Today's briefing

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July 19, 2023

A study reveals that the two-child benefit cap is harming Scottish children, with 80,000 affected and 20,000 pushed into poverty. UK ports reject cruise ships for asylum seekers, but talks continue. The Conservative Party faces potential losses in upcoming byelections. MI6 chief emphasizes the importance of human spies. The Metropolitan Police settles with the family of a murdered detective, exposing systemic failings.

Study Shows Two-Child Benefit Cap Harms Scottish Children

A study commissioned by the SNP reveals that over 80,000 children in Scotland have been affected by the two-child benefit cap, with an additional 20,000 pushed into poverty. Removing the cap could reduce poverty by 30,000 people, putting pressure on Labour leader Keir Starmer to reconsider.

Cruise Ships for Asylum Seekers Rejected by UK Ports

Two cruise ships meant to house 1,000 asylum seekers have been sent back to their owners after Liverpool, London, and Edinburgh rejected their approaches. However, officials say the ships are still an option as talks continue. Meanwhile, the Home Office plans to move the first 50 asylum seekers onto a barge in Portland, Dorset, as the Illegal Migration Bill gains traction.

Conservative Party Faces Potential Loss in Byelections

The Conservative Party in the UK may lose all three upcoming byelections, with Labour taking a 24-point lead in the latest survey. This raises concerns among Conservative MPs, although one Tory minister expressed optimism. Defeats in these elections could put pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to revive the party's prospects.

MI6 Chief Highlights Importance of Human Spies

MI6 chief Sir Richard Moore will discuss the evolving threats from Russia and Iran in a speech in Prague. He emphasizes the continued need for human spies despite the rise of artificial intelligence, stating that AI cannot replace human agents. Moore also addresses Russia's failures in Ukraine and accuses them of imperialism in Africa.

Metropolitan Police Settles with Family of Murdered Detective

The Metropolitan Police has apologized and agreed to a £2 million settlement with the family of private detective Daniel Morgan, who was murdered in 1987. The police admitted liability for a "cycle of corruption and incompetence" that hindered the investigation. The settlement brings an end to the family's long battle for justice and exposes systemic failings within the Metropolitan Police.