back to the United States Grand Prix, Raikkonen has finished on the podium in all but two races(Abu Dhabi-4th and Bahrain 2018 retired after a pitstop mishap). Noticeably, he has had the measure of his “number one option” teammate Sebastian Vettel from the get go at Australia even chasing Lewis Hamilton for the win. He has seemingly justified his pace by finishing 3rd in China just behind (under a second) the leading Mercedes and compatriot Bottas and in the process comprehensively outdrove Vettel considering Vettel’s issues . The big chunk of points from his teammates cushion and the momentum can always be seized by a set of consistent performances and victories (Kimi last stood on the top step at Australia 2013). That’s always going to be crucial, in addition to obviously capitalizing on opportunities.

Who will come out on top in F1’s tightest midfield in recent years…

The players are Renault, McLaren, Haas and Force India, who seemed to have found a temporary solution to the mechanical issue that saw their sidepod flow responsible for not sending enough air to the diffuser at the rear. Consequently, they were not able to generate downforce. Force India have had the measure so far and are desperately looking to get back up to speed having been quite off pace by their standards. Renault and the opportunistic Alonso with McLaren are within tenths of each other. Both of them are quite happy coming in to the weekend and seem to have understood track behaviour and their cars.

 Another wild race? Will we see another safety car?

Last year’s race cannot possibly be repeated, but the presence of street tracks and wider cars means anything is possible. One thing is for sure, a safety car seems likely considering we have witnessed a string of incidents and drivers struggling to keep their cars on track in qualifying.

 

by Rutvik Bhaskar Perepa
Rutvik Bhaskar Perepa is a student at The University of Manchester working towards a MEng in Mechanical Engineering hoping to be on a placement after Year 3. He has had the privilege to travel around his home country, India and discover the rich heritage and diversity. His personal interests include Food and travel, history, Sport among many others. Often found in discourse on various issues ranging Engineering to Religious Practices, he never shy’s away from being expressive. He believes in being open minded, empathetic and analytical is the key to problems posed on a daily basis.

Windrush scandal threatens to reach new levels

Alex Davenport
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Windrush scandal threatens to reach new levels

The Home Office appears likely to remain mired in controversy for the foreseeable future, following reports that the scope of the Windrush scandal has extended beyond Caribbean-origin residents to those from other Commonwealth backgrounds. Cases are now being reported of people who came to the UK in the 1960s and 70s from countries as diverse as Canada, Kenya and India receiving similar treatment to their Windrush counterparts.

The scandal emerged with reports of long-term residents, many of whom arrived in the UK several decades ago on their parents’ passports, suddenly receiving threats from the government over their immigration status. The most extreme cases resulted in some being threatened with deportation, while others were faced with the prospect of losing their jobs, their accommodation or their NHS care. Many had not even been aware that they did not have full British citizenship until they were contacted by the Home Office.

Some of the first arrivals of the Windrush generation (Source: Getty Images)

Now experts are warning of the potential for the scale of the scandal to further multiply. Robert McNeil, the deputy director of the Migration Observatory, warned that this issue may not simply affect Caribbean citizens, but those who arrived in the country as children from across the Commonwealth. McNeil pointed out that “tens of thousands of people from other Commonwealth countries in Asia, Africa, the Americas and elsewhere may also be in the same boat – even if they did not arrive on the Windrush.” Already the case has come to light of Canadian woman Margaret O’Brien who, after 41 years of living in the UK, was told in 2015 she had no right to remain in the country and that her disability benefits had been suspended. Only after years of disputing this with the government, with the financial and emotional burden this incurred, was it finally confirmed that her residential status had a legal backing.

It is particularly important to note that many Commonwealth migrants, including the parents of many of the people currently threatened by the scandal, only came to the UK because they were specifically invited to by the UK government. At a time when the country had to embark on a programme of economic reconstruction following the Second World War, the British Nationality Act of 1948 granted all Commonwealth citizens free entry into Britain in order to make up for the labour shortage caused by the war. Many victims of the Windrush scandal appeared bemused that a government which had been so eager to welcome their parents now seemed equally eager to get rid of them.

We must also recognise the significance of the recent climate surrounding immigration to the current state of affairs. Rising anti-immigration sentiment in the UK in recent years has led to the adoption of particularly strict immigration policies, from which the Windrush crisis has grown. In particular, Theresa May’s creation of a ‘hostile environment’ for illegal migrants as Home Secretary has caused much of the hardship suffered by the Windrush generation, by making employers and landlords check people’s immigration credentials and documentation on a regular basis, threatening the livelihood of those who cannot provide such documentation regardless of how long they have been in the country. Despite the Windrush generation perhaps not being the type of immigrants May had in mind when introducing this policy, given their contributions to the economy and society over several decades, they have ended up suffering because of it.

 

Theresa May’s arguments for a ‘hostile environment’ as Home Secretary in 2013

The scandal has to raise questions of the ultimate expediency of hostile immigration laws, given that they can cause such chaos by affecting immigrants for whom such laws were not intended. This view in itself though, raises another question: can we draw a line on which immigrants deserve such persecution from the government and which should be protected at all costs?

James Comey: Speaking Out or Selling Out?

Alex Davenport
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James Comey: Speaking Out or Selling Out?

The former director of the FBI James Comey has been making a number of public appearances ahead of the release of his new book A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies and Leadership. Comey is arguably best known for the interactions he had with Donald Trump, who went on to fire him, in the context of the investigation into Russian involvement in Trump’s presidential campaign. As a result, part of the aim of Comey’s book and the media appearances surrounding it, is to attempt to lift the lid on the actions of the president.

Indeed, Comey’s descriptions of Trump have been strongly worded to say the least. In an interview with ABC he compared Trump to a “forest fire”, capable of causing serious and long-lasting damage, and suggested he would have the most negative effect on American politics since the Watergate scandal.

He also noted the apparent similarities between Trump’s leadership style and those of the high-ranking mobsters whom Comey dealt with during his career in law enforcement. In particular, he emphasised the importance of serving ‘the boss’ in the White House, explaining that those who worked with Trump were expected to express their loyalty to him and act in his best interests, regardless of whether it would benefit the country as a whole. Comey went on to claim that as allegations of collusion with Russia emerged, he himself was asked to pledge his loyalty to Trump at a private dinner between the two men. By Comey’s account, his refusal to commit such loyalty stood him in poor stead with Trump, and may have resulted in his firing a month later.

Comey shakes hands with Trump before being removed as head of the FBI (Source: Sky News)

Yet Comey’s revelations have been met with a decidedly mixed reaction. They have been welcomed in some quarters as an example of the kind of transparency needed to properly hold leaders like Trump to account, particularly in the context of claims as explosive as the ones facing the president. Releasing information to the public about Trump’s behaviour surrounding the Russia investigation can be seen as a way of letting the country as a whole, rather than merely groups of bureaucrats and lawyers working behind the scenes, judge the actions of the man who is supposed to represent them.

On a cruder basis as well, many are simply pleased to see further negative stories coming to light about a president they strongly dislike, in the hope that some of the bad press begins to stick. Surely, some will think, there are only so many treasonous tales that can be told about one man before the patriotic Right turns on him.

At the same time, though, others have expressed disappointment in Comey for compromising his position of having been privy to a great deal of important information. Many of his former employees have complained that disclosing such information around an ongoing investigation, particularly in such a sensationalist manner, may undermine the status of the FBI as a serious and vital institution. Ron Hosko, a former assistant director of the criminal division of the bureau, outlined concerns that “by talking like this Comey is not helping the FBI’s ability to fight back against the attacks on its reputation that have been coming from Trump”.

Many of Comey’s descriptions of Trump also appear to be playing to an audience desperate for any excuse to mock and deride the president. In some of Comey’s accounts of interactions between the two, he focuses on details such as the size of the president’s hands or the appearance of his hairstyle, themes which do not fit with what should be overall a sober discussion of the potential misconduct of a political leader. A cynic may argue that excerpts such as these, and perhaps the book as a whole, were put together with the aim of making money from a strongly anti-Trump readership rather than as a necessary exposé.

Comey’s revelations raise interesting questions in a divided America: should you compromise your integrity in order to attack those who you believe have compromised theirs? Can you go too far in attempting to hamper a leader you think dangerous, and should you profit from doing so? As interesting as all these questions are, they are perhaps not the ones Comey expected to provoke when speaking out about his president.

Europe’s Next Match Ups: Champions & Europa League

Jireh Antwi
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Here’s a quick synopsis on this week’s European football fixtures.

Champions League

Image result for munich vs real madrid

Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich 

A clash of giants, this match-up has been witnessed before in recent years with Bayern Munich then under Pep Guardiola. That time, Pep’s side suffered a big defeat. It ended 6-3 on aggregate, as Madrid managed to score 4 goals in the second leg with Ronaldo adding two to his ludicrous goal tally. Can Bayern earn revenge with recently appointed Jupp Heynckes. Heynckes lead Munich to win a historic Treble in the 2012/2013 season; Including a Champions League trophy win over Borussia Dortmund. Real Madrid will be looking for another place in the final and make it a historic 3 times in a row and add another Champions League title to Ronaldo’s amazing resume.

 

Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Semi Final Clash to take place on 25th April 2018.

 

Liverpool vs Roma 

This is a tie that Liverpool fans most certainly wished for and it looks like the odds are in their favour. They’re the only team in the semi-final to win both legs, and doing it convincingly against Manchester City where they won a 3-0 and then 2-1. This series of victories has pushed the side to be ranked amongst Europe’s best. However, Roma are no pushovers and if they get to the final, it will not be too much of a surprise. This is the team that put 3 goals past a defensively compact Chelsea side. Let us not forget their performance against Barcelona in the quarterfinals, where they went on to overcome a 3-goal deficit. It will be a nostalgic moment for Mo Salah as Roma is the team he came from before being sold to Liverpool for 34 million. A price tag which looks like small pickings in today’s market especially for a player with 40 goals in all competitions. If Liverpool wins the Champions League could Mo Salah be in serious contention to win the Ballon d’Or?

Europa League


Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid 

Wenger has never touched a European trophy in his career, coming close in the 2006 Champions League final against Barcelona. Atletico have won the Europa league previously in 2010 and 2012. Wenger’s side are one of the favourites to win the competition due to the sheer amount of talent in their team. Naturally, this is the first time Arsenal are meeting someone in the competition that is at their level or above them, so it will be a test. Atletico are currently second in La Liga and are most likely assured a place in the Champions League next season. However, Arsenal are sixth in the Premier League and will be in Europa again next year unless they win it all, making the stakes higher for them. Antoine Griezmann and Diego Costa players with world-class abilities could prove to be the deciding factor. Unfortunately, the latter’s appearance for this week’s game is in doubt, amidst injury woes. Despite this,  Atletico Madrid still have a strong team and are very defensively resilient under Diego Simeone.

 

Marseille vs Salzburg 

Salzburg only have one defeat in 21 matches in Europe and are currently first in their league with an 8-point lead. Marseille possesses plenty of flair and attacking prowess. In the front lies former West Ham player Dimitri Payet who is known for his wonder free-kicks when he used to play in the Premier League. Moreover, the top scorer in their team for this competition is the Argentinean Lucas Ocampos. Having never won the competition before it will be a first for Marseille and Salzburg. The winner of this game will most likely be the underdogs against Arsenal or Atletico, but in Europe anything is possible.

Overall the match ups are sure to provide a lot of entertainment and hopefully goals. It’s a great chance for all players to step up and once again show what they’re made of.

 

 

 


 

Kendrick Lamar wins Pulitzer Prize

Emmabelle Nwadikwa
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Kendrick Lamar wins Pulitzer Prize

 

In what may be hip hop’s biggest ever plot twist, Kendrick Lamar was awarded a Pultizer prize for his album “DAMN.”

The album lost out on the Grammy award for album of the year in January, an award that instead went to Bruno Mars and was indeed well deserved. However, on Monday Kendrick Lamar became the first rapper to win the Pulitzer Prize for music. He’s also the first winner outside of the categories of classical or jazz music since the award began in 1943.

The administer of prizes, Dana Canedy, said: “This is a big moment for hip hop and a big moment for the Pulitzers.”

She said that the decision was unanimous with the board calling the album “a virtuosic song collection unified by its vernacular, authenticity and rhythmic dynamism that offers affected vignettes capturing the complexity of modern African-American life.”

Critic for The Nation, David Hajdu, who was one of the music jurors, said that there was “quite a lot of enthusiasm for it” and that when it was listened to there was zero dissent: “A lively and constructive conversation, but no dissent”.

Other finalists and past winners have taken to social media to congratulate Mr Lamar, though some people have been less than pleased with the result. Most people, however, recognise Mr Lamar’s contribution to music and find themselves, like Mr. Hajdu and the rest of the team assembled to deliberate, saying: “Listen to this – this is brilliant”.

Theresa May extends apology over Windrush deportation scandal

Emmabelle Nwadikwa
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Theresa May extends apology over Windrush deportation scandal

 

Theresa May has issued an apology to both Caribbean leaders and the Windrush generation following an impassioned plea from Tottenham MP, David Lammy after it was revealed that some British people may have been deported by mistake.

An emergency meeting was called and the Labour MP expressed his fury at what he declared was a ‘national day of shame’.

The speech from David Lammy came after Home Secretary, Amber Rudd, was unable to say how many Caribbean immigrants had possibly been deporting in error, saying that she would have to check with the high commissioners, a statement that prompted Lammy to remind her that the deportations had taken place within a department that she was responsible for.

Theresa May has said that she is “genuinely sorry” and acknowledged that the current issues that are being faced are resulting from rules that were introduced by her as home secretary to limit NHS access to those with a right to be in the UK. She has stated that the majority of the Windrush generation do have the documents that they need and that the government are working hard to help those who do not.

May said she wants to “dispel any impression that my government is in some sense clamping down on Commonwealth citizens, particularly those from the Caribbean who have built a life here.”

She added: “Those who arrived from the Caribbean before 1973 and lived here permanently without significant periods of time away in the last 30 years have the right to remain in the UK. As do the vast majority of long-term residents who arrived later.”

She emphasised that she doesn’t “want anyone to be in doubt about their right to remain here in the United Kingdom”.

Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Timothy Harris, has said that though they see this as the start of the dialogue, he is hoping that the British government would make good any injustice suffered, including offer of compensation.

Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness has accepted May’s apology, stating that he believes that the right thing is being done at this time and that as Caribbean leaders they have to accept in “good faith” that Theresa May was honest about this being an unintended consequence of the policy change. He also said that whilst he couldn’t say just how many people had been affected, he knew it was at least in the hundreds.

Theresa May has said that people currently trying to establish their status should not be left out of pocket and therefore they will not be charged for their documentation.

David Lammy’s speech can be watched here:

An Increase in Loneliness Among Young Adults

Common Sense Contributors
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By Dolline Mukui.

A study from the Office of National statistics show that young people are more likely to suffer from loneliness.

Earlier this year, Theresa May had set out plans to tackle loneliness and she warned that millions of others were suffering from it too.

The survey done with over 10,000 adults exhibited that 10% of 16-24 year olds said they felt lonely. This figure is three times higher than people aged 65 and above.

There has been focus on isolation in the elderly community but feelings of loneliness tend to decrease with age. This may be due to the fact that they become more resilient to life events and transitional periods, according to the study.

Experts have said that loneliness is linked to a sense of belonging or a lack of stability. This could mean within their social groups or community.

Social media may have a role to play in loneliness. We befriend hundreds of people on our social media accounts but they rarely become true friends that we can offload our concerns and issues to.

Cal Strode of the Mental Health Foundation said that “Teens can have thousands of friends online and yet feel unsupported and isolated. Technology, including social media, could be exacerbating social isolation.”

Women are more likely than men to report feelings of loneliness. Social gender constructs of masculinity in men require them to be strong, bold and handle anything that comes their way and societal pressures have reinforced these notions on men. This results in men not wanting to come forward and talk about about their personal issues.

Izzi Seccombe, chairwoman of the Local Government Association’s committee on well-being voiced that “The harm loneliness can cause, both physically and mentally, can be devastating to people of all ages – it is a serious public health concern which studies suggest can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”

Those least likely to be affected are middle-aged people, homeowners involved in their community, in good health and in a relationship.

For more information on this issue, visit https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/loneliness-research/ 

 

Dolline recently graduated with an MA in Broadcast Journalism. She is an ITV Breaking into News finalist whereby she reported on the Manchester Arena attack. Currently, she is a voluntary co-host/contributor on a show called a ‘Chat with Elle Celeste’. She also has a blog where she talks about her life and travels.

Twitter: @ceraz_x

Decolonising and Redesigning the Primary School Curriculum

Common Sense Contributors
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By Mike Banks.

The British primary school curriculum is in desperate need of a revamp. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks are names most primary school children will be familiar with, but both of these figures are famous for their roles in the African American civil rights movement. Black history is typically taught in primary schools from an African American perspective, and while this is important, it is also important that primary school children are made aware of black British history.

Britain is becoming more and more diverse, and the primary school curriculum should reflect this increased diversity. Children should not only read books that feature white protagonists, as they can internalise this as the norm and view anything else as a deviation from the norm. Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie noted that she used to write books with white protagonists when she was younger as at the time she perceived this as the norm.

Black authors are also frequently absent from primary school reading lists. So, not only do black children fail to engage with novels that feature characters that look like them, they also fail to engage with novels written by people that look like them.

The role that black people have played in shaping Britain today has generally been overlooked and this is reflected in the primary school curriculum. For example, primary school children are taught about the First World War with no mention of the West Indian and African soldiers who fought on behalf of Britain.

Olaudah Equiano fought against the slave trade

Black British history in schools has often been limited to Mary Seacole and her role in the Crimean War, but there have been others that have played an important role in Britain. Olaudah Equiano fought for the British abolition of the slave trade following his experience as a slave. Una Marson, Stuart Hall and Bernie Grant also left their mark on British society.

Primary school children are also taught a sugar-coated, blemish-free version of British history, which does not include Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, or colonialism. Winston Churchill, for example, is presented to young children as a war hero, but there is no mention of the fact that he believed in racial hierarchy and viewed the white race as the superior race.

Racism is still a huge problem that continues to plague British society; completely ignoring Britain’s racist past contributes to this problem because the first way to deal with a problem is to acknowledge that it exists.

Many will point to Black History Month and the role it can play in enlightening primary school children about Black British History, but confining the teaching of Black British history to one month makes the experiences of black people feel inconsequential.

Not only does the school curriculum need to be de-colonised, but new subjects also need to be introduced. Politics and Sociology remain overlooked until GCSE/A-level. Both subjects can and should be incorporated into the primary school curriculum, much like History and Geography have been. Now, I understand the complexities of teaching politics, let alone teaching it at primary school. We want children to be presented with an impartial teaching of politics, especially at such a young age. This is why I only advocate for Key Stage Two children (7-11 year olds) being taught about the key institutions in British Politics including their history and purpose, and the key players both past and present in British Politics. Topics like Brexit should be left off the curriculum as not only are they extremely complicated, they are also emotive topics that can lead to a lack of impartiality from those teaching.

Teaching primary school children Politics could increase youth turnout rates (Source: Stutterstock)

While there has been an improvement in the youth turnout (18-24 year-olds) at General Elections in recent years, it still remains lower than that of other age groups. Familiarising young people with the broad workings of the British political system could help create a more informed and engaged future electorate, and thus foster more political engagement.

Sociology, on the other hand, would be useful as it allows young people to be more critical in their thinking, and provides them with a clearer understanding of the society they live in, how it operates, the problems faced in society and the relationship between an individual and any given society.

A revitalised primary school curriculum is needed to provide young children with a well-rounded education that does not favour the history of some over others and confronts important issues such as colonialism and the slave trade as they still impact our lives today.

 

Mike is a Politics PhD student and takes a keen interest in social issues, all things British politics and Liverpool FC.

The Gun Debate: Why America Shouldn’t Repeal the Second Amendment

Common Sense Contributors
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6

By Shafiq Kyazze.

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution reads: “A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

In the wake of the recent tragic mass shooting in Parkland, Florida, USA many have called for the abolition of the Second Amendment and a total ban on guns in the USA. But such reactionary measures won’t immediately solve the problem of killings by guns as they fail to tackle the underlying root cause.

Sociological study of mass shootings in the US has found that there are various characteristics perpetrators of such heinous acts share with each other. For example, statistically, the majority of mass shooters have come from fatherless or ‘broken homes’. Of course, this is not to claim there is a direct cause and effect relationship between home structure and likelihood to engage in a killing rampage, but simply that guns in and of themselves can’t inherently be the problem.

Studies of children raised in single parent households have also shown a strong correlation with those likely to self-harm, suffer from depression and harm others, suggesting that the significance of both parents in the development of one’s happiness and health is second to none. However, if we are acknowledging family patterns as a contributor to any rise in mass shootings, this isn’t a new epidemic. In the US the increase in fatherless homes started in the 1960s under Democrat President Lyndon. B. Johnson and has been growing ever since. So instead of banning guns should policies not first attempt to address root causes of the issue?

I think it’s clear that even if guns magically disappeared tomorrow, there are still going to be individuals who are depressed, suffering from mental health and who are disengaged with positive society, inadvertently making them more susceptible to self-harm and harming others in different ways. In view of this, the US needs a tougher stance on background checks before issuing out gun licenses and needs to put a stronger emphasis on addressing and tackling mental health issues as well as boosting school security.

A scene at the signing of the constitution by the founding fathers. The second amendment in the USA is supported by the constitution (painting by Howard Chandler Christy)

Furthermore, in China where guns are banned, in 2012 a 36-year-old man was able to stab 23 children and a teacher. Evidently, in countries where guns have been banned, this hasn’t ended mass murders. To put it differently, to blame guns or knives for mass murders is like blaming cars for road accidents caused by intoxicated drivers.

While it seems sensible that fewer guns will lead to fewer shootings, the issue is intricate. In places where citizens are allowed to carry guns, the law abiding population can use guns for self defence against criminals. Criminals find it riskier to commit crimes due to fear of getting shot or even killed which is why 96% of mass shootings happen in “gun free zones” according to the Crime Prevention Research Center. As a matter of fact, gun ownership in the US increased by 56% while gun violence fell by 50% between 1993 and 2013.

On a further note, residential burglaries dropped by 89% after Kennesaw a town in Georgia, USA passed an ordinance requiring every head of a household to own a gun. Although gun-control advocates point out that criminals will give up their guns after a firearm ban, they forget the basic definition of a criminal – someone who doesn’t follow the rules and laws of a country. So why would a ‘criminal’ give up their firearm simply because it’s been outlawed by the government?

A ban on guns will push their primary supply directly through black markets and criminals will use these firearms against law abiding citizens whose only defence would subsequently be the police. Police who take minutes to arrive at a crime scene and in some instances eventually find themselves outnumbered. This was notably seen during the 1992 L.A riots. While police were busy dealing with riots, Korean shop owners had to rely on their firearms for self-defence and to stop rioters from looting, burning and destroying their shops. A further illustration was seen from the recent Florida school shooting, the local police received 45 calls about the parkland shooter and the FBI received a tip about the assailant’s “desire to kill people” but still failed to stop the shooting. The police can’t provide perfect protection which calls for a need for the population to have their own form of self-defence.

Korean shop owners during the L.A riots. While many people were fleeing for their lives, Korean shop owners defended their shops and lives using their guns.

Contrary to the conventional view of ‘more guns equals more crime’, a study by 2 criminologists, Professors Gary Mauser and Don Kates repudiates the views of gun- control activists. The researchers wrote in the report:

“If the mantra `more guns equal more death and fewer guns equal less death’ were true, broad cross-national comparisons should show that nations with higher gun ownership per ca pita consistently have more death. Nations with higher gun ownership rates, however, do not have higher murder or suicide rates than those with lower gun ownership. Indeed, many high gun ownership nations have much lower murder rates. (p. 661)”

The report also found that in Russia where it’s illegal to own a gun, the murder rate is 4 times higher than that of the USA and 20 times higher than Norway where citizens of both countries have a higher gun ownership rate than Russia.

While many gun control proponents point to Australia as an example due to its 1996 firearm ban, the number of guns in Australia has increased over the last 10 years and is almost similar to what it was in 1996 (1.6% less). Yet, despite a rise in gun the ownership rate, the number of homicides has been steadily declining .

 

It’s safe to say that if statistics are anything to go by, banning gun ownership will not immediately reverse the rate of gun related deaths. What government needs to prioritise is identifying and tackling the underlying factors which require more time and more thought; those which can’t simply be implemented with the signing of a piece of paper.

 

Shafiq has a strong background in philosophy and history having been exposed to such issues at a very tender age. He has a voracious interest in economics, history, politics, philosophy and social issues. He is a Chemical engineering student at The University of Manchester. Shafiq is also an avid Barcelona fan and is currently a writer for TCS.

Paul Ryan To Bow Out With A Debatable Legacy

Alex Davenport
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Paul Ryan To Bow Out With A Debatable Legacy

The Republican Party has been rocked by the news that one of its leading members, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, is to step down next January following the results of November’s midterm elections. Ryan, who has served as Speaker since he replaced John Boehner in 2015, will stand down from Congress altogether, leaving others to contest his Wisconsin seat at the midterms.

Ryan has stated that the main reason for his resignation is his desire to spend more time with his family. While this has become an almost clichéd reason for politicians to step down, covering up for a range of ulterior factors, the length at which Ryan has discussed his motivation suggests it is largely genuine. He has pointed to the fact that his children are beginning to reach their teenage years, and so he doesn’t want to miss his chance to be remembered as more than a “weekend dad” to them.

However, much speculation has already been made of Ryan’s relationship with Donald Trump, and the extent to which it has put a further strain on the already difficult job of speaker. Indeed, having to work closely with a president whom Ryan is rumoured to have described as being impulsive and having little policy knowledge may have proved too much for a speaker who would otherwise have had to put up with Trump until at least the 2020 presidential election. For his part, Trump reacted to Ryan’s resignation with a glowing tweet about his personal qualities.

But whatever his president says, there will long continue to be question marks over Ryan’s legacy. Indeed, it is in the context of Trump’s presidency that Ryan’s spell as Speaker will be judged.

When Trump first emerged onto the political scene as a candidate in the Republican primaries, Ryan denounced him for making “racist” comments and suggested his ideology did not fit with the Republican party. Yet as soon as Trump won the presidential election, Ryan backtracked on much of his criticism, and instead began to co-operate with, and even praise Trump, noting his “exquisite presidential leadership” after a key piece of tax reform legislation was passed.

With the help of Trump’s former chief of staff Reince Priebus, it appears Ryan was able to convince Trump that the Republican establishment that Ryan epitomises was not completely out to get him, and that there was common ground upon which the two could build. Together, the two embarked on an often fruitful relationship, enabling Ryan to pass legislation about which he has been passionate, including a major tax reform and increased military spending.

On this basis two contrasting interpretations of Ryan’s role under Trump can be drawn; either he is the toadying sell-out, suddenly cosying up to a figure he once despised in exchange for a few pieces of legislation, or he is the sensible pragmatist, not trying to fight the inevitable tide of US politics and instead working it to his advantage.

Paul Ryan shares a joke with Donald Trump (Source: AP)

Whichever way you see it, though, it seems Ryan acts as a kind of metaphor for the traditional Republican party as a whole. Once completely repulsed by the idea of Donald Trump getting anywhere near power, they have been forced to moderate themselves as their fears became reality. Over time, their horror shifted to mere discomfort, and eventually resignation (in Ryan’s case literally). Many Republicans, particularly those from more conventional ideological backgrounds, will see Ryan’s complete backtrack on Trump and feel they have no choice but to do the same.

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