Domestic Politics
With elections in Ireland scheduled for February 8, the Fine Gaels re-election seems unlikely. They have been criticised for their policies on health and housing. If re-elected, this will be their third term. The economic promises made during their campaign were not well received either. [Irish Times]
The House of Commons MPs rejected the House of Lords' amendments to the EU (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill. Despite some anger at the dismissal of their opinions, the Lords backed down. The Bill now awaits royal assent. [BBC]
Sir Keir Starmer, Labour Leadership candidate, argued against the current power dynamics within the UK. He suggested a radical redistribution in wealth and opportunity to end “the monopoly of power” in Westminster. [BBC]
International Relations
The EU’s Chief negotiator of Brexit, Michel Barnier, warned PM Johnson against using a US trade deal as leverage during the Brexit negotiations with the EU. He also clarified that even in with a no-tariff and no-quota agreement with the EU, goods from the UK will compulsorily be subject to border checks. [The Independent]
After months of negotiations, the US has refused to extradite American diplomat Anne Sacoolas to the UK. She was arrested after driving on the wrong side of the road and colliding with a 19 year old near an air force base, which was being used as an American communication hub, in central England. [Al Jazeera]
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned the UK of risking its sovereignty if it allows Huawei, a Chinese telecom giant, to access its 5G network. The US has already banned Huawei from its 5G network to prevent “espionage and sabotage”. [Telegraph]
Society
The UK is set to introduce the Global Talent visa from 20 February for individuals who are skilled in a qualifying field and endorsed by a recognised UK body. PM Boris Johnson said that this move was intended to highlight “that the UK is open to the most talented minds in the world”. [BBC]
Health
With several Britons trapped in China due to the coronavirus, Ministers urged citizens to escape the health emergency without any suggestions or assistance on accomplishing that. Further, they have refused to comment on whether the UK intends to provide airlifts to those affected. [The Independent]
Image Source: Sky News