National Focus 291

UK officially recognises Palestinian statehood

The UK has formally recognised Palestine as a state. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made the announcement on Sunday 21 September, stating that the aim of doing so is “to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution.” Starmer said the UK now joins more than 150 countries in recognising Palestinian statehood, calling it “a pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.” The UK’s declaration comes alongside similar announcements from Canada and Australia on the same day, with France following on Monday 22 September. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the declaration from the respective countries. In a video statement, he warned that after the “terrible massacre on October 7,” recognising Palestine was “a huge reward to terrorism.”

Starmer expected to announce new Digital ID Plan

As of Thursday 25 September, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce plans for the introduction of a UK-wide digital identity scheme, referred to as the “Brit-Card.” While some online routes for verification have existed since 2022, a nationwide digital ID would bring a major expansion to the system, designed to modernise identity checks through smartphone technology which will be able to confirm an individual’s right to live, work, and access services in the UK. The Labour Party has long dismissed the idea and even rejected it under Tony Blair, but mounting pressure over illegal migration has prompted ministers to show support for the scheme.The Liberal Democrats have opposed the plans, writing in a post on X, “Liberal Democrats cannot support mandatory digital IDs. People shouldn't be criminalised just because they don't want to hand over their private data.” Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch was also critical, referring to the plan as “a desperate gimmick that will do nothing to stop the boats [...] This is a throwaway conference announcement designed to distract attention.”

Scottish Housing Bill to pass with partial rent controls

Scottish Parliament is debating legislation that could lead to rent controls, just over a year after councils Argyll and Bute, Edinburgh, Fife, and Glasgow declared “housing emergencies.” The proposed Housing Bill aims to cap rent increases and strengthen tenant protections amid mounting concerns over affordability due to a national housing crisis. The Scottish Conservatives have criticised the proposals, stating that they will vote in opposition. The Labour Party has indicated its support but is calling for amendments, while the Scottish Greens have pledged full support. In addition to addressing changes to the private rentals, the Bill will also impose laws on public authorities to prevent homelessness. The new legislation extends councils’ duty to act from two months to six months before homelessness is likely.

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