Better sex and relationship education in schools should be at the centre of efforts to tackle health and relationship issues among young people. That was the message from Jo Swinson MP today after she quizzed the Schools Minister on plans to reform sex education.
Delegates at the UN summit in Bali have agreed a deal on curbing climate change after days of bitter wrangling. Agreement was reached after a U-turn from the US, which had wanted firmer commitments from developing countries. Environment groups said they were disappointed by the lack of firm targets for reducing emissions. The final text does not mention specific emissions targets, but does acknowledge that "deep cuts in global emissions will be required to achieve the ultimate objective" of avoiding dangerous climate change.
The opening of the new Westernhanger Motorway Service Station at junction 11 of the M20 has been delayed until 7th January, according to the Channel Chamber of Commerce.
Government attempts to rally support for an extension of police powers to detention without trial from 28 to 42 days received a further blow from MPs and peers. The joint Lords-Commons committee on human rights said in a report that evidence from the Crown Prosecution Service that it was satisfied with the present limit "seems devastating to the government's case for an extension". Its verdict came less than 24 hours after a similar verdict in a report from the Commons home affairs select committee, that there was as yet "no evidence" for the limit to be increased. Only six of the 71 formal submissions to ministers have been in favour of extension.
Dover District Council has begun using its own wind turbine to produce power for some of its offices. It is estimated the turbine, which is helping to power the Council's Whitfield premises, could save up to £4,000 a year on bills.
Lib Dem Parliamentary candidate Councillor Wera Hobhouse has expressed concern that the loss of personal data by the government could lead to misery among residents in Heywood and Middleton.
