High Court upholds chairwoman’s demand for crucial documents, dismissing government’s legal challenge.

The government has lost its legal bid to withhold Boris Johnson’s WhatsApp messages and other documents from the ongoing Covid-19 inquiry. High Court judges ruled on Thursday that the inquiry chairwoman, Baroness Heather Hallett, acted rationally in her order to access the evidence.

The messages and notebooks, dating back to the pandemic, are expected to shed light on key decision-making during one of the most critical periods in recent history. The government had argued that some of the requested material was “irrelevant” and sought to challenge the chairwoman’s authority.

However, the High Court dismissed these claims, stating that the inquiry’s demand for transparency and accountability outweighed such concerns. Baroness Hallett’s inquiry will now move forward with a broader scope of evidence, promising a comprehensive examination of the UK’s pandemic response.

The ruling is a significant blow to the government, adding pressure to reveal internal communications during Johnson’s time as prime minister. It is also seen as a victory for those advocating for openness in scrutinising the handling of the Covid-19 crisis.

The Foreign Secretary emphasises the UK’s global influence and commitment to raising human rights concerns.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has defended his plans to visit China, affirming that he will use the trip to uphold the UK’s global influence and address critical issues. Speaking about the potential visit to Beijing, Cleverly stressed that he would not shy away from discussing human rights violations or the situation in Hong Kong.

The planned visit aims to engage in meaningful dialogue with Chinese officials while reaffirming Britain’s stance on upholding international norms and values. Cleverly stated, “Our global influence provides a platform to address complex issues, and it’s vital we use it effectively.”

The Foreign Secretary’s remarks come amid growing scrutiny over the UK’s relations with China. Critics argue that increased diplomatic engagement could compromise the UK’s position on key human rights and security matters. However, Cleverly maintains that open communication is essential for navigating complex international relationships while staying true to British principles.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman criticises the system as being “rigged against the British people.”

The UK government has announced plans to appeal a court ruling that declared its controversial Rwanda asylum policy unlawful. The Court of Appeal’s decision marks a significant setback for the government’s efforts to deter migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman expressed her frustration, stating that the current legal system is “rigged against the British people.” She argued that the Rwanda policy is crucial to reforming the immigration system and preventing dangerous and illegal crossings.

The ruling concluded that the scheme, which involves sending asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing, poses unacceptable risks to their safety and violates international legal obligations. The decision has sparked a fierce debate, with opponents claiming the policy is inhumane and ineffective, while supporters insist it is necessary to regain control over the UK’s borders.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated his commitment to the policy, emphasising its importance in addressing illegal immigration. The government’s appeal is expected to further test the legality and ethics of its approach to asylum and immigration reform.

GMB union highlights dramatic decline in the sector, with 80% of jobs lost since 1981.

Steelworkers are set to stage a protest outside Parliament as part of efforts to draw attention to the struggles facing the industry. The GMB union, which represents workers in the sector, has revealed alarming statistics showing that 80% of steel industry jobs have been lost since 1981.

Union leaders are calling on the government to provide greater support for the sector, which they argue is critical to the UK’s economy and national infrastructure. Protest organisers emphasised the need for urgent investment and policies to safeguard the remaining jobs and ensure the industry’s survival.

The demonstration reflects growing frustration among steelworkers, who fear that without immediate action, the sector could face further decline. The protest aims to send a strong message to lawmakers about the importance of securing a sustainable future for steel manufacturing in the UK.