The last-minute decision to ban the sale of beer in Qatar’s World Cup stadiums is a kick in the teeth for fans.
It is also a reminder of why the country should not be hosting the tournament.
The Qatari regime’s appalling human rights record should have disqualified it.
It should have been obvious to FIFA that Qatar’s dictatorial leaders just wanted to use the tournament for propaganda. As the opening match approaches, Qatari authorities are starting to show their true colours.
In addition to reneging on a promise to allow the sale of alcohol in the stands, the authorities have revoked journalists’ visas and barred some reporters from filming.
This should not be the backdrop to a great festival of sport. Qatar’s leaders must be in no doubt: a successful tournament will not be an endorsement of their repressive regime.
Hopeless Hunt
Households face a bleak future of falling incomes and higher taxes.
That was the verdict on Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement from respected think tank the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
The damage caused to the economy by this Tory government means workers’ wages could effectively be £15,000 lower by 2027.
At the same time, people will be paying more tax while struggling with costlier food and fuel.
The analysis also shows that, while everyone will be worse off, high earners will be less affected – reflecting twisted Tory values.
And today we reveal that Rishi Sunak has axed daily media appearances by ministers.
Presumably the Government will not defend its record because its record is indefensible.
This is the legacy of the Tories: 12 years that have left the country poorer and weaker.
Tower power
Strictly returns to its spiritual home for the first time since Covid tonight.
We hope dancers in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom will dazzle us with performances brighter than the town’s famous illuminations.
