Chinese-backed cyber attacks 'unacceptable'
The Government has publicly accused China of cyber attacks on the electoral commission and MPs, a move described as an 'unacceptable' assault on UK democracy. Intelligence services suggest these attacks, likely conducted by Chinese spies, were aimed at targeting critics of Xi Jinping’s regime. In response, the UK has sanctioned individuals and a company associated with the hacking group and summoned China’s ambassador. The attacks, first identified in October 2022, had breached the electoral commission’s systems since August 2021, potentially exposing voter data. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) believes they were part of China’s large-scale espionage efforts. While they did not impact the UK’s paper-based electoral system, they posed significant threats to individual security. Rishi Sunak described China as presenting an 'epoch-defining challenge’, echoing concerns over its aggressive international behaviour.
Cabinet mini-reshuffle after two ministers quit
Rishi Sunak has had to make a cabinet reshuffle after two Tory ministers announced their resignations. Robert Halfon, the skills minister, has decided to step down at the next general election. Known for his advocacy of blue-collar Conservatism, he has been a prominent figure in the party. James Heappey has resigned as armed forces minister, having already announced plans to leave parliament. He praised the armed forces and MOD civil servants, reflecting on his tenure and the ongoing need to support Ukraine. The reshuffle includes moving Nus Ghani to be minister for Europe and Leo Docherty to the ministry of defence. To date 63 Conservative MPs, including notable figures like Theresa May and Sajid Javid, have said they plan not to contest the next election. Sunak commended Heappey's contribution to the Government's defence agenda and acknowledged Halfon's commitment to apprenticeships and social mobility. The departures add to the challenges facing Sunak, as the Conservative Party trails significantly behind Labour in polls. See
Pupil behaviour getting worse, say teachers
A BBC-commissioned survey reveals a worrying trend in England's schools. Nearly one in five teachers experienced physical aggression from pupils this year. Incidents of spitting, swearing, and chair-throwing are increasingly common, with a rise in pupil violence and abuse since the Covid pandemic. Teachers like Lorraine Meah, with 35 years of experience, have observed a deterioration in student behaviour, especially among younger children. In response, schools like St John Fisher Catholic Academy in West Yorkshire are implementing strict behaviour policies, including rewards for good attendance, restricted corridor access, and banning mobile phones. The survey found that 30% of teachers witnessed pupil fighting, and 15% of secondary teachers experienced sexual harassment from students. Patrick Roach of the NASUWT union has said the rise in violence has been exacerbated by cuts to specialist behaviour and mental health services. The DfE is taking measures to improve pupil behaviour, including expanding mental health and wellbeing programmes.
Ezedi given Muslim burial despite controversial conversion
Abdul Ezedi, the Clapham chemical attacker, received a Muslim funeral and burial in London, despite previously claiming to have converted to Christianity. Ezedi, who was granted asylum in the UK based on his supposed Christian faith, was found dead in the Thames following the attack on his ex-girlfriend and her children. He had been a controversial figure, with doubts cast over his religious conversion. Court documents revealed he failed to correctly answer Home Office queries about his faith. However, an immigration judge granted him asylum, influenced by testimony from Rev Roy Merrin, who believed in his genuine conversion. Ezedi, who had a criminal history including sexual assault, had been placed on the sex offender register and needed to be escorted during church services. His case has stirred debate on the process of deciding asylum claims, with concerns raised about potential exploitation of religious conversion. Justin Welby recently addressed these concerns, stating there was no evidence of the Church of England facilitating fraudulent conversions.
