At least 26 people died and nearly 100 were injured in Bucharest on Friday after an explosion sparked a fire in a nightclub in the Romanian capital. Government officials confirmed the death toll, which could still rise. More than 400 people were in the Colectiv club for an album release for the metal band 'Goodbye to Gravity,' according to the band's social media pages.
A witness told Reuters that fireworks inside the club led to an explosion, with the subsequent fire climbing up a pillar and into the club's ceiling. Members of the emergency services were shown on TV attempting to resuscitate young people that had been dragged out of the club,
"There was a stampede of people running out of the club," a second witness told Reuters. The government announced an investigation into the incident had already been launched. Romanian President Klaus Lohannis said he was "shocked" by the news. Writing on his Facebook page, he said: "It is a very sad moment for all of us, for our nation and for me personally."
Friday, 30 October 2015
When 2 Dogs Began A Howling Battle, This Baby Couldn't Resist Joining Right In
Having dogs and babies under the same roof can be an adorably awesome time. Although, sometimes, it can get a bit overwhelming. Take these three troublemakers, for instance. The two Labradors love getting into howling battles with each other. But, things get even louder (and much, much cuter) when a 5-month-old decides he wants to do battle, as well.
May the best howl WIN!video-player-present
Sorry, pups. I think the baby won this round due to sheer adorableness.
Thursday, 29 October 2015
Shetland Pony Left Traumatised After Horrific Sexual Assault In Manchester
A Shetland pony has been left traumatised after being subjected to a horrific sexual assault.
The Miniature Shetland breed was discovered "shaking and shivering" on Sunday morning and was suffering from internal injuries.
The two-year-old animal, who is just 29 inches tall, had been "sexually abused... with something", her owner said.
Shetland Pony was the victim of horrific sexual abuse [File Image]
Three horses were released from their stables at a farm near Ashton-under-Lyne between 9pm on Saturday and 6.30am on Sunday, police confirmed.
Shetland pony, Laurell, was found badly injured, her heartbroken owner, Ashleigh Butterworth, told the Manchester Evening News.
"She’s just so small. It’s just disgusting. What sick, twisted person would do that a small animal that’s completely helpless?”
Ms Butterworth said that the pony was too small to let herself out of the stables and that the small animal would have "thought she was going for a play".
She added: "Everybody at the farm is disgusted. We all love that farm. I’ve grown up there. I’ve been going for years and years.”
Greater Manchester Police confirmed to the Huffington Post UK that three horses were let out of their stables overnight on Saturday.
Between those hours, police said that one of the horses "suffered some sort of injury to its rear".
The Miniature Shetland breed was discovered "shaking and shivering" on Sunday morning and was suffering from internal injuries.
The two-year-old animal, who is just 29 inches tall, had been "sexually abused... with something", her owner said.
Three horses were released from their stables at a farm near Ashton-under-Lyne between 9pm on Saturday and 6.30am on Sunday, police confirmed.
Shetland pony, Laurell, was found badly injured, her heartbroken owner, Ashleigh Butterworth, told the Manchester Evening News.
"She’s just so small. It’s just disgusting. What sick, twisted person would do that a small animal that’s completely helpless?”
Ms Butterworth said that the pony was too small to let herself out of the stables and that the small animal would have "thought she was going for a play".
She added: "Everybody at the farm is disgusted. We all love that farm. I’ve grown up there. I’ve been going for years and years.”
Greater Manchester Police confirmed to the Huffington Post UK that three horses were let out of their stables overnight on Saturday.
Between those hours, police said that one of the horses "suffered some sort of injury to its rear".
SEE ALSO:
A Mother Was Shocked When A Stranger Attempted To Fat Shame Her Baby
A loving mother was recently shocked when a stranger attempted to fat shame her baby. "Fat shaming" is when an individual is essentially bullied because of their weight. They are harassed for being overweight or obese, usually with no regards to their feelings.Bullying others is never the right thing to do...but to bully a baby?
Strangers on the subway called her baby "mad chunky." If you've ever seen a baby...yes, they have adorable little baby rolls.
Flickr / Caterina
It's completely normal for babies to be a little chubby.
Flickr / Pixydust8605
Although infant weight problems do exist. In fact,...
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While we are new to Source Market we have been selling these exact same types of monetized blogs on another platform for $497 with a 100% satisfaction rating.
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The $397 package will be for micro niches that will likely only average $100-$200 per month long-term.
The $997 package is for Super Micro Niches and have a $500-$600+ per month potential. Some earn $1500+
I'm going to still offer the Super Micro Niche as an upgrade on this listing.
Important things to keep in mind:
While we know how to build out blogs that earn $1000-$2000+ per month quickly we choose not to for a very important reason. Anyone with the knowledge and the right tools can build those "turn and burn sites" that earn money for a couple of months then are de-indexed and the revenue stops cold.
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If the site does not earn $100+/month minimum in the 2nd month - We will replace the site or refund you money, Your choice.
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Do I need hosting? Yes. We can help you with that. Your new site will be hosted on our lightning fast servers which we recommend you keep it on but that is completely up to you.
Can I choose my own Niche? Yes. But it is usually best to use a profitable Micro Niche we've found already.
What’s the upkeep on the sites? The upkeep is your typical site maintenance. Hosting and domain fees, etc...once we finish with the site and you start earning, we'll hand it over to you and it'll be yours to take care of from then on. There should be no need to spend anything on getting backlinks or anything like that.
Is the earnings consistent? Yes, this isn't a cheap $35 service. While earnings may fluctuate slightly you'll keep earning every month. 5%-10% growth every month is very common.
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Wednesday, 28 October 2015
Bullfighting: European Parliament Votes To End EU Subsidies For Farmers Raising Bulls To Fight In Spain
Animal rights campaigners are rejoicing after the European Parliament voted on Wednesday to end EU subsidies for farmers who raise bulls to fight in a controversial bloodsport.
It is estimated that more than £100 million of EU money is used to subsidise bullfighting in Spain - about £13.5million of which comes from UK taxes.
This could all change after Members of the European Parliament voted overwhelming in favour of ending EU subsidies to farmers who specifically breed bulls for bullfights.
On Wednesday, 438 of 687 MEPs voted in favour of amending the 2016 European Union budget.
This amendment demands “Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) appropriations or any other appropriations from the budget should not be used for the financing of lethal bullfighting activities”.
The vote has been welcomed by animal rights groups.
Dr Joanna Swabe, Humane Society International's executive director, said: “Bullfighting is a cruel practice that inflicts a great amount of pain and suffering on bulls.
"While the EU cannot legislate to ban bullfighting, it can stop granting farming subsidies to bull breeders. These subsidies are indirectly helping to keep the cruel practice of bullfighting alive.
"We applaud the fact that MEPs have sent a clear signal to the European Commission that it is unacceptable for EU funds to be used to finance any part of an industry that involves the torture of sentient animals for public entertainment, even if it is indirectly.”
Article continues below slideshow:
Tom Southern, Head of public affairs for the League Against Cruel Sports, said that the animal welfare charity was delighted, but added that the fight to end the bloodsport had not yet been won.
Mr Southern said: “People across Europe have spoken today, and it’s a great moment. MEPs from all countries have listened to people who are saying loud and clear – bullfighting is a barbaric and medieval pastime, which has no place in modern society.
"There is no justification for public money propping it up, and we are delighted that MEPs have now voted to end the subsidy.
He added: "This vote will not end bullfighting immediately, but it represents a significant step forward. Members of the European Parliament should be very proud of this decision.”
Animal protection groups are calling on the European Commission to respond to the European Parliament’s demands and to ensure that EU subsidies are no longer granted to the bull breeders in Spain, France and Portugal who supply animals used for bullfights.
RSPCA assistant director for public affairs, David Bowles, said: “The RSPCA is strongly opposed to bullfighting. It is an inhumane and outdated practice that continues to lose support, including from those living in the countries where this takes place such as Spain, Portugal and France.
“Each year tens of thousands of bulls endure high levels of stress and then a painful death, all in the name of so-called entertainment.
“This vote underlines the public and Parliamentary support for stopping money from British taxpayers going to support bullfighting in Spain and France. "
It is estimated that more than £100 million of EU money is used to subsidise bullfighting in Spain - about £13.5million of which comes from UK taxes.
This could all change after Members of the European Parliament voted overwhelming in favour of ending EU subsidies to farmers who specifically breed bulls for bullfights.
On Wednesday, 438 of 687 MEPs voted in favour of amending the 2016 European Union budget.
This amendment demands “Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) appropriations or any other appropriations from the budget should not be used for the financing of lethal bullfighting activities”.
The vote has been welcomed by animal rights groups.
Dr Joanna Swabe, Humane Society International's executive director, said: “Bullfighting is a cruel practice that inflicts a great amount of pain and suffering on bulls.
"While the EU cannot legislate to ban bullfighting, it can stop granting farming subsidies to bull breeders. These subsidies are indirectly helping to keep the cruel practice of bullfighting alive.
"We applaud the fact that MEPs have sent a clear signal to the European Commission that it is unacceptable for EU funds to be used to finance any part of an industry that involves the torture of sentient animals for public entertainment, even if it is indirectly.”
Article continues below slideshow:
Tom Southern, Head of public affairs for the League Against Cruel Sports, said that the animal welfare charity was delighted, but added that the fight to end the bloodsport had not yet been won.
Mr Southern said: “People across Europe have spoken today, and it’s a great moment. MEPs from all countries have listened to people who are saying loud and clear – bullfighting is a barbaric and medieval pastime, which has no place in modern society.
"There is no justification for public money propping it up, and we are delighted that MEPs have now voted to end the subsidy.
He added: "This vote will not end bullfighting immediately, but it represents a significant step forward. Members of the European Parliament should be very proud of this decision.”
SEE ALSO:
Animal protection groups are calling on the European Commission to respond to the European Parliament’s demands and to ensure that EU subsidies are no longer granted to the bull breeders in Spain, France and Portugal who supply animals used for bullfights.
RSPCA assistant director for public affairs, David Bowles, said: “The RSPCA is strongly opposed to bullfighting. It is an inhumane and outdated practice that continues to lose support, including from those living in the countries where this takes place such as Spain, Portugal and France.
“Each year tens of thousands of bulls endure high levels of stress and then a painful death, all in the name of so-called entertainment.
“This vote underlines the public and Parliamentary support for stopping money from British taxpayers going to support bullfighting in Spain and France. "
These Dogs Only Knew Life At A Terrible Puppy Mill...But Look At Them Now!
We've said it before, but it bears repeating: when you buy from most pet stores, you're supporting puppy mills. That's why it's so important to consider other options, like visiting your local animal shelter, rescue organization, or pound.
The life of a puppy mill dog is no life at all.
Getty Images
But thankfully wonderful places like North Shore Animal League America exist. You may remember when we joined them on one of their many lifesaving missions back in June where they rescued more than 150 dogs. The amazing folks at North Shore work with shelters and organizations all around...
Tuesday, 27 October 2015
David Cameron 'Has No Means' Of Eliminating Food Poverty, Fabian Commission Says
David Cameron has "no means" of alleviating poverty to the point people no longer rely on food banks, a report into poverty has said.
The use of food banks has shot up in recent years and critics have said government welfare cuts and austerity have contributed to this.
A report by the The Fabian Commission on Food and Poverty said it was unclear how the prime minister would cut this and added the level of food bank use hid a deeper issue of people not being able to eat well because they are too poor.
The commission, backed by the left-wing Fabian Society, said the government had no idea how many people this applied and Mr Cameron lacked "any means" of ensuring they did.
Geoff Tansey, chair of the Commission, said: "David Cameron has made an admirable commitment to tackling poverty. But for food, people’s most basic need, he currently has no means of achieving this aim and no plan to deliver a reduction in food banks, let alone tackle the other links between food and poverty.
"The Commission has even found that the government has no count of the number of people who currently lack secure access to nutritious, affordable food.”
The Trussell Trust, the biggest provider of food banks that provide three days of free food to clients in need, helped people with food 129,000 times in 2011/12 but did so more than a million times in 2014/15.
But Elizabeth Dowler, professor of food and social policy at the University of Warwick, told the Commission the number of times food banks were used was a bad way of measuring food poverty as they are "markers of households, usually, facing extreme or crisis problems, not about longstanding, ongoing issue".
Mr Cameron pledged "an all-out assault on poverty" this month and said, before May's general election, that he did not want anyone to have to rely on food banks".
The commission's report, published on Wednesday, says: "We need to recognise that food banks and charitable food providers are not solutions to household food insecurity, they are symptoms of society’s failure to ensure everybody is sustainably well-fed."
The report also notes that many people too poor to afford food do not use food banks for fear of the stigma of being labelled "
"The key point is that food banks are simply an indicator of a wider problem of household food insecurity," it said noting that it was "telling" that the commission's panel of experts all had experience of food poverty but none had visited a food bank.
It added: "Instead, they had borrowed money from family, built up debt, continued to go hungry, or consistently eaten food lacking in nutritional quality."
The commission proposed a 14-point plan to help people on or near the breadline.
They include:
Mr Tansey added: “It is not enough to ensure people don’t go hungry. Food banks are just the tip of the iceberg of a much bigger problem.
We need to make sure no one lives in fear of not being able to feed themselves or their family and to break the bigger links between food and poverty and their effect on people’s health, the environment and working conditions."
The use of food banks has shot up in recent years and critics have said government welfare cuts and austerity have contributed to this.
A report by the The Fabian Commission on Food and Poverty said it was unclear how the prime minister would cut this and added the level of food bank use hid a deeper issue of people not being able to eat well because they are too poor.
The commission, backed by the left-wing Fabian Society, said the government had no idea how many people this applied and Mr Cameron lacked "any means" of ensuring they did.
Geoff Tansey, chair of the Commission, said: "David Cameron has made an admirable commitment to tackling poverty. But for food, people’s most basic need, he currently has no means of achieving this aim and no plan to deliver a reduction in food banks, let alone tackle the other links between food and poverty.
"The Commission has even found that the government has no count of the number of people who currently lack secure access to nutritious, affordable food.”
SEE ALSO:
The Trussell Trust, the biggest provider of food banks that provide three days of free food to clients in need, helped people with food 129,000 times in 2011/12 but did so more than a million times in 2014/15.
But Elizabeth Dowler, professor of food and social policy at the University of Warwick, told the Commission the number of times food banks were used was a bad way of measuring food poverty as they are "markers of households, usually, facing extreme or crisis problems, not about longstanding, ongoing issue".
Mr Cameron pledged "an all-out assault on poverty" this month and said, before May's general election, that he did not want anyone to have to rely on food banks".
The commission's report, published on Wednesday, says: "We need to recognise that food banks and charitable food providers are not solutions to household food insecurity, they are symptoms of society’s failure to ensure everybody is sustainably well-fed."
The report also notes that many people too poor to afford food do not use food banks for fear of the stigma of being labelled "
"The key point is that food banks are simply an indicator of a wider problem of household food insecurity," it said noting that it was "telling" that the commission's panel of experts all had experience of food poverty but none had visited a food bank.
It added: "Instead, they had borrowed money from family, built up debt, continued to go hungry, or consistently eaten food lacking in nutritional quality."
The commission proposed a 14-point plan to help people on or near the breadline.
They include:
- A pilot tax on sugary drinks so that the efficacy of taxes on unhealthy food and drink can be assessed
- A review of current advertising codes to identify where existing rules are being flouted and children are being bombarded by unhealthy promotions
- A new cross-departmental minister with responsibility for eliminating household food insecurity in the UK
- Action to reduce acute household food insecurity caused by social security benefit sanctions, delays and errors
- An inquiry to identify effective ways of removing poverty premiums for key living costs including food, utilities, housing, household appliances, and transport
- Local authorities establish food access plans that will address any physical barriers to affordable, nutritious food in their area
Mr Tansey added: “It is not enough to ensure people don’t go hungry. Food banks are just the tip of the iceberg of a much bigger problem.
We need to make sure no one lives in fear of not being able to feed themselves or their family and to break the bigger links between food and poverty and their effect on people’s health, the environment and working conditions."
When This Suffering Dog Was Stuck In A Hunter's Trap, He Absolutely Refused To Give Up
Animal Aid Unlimited recently discovered a street dog that was in desperate need of help -- and would've died without a rescue. He had stepped onto a hunter's iron claw trap, which crushed his paw. The trap must have been set for nearby wildlife, but this unlucky dog was caught instead.
The dog was in the trap for about 12 hours, covered and flies and obviously in distress.
Animal Aid Unlimited
Thankfully, not all hope was lost...and this little dog refused to give up.video-player-present
Animal Aid Unlimited
Even though his leg was completely destroyed by the cruel trap and had...
Watch This Dog's Incredible Transformation From Mean To Adorably Loving
It's a sad fact about rescue dogs: after all the time on the streets or with bad owners, sometimes they're scared and aggressive. They are coming from abusive, frightening situations which change their attitudes towards humans, oftentimes making them very defensive.Dorothy is one of those dogs. When she was being rescued from an sad living situation, she bit her rescuer. But after some rehabilitation, she made an incredible transformation.
video-player-present
This is the kind of transformation that the people at Hope For Paws do on a daily basis. For more information on their organization, head to their website to find...
Fox News Asks All-Male Panel To Judge Whether Leggings Suitably Cover Women's 'Lady-Parts'
NEW YORK -- The Fox News morning magazine 'Fox & Friends' addressed the issue of female leggings on Tuesday, asking a panel of three men, one dressed as an extra from 'The Deer Hunter,' to pass judgment on what is appropriate for women to wear.
To correctly assess “proper etiquette,” a roster of young ladies was paraded in front of the giddy trio, before each gave their verdict. The segment was a response to a viral video posted on Monday in which a woman from Tennessee lambasted the wearing of leggings as “britches.” Leggings “ain’t pants,” said the poster, sparking an online debate as to the correct use of the popular garb.
“Are you comfortable with the women in your life parading around in public in leggings?” drooled host Steve Doocy to a panel that included legal analyst Arthur Aidala and Andrew Sansone, the husband of a Fox News host. One the end sat Willie Robertson from 'Duck Dynasty,' a reality TV show best know for being temporarily axed in 2013 after Willie's father compared homosexuality to bestiality.
Robertson set the tone for the debate: “They ain’t pants but my girls, they wear long shirts to cover up their lady-parts.” When Kaitlyn was ushered on, the bearded hunter channeled his inner Saudi: “I think that’s modest.”
“It’s not so tight you can see a tattoo through it,” heaved an increasingly flustered Aidala.
The cameraman's zoom finger got a solid workout...
Amanda was next to perform, praised for being able to "go to church like that.” Aidala, near frantic, said she looked “very appropriate” before Doocey slithered: “You’ve got to cover you tail.”
Last came Paige, whose stride onto the set caused Aidala to gasp. Sansone, aware of how was segment was playing out, refused to give his opinion. Aidala jumped in, nearly falling of his chair. "Obviously her physique," he slobbered, "God bless you, you’ve worked out… there are appropriate places to wear that… going to the mall, probably not."
Robertson sent Paige on her way telling her to “throw a t-shirt on it.”
The segment closed with Doocey proclaiming, “I don’t think anyone is in too much trouble.” Just half the human race, Steve, demeaned on national TV by a mute, an aroused halfwit and a hillbilly in a bandana.
To correctly assess “proper etiquette,” a roster of young ladies was paraded in front of the giddy trio, before each gave their verdict. The segment was a response to a viral video posted on Monday in which a woman from Tennessee lambasted the wearing of leggings as “britches.” Leggings “ain’t pants,” said the poster, sparking an online debate as to the correct use of the popular garb.
“Are you comfortable with the women in your life parading around in public in leggings?” drooled host Steve Doocy to a panel that included legal analyst Arthur Aidala and Andrew Sansone, the husband of a Fox News host. One the end sat Willie Robertson from 'Duck Dynasty,' a reality TV show best know for being temporarily axed in 2013 after Willie's father compared homosexuality to bestiality.
Robertson set the tone for the debate: “They ain’t pants but my girls, they wear long shirts to cover up their lady-parts.” When Kaitlyn was ushered on, the bearded hunter channeled his inner Saudi: “I think that’s modest.”
“It’s not so tight you can see a tattoo through it,” heaved an increasingly flustered Aidala.
Amanda was next to perform, praised for being able to "go to church like that.” Aidala, near frantic, said she looked “very appropriate” before Doocey slithered: “You’ve got to cover you tail.”
Last came Paige, whose stride onto the set caused Aidala to gasp. Sansone, aware of how was segment was playing out, refused to give his opinion. Aidala jumped in, nearly falling of his chair. "Obviously her physique," he slobbered, "God bless you, you’ve worked out… there are appropriate places to wear that… going to the mall, probably not."
Robertson sent Paige on her way telling her to “throw a t-shirt on it.”
The segment closed with Doocey proclaiming, “I don’t think anyone is in too much trouble.” Just half the human race, Steve, demeaned on national TV by a mute, an aroused halfwit and a hillbilly in a bandana.
SEE ALSO:
This Guy Got A Sweet Surprise When A Lil' Seal Decided To Hop On His Boat!
Hanging out on your boat, you might be hoping to bring a few fish aboard, but this lucky guy got a much cuter surprise.The sweet seal looks pretty tired after he hops up onto the vessel for a rest and some snuggles. Swimming around all day must be super exhausting — not to mention just being this adorable. Maybe he mistook the guy's facial hair as a kindred spirit?
video-player-present
I would have to fight every urge in my body not to bring that sweetheart home with me, but hopefully they'll have plenty more adorable visits in the future.
QUIZ: How Bullingdon Club Are You?
The Bullingdon Club has earned itself quite a reputation over recent years.
On Monday, columnist Toby Young was ridiculed for suggesting that being a member of the Oxford elite drinking club was a hindrance, rather than an asset.
Hard to believe, considering that the club's alumni includes the country's Prime Minister and Chancellor, as well as the Mayor of London.
Try our quiz to see just how Bullingdon Club you are.
On Monday, columnist Toby Young was ridiculed for suggesting that being a member of the Oxford elite drinking club was a hindrance, rather than an asset.
Hard to believe, considering that the club's alumni includes the country's Prime Minister and Chancellor, as well as the Mayor of London.
Try our quiz to see just how Bullingdon Club you are.
SEE ALSO:
She Was Reading Him A Scary Story, And His Reaction Will Have You Laughing All Day
Little kids never know what they want. They are some of the most indecisive people on the planet. So when this little kid told his mommy that he wanted her to read him a scary story, he didn't know what to think when she started. In true form, he changed his mind about the whole situation pretty quickly.She started reading to him, and when he inevitably got scared, he couldn't decide if he wanted her to stop or keep going. Needless to say, his reaction was priceless.
video-player-present
I know one little boy who's about to have some nightmares! Let's...
Bill Bailey's Tour Bus 'Nicked' From Car Park During Performance In Liverpool
Bill Bailey’s tour bus was stolen on Monday… in Liverpool. The comedian was performing at the city's Philharmonic Hall when the Mercedes Sprinter Splitter van was swiped from the car park. The 51-year-old tweeted:
The thieves first gained access to the production room to lift a laptop and the keys before making off with the bus, which had tour merchandise on board.
The comic asked for local help in catching the criminals, making an appeal on his Facebook page.
According to PA, Merseyside Police confirmed they are investigating and are studying CCTV footage. "Merseyside Police can confirm that yesterday (Monday October 26), officers received a report that a Mercedes Sprinter van was stolen from the car park of the Royal Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, at around 2.30pm,” a statement read.
The statement continued: "Officers believe keys for the van were stolen from an office at the location. Inquiries are ongoing at this time, CCTV is being examined and anyone with information is encouraged to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Lively crowd @liverpoolphil last night- shame our tour bus was nicked from outside the venue! So gig not too bad all things considered ..
— Bill Bailey (@BillBailey) October 27, 2015The thieves first gained access to the production room to lift a laptop and the keys before making off with the bus, which had tour merchandise on board.
The comic asked for local help in catching the criminals, making an appeal on his Facebook page.
According to PA, Merseyside Police confirmed they are investigating and are studying CCTV footage. "Merseyside Police can confirm that yesterday (Monday October 26), officers received a report that a Mercedes Sprinter van was stolen from the car park of the Royal Philharmonic Hall, Hope Street, Liverpool, at around 2.30pm,” a statement read.
The statement continued: "Officers believe keys for the van were stolen from an office at the location. Inquiries are ongoing at this time, CCTV is being examined and anyone with information is encouraged to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Scared Of Being In A Free-Falling Elevator? Here's How To Survive This Nightmare
Some people have a terrible fear of elevators, and you can't really blame them. There are few things that sound more terrifying than hurtling to the ground in a free-falling elevator. Even though that situation is incredibly rare, it can't hurt to know what to do if it ever happens to you.This video might just save your life one day.
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(via Life Hacker)So if you ever find yourself in this terrible situation, just lie on the ground and wait for impact. It's certainly easier said than done, but if you can think and act quickly, it will increase your...
Tax Credits: Osborne To Leave Families In Dark For 29 Days About How His Welfare Reform Will Affect Them
Families to be hit by George Osborne's tax credits cuts will be left in the dark for a month over the impact of the reform after his humiliating defeat at the hands of the House of Lords.
In a dramatic climbdown, Downing Street said letters telling three million people face losing the benefit may not be sent in December or implemented in April as planned as the top Tory was exposed to a bruising encounter in the Commons.
After peers halted his plans, the Chancellor will make a fresh attempt to get the policy through both houses of Parliament, and has announced he will reveal his plan to compensate those hit through "transitional" measures at the Autumn Statement, the financial update he will deliver on November 25.
It remains unclear how far Mr Osborne is willing to U-turn, particularly since the cut was expected to make up around one-third of the £12 billion of cuts promised in the Conservative manifesto.
With a potential £4.4bn blackhole in his budget, the Chancellor has three choices, according to Torsten Bell, director of the think tank Resolution Foundation: tone them down, phase them in, or protect those affected during the transition, all of which have its dangers.
The former Ed Miliband adviser says toning down the policy could mean halving the savings to £2.2bn and reducing the average loss for families to below £700, and could prioritise protecting working households on the lowest incomes. But savings would need to be found elsewhere.
The cut could be phased in over a number of years to avoid the overnight hit, but would drag out the political pain for the Government, hence why it tends to be avoided.
Transitional protection, a "well-worn path for welfare reformers", would means only new tax credit claimants would be affected by the changes, but it would be expensive and discourage families from working more hours for fear of losing the hand-out.
Mr Bell writes: "Which you think is preferable will depend on how you balance off the costs to the Exchequer with the hit to family budgets, and whether you think the problem with these changes is the timing of the losses, or the sheer scale of them. In 29 days we’ll find out which the Government cares about more."
In a dramatic climbdown, Downing Street said letters telling three million people face losing the benefit may not be sent in December or implemented in April as planned as the top Tory was exposed to a bruising encounter in the Commons.
After peers halted his plans, the Chancellor will make a fresh attempt to get the policy through both houses of Parliament, and has announced he will reveal his plan to compensate those hit through "transitional" measures at the Autumn Statement, the financial update he will deliver on November 25.
It remains unclear how far Mr Osborne is willing to U-turn, particularly since the cut was expected to make up around one-third of the £12 billion of cuts promised in the Conservative manifesto.
With a potential £4.4bn blackhole in his budget, the Chancellor has three choices, according to Torsten Bell, director of the think tank Resolution Foundation: tone them down, phase them in, or protect those affected during the transition, all of which have its dangers.
TAX CREDITS: THE IMPACT
Tax credits are welfare payments to families raising children and working people on low incomes.
More than three million families will lose an average of £1,300 a year from April
The cuts will deliver £4.4bn of the Chancellor’s planned welfare cuts by reducing the earnings level at which tax credits start to be withdrawn from £6,420 to £3,850.
The Government says eight out of 10 would be "better off" overall from a package which also includes increases in the minimum wage for over-25s, rises in the income tax threshold and extended free childcare.
The former Ed Miliband adviser says toning down the policy could mean halving the savings to £2.2bn and reducing the average loss for families to below £700, and could prioritise protecting working households on the lowest incomes. But savings would need to be found elsewhere.
The cut could be phased in over a number of years to avoid the overnight hit, but would drag out the political pain for the Government, hence why it tends to be avoided.
Transitional protection, a "well-worn path for welfare reformers", would means only new tax credit claimants would be affected by the changes, but it would be expensive and discourage families from working more hours for fear of losing the hand-out.
Mr Bell writes: "Which you think is preferable will depend on how you balance off the costs to the Exchequer with the hit to family budgets, and whether you think the problem with these changes is the timing of the losses, or the sheer scale of them. In 29 days we’ll find out which the Government cares about more."
SEE ALSO
Cameron Could Flood House Of Lords With Tories In Bitter Response
Tax Credit Lords Defeat Triggers Constitutional Crisis, Osborne Forced Into Climbdown Over Welfare Reforms
Tax Credit Cuts 'Morally Indefensible', Says Bishop Opposing Osborne
Attempts To Axe 'Tampon Tax' Voted Down
I Knew Crows Were Clever...But I Had No Idea That They Were This Smart
Most people don't know this, but crows are actually some of the most intelligent animals on Earth. And there are scientific studies to back up that claim. Take this experiment, for example. One study based on Archimedes' principle determined that crows actually have a better understanding of how water displacement works than children do. As you'll see in the incredible video below, a clever crow figured out that it could use rocks to raise the water level enough to grab a nice drink.
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This is just further proof that you should never underestimate our furry and feathered friends. Honestly,...
Minister Confuses Government Spending Review With TV Show CSI
The Conservative minister for Internet safety and security came unstuck in the House of Lords today, when she confused the government's Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) with the TV show CSI.
Baroness Shields, who joined the government after the election after a long career at technology companies including Facebook, was answering questions in the Lords.
Labour's Lord Stevenson pressed her on whether enough money was being put into fighting internet crime. "The scale of cyber crime we are witnessing is extraordinarily large. The resources appear to be pouring in to the criminal gangs not into the agencies that are trying to protect citizens," he told her.
"What can the noble Baroness tell us about the CSR coming up and will it be able to protect and enhance those law enforcement agencies that are seeking to stamp out this crime?"
The CSR is carried out by the Treasury. It set how much money each Whitehall department is allowed to spend over a set period of time. Departments are facing further cuts in the next review of spending which will be published on November 25.
Unfortunately Baroness Shields did not seem to be aware of the process: "I'm sorry, I am not familiar ... what is CSI? Sorry," she asked.
The minister's fellow peers tried to help her out by letting her know what the CSR meant.
Lord Stevenson helped her out. "The CSR is forthcoming and will be public expenditure for the whole of public spending."
Baroness Shields replied to laughter from other peers: "Thank you the, noble Lord, for bringing the Comprehensive Spending Review to my attention."
Baroness Shields, who joined the government after the election after a long career at technology companies including Facebook, was answering questions in the Lords.
Labour's Lord Stevenson pressed her on whether enough money was being put into fighting internet crime. "The scale of cyber crime we are witnessing is extraordinarily large. The resources appear to be pouring in to the criminal gangs not into the agencies that are trying to protect citizens," he told her.
"What can the noble Baroness tell us about the CSR coming up and will it be able to protect and enhance those law enforcement agencies that are seeking to stamp out this crime?"
The CSR is carried out by the Treasury. It set how much money each Whitehall department is allowed to spend over a set period of time. Departments are facing further cuts in the next review of spending which will be published on November 25.
Unfortunately Baroness Shields did not seem to be aware of the process: "I'm sorry, I am not familiar ... what is CSI? Sorry," she asked.
The minister's fellow peers tried to help her out by letting her know what the CSR meant.
Lord Stevenson helped her out. "The CSR is forthcoming and will be public expenditure for the whole of public spending."
Baroness Shields replied to laughter from other peers: "Thank you the, noble Lord, for bringing the Comprehensive Spending Review to my attention."
Vulnerable Young People Paying the Price of Financial Skills Gap
For many young people managing money can be confusing but many of us are lucky enough to have the safety net of friends and family to help us get to grips with the challenges.
For vulnerable young people, who may face difficult family relationships, are in and out of care or have nowhere permanent to live, not having basic budgeting skills can leave them "just coping" to get by.
Action for children has been campaigning to highlight that vulnerable young people need the right financial education and support to give them the life skills to manage their money effectively. Our report, Financial Skills and Employability, which launched today, outlines what needs to be done to help vulnerable young people make better decisions and improve their social and work related skills to get a job and become independent.
We embed financial education into many of the services that we provide and have seen first-hand how having basic financial skills can transform a young person's life.
Last year we met a young carer from London called Christina Peters. Although she was fairly good at budgeting she struggled to manage what little money she had. With the support from staff at Action for Children she took part in our money skills programme in partnership with Barclays. She told us that she was always stressed and was constantly thinking about how she was going to manage with so little money but by teaching her how to shop better she was able to start saving.
She said: "Learning about how to budget better has made me less stressed and I'm able to concentrate at college. I have also got a job as a chef's assistant which has improved my cooking skills. My confidence has grown so much that I am on the way to getting my dream job as a flight attendant.
"I'm proof that having money skills can make a huge impact on young people's lives."
This is a great example of how being financially confident can empower a vulnerable young person to take control. It means they have the skills to make sense of their personal finances to plan, problem solve and make sound decisions.
The government should take the lead on ensuring there is a coordinated package of financial support for vulnerable young people so that they can develop money skills which can help them prepare for big life events like setting up a new home or starting a new job.
If you need support or know someone who could benefit from support with personal finances please visit Action for Children or contact us on 0300 123 2112.
For vulnerable young people, who may face difficult family relationships, are in and out of care or have nowhere permanent to live, not having basic budgeting skills can leave them "just coping" to get by.
Action for children has been campaigning to highlight that vulnerable young people need the right financial education and support to give them the life skills to manage their money effectively. Our report, Financial Skills and Employability, which launched today, outlines what needs to be done to help vulnerable young people make better decisions and improve their social and work related skills to get a job and become independent.
We embed financial education into many of the services that we provide and have seen first-hand how having basic financial skills can transform a young person's life.
Last year we met a young carer from London called Christina Peters. Although she was fairly good at budgeting she struggled to manage what little money she had. With the support from staff at Action for Children she took part in our money skills programme in partnership with Barclays. She told us that she was always stressed and was constantly thinking about how she was going to manage with so little money but by teaching her how to shop better she was able to start saving.
She said: "Learning about how to budget better has made me less stressed and I'm able to concentrate at college. I have also got a job as a chef's assistant which has improved my cooking skills. My confidence has grown so much that I am on the way to getting my dream job as a flight attendant.
"I'm proof that having money skills can make a huge impact on young people's lives."
This is a great example of how being financially confident can empower a vulnerable young person to take control. It means they have the skills to make sense of their personal finances to plan, problem solve and make sound decisions.
The government should take the lead on ensuring there is a coordinated package of financial support for vulnerable young people so that they can develop money skills which can help them prepare for big life events like setting up a new home or starting a new job.
If you need support or know someone who could benefit from support with personal finances please visit Action for Children or contact us on 0300 123 2112.
This Chick Found The Best Spot To Nap -- Under His Cat Friend
Oscar and Sidney take napping to a new, extreme level of cute. How, might you ask? Well, when the tiny chick needs a little more warmth, he does something so out-of-this-world-adorable to his cuddly cat friend...just watch.
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I would never get out of bed if I had these two fuzz balls by my side in the morning.
Police Launch Campaign That Uses Analogy Of Tea For Sexual Consent
Thames Valley Police has launched a YouTube campaign discussing what sexual consent means using a brilliant tea analogy.
The campaign, titled Consent: It’s as Simple as Tea, is based on a blog by Emmeline May that was featured on HuffPost UK Lifestyle in March.
The blog links the act of accepting or rejecting a cup of tea to accepting or rejecting the offer of sex.
"You say 'hey, would you like a cup of tea?' and they go 'omg fuck yes, I would fucking LOVE a cup of tea! Thank you!*' then you know they want a cup of tea," May's original post reads.
"If you say 'hey, would you like a cup of tea?' and they um and ahh and say, 'I'm not really sure...' then you can make them a cup of tea or not, but be aware that they might not drink it, and if they don't drink it then - this is the important bit - don't make them drink it.
"You can't blame them for you going to the effort of making the tea on the off-chance they wanted it; you just have to deal with them not drinking it."
"If they are unconscious, don't make them tea. Unconscious people don't want tea and can't answer the question 'do you want tea' because they are unconscious."
In the Thames Valley Police video campaign, created by Blue Seat Studios, animations of stick people act out the words from May's original blog.
The campaign launched on Tuesday as part of Thames Valley police’s #ConsentisEverything campaign.
"The law is very clear. Sex without consent is rape," Detective chief inspector Justin Fletcher told The Guardian. "Awareness of what sexual consent means and how to get it is vital."
The campaign, titled Consent: It’s as Simple as Tea, is based on a blog by Emmeline May that was featured on HuffPost UK Lifestyle in March.
The blog links the act of accepting or rejecting a cup of tea to accepting or rejecting the offer of sex.
"You say 'hey, would you like a cup of tea?' and they go 'omg fuck yes, I would fucking LOVE a cup of tea! Thank you!*' then you know they want a cup of tea," May's original post reads.
"If you say 'hey, would you like a cup of tea?' and they um and ahh and say, 'I'm not really sure...' then you can make them a cup of tea or not, but be aware that they might not drink it, and if they don't drink it then - this is the important bit - don't make them drink it.
"You can't blame them for you going to the effort of making the tea on the off-chance they wanted it; you just have to deal with them not drinking it."
"If they are unconscious, don't make them tea. Unconscious people don't want tea and can't answer the question 'do you want tea' because they are unconscious."
SEE ALSO:
Consent: Not Actually That Complicated
This Is What Sexual Consent Really Means
In the Thames Valley Police video campaign, created by Blue Seat Studios, animations of stick people act out the words from May's original blog.
The campaign launched on Tuesday as part of Thames Valley police’s #ConsentisEverything campaign.
"The law is very clear. Sex without consent is rape," Detective chief inspector Justin Fletcher told The Guardian. "Awareness of what sexual consent means and how to get it is vital."
These People Definitely Shouldn't Have Done It Themselves...
There are tons of do-it-yourselfers in the world who are absolutely amazing at what they do. These creators can come up with brilliant homemade solutions to just about any problem, and their skills come in handy when it comes to decorating in a pinch. Sadly, though, the people in this video can't be counted among them.When they attempt to do it themselves, their failures are more than epic. While their projects may be dead in the water, their ability to make us laugh definitely isn't.
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Source: Don't Do It Yourself Compilation by vidibona on Rumble
It's pretty unfortunate that...
Watch The Incredible Transformation Of A Starving Street Dog Too Sick To Eat
When the angels at Animal Aid Unlimited heard about a dog living on the streets that looked more like a skeleton than a wandering stray, they knew they had to find and rescue the poor creature. What they found was a male dog in an absolutely horrific condition.The dog was so sick with mange that he had actually become too ill to eat. His rescuers quickly got him to the animal rescue center where he got IV fluids, nutritious food, and the medical care he so desperately needed to stand a chance at surviving. They ended up naming him Perry,...
Emperor Palpatine Elected To The City Council In Odessa
A man calling himself Emperor Palpatine has been elected to the city council in the Ukrainian seaport of Odessa. The 25 year-old tabled more than half the vote in local elections on Sunday.
The newly-elected city councillor is rumoured to have some forward-thinking policies on cycles lanes
Mayoral candidate Aleksandry Borovik detailed the Sith win on his Facebook page, noting that a “cartoon comrade of Darth Vader – Palpatine – received 54.4 percent of votes in Poselok Kotovskogo [one of Odessa’s neighborhoods]."
He continued: "Palpatine Dmitry, born in 1990, who works as an emperor at ‘LLC Palpatine Finance Group’ makes it to the city council on the Trust Affairs party list.”
“This is beyond my understanding,” he concluded. “People, what’s wrong with you?”
The city of Odessa has become a hotbed of Star Wars-themed political activity. Ukraine's The Internet Party put forward a raft of candidates for last weekend's election, including Darth Vader, Yoda, Padme Amidala and Chewbacca.
On Sunday, a man dressed as the famed Wookiee fell foul of the country's election laws, which prohibit campaigning on Election Day. He was thrown over a police van and handcuffed after a scuffle with local law enforcement. The man later appeared in court (still dressed as Chewbacca) to receive a mandatory fine for the disturbance.
Last week a statue of Lenin was transformed by a Ukrainian artists, who turned the ernest revolutionary into Luke Skywalker's dad.
The inauguration ceremony of a Darth Vader monument, formerly a statue of Soviet founder Lenin
The press office of the Galactic Empire has yet to respond to a request for comment.
Mayoral candidate Aleksandry Borovik detailed the Sith win on his Facebook page, noting that a “cartoon comrade of Darth Vader – Palpatine – received 54.4 percent of votes in Poselok Kotovskogo [one of Odessa’s neighborhoods]."
He continued: "Palpatine Dmitry, born in 1990, who works as an emperor at ‘LLC Palpatine Finance Group’ makes it to the city council on the Trust Affairs party list.”
“This is beyond my understanding,” he concluded. “People, what’s wrong with you?”
The city of Odessa has become a hotbed of Star Wars-themed political activity. Ukraine's The Internet Party put forward a raft of candidates for last weekend's election, including Darth Vader, Yoda, Padme Amidala and Chewbacca.
On Sunday, a man dressed as the famed Wookiee fell foul of the country's election laws, which prohibit campaigning on Election Day. He was thrown over a police van and handcuffed after a scuffle with local law enforcement. The man later appeared in court (still dressed as Chewbacca) to receive a mandatory fine for the disturbance.
Chewbacca in court after being nabbed for illegal campaigning. #onlyinukraine h/t @OnlineMagazin pic.twitter.com/tZ9MYJhPrw
— Natalia Antonova (@NataliaAntonova) October 25, 2015Last week a statue of Lenin was transformed by a Ukrainian artists, who turned the ernest revolutionary into Luke Skywalker's dad.
The press office of the Galactic Empire has yet to respond to a request for comment.
SEE ALSO:
What These People Can Do With A Simple Trampoline Is Completely Insane
Most people would agree that it's probably not a good idea to jump off of a roof onto a trampoline. Trampolines are dangerous enough on their own, and the risk factor only goes up when you add that kind of height. It really can't be safe. But don't tell that to the folks at People Are Awesome. For them, this is just an everyday activity.
video-player-present(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.3"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));Next level trampoline skills!Posted by People Are Awesome on Thursday, October...
Transgender People Speak Out Over Abuse, Insults And Public Services Letting Them Down To MPs Reviewing Inequality
Transgender people have spoken out about the physical abuse, insults and questionable treatment they have received from the public, NHS and police as part of the first ever Commons inquiry into equality for trans people.
The newly-formed Women and Equalities Committee has received written evidence from more than 250 individuals and groups as the MPs investigate "discrimination and unfair treatment" people receive.
Some of the submissions have been published on the committee's website as six Government ministers will tomorrow be grilled on how transgender issues are dealt with by their departments.
The evidence to the committee includes claims all trans people are portrayed "like Mrs Doubtfire" in the media, NHS staff "outting" one transgender person on a hospital ward, and delays to treatment forcing some to "self-medicate".
"I don't want money, or promises. I just want my life back."
A 59-year-old who describes themselves as a "male-to-female transsexual" in the early stage of transition raised issues over the diagnosis of gender dysphoria - the condition relating to discomfort with a person's assigned sex - and access to gender reassignment treatment under the NHS.
They say long waiting lists are seen as "normal" and the NHS is "consistently failing" in its obligation to provide treatment within 18 weeks of referral.
They say electrolysis and hair replacement, "essential parts" of the early transition process, are "not funded adequately if at all by the NHS". Delays in treatment are a concern because its forces many to "self-medicate".
"The necessary hormones and advice are readily available at relatively modest prices, and their effects on friends who have used them make their use almost irresistible," they explain.
"I am aware of the health risks, so I am reluctant to take this course without monitoring by my GP or practice nurse. But my GP has made it very clear that she is not prepared to offer that support.
"Nevertheless, if the only affordable alternative is a seemingly endless wait for NHS treatment, 'self-medding' may be my only acceptable option. It is certainly preferable to the risk of having to go back on anti-depressants."
"I have been harassed, spat at, run over in one instance, sexually assaulted, beaten, having dog faeces thrown at me, stones thrown at me, head-butted."
One person, transitioning from female to male, wrote about being shunned by their local community and how difficult it was to get a family doctor to take them seriously.
"A GP refused to examine me," they wrote. "And also literally moved her seat away from me when I told her that I actually had relationships with other women not men (she saw me as a female)."
They also claimed they "nearly died" as a result of the attitude.
"The GP told me to get out of the room and that there was nothing wrong with me, a few minutes later I started haemorrhaging and would have died if I'd have not ended up going to hospital for emergency surgery."
They record how they are "blatantly ignored" by councils and the police. "I've had to resort to even taking my clothes off and taking photographs of myself to send councils in order to prove I am not making up the fact I am transgender person."
While being refused service in shops and barbers, occasionally "things go a bit further".
"NHS staff are often rude, outting me as a transgender person, shouting loudly about how doctors are going to make a penis for me, telling me I'm put on a female ward because they don't know where to put me."
"My personal experience as a user of NHS gender identity services has been quite upsetting."
A 44-year-old undergoing treatment to transition from male to female wrote to the committee about the legal issues surrounding divorce and treatment by the NHS.
Their wife of 20 years is seeking a divorce on the grounds of "unreasonable behaviour".
"By accepting this argument, the legal system would appear to tacitly accept that being transgender is ‘unreasonable’, and that seeking medical treatment for transexualism in itself constitutes ‘unreasonable behaviour’, which I personally find offensive."
They also spoke of how it took 18 months to be referred to a specialist gender identity clinic, a further six months for a second assessment, and how the delay for a third has reached nine months.
"My personal experience as a user of NHS gender identity services has been quite upsetting. For over two years I have felt very alone and vulnerable.
"I have been very fortunate enough to be able to access private treatment during this period. In my experience, most women in similar positions have not been able to do this and have just had to wait."
"We are not counted as third rate but fourth-rate citizens."
Another writes about the attitudes from the public, police and media, from being "threatened and hit" to being "refused use of toilets and ignored at counters".
"Trans people very rarely report these insistences as they feel it is not dealt with as other crimes, but gets swept under the carpet. The media takes the view we are easy targets, and we are all like Mrs Doubtfire."
They also explain how job prospects are difficult for transgender people.
"It's the old story: an employer will say they are equal opportunity employers but behind doors are not - just to appease the obligations to interview us. This makes the benefits system a minefield."
They explain how a friend who had gender re-assignment surgery six years ago is still waiting for the treatment to be complete.
"Her timescale with transition fully from start of the pathway to GRS now is ten years and on going. Unacceptable, really. A person with a minor aliment is treated faster."
The newly-formed Women and Equalities Committee has received written evidence from more than 250 individuals and groups as the MPs investigate "discrimination and unfair treatment" people receive.
Some of the submissions have been published on the committee's website as six Government ministers will tomorrow be grilled on how transgender issues are dealt with by their departments.
The evidence to the committee includes claims all trans people are portrayed "like Mrs Doubtfire" in the media, NHS staff "outting" one transgender person on a hospital ward, and delays to treatment forcing some to "self-medicate".
"I don't want money, or promises. I just want my life back."
A 59-year-old who describes themselves as a "male-to-female transsexual" in the early stage of transition raised issues over the diagnosis of gender dysphoria - the condition relating to discomfort with a person's assigned sex - and access to gender reassignment treatment under the NHS.
They say long waiting lists are seen as "normal" and the NHS is "consistently failing" in its obligation to provide treatment within 18 weeks of referral.
They say electrolysis and hair replacement, "essential parts" of the early transition process, are "not funded adequately if at all by the NHS". Delays in treatment are a concern because its forces many to "self-medicate".
"The necessary hormones and advice are readily available at relatively modest prices, and their effects on friends who have used them make their use almost irresistible," they explain.
"I am aware of the health risks, so I am reluctant to take this course without monitoring by my GP or practice nurse. But my GP has made it very clear that she is not prepared to offer that support.
"Nevertheless, if the only affordable alternative is a seemingly endless wait for NHS treatment, 'self-medding' may be my only acceptable option. It is certainly preferable to the risk of having to go back on anti-depressants."
SEE ALSO:
Emily Brothers, Labour Candidate, Didn't Want To Wait For The Press To Out Her As Transgender
Siri Corrects People That Call Caitlyn Jenner 'Bruce'
92 Gorgeous Photos That Show What It Really Means To Be Trans
"I have been harassed, spat at, run over in one instance, sexually assaulted, beaten, having dog faeces thrown at me, stones thrown at me, head-butted."
One person, transitioning from female to male, wrote about being shunned by their local community and how difficult it was to get a family doctor to take them seriously.
"A GP refused to examine me," they wrote. "And also literally moved her seat away from me when I told her that I actually had relationships with other women not men (she saw me as a female)."
They also claimed they "nearly died" as a result of the attitude.
"The GP told me to get out of the room and that there was nothing wrong with me, a few minutes later I started haemorrhaging and would have died if I'd have not ended up going to hospital for emergency surgery."
They record how they are "blatantly ignored" by councils and the police. "I've had to resort to even taking my clothes off and taking photographs of myself to send councils in order to prove I am not making up the fact I am transgender person."
While being refused service in shops and barbers, occasionally "things go a bit further".
"NHS staff are often rude, outting me as a transgender person, shouting loudly about how doctors are going to make a penis for me, telling me I'm put on a female ward because they don't know where to put me."
This week, Jack Monroe issued a furious riposte to a Daily Mail article about the writer and political activist coming out as non-binary transgender.
Monroe, who has made a number of complaints over the media portrayal of gender, has urged the media to follow a style guide from the All About Trans organisation to cover the issue with more sensitivity.
"My personal experience as a user of NHS gender identity services has been quite upsetting."
A 44-year-old undergoing treatment to transition from male to female wrote to the committee about the legal issues surrounding divorce and treatment by the NHS.
Their wife of 20 years is seeking a divorce on the grounds of "unreasonable behaviour".
"By accepting this argument, the legal system would appear to tacitly accept that being transgender is ‘unreasonable’, and that seeking medical treatment for transexualism in itself constitutes ‘unreasonable behaviour’, which I personally find offensive."
They also spoke of how it took 18 months to be referred to a specialist gender identity clinic, a further six months for a second assessment, and how the delay for a third has reached nine months.
"My personal experience as a user of NHS gender identity services has been quite upsetting. For over two years I have felt very alone and vulnerable.
"I have been very fortunate enough to be able to access private treatment during this period. In my experience, most women in similar positions have not been able to do this and have just had to wait."
"We are not counted as third rate but fourth-rate citizens."
Another writes about the attitudes from the public, police and media, from being "threatened and hit" to being "refused use of toilets and ignored at counters".
"Trans people very rarely report these insistences as they feel it is not dealt with as other crimes, but gets swept under the carpet. The media takes the view we are easy targets, and we are all like Mrs Doubtfire."
They also explain how job prospects are difficult for transgender people.
"It's the old story: an employer will say they are equal opportunity employers but behind doors are not - just to appease the obligations to interview us. This makes the benefits system a minefield."
They explain how a friend who had gender re-assignment surgery six years ago is still waiting for the treatment to be complete.
"Her timescale with transition fully from start of the pathway to GRS now is ten years and on going. Unacceptable, really. A person with a minor aliment is treated faster."
'James Bond': Danny Dyer Just Proved Why He Should Replace Daniel Craig As The Next 007
If you’d ever wondered what it would be like if Danny Dyer was the next James Bond, then wonder no more.
The ‘EastEnders’ actor has shown us all the unique qualities (and vocabulary) he would bring to the role of 007, if he were ever to land the part.
Danny Dyer and Daniel Craig
In a series of videos posted on Twitter, Danny dubbed his voice over scenes from various Bond films, and the result makes us wish Daniel Craig would hand in his notice immediately.
Here’s a few things that would happen if the eastend bad boy took over as MI6’s golden boy…
Bond’s drink of choice would no longer be a Martini, and it certainly wouldn’t be shaken or stirred.
And 007 wouldn’t always have full control of his bowels.
Especially when he saw a spider.
But he would still “have a roll about” with the ladies, and would even wash his bits before hand “out of respect”.
Or, if producers didn’t think he was *quite* suitable for the role, he’d be the perfect Bond villain.
SOMEONE PLEASE MAKE THIS HAPPEN.
READ MORE:
The ‘EastEnders’ actor has shown us all the unique qualities (and vocabulary) he would bring to the role of 007, if he were ever to land the part.
In a series of videos posted on Twitter, Danny dubbed his voice over scenes from various Bond films, and the result makes us wish Daniel Craig would hand in his notice immediately.
Here’s a few things that would happen if the eastend bad boy took over as MI6’s golden boy…
Bond’s drink of choice would no longer be a Martini, and it certainly wouldn’t be shaken or stirred.
I'm just putting it out there......If Daniel Craig wants to move on... pic.twitter.com/w8FqA0gRps
— Danny Dyer (@MrDDyer) October 26, 2015And 007 wouldn’t always have full control of his bowels.
I was born for it.... pic.twitter.com/ZQbN0PWk4G
— Danny Dyer (@MrDDyer) October 26, 2015Especially when he saw a spider.
Worst Bond Ever!!!! pic.twitter.com/8yLuhRkHQV
— Danny Dyer (@MrDDyer) October 26, 2015But he would still “have a roll about” with the ladies, and would even wash his bits before hand “out of respect”.
Romance.... pic.twitter.com/D1C5fkoiMe
— Danny Dyer (@MrDDyer) October 26, 2015Or, if producers didn’t think he was *quite* suitable for the role, he’d be the perfect Bond villain.
Or I suppose the obvious choice is the Villain... pic.twitter.com/5JNp2yCxJG
— Danny Dyer (@MrDDyer) October 26, 2015SOMEONE PLEASE MAKE THIS HAPPEN.
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This Duck Is So Much Better At Soccer Than I Could Ever Hope To Be
I can admit that I'm not the greatest when it comes to athletics. But I didn't think I would ever be eclipsed by a sporty duck. The dog from Air Bud, sure, but seriously...a duck??Prepare to be amazed by this fine-feathered soccer star in the making. He is in the zone and nothing is breaking his coordination as he receives pass after pass. If there are any talent scouts out there reading this, you might want to sign this kid quack — er, I mean, quick.
video-player-present
Gooooooaaaaaalll!
Giphy
If I don't see this cutie at the next Olympics, I...
Kelly Brook 2016 Calendar: 'One Big Happy' Actress Strips Off For Raunchy New Photos (PICS)
Kelly Brook has given fans a sneak peek at her 2016 calendar, releasing these snaps from the raunchy shoot.
In one picture, the ‘One Big Happy’ star is posing in an open, pink shirt, sporting a pair of neon stilettos.
Kelly Brook
Kel’s latest calendar features a number of other sizzling snaps, including a cover image which shows her lounging in underwear.
The model-turned-actress works hard to maintain her figure, and she recently opened up about how being on the Atkins diet has helped, telling the Daily Mail: “Having reached my goal weight with Atkins and looking back, I can honestly say I have found it so straightforward to stick to. It has just slotted into my day-to-day life, which can be incredibly busy.
“My energy levels have improved, my skin is clearer, my hair looks glossier and to top it off, I feel so much more confident. I can't believe it is just down to simple changes in my diet, like cutting down the amount of sugar I put in my cups of tea.”
Kelly hasn’t exactly had the easiest year, and her acting career hit a stumbling block when her Ellen Degeneres-produced sitcom ‘One Big Happy’ was panned by critics, and then cancelled.
She’s recently found happiness though, and last month Kel hinted that she would consider getting hitched to boyfriend Jeremy Parisi.
The Official 2016 Kelly Brook Calendar is on sale in all good retail outlets including Clintons, Calendar Club or buy online at www.danilo.com.
In one picture, the ‘One Big Happy’ star is posing in an open, pink shirt, sporting a pair of neon stilettos.
Kel’s latest calendar features a number of other sizzling snaps, including a cover image which shows her lounging in underwear.
The model-turned-actress works hard to maintain her figure, and she recently opened up about how being on the Atkins diet has helped, telling the Daily Mail: “Having reached my goal weight with Atkins and looking back, I can honestly say I have found it so straightforward to stick to. It has just slotted into my day-to-day life, which can be incredibly busy.
“My energy levels have improved, my skin is clearer, my hair looks glossier and to top it off, I feel so much more confident. I can't believe it is just down to simple changes in my diet, like cutting down the amount of sugar I put in my cups of tea.”
Kelly hasn’t exactly had the easiest year, and her acting career hit a stumbling block when her Ellen Degeneres-produced sitcom ‘One Big Happy’ was panned by critics, and then cancelled.
She’s recently found happiness though, and last month Kel hinted that she would consider getting hitched to boyfriend Jeremy Parisi.
The Official 2016 Kelly Brook Calendar is on sale in all good retail outlets including Clintons, Calendar Club or buy online at www.danilo.com.
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He Used To Sit Online All Day, Until Something Clicked And Changed His Entire Life
Everyone knows that the key to losing weight is exercising and maintaining a good, healthy diet. While that knowledge is no secret, many people find it difficult to come up with a diet and exercise plan that works for them. It also doesn't help that the foods that are bad for you taste so good!Jesse Shand used to sit online all day and cyber-bully people. He wasn't mindful of his diet, and he never exercised. While trolling on the Internet one day, something clicked, and it inspired him to live a better, healthier life.
video-player-present
What an amazing transformation in...
Stella Creasy Perfectly Sums Up Why Tampons Are Not 'Luxury' Items
Stella Creasy summed up why tampons are not 'luxury' items during a discussion on the proposed amendment to the Finance Bill on Tuesday. The amendment would renegotiate the five per cent tax applied to sanitary products.
Her joke-filled rant took aim at other products that are not taxed, such as Jaffa Cakes and razors, while sanitary products are still considered to be a ‘luxury item’.
"Tampons and sanitary towels, even I'm struggling with the words tonight it seems, have always been considered a luxury. That isn't by accident, that's by design of an unequal society, in which the concerns of women are not treated as equally as the concerns of men," she began.
Stella Creasy has perfectly summed up why tampons are not luxury items
Creasy continued: "Jaffa Cakes are zero rated, now I am not a fan of Jaffa Cakes, let it be known. If you offer me a Jaffa Cake I will refuse, but I do not consider them to be essential to my life. I can give or take them.
"I recongnise that razors are [also] zero rated, judging by some of the members opposite, the opportunity to shave everyday is for many of them a human right. They are cleanly shaven, I'm sure they would be concerned to be charged in that way. So too perhaps one we can all agree on, as a necessity.
"Pitta bread is zero rated. What is the kebab, without a good pitta bread around it? It is a necessity?" she continued.
"It is when you start looking at what is described as a necessity and what is described as a luxury, that you see the inequalities in this debate."
Earlier in the debate Creasy won over viewers after making Tory MP Bill Cash say the word "tampons", after he frequently referred to them as "products."
The outcome of the vote ended in a tight win for the government, MP's voting by 305 to 287 to block an outright call for removing the levy on women's sanitary products, but at the cost of promising to raise the issue with EU leaders.
Currently, tampons are subject to EU tax, meaning that women are charged a government fee to purchase them, on top of the costs incurred by retailers, topped up by profit margins.
Her joke-filled rant took aim at other products that are not taxed, such as Jaffa Cakes and razors, while sanitary products are still considered to be a ‘luxury item’.
"Tampons and sanitary towels, even I'm struggling with the words tonight it seems, have always been considered a luxury. That isn't by accident, that's by design of an unequal society, in which the concerns of women are not treated as equally as the concerns of men," she began.
Creasy continued: "Jaffa Cakes are zero rated, now I am not a fan of Jaffa Cakes, let it be known. If you offer me a Jaffa Cake I will refuse, but I do not consider them to be essential to my life. I can give or take them.
"I recongnise that razors are [also] zero rated, judging by some of the members opposite, the opportunity to shave everyday is for many of them a human right. They are cleanly shaven, I'm sure they would be concerned to be charged in that way. So too perhaps one we can all agree on, as a necessity.
"Pitta bread is zero rated. What is the kebab, without a good pitta bread around it? It is a necessity?" she continued.
"It is when you start looking at what is described as a necessity and what is described as a luxury, that you see the inequalities in this debate."
SEE ALSO:
Earlier in the debate Creasy won over viewers after making Tory MP Bill Cash say the word "tampons", after he frequently referred to them as "products."
The outcome of the vote ended in a tight win for the government, MP's voting by 305 to 287 to block an outright call for removing the levy on women's sanitary products, but at the cost of promising to raise the issue with EU leaders.
Currently, tampons are subject to EU tax, meaning that women are charged a government fee to purchase them, on top of the costs incurred by retailers, topped up by profit margins.
27 Hilarious Wedding Fails That Made These Big Days Truly Unforgettable
Weddings are always tense. Emotions run high for everyone involved, and that can lead to some seriously hectic moments. If you're lucky, though, those moments can also be totally hilarious.These big days didn't got off without a hitch, but the fails probably made getting married even more memorable.
1. Giving new meaning to the phrase "to have and to hold."
Reddit / 8364832
2. They can't say that their day wasn't unforgettable!
Reddit / ApexTheory
3. Thank goodness this groomsman's wife had him covered.
Reddit / Draseph
4. Nice arm! Okay...a little too nice.
Gifbay
5. I hope he doesn't...
When This Cat Hears Distress Calls, She Does The Funniest Thing
When it comes to finding the perfect birthday card for a friend, the kitschier, the better. Unless you're this cat, that is, in which case she would prefer you keep it simple and sound-free.When her human leaves a card featuring some talented felines meowing the familiar birthday song open on the floor, this real-life cat is having none of it. Either she thinks the poor things are stuck inside a paper prison without an escape, or she's just jealous of their synchronized singing skills. Whichever reason, her reaction is hilarious.
video-player-present
"Alright, that's enough of that."
YouTube / Kyoot Animals...
Ronda Rousey Becomes First MMA Fighter To Star On Cover Of Boxing Magazine 'The Ring'
Ronda Rousey has already proven her worth within the MMA circuit. But could she soon take on the boxing scene, too?
The MMA fighter has proven that she's making huge strides in the sports industry by starring on the cover of boxing magazine 'The Ring'.
Rousey is reportedly the first MMA athlete to ever star on the cover of the magazine. She's also the second woman to grace the front of the publication - the first was Cathy Davis in 1978.
Next to an image of the fighter wearing a pair of boxing gloves, the cover line reads: "She conquered MMA. Is boxing next?"
The female UFC bantamweight champion made headlines earlier this year after saying she'd beat professional boxer Floyd Mayweather in a "no rules" fight.
"Floyd is one of the best boxers of all time. He would definitely beat me in a boxing match," she said in a Reddit AMA thread.
"I unfortunately don't get into 'matches'. I fight for a living. In a no rules fight, I believe I can beat anyone on this planet.
"Boxing is a sweet science with strict rules that I respect very much and aspire every day to improve at. But you said ruleless fight, and that's my honest answer."
[H/T Bleacher Report]
The MMA fighter has proven that she's making huge strides in the sports industry by starring on the cover of boxing magazine 'The Ring'.
Rousey is reportedly the first MMA athlete to ever star on the cover of the magazine. She's also the second woman to grace the front of the publication - the first was Cathy Davis in 1978.
Next to an image of the fighter wearing a pair of boxing gloves, the cover line reads: "She conquered MMA. Is boxing next?"
The female UFC bantamweight champion made headlines earlier this year after saying she'd beat professional boxer Floyd Mayweather in a "no rules" fight.
"Floyd is one of the best boxers of all time. He would definitely beat me in a boxing match," she said in a Reddit AMA thread.
"I unfortunately don't get into 'matches'. I fight for a living. In a no rules fight, I believe I can beat anyone on this planet.
"Boxing is a sweet science with strict rules that I respect very much and aspire every day to improve at. But you said ruleless fight, and that's my honest answer."
SEE ALSO:
Ronda Rousey Defeats Bethe Correia In 34 Seconds: Here's 7 Reasons Why The MMA Star Inspires Us
Ronda Rousey, Female UFC Champion, Challenges Floyd Mayweather To No Rules Fight: 'I Believe I Can Beat Anyone'
[H/T Bleacher Report]
Upon Discovering An Extremely Rare Bird, This Scientist Decided To...Kill It?
When scientists make incredible discoveries, they want to hold onto those moments forever. These rare finds don't roll around often, so when they do, it's only logical that researchers would want to be recognized for their work.But the way that Chris Filardi handled his recent scientific discovery is causing a bit of controversy in the field. Filardi is an ornithologist who was researching the whereabouts of a rare bird called the mustached kingfisher. These birds were thought to be extinct years ago, and once Filardi spotted one, he made a decision that has caused an understandable uproar.
Filardi "collected" the...
Cameron Announces Lord Strathclyde To Lead Review Of Lords Following Government Defeat Over Tax Credit Cuts
David Cameron has moved swiftly to exact revenge on the Upper House following twin defeats in the Lords on Monday evening that delayed George Osborne's flagship welfare reforms. Following the loss, which upended the government's planned cuts to tax credits, the prime minister promised a “rapid review” to prevent peers blocking fiscal policy in the future.
On Tuesday, a Number 10 spokesperson said: “The Government is setting up a review to examine how to protect the ability of elected Governments to secure their business in Parliament. The review would consider in particular how to secure the decisive role of the elected House of Commons in relation to (i) its primacy on financial matters; and (ii) secondary legislation. The review will be led by Lord Strathclyde, supported by a small panel of experts.”
In response, the Shadow Leader of the Lords, Baroness Smith of Basildon, lambasted the review as "an attempt to bully Lords."
“This is a massive over-reaction from a Prime Minister that clearly resents any challenge or meaningful scrutiny," she said. "The House of Lords rejected George Osborne’s tax credit cuts and said he should think again. If this is a further attempt to try to bully Lords, the government underestimates how seriously Peers of all parties and none take their constitutional responsibilities.”
“We would welcome a serious review of the House and have already called for a constitutional convention," she added."But any review should be in the public interest and not for narrow partisan benefit.”
After the defeat the chancellor said he would delay the policy until he comes up with a way of “compensating” workers affected by the cuts for at least three years. "I said I would listen to the concerns being raised and that is precisely what I will do,” said Osborne. "We can achieve the same goal of reforming these tax credits, securing the money we need to ensure our economy is safe, and at the same time helping in the transition to these changes and I will set out how we achieve that at the Autumn Statement."
On Tuesday it was revealed that families likely to be hit by the tax credits cuts will not be informed of their plight for a month. Following the Treasury's climbdown, Downing Street said letters telling three million people they face losing the benefit may not be sent in December or implemented in April as planned.
On Tuesday, a Number 10 spokesperson said: “The Government is setting up a review to examine how to protect the ability of elected Governments to secure their business in Parliament. The review would consider in particular how to secure the decisive role of the elected House of Commons in relation to (i) its primacy on financial matters; and (ii) secondary legislation. The review will be led by Lord Strathclyde, supported by a small panel of experts.”
In response, the Shadow Leader of the Lords, Baroness Smith of Basildon, lambasted the review as "an attempt to bully Lords."
“This is a massive over-reaction from a Prime Minister that clearly resents any challenge or meaningful scrutiny," she said. "The House of Lords rejected George Osborne’s tax credit cuts and said he should think again. If this is a further attempt to try to bully Lords, the government underestimates how seriously Peers of all parties and none take their constitutional responsibilities.”
“We would welcome a serious review of the House and have already called for a constitutional convention," she added."But any review should be in the public interest and not for narrow partisan benefit.”
After the defeat the chancellor said he would delay the policy until he comes up with a way of “compensating” workers affected by the cuts for at least three years. "I said I would listen to the concerns being raised and that is precisely what I will do,” said Osborne. "We can achieve the same goal of reforming these tax credits, securing the money we need to ensure our economy is safe, and at the same time helping in the transition to these changes and I will set out how we achieve that at the Autumn Statement."
On Tuesday it was revealed that families likely to be hit by the tax credits cuts will not be informed of their plight for a month. Following the Treasury's climbdown, Downing Street said letters telling three million people they face losing the benefit may not be sent in December or implemented in April as planned.
SEE ALSO:
Monday, 26 October 2015
21 Adorable Animals That Just Wanted To Drop In And Say Hello
When you're having a bad day, even the smallest thing can help make it brighter. Something as simple as a smile or a wave from a stranger reminds you that there are other people out there going through some of the same stuff you are, and that it'll be alright! These adorable animals are here to help remind you of that, too!
1. You're never too young to learn to surf...Alohaaaa!
Reddit / asapfloppy
2. The little twirl adds a nice touch!
YouTube
3. "If you want anything more than a wave, you're going to have to come to me....
Tampon Tax: Government Narowly Avoids 'Humiliating Defeat' After Last Minute EU Concessions
The fight to abolish Britain's “tampon tax” was ignited on Monday, as Tory ministers bowed to pressure and offered fresh concessions to campaigning MPs in a successful bid to stave off their second embarrassing defeat of the evening.
Monday's climbdown earned the Government a tight win, MPs voting by 305 to 287 to block an outright call for removing the 5 percent levy on women's sanitary products, but at the cost of promising to raise the issue with EU leaders.
Currently, tampons are subject to EU tax, meaning that women are charged a government fee to purchase them, on top of the costs incurred by retailers, topped up by profit margins.
Research suggests that some women fork out up to £18,450 across their lifetime to purchase products used for periods.
Labour attempted to call for an end to the tax, with concerns among senior figures in the Conservative Party that the opposition's motion would garner enough crossbench support to force a humiliating defeat on them.
But financial secretary to the treasury David Gauke managed to win over enough of his own party's MPs by committing to raise the issue in talks with European Commissioners.
However, Gauke stressed the law was unlikely to change.
"Without that agreement [of all 28 member states], we are not permitted to lower rates below 5 percent.
"Nonetheless, as this debate illustrates there is very considerable cross-party support for the UK to abolish VAT on sanitary products.
"To that end, I undertake to the House I will raise this issue with the European Commission and other member states setting out the views reflected in this debate - that it should apply a zero rate to sanitary products."
But he added: "I do not want to conceal from the House we don't have flexibility in this circumstances, nor do I want to conceal from the House the challenge that would exist in reaching agreement.
"Other member states do take a different approach... I don't want to pretend this is a formality."
Labour MP Paula Sherriff introduced the bill, and was backed by some Eurosceptic MPs who used their opposition as an attempt to undercut the EU.
Sherriff had told her Commons colleagues that the 5 percent VAT charge "hits the poorest the hardest".
"Imagine, for example, being homeless when that time of the month comes," she said.
"Think what it's like to face a period without even having a bathroom."
SNP MP Alison Thewliss also commented, saying: "It is absurd that while men's razors, children's nappies and even products like Jaffa Cakes, exotic meats and edible cake decorations are free from VAT, women are still having to pay additional costs on what is already an expensive yet vital product."
Concerns were raised that the Government might lose its second landmark vote on Monday, after it suffered a blow from the House of Lords, peers voting to back a Labour amendment that will force George Osborne to mitigate the effects of his tax credit cuts.
Monday's climbdown earned the Government a tight win, MPs voting by 305 to 287 to block an outright call for removing the 5 percent levy on women's sanitary products, but at the cost of promising to raise the issue with EU leaders.
Currently, tampons are subject to EU tax, meaning that women are charged a government fee to purchase them, on top of the costs incurred by retailers, topped up by profit margins.
Research suggests that some women fork out up to £18,450 across their lifetime to purchase products used for periods.
Labour attempted to call for an end to the tax, with concerns among senior figures in the Conservative Party that the opposition's motion would garner enough crossbench support to force a humiliating defeat on them.
But financial secretary to the treasury David Gauke managed to win over enough of his own party's MPs by committing to raise the issue in talks with European Commissioners.
However, Gauke stressed the law was unlikely to change.
"Without that agreement [of all 28 member states], we are not permitted to lower rates below 5 percent.
"Nonetheless, as this debate illustrates there is very considerable cross-party support for the UK to abolish VAT on sanitary products.
"To that end, I undertake to the House I will raise this issue with the European Commission and other member states setting out the views reflected in this debate - that it should apply a zero rate to sanitary products."
But he added: "I do not want to conceal from the House we don't have flexibility in this circumstances, nor do I want to conceal from the House the challenge that would exist in reaching agreement.
"Other member states do take a different approach... I don't want to pretend this is a formality."
Labour MP Paula Sherriff introduced the bill, and was backed by some Eurosceptic MPs who used their opposition as an attempt to undercut the EU.
Sherriff had told her Commons colleagues that the 5 percent VAT charge "hits the poorest the hardest".
"Imagine, for example, being homeless when that time of the month comes," she said.
"Think what it's like to face a period without even having a bathroom."
SNP MP Alison Thewliss also commented, saying: "It is absurd that while men's razors, children's nappies and even products like Jaffa Cakes, exotic meats and edible cake decorations are free from VAT, women are still having to pay additional costs on what is already an expensive yet vital product."
Concerns were raised that the Government might lose its second landmark vote on Monday, after it suffered a blow from the House of Lords, peers voting to back a Labour amendment that will force George Osborne to mitigate the effects of his tax credit cuts.
READ MORE:
The Reason This Cat Is Excited To Play With A Box Is So Cute. Just Wait For It...
Just like a freshman at college, this little kitten is obsessed with ramen noodle boxes...except for her, it's not about the food that's inside. No, it's because there's something else lurking within that she just can't wait to find. Something even cuter than this precious feline's attempts to rescue it.Prepare yourself for the adorableness that happens 17 seconds in...
video-player-present
That might be the cutest version of peekaboo I've ever seen!
Tax Credit Lords Defeat Triggers Constitutional Crisis, Osborne Forced Into Climbdown Over Welfare Reforms
George Osborne was forced into a dramatic climbdown over his flagship welfare reforms on Monday after the government's cuts to tax credits were upended in the House of Lords. The double defeat in the Lords could trigger a constitutional crisis, with David Cameron reacting to defeat by promising retribution, including a “rapid review” to prevent peers blocking fiscal policy in the future.
After the defeat the chancellor said he would delay the policy until he comes up with a way of “compensating” workers affected by the cuts for at least three years. "I said I would listen to the concerns being raised and that is precisely what I will do,” said Osborne. "We can achieve the same goal of reforming these tax credits, securing the money we need to ensure our economy is safe, and at the same time helping in the transition to these changes and I will set out how we achieve that at the Autumn Statement."
The vote represents the first time in 100 years that the House of Lords has voted down a financial bill already approved by the House of Commons. A Downing Street spokesman said on Monday: “The Prime Minister is determined we will address this constitutional issue. A convention exists and it has been broken. He has asked for a rapid review to see how it can be put back in place."
Earlier in the Lords, Labour peer Patricia Hollis' motion to have a three-year transition for low-paid workers won by 289 votes to 272. It followed another motion tabled by the cross-bench peer Molly Meacher to delay the cuts until ministers spelled out how they would help low-paid workers triumphing by 307 votes to 277. However, a fatal motion, tabled by the Liberal Democrat peer Zahida Manzoor, that would have killed the cuts outright, failed by 310 votes to 99.
Conservatives reacted with anger at the results. Tory backbencher Edward Leigh said: “Not for 100 years has the House of Lords defied this elected House. This is a serious matter and I ask for the speaker to give a statement to protect the rights of the elected representatives, not just for us but for the people of this country.” Theresa May’s Parliamentary Private Secretary, said: “It should and hopefully will have consequences for the House of Lords.”
Labour's John McDonnell said the government defeat should force Osborne to "think again." The shadow chancellor said Britons were "shocked" by the Chancellor's determination to institute the divisive welfare reforms, which would slash £4.4 billion from working tax credits and child tax credits, effecting some of Britain's poorest households.
Speaking to Sky News, he said: "George Osborne has got to think again. He has been defeated twice in the House of Lords tonight but there are a large number of Conservative MPs as well who have been telling him very, very clearly he has got to think again on this one. I think now he is going to have to come back with further proposals."
After the defeat the chancellor said he would delay the policy until he comes up with a way of “compensating” workers affected by the cuts for at least three years. "I said I would listen to the concerns being raised and that is precisely what I will do,” said Osborne. "We can achieve the same goal of reforming these tax credits, securing the money we need to ensure our economy is safe, and at the same time helping in the transition to these changes and I will set out how we achieve that at the Autumn Statement."
The vote represents the first time in 100 years that the House of Lords has voted down a financial bill already approved by the House of Commons. A Downing Street spokesman said on Monday: “The Prime Minister is determined we will address this constitutional issue. A convention exists and it has been broken. He has asked for a rapid review to see how it can be put back in place."
Earlier in the Lords, Labour peer Patricia Hollis' motion to have a three-year transition for low-paid workers won by 289 votes to 272. It followed another motion tabled by the cross-bench peer Molly Meacher to delay the cuts until ministers spelled out how they would help low-paid workers triumphing by 307 votes to 277. However, a fatal motion, tabled by the Liberal Democrat peer Zahida Manzoor, that would have killed the cuts outright, failed by 310 votes to 99.
Conservatives reacted with anger at the results. Tory backbencher Edward Leigh said: “Not for 100 years has the House of Lords defied this elected House. This is a serious matter and I ask for the speaker to give a statement to protect the rights of the elected representatives, not just for us but for the people of this country.” Theresa May’s Parliamentary Private Secretary, said: “It should and hopefully will have consequences for the House of Lords.”
Labour's John McDonnell said the government defeat should force Osborne to "think again." The shadow chancellor said Britons were "shocked" by the Chancellor's determination to institute the divisive welfare reforms, which would slash £4.4 billion from working tax credits and child tax credits, effecting some of Britain's poorest households.
Watch Baroness Meacher's heated debate over the tax credits vote with Mark Ellis MP here: https://t.co/o1lE3kwhF7 pic.twitter.com/vPesPmuN5Q
— Sky News Tonight (@SkyNewsTonight) October 26, 2015Speaking to Sky News, he said: "George Osborne has got to think again. He has been defeated twice in the House of Lords tonight but there are a large number of Conservative MPs as well who have been telling him very, very clearly he has got to think again on this one. I think now he is going to have to come back with further proposals."
Many congratulations to the Lords for teaching Govt a bit of fairness & humanity - shame it takes an unelected body to do it #taxcredits
— Caroline Lucas (@CarolineLucas) October 26, 2015I welcome the delay in cuts to #taxcredits, but the campaign must continue to protect the incomes of working Londoners.
— Sadiq Khan MP (@SadiqKhan) October 26, 2015What a disgrace that the unelected House had to champion working people because too many MPs were brow-beaten by govt whips. #taxcredits
— Wes Streeting MP (@wesstreeting) October 26, 2015SEE ALSO:
When This Guy Finds A Random Person In His Bed, He's Actually Pretty Cool About It
Have you ever woken up in an unfamiliar place? Maybe you spent the night at a new friend's apartment and woke up groggy...perhaps it's happened on vacation...or maybe you're just in your bed but had too much to drink last night. It's pretty disorienting -- but more often than not, we realize that we do, in fact, know where we are. When this stranger was awoken in the middle of the night, though, what happened was quite the opposite. He was so sure he was in his own bed, that the actual homeowner had to take him on a tour...
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