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The War in the Middle EastOver the past months, the horrifying accounts of the crisis in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon have left many of us in shock. I have heard moving testimonies from constituents with loved ones in danger, and like you, I am deeply troubled by the brutal impact of this conflict. As your Member of Parliament, I am committed to representing your views and influencing government actions to bring this situation to an end. The urgent plight of civilians, especially children, cannot be ignored; we must act now to stop the violence, agree to a ceasefire, secure the release of all hostages, and work towards a lasting peace that has been needed for so long. My Urgent Call for Action I am advocating for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine and Lebanon. The suffering of civilians, especially children, must end now. I'm pushing for the release of all hostages as a critical step towards de-escalation. In the long term we must have a two-state solution that ensures both a secure Israel and a viable Palestinian state. My Diplomatic Engagement I have been actively representing your concerns through various diplomatic channels. Regular meetings with Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer MP have allowed me to communicate the strength of feeling on these critical issues. I've engaged with key regional figures, most notably Palestinian Authority Ambassador Husam Zomlot, with whom I've developed a close understanding. Our discussions on October 22nd focused on enhancing UK support for international law. These ongoing dialogues are crucial in our efforts to push for peace and a just resolution to the conflict. My Support for International Law I firmly believe that all conflicts must be governed by international law. As such, I strongly support institutions like the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in their role to determine and uphold these laws. Our government has taken a clear stance on this matter, dropping the previous administration's attempt to intervene in the ICC's process regarding potential arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza. We've also affirmed our belief that the ICC has jurisdiction over Gaza. We've implemented sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for human rights abuses against Palestinian communities in the West Bank, demonstrating our commitment to upholding international law and condemning illegal settlements. I will continue to support our government's efforts to hold all parties accountable and advocate for strict adherence to international law in this conflict and beyond. Arms Export Review On September 2nd, our government took a significant step by conducting a thorough review of UK arms exports to Israel. This rigorous process, aligned with our legal obligations, concluded that there is a clear risk that military exports to Israel, if used in Gaza operations, might contribute to serious violations of international humanitarian law. As a result, we've suspended all licenses for exports to Israel for items that could potentially be used in the current conflict, whether in Gaza, the West Bank, or Lebanon. I've personally requested ongoing reviews of arms licenses and raised specific concerns about the international supply chain for F-35s. Government Actions Since July, the UK Government has taken a number of steps to address the conflict. On July 14th, Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Israel and the West Bank, calling for an immediate ceasefire and a two-state solution. On September 2nd, the government suspended arms export licenses to Israel after determining a clear risk of serious violations of international humanitarian law. We've also provided critical humanitarian support, including releasing £21 million to UNRWA and £5.5 million to UK-Med for field hospitals in Gaza. The government has maintained consistent diplomatic pressure, with multiple ministerial visits to the region and ongoing calls for the release of hostages. Ministers have been clear about the need to end the conflict, with continuous diplomatic engagement aimed at de-escalation and supporting international legal frameworks. Going Forward I remain dedicated to pushing for immediate action towards a ceasefire and working within our government to progress towards an independent Palestinian state. I will keep you, my constituents, informed about ongoing efforts and developments as we navigate this complex situation. I assure you that I will continue to do everything in my power to represent your views and advocate for peace in this region. While the challenges are significant, I am committed to pursuing a just and lasting resolution that reflects our shared values and aspirations for a better future. Note on the Use of Term Genocide Genocide is the most serious crime against humanity, and seeking to prevent, halt, and punish it is a responsibility shared by everyone across the world. I believe that the best way for us to uphold this responsibility is by bolstering dedicated institutions, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. This system of international rules and justice is under ever greater threat of collapse. Upholding it today is essential for ensuring international justice tomorrow. As we know, the International Court of Justice has an ongoing case on this, between South Africa and Israel. The interim judgement the Court has made shows that the allegation of genocide in Gaza has sufficient plausibility to proceed further. I will continue to support the independence of the ICJ and the ICC, including their justice processes on Palestine and Israel. As an RAF officer, I led our airdrops on Mount Sinjar to help the Yazidi victims of the genocide by Daesh. What happened to the Yazidis, while the numbers were much smaller than the Palestinians affected in Gaza, is recognised by the UK as a genocide due to an international court judgement. This court judgement came after the UK humanitarian action I was a part of. This illustrates that whether or not something has been determined to be a genocide does not prevent action in support of people who are clearly at terrible risk. Questions about legal terminology should not hold us back from action. This knowledge shapes my support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a flood of humanitarian aid to those suffering, and the continuation of international justice processes. As an MP, I am contacted by constituents about many cases around the world, including others where there is ongoing investigation or judicial proceedings involving genocide and other crimes against humanity. This includes the people of Darfur and the rest of Sudan, the Rohingya victims who have fled Myanmar, and the people of Ukraine. There are many more people around the world who do not have ongoing international legal cases, including victims of the recent Tigray war in Ethiopia, human rights violations against the Uighurs in China, and many more. I believe we need to support people on an equal basis, rather than treating any of these situations of international injustice or atrocity as exceptional. Based on all of these reasons, I do not believe that it is helpful for me, as an MP, to use legal terms like ‘genocide’. This is for courts to decide, not politicians.
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Assisted DyingMy Position on the Assisted Dying Bill The debate surrounding assisted dying is complex and emotive, with strongly held ethical and moral views on all sides. As your representative, I approach this issue with careful consideration and an open mind. Key Points: This is a matter of individual conscience for MPs, not government policy. Any change in law will come through a Private Members' Bill, not government legislation. My decision will be pragmatic, based on policy quality and supporting infrastructure. I have no ideological position and aim to consider all perspectives. Strong safeguards are vital if the law changes. Assisted dying should not replace high-quality palliative and end-of-life care. I believe in striving for the widest possible consensus while ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals. My decision on the upcoming bill and any future legislation will be informed by: The quality of the proposed policy. The robustness of supporting infrastructure and resources. The effectiveness of safeguards to protect the vulnerable. The potential impact on palliative and end-of-life care. Commitment to Constituents I am committed to reading and considering every message from constituents on this important issue. Your views and experiences will help shape my decision when the time comes to vote. Regardless of the outcome, I believe we all share the goal of ensuring dignity in dying and providing the best possible care for those nearing the end of their lives.
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The Climate & Nature EmergencyThe climate and nature crisis is an urgent and escalating challenge that demands immediate and decisive action. Recent reports from the Climate Change Committee highlight that we are currently off track in meeting our legally binding climate targets. I call for rapid action to rectify this situation, emphasising the need to restore our commitment to climate goals at home so that we can effectively lead international efforts. Immediate Government Actions I support the Government for its proactive measures taken within just a few months of taking office. Key initiatives include: Lifting the ban on onshore wind: This move allows for greater investment in renewable energy sources. Ending new oil and gas licences: This decision is crucial for transitioning towards sustainable energy while ensuring a fair transition for workers in the North Sea. Approval of 1.3GW of solar energy projects: This significant step will enhance our solar capacity. Increased funding for renewable energy auctions: The budget has been raised by over 50% to £1.5 billion, facilitating more clean energy projects. Establishment of Great British Energy: This publicly owned company will manage clean power initiatives across the nation. Commitment to Green Prosperity I am proud to support the Government’s green prosperity plan, which aims to deliver clean power by 2030. This ambitious plan includes: Creation of a National Wealth Fund: With £7.3 billion allocated over the Parliament, this fund will invest in future industries in partnership with businesses. Goals for renewable energy expansion: The plan aims to double onshore wind, triple solar power, and quadruple offshore wind capacity by 2030. Investment in home energy efficiency: An additional £6.6 billion will be directed towards upgrading five million homes. This green transition represents not only an environmental imperative but also an opportunity to generate good jobs across various sectors. Alongside government initiatives to ensure a genuine living wage and new employment rights, I am optimistic about improving the livelihoods of working people. Enhancing Public Transport and Biodiversity Reforms in public transport are essential for improving air quality and combating climate change. I am committed to empowering local mayors to develop active travel networks and expand nature-rich habitats. This includes: Planting millions of trees Restoring peat bogs Creating new woodlands Biodiversity Biodiversity loss poses a significant threat that must be addressed alongside climate change. The UK is among the most nature-depleted countries globally, making it imperative that we prioritise nature recovery efforts. A comprehensive review of the previous Government's Environmental Improvement Plan is underway, focusing on: Cleaning waterways Reducing waste Halting species decline by 2030 Global Leadership and Local Action While domestic efforts are crucial, they must be complemented by global collaboration. We need a unified approach that places local communities at the forefront of decision-making processes. I welcome the Government's initiative to establish a Global Clean Power Alliance, which aims to mobilise significant global financing for renewable energy transitions in developing nations. I support our Foreign Secretary's commitment to ratifying key international treaties focused on ocean protection and plastic pollution, ensuring that at least 30% of our planet's land and oceans are safeguarded by 2030.In conclusion, addressing the climate and nature emergency requires urgent action, innovative policies, and collaborative efforts both domestically and internationally. Together, we can forge a sustainable future that benefits not only our environment but also our economy and society as a whole.
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Animal RightsI am deeply committed to championing animal rights and welfare, recognising that our treatment of animals reflects our values as a society. Every creature, great or small, deserves compassion, protection, and the opportunity to live free from suffering. Together, we can advocate for stronger laws and practices that ensure the humane treatment of animals, promote their welfare, and foster a harmonious coexistence between humans and the natural world. I will provide updates periodically as new legislation or policies emerge from the Government. Banning Hunting Trophies and Trail Hunting I firmly support the ban on the import of hunting trophies and advocate for stricter legislation to end trail hunting. In my view, there is no place for such a cruel sport in our nation, and I believe the previous Government failed to take adequate action on this matter. Bovine Tuberculosis and Badger Cull I back the current Government's commitment to collaborate with farmers and scientists to eradicate bovine tuberculosis (bTB) and to phase out the ineffective badger cull. It has been nearly six years since a comprehensive review of bTB strategies, and I trust that this Government will heed advice from a broad spectrum of expert advisors as we aim for bTB-free status by 2038. Ending Puppy Smuggling and Cruel Practices I am dedicated to outlawing illegal practices such as puppy smuggling and farming by criminal gangs that exploit animals. Furthermore, I advocate for an end to the sale of animals with cropped ears, the importation of dogs and cats subjected to fashion-based mutilations, and the importation of heavily pregnant animals. Foie Gras and Fur Farming The production of foie gras through force-feeding is awful and has been banned in the UK for 17 years, aligning with our animal welfare laws. Similarly, fur farming has been prohibited since 2000 in England and Wales, although importing and selling fur from certain species remains legal. A 2018 report highlighted that real fur was misrepresented as fake by various retailers, which is deeply concerning. I will continue to advocate for the law to be upheld in this area. Animal Testing I support the Government’s initiative to partner with scientists, industry, and civil society in efforts to phase out animal testing. The UK has made significant strides since banning cosmetic testing on animals in 1997, extending this ban to cosmetic ingredients in 1998. I believe synthetic biology holds promise for addressing testing challenges while promoting non-animal methodologies. I will continue to push for the ending of animal testing. Wildlife Crime The Government acknowledges the importance of combating wildlife crime by funding the National Wildlife Crime Unit. While there are currently no plans to classify all wildlife crimes as notifiable, police have the discretion to investigate non-notifiable wildlife crimes based on community priorities. Regulation of Primates as Pets I am concerned that regulations introduced by the previous Government will licence keeping primates as pets rather than implementing a full ban as previously pledged. I will continue to push for a full ban on keeping primates as pets. Farm Animal Welfare My commitment to animal rights extends to improving welfare standards for farmed animals. I support close collaboration with the farming sector to enhance animal welfare practices while recognising that food security is vital for national security. I advocate for a national land-use framework that balances agricultural needs with environmental protection. Environmental Priorities Restoring nature and enhancing food security are among the new Government's core environmental priorities. As one of the most nature-depleted countries globally, we must work with communities, and civil society to protect our natural environment and expand habitats for wildlife. I continue to advocate for a compassionate future where every animal is treated with dignity and respect, and where their rights are upheld as a reflection of our humanity.
Where does Calvin stand on...
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