The Queen’s speech: A summary of the legislation and proposals announced today
The Union, an advanced research agency and a commitment to better housing featured in the plans today.
MPs ETC
Fleet wins the Conservative selection for the Chesham and Amersham by-election
He was running against Olivia Seccombe, from the National Farmers’ Union, and Nikki da Costa, Downing Street’s Director of Legislative Affairs.
Cummings claims Johnson tried to halt the “chatty rat” inquiry – because it would cause him “serious problems” with Symonds
He denies being the source of leaks about it and Dyson; is silent on the Saudi-related leak about Newcastle United.
“We have abandoned our people.” Mercer is sacked – and accuses Johnson of letting down Northern Ireland veterans.
“I have fought and bled alongside them…and I have a duty to stand alongside them.”
‘We give thanks, as a nation and a Kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip’. The Prime Minister’s tribute – full text.
“Her Majesty said that our country owed her husband ‘a greater debt than he would ever claim or we shall ever know’ and I am sure that estimate is correct.”
In memory of my formidable, kind and imposing former constituency neighbour, Cheryl Gillan
The former Cabinet Minister and ’22 Executive Vice-Chairman leaves a majority of 16,223 in Chesham & Amersham.
The Prime Minister points towards the lockdown exit door. His Spring Forum speech: full text
He tells the Spring Forum the party needs to get ready for the elections in May, but before that he is looking forward to a pint and a haircut.
The 35 Conservative MPs who opposed the renewal of the Coronavirus Act
That’s five times as many as the seven who took the same course last October, but fewer than the 53 who revolted over tiering.
The 29 Conservative MPs who supported the China genocide amendment
The Government won the division during yesterday’s consideration of the Trade Bill by 18 votes.
“We will work with China where that is consistent with our values and interests.” Johnson’s Integrated Review statement. Full text.
“Our international goals rest upon keeping our people safe at home and deterring those who would do us harm.”
“I do want to be honest about what I mean by sustainable public finances”. Sunak’s statement. Full text.
His three part plan: protecting jobs and livelihoods. Securing the public finances. And laying foundations for the future.
Thirteen Conservative MPs pressed for a faster easing of restrictions during Johnson’s statement yesterday – and 35 did not
Yesterday’s backbench reaction to his Commons statement suggests that most Tory MPs will back his proposals.
“A one way road to freedom.” The Prime Minister’s press conference statement. Full text.
“Thanks to the vaccinations that there is light ahead leading us to a spring and summer which I think will be seasons of hope.”
Link to the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown
The 60-page Government document setting out the five steps it proposes to take to take England out of lockdown.
“Cautious but irreversible.” Johnson’s gradual five-stage-separated, five stage journey out of lockdown. His statement – full text.
Plus four reviews: on masks and distancing; international travel; certification. and “the safe return of major events”.