Politics

It is our hope that this significant fine will mark one of the final settlements in a dark period in the history of the banking sector – Jonathan Reynolds

Jonathan Reynolds MP, Labour’s Shadow City Minister, responding to the further fines for RBS from its involvement in mis-selling US subprime mortgages in the run up to the financial crisis, said:

“It is our hope that this significant fine will mark one of the final settlements in a dark period in the history of the banking sector.

“We need a long-term plan: not just for RBS, which continues to face its own challenges, but to ensure that the culture and practices of our banking sector are centred on the customers they serve.

“Protecting the value of the taxpayers’ stake in RBS has to be the top priority for the Chancellor, while also rebuilding the reputation of British banking which plays such a crucial role in our economy.”

January 26, 2017 GovWorldMagLabourGovernmental • Labour • Labour Party • political

Carwyn Connect heads to Swansea

The Carwyn Connect event will give local people the opportunity to meet the First Minister and ask him questions on any issues which affect them or their local community.

The session will take place between 6pm and 7.30pm at Pen yr Heol Comprehensive School (Gorseinon, SA4 4FG).

People are encouraged to register their interest in attending the free event: Register your interest.

Questions can be asked in a number of ways – they can be submitted when people arrive at the venue when doors open at 5.30pm, in advance via email cabinetcommunications@wales.gsi.gov.uk or via Twitter using @fmwales with the hashtag #carwynconnect.

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones said:

“Over the past year, I have travelled across the country to hear the views of local communities and answer the burning questions of the people of Wales.

“I am pleased to announce the next event will take place in Gorsienon. I want to see as many people as possible at the event, so if you have a question for me, want to raise issues affecting your community or have a great idea to make your home town a better place to live, come along to the event.

“A wide variety of topics have come up in previous events – from questions about hyper-local issues, to discussions about broad Government policy.

“This is your chance to meet and speak with me in person. I’m really looking forward to meeting you all.”

January 26, 2017 NewsWelsh GovernmentGovernmental • political • Welsh Government

News story: UK Minister for Asia Alok Sharma visits Thailand

Alok Sharma, the UK Minister for Asia and the Pacific, is in Bangkok for wide ranging talks on issues including trade, human rights and Thailand’s election plans.

The UK and Thailand have a strong relationship focused on practical cooperation. Mr Sharma is here to deepen this.

In Bangkok, Minister Sharma will hold talks with Deputy Prime Minster Somkid and Deputy Foreign Minister Virasakdi to discuss the strength of the relationship and opportunities to increase trade and prosperity. Mr Sharma will speak to other political figures, to hear their views on the political situation and the prospects for elections in Thailand.

Mr Sharma will meet members of civil society organisations to learn more about their work and the challenges they face especially on freedom of expression and to express the UK’s support for their work.

He will speak to businesses and investors to reaffirm that Global Britain is open for business and discuss how the UK Government can help Thai and British businesses trade with each other more.

Mr Sharma said:

Thailand is a very important partner for the UK, as proven by the fact that over 1 million British people come here every year.

I will be holding talks on the British Government’s commitment to boost bilateral trade and I will encourage further progress on bringing in the rights and freedoms the Thai people need for credible elections in the future.

Further information

Follow Foreign Office Minister Alok Sharma on twitter @AlokSharma_RDG

Follow the Foreign Office on twitter @foreignoffice

Follow the Foreign Office on facebook

January 26, 2017 HM GovernmentHM GovernmentGB • Governmental • HM Government • political

There’s no need for the Government to prolong the suffering of Southern passengers any longer – Andy McDonald

Andy McDonald MP, Labour’s Shadow Transport Secretary, responding to reports that the Government is considering taking direct control of Govia Thameslink, said:

“Reports suggest that the Government is finally recognising what Labour has been saying for over a year: that Southern is failing passengers and taxpayers and should be stripped of their franchise.

“It is wrong that passenger fares and taxpayer subsidy that should be used to improve services and hold down prices are siphoned off to fill the coffers of train operating companies who are providing a disgraceful service.

“There’s no need for the Government to prolong the suffering of Southern passengers any longer. Private rail isn’t working: it’s time for the Tories to admit defeat and take Southern back under public control as a public service.”