Displaying items by tag: James Cleverly

The Home Office is intensifying its crackdown on 'zombie knives' following a surge in violent crimes involving these weapons. These knives, characterised by their large size and horror film-like appearance, have been increasingly used in serious assaults across London. In response, home secretary James Cleverly plans to extend the definition of a bladed article under the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, and to ensure tougher penalties for those found carrying them. He emphasised the Government's commitment to keeping communities safe and reducing the harm caused by knife crime. The crackdown on zombie knives is seen as a crucial step in addressing the growing concerns about violent crimes in London and across the UK. The Government is determined to tackle this issue head-on by ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the necessary tools and legislation to respond effectively to the threat posed by these weapons.

In a major reshuffle by Rishi Sunak, James Cleverly has been appointed as the new Home Secretary (after Suella Braverman’s dismissal), and former prime minister David Cameron as Foreign Secretary. Braverman accepted her dismissal, which came after a series of controversies, as mentioned last week. However, her sacking by Sunak has not been universally welcomed within the Conservative Party. MP Andrea Jenkyns, a right-wing party member, criticised the decision, suggesting that she had been dismissed for 'speaking the truth' and accusing Sunak of yielding to left-wing pressure.

On 27 April, 536 British nationals were evacuated from Sudan during a truce, but foreign secretary James Cleverly warned there is no guarantee flights will continue if the fragile truce ends at midnight. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to extend the ceasefire, Sudan's army is willing, but the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have not responded. Despite the ceasefire, fighting continues in parts of Sudan. The Foreign Office warned that an end to the ceasefire could result in a humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, saying, ‘It is essential that a ceasefire is maintained and a political process is secured. If not, the humanitarian consequences will be incalculable. The UK will continue to work tirelessly to help bring an end to the violence and provide humanitarian relief’. James Cleverly cannot guarantee evacuations. Only British passport holders and their immediate families with existing UK entry clearance are eligible, and even that might be impossible if the truce ends.