October 2025

We are pleased to attach our latest October group minutes and news thanks to group member Lesley for preparing them and to other group members for their contributions. The summary from our monthly death penalty report is included and the effects of the more aggressive approach to the use of the penalty in the US can be seen all too clearly.

We have become more concerned at the increasing threats to our membership of the ECHR and to the Human Rights Act. Both Reform and the Conservatives are talking in these terms and the Labour party is less than full-throated in its support.

The weekly vigils are continuing and we hope the ceasefire holds and negotiations can lead to a lasting settlement for both the Israelis and Palestinians.

Immigration and boat crossings continue to make considerable political waves with all parties trying to outdo each other. There is a report in the minutes which can be read separately here.

We are also trying to interest local schools in human rights issues which we hope to be able to report on at the next meeting.

The next meeting is on 13 November.