Calais Jungle destroyed
As of the afternoon of Monday 31st, the final shelters in the Calais jungle have been demolished. The destruction of this camp has resulted in the displacement of 7000 people to other places in France, raising concerns about the expansion of other camps, specifically those near the Paris area. 1500 unaccompanied children have been transferred to different reception centres around France after French authorities declared that future applications for transfer to the UK will not be handled in Calais. President Francois Hollande has stated that France ‘cannot tolerate camps’, as they are not a long-lasting solution, suggesting that future closure of further camps can be expected.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-37828190
Fifa disapproves proposal for poppy armbands for Remembrance Day game
Citing its ban on political, religious and commercial messages on shirts, Fifa has refused to allow English or Scottish football players to wear poppy armbands during their game at Wembley on the 11th November. Their decision has faced significant criticism from many high-ranking individuals and groups. PM Theresa May has declared it ‘utterly outrageous’, referring to previous corruption allegations made against them as evidence that Fifa does not have the right to suggest correct behaviour. Others have suggested that Fifa have misunderstood the poppy if they consider it a political symbol, arguing instead that it is just a gesture of respect. Fifa have not yet outlined what the potential penalties will be if the teams defy their decision.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/37848413
Royal Clarence destroyed in fire
In a tragedy close to home, The Royal Clarence Hotel on Cathedral Green has burned down this week. The fire started around 5:30am on Friday 29th above the Castle Fine Art gallery and spread to the Well House Tavern and the Royal Clarence. After burning for more than 48 hours, the fire was eventually put out and demolition of the remaining parts of the building has begun. Thankfully no-one was hurt in the incident, but it has left many devastated as a beautiful historical building has been lost to the Exeter community.
Ruling states that UK government do not have right to trigger Article 50 independent of Parliament
The High Court have ruled that the UK government are constitutionally unable to trigger Article 50 without the approval of Parliament. The government have appealed this decision, with another hearing expected next month. The main debate is whether the referendum is enough of a mandate for the government to act independently, or if it needs further legitimacy from Parliament itself. Theresa May’s spokeswoman has insisted that the PM intends to stick to her March 2017 deadline for triggering the article; however, suggestions that she might call an early election in order to do this have been rebuked.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-37857785