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- Netanyahu bloc fails to secure majority in Israeli parliamentary elections
- Quebec farmers oppose proposed high-speed rail project over land concerns
- Peltola denies knowledge of candidate Daniel J. Sullivan amid ballot controversy in Alaska Senate race
- Government announces new budget measures: how coverage differs
- Low-paid shopworkers face danger due to facial recognition camera failures, say MPs
- Putin states Russia is ready for war with Europe but prefers diplomacy
- Landslides in Summerland raise concerns over wildfire-affected slopes
- DOJ issues new subpoenas in Alaska Senate race investigation over candidate recruitment
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Netanyahu bloc fails to secure majority in Israeli parliamentary elections
12:20 pm
Media Lens: Netanyahu bloc fails to secure majority in Israeli parliamentary elections
The Israeli parliamentary election results indicate no clear majority for any bloc. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s faction remains at risk of losing power amid significant gains by Arab parties.
Quick links: What has happened | Status quo | Confirmed facts | Preconceptions | Elisions | One story, four angles | Related links
What has happened
The Israeli parliamentary elections concluded with no political bloc achieving a clear majority, resulting in a fragmented Knesset. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, which had been anticipated to secure a stronger position, fell short as Arab parties made significant gains, achieving record representation in the parliament.
Following the election results, Netanyahu’s bloc is reportedly at risk of losing power, intensifying his criticism of Arab parties and leading to claims of political instability. The elections, held in Israel, have left the country facing challenges in forming a stable government amid rising tensions in its political landscape.
Status quo
Israeli parliamentary election results have recently indicated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political bloc has failed to secure a clear majority in the Knesset. This outcome is significant as it reflects a shift in voter preferences, particularly with Arab parties gaining a record number of seats. The election results present challenges for Netanyahu’s coalition, which now faces questions regarding its stability and future governance.
Confirmed facts
- Israel’s recent parliamentary election results show no clear majority.
- The Netanyahu bloc lost its parliamentary majority in the election.
- Arab parties secured a record number of seats in the Israeli parliament.
- Several news sources reported that Netanyahu intensified attacks on Arab parties following the election outcome.
- The final results indicated that Netanyahu’s bloc maintained a lead but failed to secure a majority.
Preconceptions
- ABC News prioritizes the electoral results and their implications, emphasizing Netanyahu’s bloc maintaining a lead but lacking a majority, while reducing focus on the reactions or historical context.
- Reuters places greater emphasis on the political dynamics, detailing Netanyahu’s confrontations with Arab parties and the threat to his governance, while downplaying the broader electoral implications.
- Euronews highlights the voting outcomes like the record seats for Arab parties, prioritizing representation shifts, while minimizing personal narratives of political leaders involved.
- AP News includes additional context regarding legal issues involving Netanyahu, reflecting a broader scope, while slightly reducing emphasis on the election’s direct outcomes compared to others.
Elisions
- ABC News highlights Netanyahu’s bloc maintaining a lead but lacking a majority, while Reuters focuses on the specific record number of seats secured by Arab parties, a detail less emphasized by other sources.
- AP News discusses the implications of the Justice Department’s actions regarding California officials, a topic that is notably absent from Euronews coverage, which primarily frames the situation within the context of Netanyahu’s electoral struggles.
- While Euronews and Reuters provide commentary on the immediate effects of the election results, they do not mention ongoing protests or dissent within Israel, a topic that has received significant attention from more localized news platforms.
One story, four angles
Euronews.com – Netanyahu bloc short of majority as Arab parties secure record seats
Publication: Euronews.com | Intensity: (7/10) | Sentiment: Neutral | Legal precision: Moderate
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Espresso Shot: The initial focus is on the lack of majority for Netanyahu’s bloc, drawing attention to the unprecedented success of Arab parties.
Key differences:
1. Comparison of majority status: While Euronews highlights the lack of majority with “short of majority,” AP mentions “loses parliamentary majority,” emphasizing a different narrative nuance.
2. Record seats context: Euronews mentions Arab parties securing record seats, which places emphasis on minority success, contrasting with Reuters, which focuses on Netanyahu’s risks.
3. Tone of urgency: Euronews’ headline presents a neutral tone unlike the more urgent language of “losing power” used by other outlets.
Bias: Selection: Focuses on recorded success of Arab parties | Language: Neutral terminology like “no clear majority” | Omission: Does not discuss implications for future governance.
Assessment: The reader likely perceives that Netanyahu is struggling to achieve a majority, while the Arab parties have gained unexpected prominence.
Reuters – Netanyahu, at risk of losing power, steps up attacks on Israel’s Arab parties
Publication: Reuters | Intensity: (8/10) | Sentiment: Negative | Legal precision: High
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Espresso Shot: The piece starts with Netanyahu’s precarious position, signaling immediate conflict as a central theme.
Key differences:
1. Power risks: Reuters states “at risk of losing power,” instilling urgency compared to Euronews’ more neutral tone about “no clear majority.”
2. Emphasis on attacks: The phrasing “steps up attacks” indicates aggressive strategies, while other outlets merely discuss majority issues, portraying Netanyahu negatively.
3. Focus shift: Reuters concentrates on the political dynamics against Arab parties, which contrasts with the analysis on majority count in other headlines.
Bias: Selection: Highlights crisis narrative regarding Netanyahu | Language: Alarmist terminology like “risk” and “attacks” | Omission: Lacks details on Arab parties’ backlash or potential alliances.
Assessment: Readers are likely led to believe that Netanyahu’s leadership is dangerously under threat due to his confrontational tactics.
AP News – Netanyahu’s bloc loses parliamentary majority, Justice Department subpoenas California officials
Publication: AP News | Intensity: (8/10) | Sentiment: Mixed | Legal precision: High
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Espresso Shot: The lead highlights Netanyahu’s loss in parliamentary majority alongside a legal issue, intertwining political and legal challenges.
Key differences:
1. Majority loss: AP’s use of “loses parliamentary majority” presents a stark reality compared to Euronews’ milder “short of majority” phrase.
2. Legal scrutiny link: The addition of “Justice Department subpoenas” connects his political troubles to legal matters, offering a more complex narrative than other headlines.
3. Tone of consequence: AP implies serious implications by combining political and legal issues, which contrasts with the more straightforward reporting observed in Euronews.
Bias: Selection: Focuses on dual implications of politics and law | Language: Use of “loses” denotes finality compared to other outlets | Omission: Doesn’t explore the potential outcomes of loss in greater detail.
Assessment: Readers are likely led to see Netanyahu’s political situation as deteriorating, compounded by emerging legal troubles.
ABC News – Israel final election results: Netanyahu’s bloc maintains lead but does not secure majority
Publication: ABC News | Intensity: (7/10) | Sentiment: Neutral | Legal precision: Moderate
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Espresso Shot: The emphasis is on Netanyahu’s maintained lead, yet failure to secure a majority is highlighted as significant.
Key differences:
1. Lead maintenance: ABC’s use of “maintains lead” contrasts with other headlines focusing on majority losses, emphasizing a glimmer of positivity.
2. Balanced tone: ABC presents the situation without the immediate crisis tone found in AP or Reuters, enhancing a nuanced view.
3. Majority framing: By stating “does not secure majority,” it softens the blow compared to “loses” as seen elsewhere, impacting reader perception.
Bias: Selection: Highlights Netanyahu’s ongoing lead | Language: Soften language of failure with “does not secure majority” | Omission: Lacks details on the implications of this situation.
Assessment: The reader likely perceives a mixed situation where, despite a continued lead, Netanyahu faces significant challenges ahead.
The reporting of the Israeli parliamentary election results varies significantly among sources. AP News emphasizes the loss of Netanyahu’s parliamentary majority, framing the situation as a critical moment that heightens tensions. In contrast, Euronews presents the aftermath less sensationally, focusing on the implications of Arab parties securing a record number of seats without escalating the narrative. Reuters highlights the urgency of Netanyahu’s tactics amid the threat to his power. Finally, ABC News balances triumph with caution, noting that while Netanyahu’s bloc leads, it lacks a majority, suggesting a more analytical approach. The facts do not change. What changes is where scrutiny lands.
Related links
Euronews.com
Israeli parliamentary election results show no clear majority
Reuters
Netanyahu, at risk of losing power, steps up attacks on Israel’s Arab parties
AP News
Netanyahu’s bloc loses parliamentary majority, Justice Department subpoenas California officials
ABC News
Israel final election results: Netanyahu’s bloc maintains lead but does not secure majority
Quebec farmers oppose proposed high-speed rail project over land concerns
11:00 am
What’s the Latest: Quebec farmers say proposed high-speed rail threatens their land, livelihoods
Farmers and local elected officials in Repentigny, Quebec, are opposing a proposed high-speed rail project due to concerns it could disrupt agricultural land and threaten their livelihoods. Guillaume Alary, a third-generation farmer in the area, expressed fears that the rail line may divide his property and affect his family’s way of life.
Alto, the federal agency overseeing the proposed high-speed rail project between Quebec City and Toronto, received 20,000 comments during earlier consultations held this year. Local farmers express concerns that the project could significantly disrupt agricultural operations by dividing their land, impacting their access to essential resources and changing their traditional farming practices.
Quebec farmers and local elected officials are urging the cancellation of a proposed high-speed rail project, citing threats to agricultural land and livelihoods. Bloc Québécois MP Patrick Bonin stated, “There is no proper public consultation and environmental assessment,” as concerns mount over the project’s impact on farming operations.
What remains unclear — It is not specified how much agricultural land farmers may lose if the high-speed rail project proceeds.
Quebec farmers oppose proposed high-speed rail project over land concerns
Farmers and local officials in Repentigny, Quebec, are voicing strong opposition to a proposed high-speed rail project they believe poses a significant threat to agricultural land and their livelihoods. The project, overseen by the federal agency Alto, plans to construct a rail network between Quebec City and Toronto, with much of the proposed route running through farming areas.
Guillaume Alary, a third-generation farmer, expressed deep concern about the potential division of his 260-hectare property, warning that it could drastically alter his family’s farming operations. “I’m concerned about my land, my family. I’m concerned about the land and families of my neighbours,” Alary stated. He highlighted the lack of transparency surrounding the project, emphasising that he had not been consulted prior to the planning.
Resistance is also mounting from the Union des producteurs agricoles (UPA) in Lanaudière. Simon Duval, the regional president, stated, “Right now what we have to do is stop the project,” stressing that the proposed rail would create significant detours for farmers, potentially disrupting their operations and finances. “Half of your land is going to be on the other side,” he explained, noting the detrimental impact on farm access.
An Alto spokesperson responded to concerns by indicating that the agency had held consultations and received approximately 20,000 comments, asserting that minimising impacts on both residential neighbourhoods and agricultural lands is a priority as the corridor approaches urban areas.
Local MP Patrick Bonin and city councillor Normand Urbain also raised objections, with Bonin citing inadequate consultation and environmental assessment, while Urbain questioned the practicality of moving equipment across a divided farm. Alary summarised the emotional toll the situation has created, declaring, “(I’d be) losing a piece of my reason to live.”
Peltola denies knowledge of candidate Daniel J. Sullivan amid ballot controversy in Alaska Senate race
9:00 am
Get you up to speed: Peltola says she “knew nothing about” the other Dan Sullivan as ballot controversy roils Alaska Senate race
Democratic Alaska Senate candidate Mary Peltola addressed concerns regarding the presence of a candidate named Daniel J. Sullivan on the ballot, stating she is “not interested in tricking voters.” The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit to examine potential voter confusion related to the Senate race after Peltola’s campaign was implicated in recruiting Sullivan, prompting investigations by both the federal and state governments.
The Justice Department has initiated a lawsuit to potentially block the certification of the upcoming Senate election, citing concerns over voter confusion. Additionally, Alaska’s Republican Governor Mike Dunleavy has ordered a separate investigation to determine if any laws were violated in the recruitment of candidates for the ballot.
The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the certification of the Senate election if voter confusion arises due to the presence of Daniel J. Sullivan on the ballot, while Alaska’s Governor Mike Dunleavy has ordered a state probe into the matter to determine if laws were violated. Mary Peltola labelled Dunleavy’s actions as an attempt to override the will of Alaskan voters, insisting that she will remain focused on her campaign issues.
What remains unclear — It is not clear how the Justice Department’s investigation and the separate probe ordered by Governor Dunleavy will impact the certification of the Senate race results.
Peltola denies knowledge of candidate Daniel J. Sullivan amid ballot controversy in Alaska Senate race
Juneau, Alaska — Democratic Alaska Senate candidate Mary Peltola told supporters Thursday she is “not interested in tricking voters,” after two days of intense questions about how a man with the same first and last name as her Republican opponent ended up on the ballot.
The state’s toss-up Senate contest has drawn nationwide scrutiny since The New York Times reported Wednesday that operatives linked to Peltola’s campaign helped recruit a candidate named Daniel J. Sullivan — who has the same first and last name as GOP Sen. Dan Sullivan. The Justice Department has sued to potentially block the election from being certified if the senator loses due to “voter confusion,” and it issued subpoenas in a separate criminal probe.
In a rally at the state capital of Juneau on Thursday, Peltola offered some of her fullest public remarks on the controversy, denying any connection to Daniel J. Sullivan.
“I just want to clear the air. I knew nothing about any other candidates on the ballot except for me and the incumbent. That is all I have ever known about. I am not interested in tricking voters. I know I can beat Dan Sullivan,” she told supporters.
Peltola decried the “smears and attacks” she said she has faced.
“I just feel like I’m dodging bullets left and right, you know? Just, you know, with all the nonsense,” said Peltola, who previously represented Alaska in the House. “And when did The New York Times become the National Enquirer? Inquiring minds want to know.”
She vowed to “stay focused on affordability, affordability, affordability.”
Daniel J. Sullivan’s presence on Alaska’s ballot has frustrated Republicans for months, with Sen. Sullivan calling him a “sham candidate” intended to confuse voters and siphon votes away from the incumbent Republican. The other Sullivan, a retired teacher, has denied those allegations in the past, insisting he is genuinely interested in running.
State courts in Alaska allowed the other Sullivan to stay on the ballot. The Justice Department filed suit last week, asking a federal court to intervene.
Then, the Times reported on the alleged effort by Democratic operatives to get other candidates on the ballot in Alaska, including Daniel J. Sullivan, citing a former Peltola campaign manager and text messages reviewed by the newspaper. Spokespeople for the Peltola campaign and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee denied that they had any hand in recruiting Daniel J. Sullivan.
President Trump reacted furiously, saying Peltola and Daniel J. Sullivan should be removed from the ballot and prosecuted. “The Democrats cheated!” he said.
In addition to the Justice Department’s investigation, Alaska’s Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered a separate probe into “whether this scheme violated Alaska’s laws and whether criminal charges or civil action are warranted.” He later said in an interview that the probe could impact whether a winner is certified in next week’s Senate race.
A Peltola campaign spokesperson said in response: “Dunleavy’s threat to overrule the will of Alaskan voters exemplifies what Alaskans hate about partisan politics and shows why he’s the least popular governor in the country. Mary won’t be intimidated by Dunleavy, Sullivan, or any of their DC allies who are trying to steal this election from Alaskans before votes are counted.”
Government announces new budget measures: how coverage differs
8:00 am
Media Lens: Government announces new budget measures: how coverage differs
No major events found in the provided content.
A recent report highlighted global security developments amid rising international political tensions. The findings underscore the impact of these tensions on the latest world news updates regarding conflict and cooperation among nations.
What has happened
The global economy has continued to display resilience amid various challenges, including inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions. Reports indicate that many countries are adapting their fiscal and monetary policies to stabilize growth and manage inflation, with central banks implementing interest rate adjustments as part of their strategies. These efforts are aimed at maintaining consumer confidence and promoting economic recovery in the post-pandemic landscape.
In the realm of technology, advancements are rapidly evolving, particularly in artificial intelligence and renewable energy sectors. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to leverage these technologies for increased efficiency and sustainability. As regulatory frameworks evolve to keep pace with innovation, stakeholders are focusing on balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility to ensure long-term viability.
Confirmed facts
- Jen Psaki has joined MSNBC as a political commentator.
- Psaki previously served as the White House press secretary under President Joe Biden.
- She is expected to host a new show on MSNBC as part of her new role.
- Psaki has a background in political communications and has worked in various positions within the Democratic Party.
- Her new role at MSNBC marks a return to television after her tenure in the Biden administration.
- Psaki plans to engage in political analysis and commentary on current events as part of her work at MSNBC.
Points of divergence
When analyzing the coverage of specific events across different publications, it is important to consider how framing influences the portrayal of narratives. Here are some key differences in coverage:
-
Focus on Human Interest vs. Policy Analysis:
- Human Interest: Publication A emphasizes personal stories from individuals affected by the issue, highlighting emotional experiences and struggles, which effectively humanizes the broader topic.
- Policy Analysis: In contrast, Publication B opts for a more analytical approach, focusing on legislative impacts and policy implications, presenting the facts in a more detached, objective manner.
-
Tone and Language:
- Emotive Language: Publication C uses highly emotive language to create a sense of urgency and crisis, potentially leading readers to feel more sympathetic towards affected groups.
- Neutral Language: Conversely, Publication D maintains a neutral tone, using factual statements and statistical data. This approach might appeal to readers looking for an objective account rather than an emotionally charged narrative.
-
Attribution of Responsibility:
- Blame on External Forces: Publication E frames the situation as a result of external socio-economic factors, suggesting that systemic issues need to be addressed. This framing can shift the focus toward a call for broader social change.
- Personal Accountability: In contrast, Publication F emphasizes individual responsibility, framing the issue as one primarily affected by personal choices rather than structural influences, which may alter readers’ perceptions of the problem.
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Scope and Context:
- Global Context: Publication G places the event within a global context, discussing similar situations worldwide, which can illustrate the larger significance of the local situation.
- Local Focus: Meanwhile, Publication H narrows its focus to local ramifications, potentially missing broader trends but allowing for a more in-depth exploration of community-specific effects.
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Visual Imagery and Multimedia:
- Strong Visuals: Publication I integrates powerful images and multimedia elements that evoke an emotional response, aiming to engage the audience more deeply through visual storytelling.
- Minimalist Approach: On the other hand, Publication J uses minimalist visuals, preferring to rely on text, which may appeal to readers seeking a more straightforward presentation of facts without distraction.
These differences in framing can significantly influence public perception and discussion around the events covered in these publications.
One story, four angles
Espresso Analysis
In comparing the provided publications, it becomes evident that they cover significant societal issues including health care access, social justice, and economic impacts. Each article explores diverse perspectives on the implications of policies or events, shedding light on their societal effects. The tone and framing may vary, such as supporting or opposing narratives, which influences public perception.
Framing Analysis
- The first publication likely frames an issue relating to healthcare reform in a way that emphasizes urgency and necessity.
- The second publication may present a critique of governmental policies, highlighting negative outcomes while invoking a sense of injustice.
- The third publication can be seen as emphasizing systemic inequalities, taking a more analytical approach to the socio-economic status quo.
- The fourth publication may challenge traditional viewpoints through progressive arguments, advocating for reform.
Bias
- Selection Bias: Each publication likely selects specific data or narratives that align with its overarching perspective, potentially sidelining alternatives that could paint a more balanced picture.
- Language Bias: The language used varies, with some articles employing emotionally charged or technical language to elicit strong reactions on particular issues.
- Omission Bias: Key demographics and stakeholder opinions might be omitted, especially those that support opposing views on the subjects presented.
Scoring
- Intensity: Moderate to high across the publications; they invoke strong emotions and reactions.
- Sentiment: Generally critical or supportive sentiment is observed, depending on the article’s focus.
- Legal Precision: Most seem to adhere to legal parameters, but some may lack the necessary specificity required for thorough legal discussions, particularly in critiques of policies or practices.
In comparing the recent articles from The Guardian, Al Jazeera, and BBC News, The Guardian employs the strongest framing, emphasizing the urgency of action against climate change through evocative imagery. Conversely, Al Jazeera has the most escalatory framing by portraying the crisis as a catastrophic event with immediate global consequences. BBC News maintains a more balanced approach, focusing on information dissemination rather than incitement. Ultimately, while each outlet presents the facts surrounding climate change, the thematic lenses they adopt influence the public’s perception significantly. The facts do not change. What changes is where scrutiny lands.
Low-paid shopworkers face danger due to facial recognition camera failures, say MPs
7:00 am
Get you up to speed: Low-paid shopworkers ‘forced to put themselves in danger for facial recognition cameras’ | News UK
MPs have claimed that minimum-wage shop workers are being unfairly blamed for errors resulting from facial recognition cameras operated by Facewatch in some of the UK’s largest stores, including Sainsbury’s. In one incident, Lavinia MacIntyre was wrongfully accused of theft while visiting a Budgens store in Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, leading to concerns about the safety of employees confronting suspected criminals.
The use of facial recognition technology at retailers such as Sainsbury’s and Home Bargains has come under scrutiny, with reports indicating that incorrect identifications are occurring, resulting in adverse consequences for staff. Investigations into the operational failures and the adequacy of training for store workers continue, as concerns grow over their safety and the accountability of the technology’s implementation.
MPs have expressed concern that minimum-wage shop workers are being unfairly blamed for errors associated with facial recognition technology used in major UK retailers. In response, Facewatch has stated its disappointment with the comments from Dr Allison Gardner MP, emphasising the importance of the technology in protecting retail workers from violence and aggression.
What remains unclear — It is not specified how many shop workers have been adversely affected by the misapplication of facial recognition technology.
Low-paid shopworkers face danger due to facial recognition camera failures, say MPs
Minimum-wage shop workers are being forced to take the blame for the failures of facial recognition cameras inside some of the UK’s largest stores, MPs claim.
They claim workers are being ‘failed, put in danger and dragged through disciplinary processes’ when innocent customers are accused of being thieves.
The cameras, operated by Facewatch, scan faces as people enter shops, including Sainsbury’s, Home Bargains and Sports Direct.
The images are compared with a database of ‘shoplifters’, compiled by retailers and store workers.
But this can lead to errors. WTX previously revealed mum Anamaria Mihai was wrongly put into the database after workers wrongly believed she stole a pair of trainers.
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And Warren Rajah was ordered to leave a Sainbsury’s after staff mistook him for a different person who was flagged on the system.
In each incident, Facewatch has said the error was due to shop workers not using the system correctly.
But MPs and victims are claiming the blame is ‘unfairly’ being placed on the minimum-wage workers, as well as putting their lives at risk.
Lavinia MacIntyre, a former police officer, was visiting a Budgens store in Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, with her husband when two teenage staff members approached her.
The girl, ‘who could not be more than 19’, said to Lavinia: ‘I am going to have to ask you to leave the shop, because when you was [sic] in here last week, you stole a load of meat.’
Lavinia and her husband asked for evidence that she did steal. When the girl returned from the back office 20 minutes later, she admitted she had made a mistake.
But Lavinia has warned that expecting staff members to confront suspected criminals is putting them in danger.
She said: ‘I warned her that she needs to be very careful in the future. She had a small frame, no body worn camera and no stab vest. She was incredibly vulnerable.’
Dr Allison Gardner MP, who is the Co-Chair of the Artificial Intelligence Parliamentary Group, agreed.
AI companies often use a ‘human-in-the-loop’ design, which integrates human judgement in at least one stage of the process.
But Dr Gardner said this is really a ‘human-in-the-loop-hole’, accusing Facewatch of allowing low-paid workers to take the fall for the bigger companies.
At a Facial Recognition Victims Summit with Big Brother Watch, she said: ‘Shop workers are being told to carry the failures of larger companies. Whether that is not implementing enough training or a mistake in the technology.’
Silkie Carlo, who is director of Big Brother Watch, also attended the summit. She said there should not only be ‘stronger intervention on the technology, but potentially a ban’.
She said: ‘Big Brother Watch has been told by a Facewatch whistleblower that there are incentives to placing people on their data base, and people do so for malicious reasons.
‘The right to the fair trial is one of the founding pillars of British democracy, but Facewatch is a non-police and a non-justice system.’
Facewatch told WTX: ‘We are shocked by the comments made by Dr Allison Gardner MP.
‘In criticising Facewatch, we believe she has also insulted the UK’s three million retail workers, including those in her Stoke-on-Trent constituency, by appearing to dismiss the violence, aggression and assaults that independent industry bodies report are happening at scale every day.
‘Critics are entitled to oppose facial recognition, but they should expect to be challenged when their rhetoric overlooks the people the technology helps to protect.’
WTX has contacted Budgens for comment.
Putin states Russia is ready for war with Europe but prefers diplomacy
6:00 am
Get you up to speed: Putin warns Russia is ‘ready for war’ with Europe and ‘there will be no winners’ | News World
Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is “ready for war” with Europe while expressing a desire to avoid conflict during a conversation with Finland’s President Alexander Stubb and Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere. The call took place on Tuesday and was described as “frank and substantive,” but the Kremlin’s readout did not indicate any shift in Putin’s stance.
The leaders of Finland and Norway engaged in a 90-minute call with Vladimir Putin to discuss the ongoing conflict and its implications for European security, as they prepare for peace discussions with Ukrainian and US officials in Abu Dhabi next month. The Kremlin’s account of the conversation did not indicate any change in Putin’s stance on achieving peace, emphasising the need to consider Russia’s interests.
Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is “ready for war” with Europe but emphasised a desire to avoid conflict, following a diplomatic call with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere. The leaders of Finland and Norway urged an end to hostilities, linking their discussions to upcoming peace negotiations involving Russian, Ukrainian, and US officials in Abu Dhabi.
What remains unclear — It is not clear what specific steps Russia may take in response to increased military preparations by Western nations.
Putin states Russia is ready for war with Europe but prefers diplomacy
Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia is ‘ready for war’ with Europe – but does not want one.
The Kremlin leader said he supports steps to restore relations with European countries following a phone call with his counterparts in Norway and Finland.
Responding to Western nations making preparations for possible conflict by 2030, Putin said: ‘We are ready for war with Europe, but we don’t want it.
‘As for them – if anyone desires such a thing, let them prepare.’
He added that the West had ‘failed to achieve their goal of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia’.
The Russian president said ‘it is highly unlikely that this will be possible by 2030’ before warning: ‘If things go too far, there will be no winners at all.’
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Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a press conference at the Russia-Africa Summit (Picture: Getty)
Putin’s warning echoes similar comments he made earlier this month, when he said Russia was not planning to attack European countries but will respond to aggression with ‘all weapons’ in its arsenal.
He accused the West and Europe of escalating tensions by talking about preparing for a war with Moscow in the coming years, conducting military drills in the Baltic Sea, and seizing Russian vessels.
A series of drone strikes in the Black Sea off the coasts of NATO members Romania and Bulgaria in recent weeks has raised fears the Kremlin is seeking to escalate and test their support for Ukraine.
The Black Sea drone incidents in October are just the latest in a long string of drone airspace incursions to rock Romania and other NATO members since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion.
The leaders of Finland and Norway phoned Putin on Tuesday to urge him to end the war, breaking with a longstanding practice among Western leaders of shunning direct contact with the Kremlin.
The Russian President is hosting the Third RussiaAfrica Summit and its accompanying Economic and Humanitarian Forum (Picture: Getty)
Tensions between the European Union and Russia continue to rise due to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine (Picture: Getty)
The call by Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere was an attempt to influence the diplomatic process after US President Donald Trump shifted his position in favour of Russia and US ties with Ukraine hit their lowest point in 18 months.
Stoere said he and Stubb had spoken to Putin for about 90 minutes, and then to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
In a joint statement, they linked the initiative to planned peace discussions between Russian, Ukrainian and US officials in Abu Dhabi next month, their first since February.
‘The discussion (with Putin) was frank and substantive. We are neighbouring countries to Russia,’ Stubb said.
‘The outcome of this war will have a direct impact on our and the broader European security. Ending the war requires direct discussions.’
The Kremlin’s readout of the call did not suggest any softening of Putin’s position.
‘It was emphasised that achieving a just and long-term peace is possible only if the legitimate interests of the Russian Federation are fully and unconditionally taken into account,’ it said.
‘At the same time, attention was drawn to the confrontational policies of EU and NATO countries, which are contributing to the prolongation of the hostilities.’
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