Rishi Sunak has insisted he acted “pretty decisively” by sacking Nadhim Zahawi for breaching the ministerial code over his tax affairs as he vowed to restore “integrity” to politics.
The Prime Minister said he followed the “right process” as critics argued he should have acted sooner, and the ousted Tory chairman’s allies complained he was not allowed to make his case.
Beginning his fightback after the fiasco, Mr Sunak stressed “integrity is important to me” and promised to take “whatever steps are necessary to restore the integrity back into politics”.
But his spokesman said there are no plans to reform the system that allowed him to appoint Mr Zahawi while supposedly unaware of his HMRC settlement.
After a fortnight of pressure, Mr Sunak sacked the party chair on Sunday after ministerial interests adviser Sir Laurie Magnus delivered a damning verdict.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during a Q&A session at Teesside University in Darlington (Oli Scaff/PA)
The Prime Minister said during a visit to County Durham on Monday: “On the basis of those facts I was able to make a very quick decision that it was no longer appropriate for Nadhim Zahawi to continue in Government.
“It relates to things that happened well before I was Prime Minister, so unfortunately I can’t change what happened in the past.
“What I did, as soon as I knew about the situation, was appoint someone independent, looked at it, got the advice and then acted pretty decisively.”
Nadhim Zahawi was sacked on Sunday (Victoria Jones/PA)
Mr Zahawi settled his £4.8 million tax dispute with HMRC while he was chancellor under Boris Johnson.
No 10 insists Mr Sunak was not aware of any “outstanding issues” when he appointed him party chairman after becoming Prime Minister in October.
However, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said there are no plans to change the process requiring MPs to “declare all relevant interests” before their appointment.
“I’m not aware of any plans to change the longstanding approach which sees ministers be required to declare any relevant interests, abide by the ministerial code and face sanction if they fail to do so,” he said.
Allies of Mr Zahawi claim the MP had lost his job after being given only limited time to make his case, with the Telegraph citing claims suggesting he was only given a 30-minute meeting with the independent adviser to defend himself.
Figures inside Downing Street were disputing claims from those around Mr Zahawi, insisting there had been two conversations with Sir Laurie.
Mr Sunak’s spokesman said: “We did not set any time limit for the adviser and he was free to carry out the investigation to establish the facts, and conclude his work when he felt he had done so.
“He was able to speak to whoever he wished to in that process and we’re confident he established the facts.”
The official was forced to defend Mr Sunak’s decision to re-appoint Suella Braverman as Home Secretary just six days after she was forced out over a security breach.
“Suella Braverman resigned and acknowledged the mistake she made – she took accountability for her actions,” the spokesman said. “It was on that basis that the Prime Minister subsequently chose to reappoint her.”
Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab remains under investigation over alleged bullying of civil servants after an investigation was launched in November.
The letter from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to Nadhim Zahawi who has been sacked as Conservative Party chairman (10 Downing Street/PA)
Mr Zahawi did not comment explicitly on the row in his letter to the Prime Minister following his sacking, instead taking aim at the media as he complained “about the conduct from some of the fourth estate in recent weeks”.
The Liberal Democrats wrote to Mr Sunak saying he should now strip Mr Zahawi of the Tory whip if he refuses to quit as the MP for Stratford-on-Avon.
Deputy leader Daisy Cooper said: “Sunak dragged his feet for weeks over this scandal. He must now act swiftly if he’s serious about restoring integrity to this sleaze-ridden Conservative Government.”
Labour chairwoman Anneliese Dodds said her party has also written to the PM to ask when he found out about the HMRC investigation into the former Conservative Party chairman, adding that the PM “needed a backbone” and should have sacked Mr Zahawi earlier because “the facts were clear”.
“There are serious questions for Rishi Sunak to answer. What did he know about the investigation into Nadhim Zahawi, the amount of money he had paid in unpaid tax and the penalty he had to pay?” she told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme.
“Why did Rishi Sunak say in Parliament that there weren’t questions to be answered about Mr Zahawi’s tax affairs, and why do we see our Prime Minister continuing to prop up such a rogues’ gallery of ministers?”
Since I’ve seen reports of people placing bets on me being the new party chairman, please be aware that I will absolutely not be returning to politics in any shape or form, including that one.
Sir Laurie’s four-page report, received by Mr Sunak on Sunday morning, concluded that “Mr Zahawi’s conduct as a minister has fallen below the high standards that, as Prime Minister, you rightly expect from those who serve in your Government”.
Mr Zahawi’s failure to tell officials about the tax investigation “constitute a serious failure to meet the standards set out in the ministerial code”, Sir Laurie said.
The Tory chairman had shown “insufficient regard for the general principles of the Ministerial Code and the requirements in particular, under the seven Principles of Public Life, to be honest, open and an exemplary leader through his own behaviour”.
Sir Laurie said: “In the appointments process for the governments formed in September 2022 and October 2022, Mr Zahawi failed to disclose relevant information – in this case the nature of the investigation and its outcome in a penalty – at the time of his appointment, including to Cabinet Office officials who support that process.
“Without knowledge of that information, the Cabinet Office was not in a position to inform the appointing Prime Minister.”
Stephen Massey, the party’s chief executive, has stepped in as interim chair until Mr Sunak chooses a successor.
Former Tory leader Lord Hague, Mr Sunak’s predecessor as MP for Richmond, dismissed speculation linking him to the vacancy.
“Since I’ve seen reports of people placing bets on me being the new party chairman, please be aware that I will absolutely not be returning to politics in any shape or form, including that one,” he said.
The Who have announced a very special Hits Back! UK tour for July 2023 visiting outdoor venues and one arena.
Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey and co. will be flanked by a full orchestra each night on the nine-date tour, which opens at Hull Sewell Group Craven Park on Thursday 6th July.
The Who play two nights at Edinburgh Castle before visiting London’s The O2, Derby The Incora County Ground, Bristol Badminton Estate, Durham Seat Unique Riverside, St Helens Totally Wicked Stadium and Brighton The 1st Central County Ground.
The Edinburgh Castle concerts are The Who’s first appearance in the Scottish capital in over 40 years, and they haven’t played Derby since way back in 1966.
The gigs follow last year’s highly acclaimed ‘The Who Hits Back’ tour of the US, where the band shared the stage with some of the finest orchestras in America.
The Who UK tour tickets:
Tickets to The Who’s UK tour go on sale from Planet Rock Tickets at 10am on Friday 3rd February 2023.
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell will support The Who at the majority of their UK dates except Edinburgh and London.
The Who announce orchestral UK tour
The 2023 UK tour will feature The Who’s full live band comprised of guitarist/backup singer Simon Townshend, keyboardist Loren Gold, second keyboardist Emily Marshall, bassist Jon Button, drummer Zak Starkey and backing vocals by Billy Nicholls, along with orchestra conductor Keith Levenson, lead violinist Katie Jacoby and lead cellist Audrey Snyder.
The Who will perform music from throughout their nearly 60-year career, including sections devoted to classic albums ‘Tommy’ and ‘Quadrophenia’ as well as other beloved Who tracks and songs from their 2019 ‘WHO’ album, their first studio release in 13 years.
Roger Daltrey says: “Having not toured the UK for six years, it’s great that at this time of our careers we have the chance to go to places that are not on the usual touring map Edinburgh Castle and Derby, as well as the other cities across the country that we haven’t been to for decades, will make this very special for me.
“This opportunity will give our UK Who fans the chance to hear our current show, which, with the addition of an orchestra, takes our music to new heights.”
Pete Townshend: “Roger initially christened this tour with an orchestra ‘Moving On!’ I love it. It is what both of us want to do. Move on, with new music, classic Who music, all performed in new and exciting ways. Taking risks, nothing to lose. I’m really looking forward to bringing this show to the UK.”
Ahead of the UK tour, The Who are releasing the live album ‘The Who With Orchestra Live At Wembley’ on Friday 31st March 2023.
Immortalising their concert at London’s Wembley Stadium in July 2019, the album will be released as a limited edition yellow, orange & red 3LP set, triple black vinyl, 2CD / Blu-Ray set which features the audio remixed in Dolby Atmos and 1CD edition.
Swedish rock icons Europe will embark on a 40th anniversary UK tour this autumn. The UK leg of The Time Capsule Tour opens at Cardiff St David’s Hall on Tuesday 17th October and visits Glasgow, Gateshead, Wolverhampton, Salford and Leicester before culminating with two nights at London’s world-famous Palladium. The shows will consist of a career retrospective “evening with” performance featuring all the hits together with deep cuts and fan favourites from all of their 11 studio albums. Buy tickets here
Suzi Quatro
Suzi Quatro will celebrate the 50th anniversary of her breakthrough single ‘Can the Can’ with a five-date UK tour in November 2023. Visiting Cardiff St David’s Hall, Brighton Dome, London Palladium, Wolverhampton The Halls at The Civic and Manchester Bridgewater Hall, Quatro will perform her hits, classics and more. Buy tickets here
The Who
The Who have announced a very special Hits Back! UK tour for July 2023 visiting outdoor venues and one arena. Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey and co. will be flanked by a full orchestra each night on the nine-date tour, which opens at Hull Sewell Group Craven Park on Thursday 6th July. The Who play two nights at Edinburgh Castle before visiting London’s The O2, Derby The Incora County Ground, Bristol Badminton Estate, Durham Seat Unique Riverside, St Helens Totally Wicked Stadium and Brighton The 1st Central County Ground. Buy tickets here
Planet Rockstock 2023
When: Thursday 30th November – Sunday 3rd December 2023
Where: Trecco Bay, South Wales
Headliners: TBC
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Planet Rockstock returns to Trecco Bay in south Wales from Thursday 30th November to Sunday 3rd December 2023. We’ll bring your details of the special event very soon!
Iron Maiden
Metal legends Iron Maiden are bringing a brand-new live show, The Future Past Tour, to UK arenas in June and July 2023. The Future Past Tour will feature previously unperformed songs from Iron Maiden’s 2021 album ‘Senjutsu’ together with material from their seminal 1986 album ‘Somewhere in Time’, and classic tracks. The UK tour opens at Glasgow OVO Hydro and visits Leeds First Direct Arena, Manchester AO Arena, Nottingham Motorpoint Arena and Birmingham Utilita Arena before concluding at London’s The O2 on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th July 2023. Buy tickets here
Elles Bailey
Planet Rock presenter and blues singer extraordinaire, Elles Bailey, is playing 15 shows in spring 2023. Elles opens her trek at The Globe in Cardiff on Friday 3rd March and visits Exeter, Liverpool, Hull, Sunderland, Wolverhampton, York, Edinburgh, Leeds (co-headline with Chantel McGregor), Brighton, Cambridge, Southampton, London and Newbury before concluding at Bristol Trinity Centre on Saturday 15th April. Buy tickets here
Winter’s End 2023
Headlined by Elles Bailey (Friday) Von Hertzen Brothers (Saturday) and Kris Barras Band (Sunday), Planet Rock presents Winter’s End 2023 takes place at Trecco Bay in Porthcawl, Wales from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th February 2023. The final day and weekend tickets are on sale now. Buy tickets here
Roger Waters
The Pink Floyd icon’s This Is Not a Drill Tour opens at Birmingham Utilita Arena on 31st May and takes in two nights at Glasgow OVO Hydro and two shows at London The O2 before culminating at Manchester AO Arena on Saturday 10th June. Waters has described the trek as his “first farewell tour.” Buy tickets here
Kira Mac
Fast-ascending rockers Kira Mac will hit the road in May and June 2023 on The Downfall Tour. Named after their Planet Rock playlisted anthem ‘Downfall’, the UK tour opens at Chester Live Rooms on Wednesday 17th May and visits Blackpool, Glasgow, Sheffield, Southampton, Bristol, Birmingham and Stoke before culminating at London’s The Garage on Sunday 4th June. Buy tickets here
Massive Wagons
Joined by special guests The Virginmarys, the mighty Massive Wagons play a 10-date headline tour in April 2023. The Lancaster rockers bring their searing sounds to Portsmouth, Cambridge, Bristol, London, Manchester, Norwich, Birmingham, Buckley, Leeds and Edinburgh, and at least two dates are already sold out. The tour is in support of their latest album ‘Triggered!’ which stormed into the UK official album chart at Number 6. Buy tickets here
Steelhouse Festival
Steelhouse Festival has made its first big announcements for 2023, revealing that Airbourne will headline the Saturday and Black Stone Cherry on the Sunday. Both headliners are performing UK exclusives and also their Steelhouse debuts. The line-up for the festival, which takes place from 28-30 July 2023 in Ebbw Vale, Wales, also includes Friday headliners the Kris Barras Band plus When Rivers Meet, The Karma Effect, Dead Man’s Whiskey, The Answer, Blues Pills, Florence Black, The Vintage Caravan, The Damn Truth, Austin Gold, Kira Mac, Empyre, The Cruel Knives and Jordan Red. Buy tickets here
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band
The Boss and his legendary band will open their four-date trek at Edinburgh’s BT Murrayfield Stadium on Tuesday 30th May 2023 before playing Birmingham Villa Park on Friday 16th June 2023. Following the two stadium concerts, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band headline American Express Presents BST Hyde Park on Thursday 6th and Saturday 8th July 2023. Tickets are all completely sold out.
Beth Hart
Fresh from denting the UK album chart Top 20 with her ‘A Tribute to Led Zeppelin’ album last year, Beth Hart will play dates in Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, London (two nights at The Palladium) and Brighton in March 2023. Buy tickets here
The Commoners and Troy Redfern
Canadian blues rockers The Commoners and British slide guitar maverick Troy Redfern are joining forces for a co-headline UK tour this spring. The 15-date tour opens at The Grace in London on Thursday 13th April 2023 and visits Sittingbourne, Southampton, Brighton, Sheffield, Oxford, Bristol, Birmingham, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, York and Chester before concluding at Nottingham Bodega on Saturday 29th April 2023. Buy tickets here
When Rivers Meet
Husband and wife blues rock duo When Rivers Meet are playing their biggest UK tour yet in spring 2023. Joined by special guest Arielle, Grace and Aaron Bond will play a total of 14 headline shows in April and May 2023 on the Breaker of Chains Tour. Opening at Colchester Arts Centre on Friday 28th April, the tour visits Norwich, Brighton, London, Bristol, Birmingham, Southampton, Tavistock, Barnard Castle, Glasgow, Newcastle, Nottingham and Bradford before concluding at Manchester Academy 3 on Saturday 27th May. Buy tickets here
Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe
Having wowed stadiums across the UK last summer, Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe are bringing their co-headline tour to the UK in 2023. The UK leg kicks off with a very special homecoming show for Def Leppard at Sheffield Bramall Lane – home of Joe Elliott’s beloved Sheffield United – on Monday 22nd May 2023. Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe then play a gargantuan concert at London’s Wembley Stadium on Saturday 1st July 2023 before playing Lytham Festival in Lancashire (Sun 2nd July) and Glasgow Hampden Park Stadium (Thu 6th July). Buy tickets here
Chris Shiflett
Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett is coming to the UK & Ireland in March 2023 for a six-date solo tour. Shiflett kicks off his short run of shows at Whelan’s in Dublin on Tuesday 21st March before he plays Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, Bristol and London. “I am so excited to announce my upcoming tour of the UK & Ireland,” says Chris Shiflett. “The gigs I did over there in 2019 were some of the wildest, most rocking solo shows I’ve ever done, and I expect this one will be even better. We’ve got a bunch of new tunes to play and we’re fired up! See ya soon!!!” Buy tickets here
Tenacious D
Jack Black and Kyle Gass will bring their spectacular live show to London’s The O2 on Friday 16th June 2023. It’s the first time the comedy metal duo have graced our shores since they performed two sold-out concerts at The SSE Arena, Wembley back in early June 2019. Sadly, tickets for The O2 show are also sold out.
Download Festival
Metallica, Slipknot and Bring Me The Horizon headline Download Festival’s 20th anniversary event in 2023. Taking place over four nights at Donington Park from Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th June, Metallica will headline both the Thursday and Saturday nights with two completely different sets. Other confirmed acts include Ghost, Within Temptation, Placebo, Disturbed, Evanescence, Parkway Drive, Pendulum, Architects, The Distillers, and many more. Buy tickets here
Peter Gabriel
Genesis legend Peter Gabriel has announced a four-date UK arena tour for summer 2022. i/o – The Tour opens at Birmingham Utilita Arena on Saturday 17th June and visits London The O2, Glasgow OVO Hydro and Manchester AO Arena. It’s the first time Peter Gabriel has toured the UK since the Back To Front Tour back in autumn 2014. Buy tickets here
FM, Dare and Tyketto
Tyketto, FM and Dare are joining forces for a major headline UK tour in May 2023. The aptly entitled Triple Headline Tour will see the three musical kindred spirits share the stage together for the very first time at venues in England, Scotland and Wales. The 12-date, two-week trek opens at Glasgow The Garage on Thursday 11th May 2023 and visits Newcastle, Nottingham, Barnsley, Hull, Buckley, Wolverhampton, Newport, Manchester, Southampton and Norwich before culminating at London O2 Academy Islington on Thursday 25th May 2023. Buy tickets here
The Winery Dogs
The Winery Dogs – Richie Kotzen, Billy Sheehan and Mike Portnoy – kick off their short run of shows at Wolverhampton KK’s Steel Mill on Friday 16th June before playing Nottingham Rock City (Saturday 17th June) and London O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire (Sunday 18th June). The English shows follow the Friday 3rd February 2023 release of The Winery Dogs’ third studio album ‘III’ via their own Three Dog Music label. Buy tickets here
Steel Panther
Comedy glam metallers Steel Panther have lined up a headline UK tour for May 2023, which visits Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, London, Bristol and Leeds. The tour follows the Friday 24th February release of Steel Panther’s sixth studio album ‘On the Prowl’, which is their first record without former bassist Lexxi Foxx, who departed after 21 years in July 2021. Buy tickets here
Samantha Fish
Always phenomenal in the live arena, Samantha Fish’s nine-date tour opens at Sunderland’s The Fire Station on Thursday 19th October and concludes at Birmingham O2 Institute on Saturday 28th October. The tour also calls in at Glasgow Barrowlands, Manchester Ritz, Bristol SWX, York Barbican, Cambridge Junction, Bournemouth O2 Academy and Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion. Buy tickets here
Stonedead Festival
Rock legends Blue Oyster Cult headline this year’s one-day rock extravaganza. Also heading to Newark Showground on Saturday 26th August are the likes of Therapy?, The Answer, King King and Mason Hill. The Friday pre-party is headlined by Myke Gray’s Skin with Kira Mac and The Karma Effect. Buy tickets here
Hollywood Vampires
Hollywood Vampires are coming to our shores for the first time in five years this summer. Alice Cooper, Johnny Depp, Joe Perry and Tommy Henriksen’s tour kicks off in Scarborough on Wednesday 5th July 2023, before calling at Swansea (Fri 7th July), Manchester (Sat 8th July), London (Sun 9th July), Birmingham (Tue 11th July), and culminating in Glasgow (Wed 12th July). Support comes from South-African hard rockers Seether, and San Franciscan punk legends The Tubes. Buy tickets here
The Australian Pink Floyd Show
Phenomenally brilliant Pink Floyd tribute act The Australian Pink Floyd Show are coming to the UK in October, November and December 2023 for their Dark Side of The Moon 50 1973- 2023 Tour. Kicking off on Friday 27th October 2023 in Swansea, The Dark Side of The Moon tour takes in concerts across England, Scotland and Wales and culminates at Bournemouth on Saturday 9th December 2023. Buy tickets here
Those Damn Crows
Those Damn Crows have announced a headline UK tour for February 2023. Opening at Leeds Key Club, the quintet play Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow, Bradford and London before concluding with a show at the 3,500-capacity Swansea Arena on Saturday 25th February. The shows support the release of Those Damn Crows’ new studio album ‘Inhale/Exhale’. Buy tickets here
The Darkness and Black Stone Cherry
The Darkness and Black Stone Cherry are kicking off 2023 in spectacular style with a co-headline UK arena tour. The British and American rock acts will join musical forces at seven shows, kicking off at Cardiff Motorpoint Arena on Saturday 28th January and calling in at Liverpool M&S Bank Arena (Sun 29th Jan), Glasgow OVO Hyrdo (Mon 30th Jan), Birmingham Resorts World Arena (Tue 31st Jan), Manchester AO Arena (Thu 2nd Feb), Leeds First Direct Arena (Fri 3rd Feb) and London OVO Arena Wembley (Sat 4th Feb). Support at all dates comes from Canadian hard rock trio Danko Jones. Buy tickets here
Bloodstock
Headlined by Killswitch Engage, Meshuggah and Megadeth, Bloodstock takes place at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 10th-13th August 2023. Other acts performing across the weekend are Triptykon, Helloween, In Flames, Devildriver, Biohazard, Sacred Reich, Heaven Shall Burn, Ugly Kid Joe, and many, many more. Buy tickets here
Muse
Muse’s The Will Of The People 2023 UK Tour opens at Plymouth Home Park on Saturday 27th May and visits Huddersfield John Smith’s Stadium (Tuesday 20th June) and Glasgow Bellahouston Park (Friday 23rd June) before concluding at Milton Keynes Bowl on Sunday 25th June. Matt Bellamy, Dominic Howard and Chris Wolstenholme will be joined by very special guests Royal Blood at all dates except Glasgow. Buy tickets here
Black Star Riders
Black Star Riders’ 10th anniversary headline UK trek opens at Nottingham Rock City on Monday 13th February and calls in at Norwich, Ipswich, Manchester, Wolverhampton, Leeds, Cardiff, Bristol, Glasgow, Newcastle and London. Special guests on all dates are Michael Monroe and Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons. Frontman Ricky Warwick comments: “For the UK tour only, we will be bringing back the legendary Scott Gorham (guitar) and Jimmy DeGrasso (drums) for the dates to make them extra special!” Buy tickets here
Blackberry Smoke
Blackberry Smoke’s quartet of UK shows take place 13 months later than planned, and they kick off at Birmingham O2 Academy on Sunday 26th March 2023 before calling in at Glasgow, London and Manchester. The band’s seventh studio album ‘You Hear Georgia’ was released in May 2021 and it dented the UK album chart at no.17. Buy tickets here
Joe Satriani
Guitar icon Joe Satriani will grace the UK in May 2023 for a six-date trek. The Shapeshifting Tour will feature material from Satriani’s seventeenth studio album, ‘Shapeshifting’, which was released in April 2020, alongside other gems from his sprawling back catalogue including ‘Surfing With The Alien’, ‘Always with Me, Always with You’ and ‘Flying In A Blue Dream’. Buy tickets here
Sabaton
Swedish power metal titans Sabaton will be joined by special guests Babymetal and Lordi on their April 2023 UK arena tour. Supporting their chart-denting tenth studio album ‘The War to End All Wars’, The Tour To End All Tours opens at Leeds First Direct Arena on Friday 14th April 2023 and visits London OVO Arena Wembley (Sat 15th April), Cardiff Motorpoint Arena (Sun 16th April) and Glasgow OVO Hydro (Tue 18th April). Buy tickets here
King King
Following their triumphant appearances at Planet Rock’s Rocktober and Planet Rockstock last year, Scottish blues rockers King King play 18 headline shows across the UK in March 2023. Opening with a homecoming show at Glasgow Barrowland on Thursday 2nd March, King King play concerts in Leeds, Newcastle, London, Norwich, Manchester, Nottingham, New Brighton, Cardiff, Wolverhampton, Oxford, Bexhill, Leamington Spa, Exeter, Frome, Bournemouth, Cambridge and Blackburn. Squeeze’s Glenn Tilbrook is the very special guest at all dates. Buy tickets here
Stone Broken
Stone Broken hit the road in early 2023 playing 13 shows across England, Scotland and Wales. The Come Closer tour will offer fans a more intimate chance to experience Stone Broken perform the breadth of their fan-favourite repertoire, but with a more personal set-up to previous shows. Buy tickets here
The Answer
Supporting their first new album in seven years, ‘Sundowners’, The Answer will kick off their UK tour at Blackpool Waterloo Music Bar on Thursday 16th March 2023 and visit Birmingham, Bristol, London and Leeds before concluding at Belfast Limelight 2 on Thursday 23rd March 2023. Singer Corman Neeson says: “It’s been almost 6 years since our last gig and you better believe we are both nervous and pumped at getting back in front of our fans with our new music. Look forward to seeing you down the front!” Buy tickets here
GUN
GUN frontman Dante Gizzi and his brother/band mate Jools Gizzi (guitars) will head out on an acoustic tour in April and May 2023. Taking in 13 shows in some of the UK’s more intimate spaces, Dante and Jools will perform stripped-back versions of songs from GUN’s back catalogue, and they will also be regaling stories about life on the road too. The tour opens at Dundee Beat Generator on Thursday 6th April 2023 and visits Bathgate, Stoke, Raynes Park, Dover, Gravesend, Manchester, Norwich, Brighton, Southend and Milton Keynes before culminating with a full band show at London’s 100 Club on Friday 5th May 2023. Buy tickets here
Marcus King
Grammy nominated blues rock maverick Marcus King is coming to the UK in March 2023 for five headline shows. Supporting the 26-year-old’s critically acclaimed second album ‘Young Blood’, the aptly entitled Young Blood Tour sees the South Carolina musician play London O2 Forum Kentish Town (Tue 21st), Bristol O2 Academy (Wed 22nd), Glasgow SWG3 Studio Warehouse (Thu 23rd), Leeds Beckett Students Union (Sat 25th) and Manchester O2 Ritz (Sun 26th). Special guests at all dates will be British purveyors of Americana, IDA MAE. Buy tickets here
Dr. Bronstein works in Ancient Greek philosophy, and has interests in ethics, epistemology, philosophy of science, logic, and metaphysics in Plato, Aristotle, and beyond. He was recently awarded a 2023 Future Fellowship by the Australian Research Council. Valued at $777,019 over four years, the grant will support his research on “Virtue with Aristotle: Recovering an Ancient Ethical Theory for Our Time” The project aims to show how Aristotle’s theory of virtue can guide our individual and collective attempts to live good human lives in challenging times. You can learn more about Dr. Bronstein’s work here and here.
Free the Nipple is a feminist campaign with goals to make it legal and socially acceptable for women to be topless in public and to post topless images on social media websites such as Instagram and Facebook.
But what’s this all about? And what are the laws relating to public nudity in New South Wales?
Obscene nipples
The Free the Nipple movement was started by US filmmaker, actor and activist Lina Esco in 2012, after she documented herself running through the streets of New York topless.
Esco argues that laws and social norms which treat female toplessness as inherently sexual or obscene, promote a double standard. “Free the Nipple is just a Trojan horse in order to start the conversation of gender equality” Esco told Comedy Central in 2017, “It’s not really about going topless. It’s about having the choice.”
The Free the Nipple movement aims to change laws which prohibit women from being topless in public as well as to change community standards on websites who apply a double standard towards top-half exposure.
Some US states allow toplessness for women in public areas where toplessness for men is acceptable, around 35 states still apply a gendered distinction as to what constitutes obscene exposure.
The movement has attracted a number of high-profile celebrity supporters including: Amber Rose, Miley Cyrus and Cara Delevingne.
Not everyone is thrilled by the Free the Nipple campaign.
Writer Jessica Megarry wrote in Feminist Current in 2015 that the movement has a narrow, barely feminist goal which “seems to be less about a woman’s right to breastfeed and more about a woman’s right to post a topless selfie”. She goes on to note that rather than challenging male social dominance, “young women are being urged to strip for the entertainment of an infinite number of men”.
Whether you’re for or against freeing the nipple, the laws around female toplessness in NSW may not be what you expect.
The offence of obscene exposure in New South Wales
Obscene exposure is an offence which may, depending on the circumstances, prohibit certain acts of public nudity in New South Wales.
A penalty unit in NSW is currently $110, which means the maximum fine is $1,100.
To establish the offence, the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that:
You were in or within view of a public place or school,
You obscenely exposed yourself, and
You did so wilfully.
What is a public place?
A public place is defined by the Act as a place or part of a premises that is open to, or used by the public, whether or not for payment, and whether or not only open to a limited class of persons.
This includes:
Shopping centres and stores within them,
Restaurants, pubs and clubs, and
Sporting venues.
What is the meaning of obscene?
‘Obscene’ has been defined by the courts as conduct which ‘[o]ffends against the susceptibilities of the citizen by violating… contemporary standards’.
This is determined by the magistrate on a case-by-case basis, depending on the factual circumstances.
The offence is most frequently prosecuted where a person is intentionally exposes him or herself in a public place, whether or not it is accompanied by a sexual act.
What does wilfully mean?
‘Wilfully’ means intentionally so, being ‘dacked’ would not suffice, provided you pulled your pants up in a timely manner nor would passers-by seeing you naked in your home, provided you did not know you could be seen from a public place.
Defences to the charge of obscene exposure include duress and necessity.
In the event you are able to raise evidence of a legal defence, the onus then shifts to the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defence is not available in the circumstances.
You are entitled to an acquittal (a not guilty verdict) if the prosecution is unable to do so.
Breastfeeding, genital exposure and female toplessness
Generally, breastfeeding cannot be deemed “obscene” due to the operation of the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex.
On the flip side, the exposure of genitalia has generally been deemed “obscene” by the courts.
When it comes to female toplessness, things get more complicated.
Bare female breasts may or may not be obscene depending on the circumstances of exposure. For example, it has become socially acceptable for woman to sunbathe topless on beaches generally, even if those beaches aren’t listed as a ‘designated beach’.
So, toplessness at beaches is unlikely to be deemed obscene as long as it’s practised with a degree of social etiquette in mind.
Police generally have taken a more “liberal” view of female toplessness in public, allowing it to occur as long as it isn’t causing too much of a public disturbance.
If a woman were to wilfully expose her breasts to shock members of the public, particularly in the presence of children, this would be more likely to fall short of community standards and constitute an offence of obscene exposure.
What about private property?
It should be noted that although NSW police are generally tolerant of female toplessness in public, this doesn’t mean that there is any “positive right” to free the nipple (with the exception of breast feeding).
Private business and venues can remove anyone who doesn’t meet their clothing standards, including toplessness. Refusing to leave a private premises on the principle of nipple equality is admirable, but it could also land you in legal trouble.
Section 4A of the Inclosed Lands Protection Act 1901 (NSW) makes it an offence punishable by 10 penalty units ($1,100) for a person to remain and conduct themselves in a manner that is offensive on an inclosed land after receiving a directive to leave.
So, is the nipple free in NSW? Generally, yes, but women should be wary of crossing the threshold of community standards and violating private clothing standards which could see them removed from venues.
Novak Djokovic clinched a record-equalling 22nd grand slam with a 10th Australian Open men’s singles title at Melbourne Park.
Aryna Sabalenka fought back from a set down to defeat Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in a terrific women’s final, earning her first major crown in the process.
Manchester City edged Premier League title rivals Arsenal 1-0 in their FA Cup fourth-round tie at the Etihad Stadium on Friday night, with Liverpool’s miserable season continuing on Saturday as the holders were dumped out of the competition by Kaoru Mitoma’s stoppage-time strike for Brighton.
Here, the PA news agency looks at some of the best images from the weekend’s sporting action.
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland attempts an overhead-kick during their 1-0 win over Arsenal (Mike Egerton/PA)Casemiro celebrated his first brace in Manchester United colours (Martin Rickett/PA)Kaoru Mitoma’s stoppage time strike dumped Liverpool out the cup (John Walton/PA)The only non-league side left in the FA Cup, Wrexham, drew with Sheffield United to force a replay (Peter Byrne/PA)Novak Djokovic reacts to winning his 22nd grand slam (Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/AP)Aryna Sabalenka reacts after defeating Elena Rybakina in the Australian Open women’s singles final (Aaron Favila/AP)Djokovic kisses the trophy after a straight-sets victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas (Aaron Favila/AP)Sam Kerr scored a hat-trick in Chelsea’s 3-2 win over Liverpool in the Women’s FA Cup (Steven Paston/PA)Jake Paul and Tommy Fury faced off in the ring for the first time, after they announced their February fight (Zac Goodwin/PA)Artur Beterbiev retained his WBC, IBF and WBO light-heavyweight belts with an eighth-round stoppage win over Anthony Yarde (Zac Goodwin/PA)Rory McIlroy will take a three-shot lead into the final round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic (Kamran Jebreili/AP)Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds reacts in the stands during the FA Cup fourth-round tie against Sheffield United (Peter Byrne/PA)Captain Jos Buttler, middle, leaves the field after England’s defeat in the second ODI against South Africa (Themba Hadebe/AP)
Companies from all over Wales have made a host of top hires and promotions in the last month. In our latest jobs round-up, we take a look at some of those who have taken on new roles.
If you have a new or recent appointment or promotion that you would like featured in our next round up, please e-mail lauren.phillips@reachplc.com.
The Welsh Government has appointed internationally recognised research chemist, Professor Jas Pal Badyal, as its new chief scientific adviser.
In his new role, which he takes up in February replacing Professor Peter Halligan following his recent retirement, Professor Badyal will provide science advice to the First Minister and Welsh ministers.
He will also be responsible for developing the Welsh Government’s science capability and supporting the growth of a strong and dynamic science and research base in Wales.
Prof Jas Pal Badyal said: “I am excited to be given this opportunity to contribute towards building a high-skill, high-tech economy, helping to bring positive impact and well-being for the people of Wales.
“Wales has great potential to become a world leader for technological innovations targeting some of the biggest challenges facing humanity today—including climate change, environmental degradation, renewable energy, food security, healthcare, and rising social inequality.”
Principality Building Society
Ian Greenstreet has been appointed to the board of the Principality Building Society.
Principality Building Society has appointed experienced former chief risk officer, Ian Greenstreet, to its board as a non-executive director.
Mr Greenstreet has worked in senior roles at financial institutions including HSBC, Lloyds, and ABN AMRO. He is also the founder and chief executive of Infinity Capital Partners, a London-based corporate finance firm. He also joins the mutual’s audit and governance and nominations committees.
Sally Jones-Evans, chair of the Principality, said: “As a founding member of the advisory board of the London Stock Exchange, Ian brings with him a wealth of board experience and will strengthen our capabilities significantly. His knowledge will be a real asset as we transform our core business of mortgages and savings and continue our journey as a purpose driven and sustainable company. Ian is eager to be involved in developing our strategy to have impact beyond our scale, particularly our ambitions around having a positive social impact.”
The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales
Bernie Davies is a TEDx Speaker and bestselling author
The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales has appointed Bernie Davies, Sue Phelps MBE, Nia Roberts and Dave Tosh OBE as four new independent members of the office’s Advisory Panel and the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee.
Ms Davies is a TEDx speaker, author, diversity and entrepreneurship leader with a previous legal career in property. She supports entrepreneurship programmes with a focus on diversity, for major banks, universities and government agencies. Ms Phelps was awarded an MBE in 2017 for services to dementia in Wales. She has been an independent director on the Cricket Wales Board since 2018 and serves as chair of the EDI sub-committee and a member of the finance sub-committee.
Ms Roberts has worked as head of research and innovation engagement at the Welsh Government and is a European Patent Attorney, chartered physicist and a member of the Institute of Physics. While Mr Tosh was director of resources for the Senedd Commission until he retired in January 2022. He spent 10 years at the Senedd and prior to this he worked in local government, the aerospace industry and Royal Air Force.
Michelle Morris, the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales, said “I am delighted to make these appointments which will widen the experience, knowledge and diversity that our Advisory Panel and ARAC will bring to the work of PSOW. In particular these appointments will help improve how we deliver services across diverse communities and ensure our services are accessible for everyone. I am looking forward to working with our new and existing members over the years ahead and in delivering the strategic aims that will be set out in our new strategic plan.”
Zip World
Adrian Jones is the new chief executive of Zip World.
The former US president of Merlin Entertainments has become the chief executive of North Wales adventure company, Zip World.
Adrian Jones has over 30 years’ experience in the visitor attraction sector and played a key role in Merlin’s aggressive growth in the states from 2007 to 2019. He brings extensive experience in marketing, sales and strategic partnerships to Zip World, which has ambitious growth plans.
Mr Jones, who previously worked for Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas and Legoland in Florida, now relocates from the US to the Conwy Valley for his new role. He has also served as chairman of Visit Orlando, the largest destination marketing organisation in the US.
Mr Jones said: “I am extremely excited about the opportunity to be joining the Zip World team at such a pivotal time in the company’s existence. Having the opportunity to work on an incredible portfolio of outstanding brands and alongside such a talented and dedicated team is a perfect foundation for growth as we look to expand our existing sites and develop future opportunities. This, coupled with a relocation move to such a beautiful part of the world, made this a once in a lifetime opportunity I simply could not pass up.”
Sean Taylor, Zip World’s founder and president, added: “The appointment of Adrian signifies Zip World’s intent and ambitions to continue on its growth journey. We’re very fortunate to have Adrian onboard – his exposure to big brands in this space will add a layer of expertise which will help shape Zip World’s future.”
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Cambrian Training Company
Faith O’Brien, Cambrian Training Company’s new managing director, with group executive chairman Arwyn Watkins, OBE
Welsh apprenticeship provider Cambrian Training Company has appointed a new managing director.
Faith O’Brien succeeds Arwyn Watkins OBE, who becomes group executive chairman with a strategic focus on Cambrian Training Company, Trailhead Fine Foods, Chartists 1770 at The Trewythen and Mid Wales Fayres.
They will both continue as board members of the National Training Federation for Wales (NTfW), the organisation that represents work-based learning providers.
Ms O’Brien said: “Arwyn and I have worked together for many years and, when I joined Cambrian Training Company, I never dreamed the company would have grown and diversified at such a rate. This is all thanks to our employees and delivery partners. In my new role I will be taking the lead on all aspects of work-based learning at Cambrian Training Company and reporting directly to Arwyn.
“Work based learning has some difficult times ahead with the cost of living and other factors directly impacting staff, employers and the local economy. My focus is to ensure we maintain and grow our quality, providing the same level and volume of support irrespective of the future challenges.
“Our staff and partners have enabled the company to be financially sound with a strong commission moving forward. My priority is to ensure we retain our commission value and improve our quality outcomes, whilst also considering new business opportunities.”
Ms Watkins said: “Due to the level of growth and diversification achieved by the company, we need a managing director who is focused totally on the delivery of quality work-based learning. It’s so important that we get that right and not be distracted by external factors. I will be responsible for the strategic direction of the group as a whole and ensuring that the strategic plan is delivered by my directors.”
Lovell
Suzie Hewitt, regional sales director at Lovell
Partnership developer Lovell has promoted its south Wales and the west of England sales manager, Suzie Hewitt, to regional sales director.
Ms Hewitt joined Lovell in January 2022 after spending over eight years in the construction industry. Prior to joining Lovell, she worked as an area sales manager for Barratt and David Wilson Homes.
As regional sales director, Ms Hewitt will lead the expanding sales team and oversee the new homes sales across the developer’s operational area which spans south Wales, Wiltshire and Somerset.
She said: “This is a hugely exciting time for Lovell in South Wales and West, and I am delighted to be part of its vision. I have always been incredibly inspired by the senior leadership team, their drive and their passion for the brand, and I’m very proud to be a part of that team.
James Duffett, regional managing director at Lovell, said: “We are thrilled to have promoted Suzie to regional sales director. She had an incredibly successful 2022 as sales manager and was an excellent addition to the team, providing vital knowledge and expertise.
“I’m very much looking forward to seeing what Suzie achieves in her new role. Her input has already been invaluable, and I am confident that our sales targets and future goals will be achieved with her at the helm.”
Azets South Wales
Accounting firm Azets has made three senior promotions in south Wales. Ashley Bryan has been appointed as partner in the accounts and business advisory team, while Ellen Price and Susan Phillips have been promoted to associate directors in the audit department.
Jonathan Rees, partner at Azets South Wales, said: “It’s an exciting time for us as we continue to support our team to match business demand across a variety of departments. These promotions are incredibly well deserved and reflect the talent and expertise within the region. Alongside the above, 12 other promotions have been made from Associate level to Senior Manager – we’re committed to growing and developing our team and are looking forward to continuing this strategy in 2023.”
Persimmon Homes
Persimmon Homes has appointed Ryan Greaney as new head of land and planning at its West Wales region.
Mr Greaney, who joined the company in August 2018, has been promoted by the regional arm of the housebuilding giant, after previously serving as land and planning manager at the Penllergaer-based business.
Before joining Persimmon, he spent the best part of a decade with Brecon Beacons National Park Authority as a principal planning officer.
West Wales deputy managing director Stuart Phillips said: “This is a thoroughly deserved promotion for Ryan, and has been warmly welcomed by everyone in the west Wales business. Ryan has made a fantastic impact since joining Persimmon four years ago, and has helped us deliver significant improvements in our land and planning operations, which will only continue with him at the helm.
“He will oversee the procurement of land for new homes for local people across South West Wales, and work with key stakeholders to deliver sustainable plans, as we seek to deliver on our vision to be the nation’s leading housebuilder.”
Flotek
Phillip Emanuel, Malcolm Holland, Craig Jones of Flotek
Ambitious IT and communications service firm Flotek has appointed Philip Emanuel to director of telecom and Craig Jones to director of IT.
Mr Emanuel joined the firm last month following the acquisition of Cloud9ine Communications, while Mr Jones was the former technical director of DataKom. The pair become shareholders in the company and join Flotek’s board of directors.
The senior appointments come as the firm continues its robust buy and build growth strategy. Flotek was founded in spring last year by entrepreneur trio Jay Ball, Malcolm Holland and David Middleton.
In that time it has made five acquisitions, with a further two planned for Q1 2023, which has seen the firm expand rapidly across Wales and the south west of England.
Managing director Malcolm Holland said: “We are delighted to appoint Philip and Craig to the board, reflecting our strategic growth and enhancing our delivery of the service and expertise our customers deserve.
“Both Craig and Phill bring invaluable knowledge and experience, and I am confident they will play integral roles in driving Flotek forward as we help even more SMEs adopt innovative, next generation technologies and harness their scale-up potential.”
Academii
Adrian Coles, Academii’s new managing director
E-Learning provider Academii has appointed former NatWest relationship director Adrian Coles to managing director.
Founded in 2019, Academii is an e-learning resource focusing on skill-building within the underserved blue-collar workforce.
Mr Coles joined the firm following 17 years with NatWest where he supported SMEs and startups across south Wales and the south of England. He is experienced in building client relationships and customer advocacy and seeking to add tangible value to client businesses.
He will lead developing a competent, innovative and technically astute customer development team to support the skills agenda.
Mr Coles said: “This is an incredibly exciting time to be joining Academii. I look forward to working with many businesses to drive greater business output and create a more prosperous society by closing the skills gap; creating an engaged, enabled and empowered workforce.”
Co-founder Steve Lanigan said: “Academii was formed to fundamentally change how we engage the blue-collar workforce and provide them with the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow by using immersive technology to train and develop that talent. Adrian is trusted and well respected in the manufacturing sector in Wales, having built a reputation as a facilitator and supporter of so many Welsh companies during his time at NatWest. His appointment has come at the perfect time to help us support companies and the broader Welsh economy by engaging workforces and enabling them to thrive and succeed.”
Kilsby Williams
Managing partner Simon Tee, left, with tax associate Dafydd Ford and senior partner Stephen Williams(Image: Matthew Horwood)
Newport-based tax and accountancy firm Kilsby Williams has made a series of promotions within its tax and business services teams.
Dafydd Ford, who has been with the firm for over 15 years, has been promoted to tax associate, while fellow colleagues Sandy Gaywood and Diane Nettleton have been promoted to senior tax managers.
Other promotions for managerial roles were awarded to Kathryn Hof and Lucy Lloyd, while Ross Johnson has been promoted to Business Services Assistant.
Simon Tee, managing partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “Our staff are our most valuable asset and the relationship we have with our employees is of the utmost importance to us. As well as attracting the best talent from outside of the firm, we firmly believe in supporting the professional development of our employees and rewarding their progression in the company.
“We are therefore delighted to announce this series of promotions within the teams as we enter a new year.”
Hidden within the beautiful valleys and across our natural landscapes, there is a growing concern that pollution is casting a shadow over our wonderful area.
We are lucky in Islwyn to have such beautiful natural landscapes surrounding our valley. However, it is our responsibility to protect our local environment. My inbox is constantly filled with residents expressing their concerns about the environment and reducing pollution.
I know that many people care about our area and are fighting hard to protect our natural environment for future generations.
I have never forgotten the pollution that was in our rivers as I grew up, I am proud of how far we have come in cleaning up our environment and we cannot allow this progress to be put at risk by pollution, sewage or harmful chemicals.
The reports that water companies have been pumping raw sewage into our sea and rivers are extremely concerning. We have a duty to act to prevent any harm to our natural landscapes and environment from manmade pollution.
There are so many groups out there who work tirelessly to clean up our local areas. For example, the Friends of Nant Gwyddon Forest have come to me in the past and shared their concerns about the impact of off-road biking in the area.
People come from all over the country to take in the views of the valleys and explore them either on foot or bicycle. Ensuring people can access these spaces safely is vital. The work of groups like the Friends of Nant Gwyddon, and so many others, means these green spaces are protected and can thrive once again. We must continue the vital work these groups do to protect our green spaces.
Here in Islwyn, the growth of tourism and the business that comes with it has been a welcome development, but I fear if we do not protect access to our outdoor spaces and maintain them so they are open and safe places to visit, people will no longer come.
Furthermore, with pollution growing and reports that water companies are dumping sewage into rivers across the country, these will only add to the destruction of these outdoor spaces and slow growth in tourism.
Over the last couple of years, the importance of access to shared outdoor spaces has become clearer. In the times when we stayed inside, having a place to go for fresh air and for children to play was lifesaving.
We know that our community is home to such beautiful landscapes, it is time we all joined together to protect them, for our generation and many more to come.
Numerous Democrats in the Washington Legislature are backing a new proposal to make voting in elections compulsory. Citizens are required by law to cast ballots in about 25 counties, but in no other U.S. states.
Republicans in Olympia described the idea as “un-American.”
State Sen. Sam Hunt (D-Olympia) said he got the idea for what he calls “universal civic duty voting” from a recently published book titled “100% Democracy” by E.J. Dionne and Miles Rapoport. Democratic Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig of Spokane mailed Hunt a copy last year.
“As a member of the Senate, once the majority leader sends you something, it sort of gets your attention,” Hunt said in an interview. “So, I read the book and it piqued an interest with me.”
So much so, Hunt had the concept of compulsory voting turned into a legislative proposal. Billig’s enthusiasm separately inspired state Rep. Sharlett Mena (D-Tacoma) to introduce an identical version of the legislation in the state House.
The pending bills would require all eligible Washingtonians to register to vote. Then when your ballot comes in the mail, you’d be legally required to return it for every primary and general election, although there would be no punishment if you didn’t. You could also cast a blank ballot if you wanted, or get off the voter roll permanently by filling out a conscientious objector form. Compulsory voting would take effect in Washington state in 2026 if the bill passes.
“Just like paying taxes and signing up for the draft for all males, it’s just another civic duty that we would require people to do,” Hunt said.
Backers of universal voting claim it would reduce divisiveness and polarization in politics by prompting candidates to appeal to a broader electorate, especially to groups who now vote at lower rates, such as young voters, minorities and lower income folks.
“Democracy and voting is a basic part of our country and the more we get involved, I think the better and the stronger our government is,” Hunt argued.
Chief sponsors Hunt and Mena have won over no Republicans to their proposal.
“To me, this is an unconstitutional, un-American distraction,” said state Sen. Jeff Wilson, the ranking Republican on the Senate State Government and Elections Committee. That panel will be the first to scrutinize the proposal.
Wilson said he foresees legal trouble in compelling people to speak through their vote.
“Of course you have the right to speak, you have the right to vote, but you also have the same right to not,” Wilson said in an interview. “Sometimes silence is golden. Sometimes silence can be measured. But it certainly shouldn’t be expected in the form of a ballot.”
Even though there’s no penalty for failure to vote, Wilson still objected.
“There’s no consequence now, but what would keep it from having a consequence later. That’s something to be very concerned about,” Wilson said.
Compulsory voting mandated overseas and in Latin America
About two dozen foreign countries require their citizens to vote. Enforcement varies widely from getting into deep trouble for abstaining in North Korea to no consequence at all in places such as Greece, Fiji, Honduras and Egypt. Where there is enforcement, voter turnout is markedly better than in the U.S.
Backers of universal voting often hold up Australia as their model. It consistently has one of the highest rates of voter turnout in the world at over 90 percent. The Australian Electoral Commission enforces the rule with a fine starting at AU$20 – around US$14.
“I really don’t think at this point it is fear of a fine that is driving people to the booth,” Australian journalist Amelia Ballinger told SkyNews. “The very large majority of the voting public in Australia supports compulsory voting. They want to participate.”
University of Sydney research fellow Sarah Cameron told the BBC that compulsory voting could tilt elections to the left.
“In countries with voluntary voting, people of lower socio-economic status are less likely to turn out to vote. These are groups that are more likely to support parties on the left,” Cameron explained. “So, the effect is that when voting is compulsory, parties on the left benefit.”
Some American academics doubt this would be the case in the U.S.
“The evidence shows it would have little effect on election outcomes because non‐voters tend to break down about the same as for voters in their partisan preferences,” wrote Cato Institute adjunct scholar Andy Craig.
The Knight Foundation surveyed 12,000 chronic non-voters nationwide in 2020. If those respondents were compelled to vote, the results showed they would add nearly equal share to Democratic and Republican candidates (33 percent versus 30 percent, respectively), while 18 percent said they would vote for a third party.
Voter turnout is already comparatively high in the Pacific Northwest
There’s also a question whether a legal requirement to vote is needed. American states that make it easy to register to vote and then send every voter a ballot in the mail, such as Oregon and Washington, have better voter turnout than some of the foreign countries that require all citizens to vote but don’t enforce that rule.
Ninety percent of eligible voters in Washington state were registered to vote ahead of the 2020 election, according to the Elections Division at the Washington Secretary of State. Registered voter turnout in the general election topped 84% in that presidential year. In the November 2022 midterm elections, 64% of Washington voters cast a ballot.
For comparison, in Mexico, where voting is an obligation but there is no penalty, the average turnout in recent federal elections was 54%. Similarly, the last two parliamentary elections in Greece had turnout between 57%-58%.
At the Washington state capital, the compulsory voting legislation has a long road ahead, but it does have co-sponsorship from nearly half of the Democratic majority in the state Senate. Chief sponsors Hunt and Mena said that compulsory voting might be one of those proposals that take a couple of sessions for lawmakers and the public to warm up to.
Hunt said he invited the co-author of the “100 Democracy” book, former Connecticut Secretary of State Miles Rapoport, as well as the Speaker of the New South Wales Parliament’s legislative assembly to address the state Senate Elections Committee, which Hunt chairs, on January 31 for an initial hearing. Mena said a public hearing in the state House could follow, but she did not anticipate the legislation would move all the way to the governor’s desk this year.
First-term lawmaker Mena said she acted out of concern that her ethnically-diverse legislative district centered on South Tacoma has among the lowest voter turnout in the state.
“My motivation is the idea that we should have this conversation about how to get to 100% democracy,” Mena said Tuesday.
Ryan Reynolds went from joy to despair, and punch-the-air ecstasy to desolation.
The unlikely new love of his life — Welsh soccer club Wrexham — put the movie star on an emotional roller coaster Sunday in a thrill-a-minute FA Cup match that had an ending not quite in the script.
The South Wales Argus Camera Club has more than 5,000 members and we regularly feature their pictures both in paper and online.
But we thought it would be good to find out more about the people who make up the club.
If you are a member of the club and want to be part of the our Behind the Lens feature go to www.southwalesargus.co.uk/behindthelens and fill out the easy to use Q&A.
Today we meet 14-year-old Jayden Mayo, of Caldicot.
When and why did you take up photography?
Four years ago I discovered that I really enjoy photography. Since I was young my mum has taken me out as much as possible, discovering and exploring and learning about places along the way. She has taught me how to use my camera and phone to capture moments. And I am so grateful because it has really given me a different outlook on life and it urges me to learn more.
Why do you love taking pictures?
Taking pictures is great! Not only does it capture a specific moment but it holds it as a memory and that’s what is important in life.
Where is your favourite place to take pictures and why?
I have been lucky to visit quite a few places but so far North Wales has been my favourite after a recent trip with school. It’s like another world, the views are incredible also the history of where I visit means a lot too.
What equipment do you use?
I have a basic Fujifilm camera and my Samsung smartphone. I don’t feel I need to pay lots of money for a new camera because it all depends on the eye behind the lens and the editing skills.
What is the favourite picture you have taken and why?
My favourite is the Menai bridge in North Wales. I took a couple there but this was my favourite. It also featured on TV.
Why did you join the SWACC and what do you get out of being a member of the group?
I joined because I felt it was a great way to learn and pick up tips and tricks. Also despite being young I have so much encouragement from other members.
What advice would you give anyone who wants to get into photography?
No matter how old or young you are, if you want to give it a go then go for it. Believe in yourself and just remember everyone’s different so no matter your style, it’s that which makes you unique.
If you could photograph anyone or any place who/what would it be and why?
I really would love to visit Norway or Switzerland. I love landscape photography and they both look amazing places.
Anything else you think we should know?
My photography has resulted in me coming first place in four competitions. I have been chosen to be in two Welsh calenders. Once I came first place alongside my mum who won the adult’s one. Now that was unreal.
by Staff
