6 February 2019 | UK NEWS
Theresa May is in Stormont today, meeting political leaders to discuss Brexit and possible changes to the backstop. This will likely anger Tory Eurosceptics who stated they will only support May if the backstop is removed entirely. May’s expected to put down a motion on her deal by next Wednesday, with amendments to be voted on the following day.
Trade Secretary Liam Fox is considering cutting import tariffs to zero in the event of a no deal Brexit. The move would keep prices low for consumers, but damage British industry. Labour’s Deputy Leader Tom Watson has attacked big tech companies, stating a Labour Government would create a new technology regulatory body, with the power to break up tech companies if they did not curb harmful content.
In cultural news, plans for a Margaret Thatcher statue to be erected in her hometown of Grantham have been approved despite concerns of vandalism.
What’s going on in Westminster:
– PMQs took place this afternoon between David Lidington and Emily Thornberry.
What we’re reading on the internet:
– House of Commons Public Accounts Committee Report on local government spending – Parliament
– Trump and Putin have relaunched an arms race. Hug Europe close, Britain – The Guardian
– UK growth stalls due to Brexit – FT
