Issue 1177 - Monday, 29th November by Cardiff Student Media

rhifyn 1177 issue 1177

29 tachwedd 2021 29 november 2021

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Inside: Gair Rhydd takes an exclusive inside look at the recent COP26 summit in Glasgow (Page 26-27)

Gair Rhydd speaks to Steve Hannam - Author, Wrestler, Father Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

teve Hannam is a Harlow-based former semi-professional wrestler, author, actor and father, who has become a local advocate for children on the autistic spectrum. Now that his experiences with the ‘autistic shadow’ have been adapted to both stage and page, Gair Rhydd sat down with Hannam to discuss his varied career and plans following his 100th blog post. Steve Hannam is by no means an ‘ordinary father’. Just last month the former semi-professional wrestler, author, actor and father of two posted his 100 th consecutive post in celebration of eight years of the ‘Living with Luke’ blogs - a self-described “stream of conscious(ness)/train of thought/load of bollocks” that Hannam had been writing since mid-2013. The blogs follow Hannam’s experiences and personal struggles raising Luke, his 23-year-old son who was diagnosed with autism at an early age. Autism, or Autistic Spectrum Disorder (‘ASD’) refers to a broad, complex group of developmental disabilities which influence a person’s behaviour and interaction with others. According to the National Autistic Society (NAS), it is currently estimated that 700,000 people in the UK are on the autistic spectrum. Hannam’s intentions to write posts for ‘Living with Luke’ were always simple: the blogs provided him with a way to get his thoughts, feelings and uncertainties down on virtual paper. “It’s a very personal story to a lot of people,” he says. “It’s not your typical father-son relationship. It’s very much a different and challenging relationship at times.” Part of his usual writing process, Hannam explained, is to write each post in one sitting: “It’s very much a stream of consciousness thing. If I think I have something to write about, then I’ll usually write about it in one go and post it. It’s very rare that I’ll go back and edit what I’ve written.” This way, Hannam said that it’s important for him that the blogs to present an accurate representation of life as a parent of a child with autism. A key

part of this, he continued, involves him actively acknowledging and reflecting on his own occasional shortcomings as a parent. Hannam was conscious not to come across as a ‘perfect dad’ in his blogs. Instead, he admits that like other parents, “we all have our shortcomings and we all have our failings.” Growing up in the late seventies, Hannam said that he would often spend his time writing stories or ‘pretend wrestling’ with his brothers. Two activities would eventually dominate his life after leaving education and finding work as a so-called ‘blue coat entertainer’. During this time, Hannam spent a number of years working on the sidelines of semi-professional wrestling matches until, by chance, he was asked whether he would be interested in refereeing a match. “And that’s how it started,” Hannam explained. After acting as a referee, he spent some time on the road with a group of wrestlers where Hannam became familiar with wrestling himself. This experience turned out to be, as Hannam saw it, his ‘on the job training’ as an aspiring semi-professional wrestler. He quickly picked up ‘the basics’ of setting up a ring and began learning how to perform a variety of wrestling moves. To Hannam, this experience was his first ‘real’ chance to be a wrestler: “By the end of the week, bearing in mind it was only a five day tour, I had wrestled my first match. One of the guys who was wrestling had injured himself and, as I’d done a bit of refereeing for the shows, they said: ‘You’re on!’ So, yeah, I wrestled my first match a week after I started training and that was pretty insane and it was great, I absolutely loved it!” Hannam would continue wrestling for a while longer, competing at the Harlow ‘Wrestle Fest’ and several charity wrestling matches under the name ‘Danson Thunderbolt’ before eventually settling down to start a family. With his wrestling career on pause, Hannam and his wife had two sons, Jake and Luke. To read Jack's full interview with Steve Hannam on his experiences as an author, wrestler, and father, turn to page 3. 3

Priti Patel: The Home Secretary has proposed a new clause to the 'Nationality and Borders Bill', a clause that has recieved a mixed reception. Source: Number 10 (via Flickr)

Controversial clause added to borders bill

Luthien Evans Politics Editor

ome Secretary, Priti Patel, has proposed a controversial addition to the 'Nationality and Borders Bill'. Under Clause 9 of the bill, ‘notice of decision to deprive a person of citizenship’ exempts the government from having to give notice to a citizen revoking citizenship if it is ‘not reasonably practicable’ to do so. Furthermore, the

government would not have to give warning if it was deemed to be in the interests of the public or for national security. Some critics have stated this would allow the Home Secretary to have ‘draconian’ levels of power. It has also been suggested that this will bring complications to cases that occurred prior to the clause being added to law, potentially damaging their ability to appeal their case. The director of Reprieve, an NGO fighting human rights abuses, discussed

the topic with The Guardian by stating: “This clause would give Priti Patel unprecedented power to remove your citizenship in secret, without even having to tell you, and effectively deny you an appeal. Under this regime, a person accused of speeding would be afforded more rights than someone at risk of being deprived of their British nationality.” To read Luthien's article detailing this significance of this new clause, turn to page 12.

Growing concerns over Ghostbusters Afterlife COVID-19 'anti-vaxxers' "a feelgood continuation"

Will England speak up before Qatar World Cup?

Catarina Pinto Vicente

Sam Joseph

Comment Editor

ith the pandemic, many countries were faced with the choice of making the vaccine mandatory – some have stressed its importance through laws or punishment, whereas others, like the UK, have given people the choice. It’s worth delving into whether this is a matter of free choice or one of protecting the community. Some have gone the way to make the vaccines mandatory, such as Turkmenistan and Indonesia. To read Catarina's full article on the ways that governments can deal with so-called 'anti-vaxxers', turn to page 17. 17

Annabelle Martin Contributor

Sport Editor

his feelgood continuation of the iconic 80s film will appeal to fans of the original - and, with Stranger Things' Finn Wolfhard costarring, brings in a new audience. Director Jason Reitman takes the reins from his father Ivan in this remake that not only shares DNA, but many sharp-witted links to the past. Like the original, there is a goofy tone, however this remake is less about special effects and more an entertaining demonstration of wit which can be inviting to both parents and their children. To read Annabelle's full review of Jason Reitman's 'Ghostbusters Afterlife', turn to page 22.

EDITORIAL Gair Rhydd 2021/22 Coordinator Elaine Morgan

Editor-in-Chief Jack Robert Stacey

Deputy Editors Tom Kingsbury Vicky Witts Zoe Kramer

A note from the Editor Nodyn gan y Golygydd How successful was the recent COP26 summit?

News

Zoe Kramer Alex Hughes Beth Williams Shivika Singh

Features

Jasmine Edge Eva Rodericks

Pa mor llwyddiannus oedd uwchgynhadledd COP26?

Taf-od

Nel Richards Gracie Richards Nansi Eccott Steffan Alun Leonard

Politics

Tom Kingsbury Ella Lloyd Luthien Evans Manal Ahmed

Comment

Vicky Witts Catarina Pinto Vicente Katherine Wheeler Megan Evans

Advice

Harriet Lowbridge Megan Shinner Ruth Hoey

Review

Iris Knapman Jessica Clifford-Jones

Science and Technology Mia Becker-Hansen Elie Gould Jemma Powell Theodore Tadros

Sport

Anurag Hegde Adam Brown Joe Edgar-Smith Tom Hawkins Sam Joseph

Head of Digital Media Sophia Grace

Social Media Manager Ella Lloyd

Digital Media Editors Cinzia Appetecchia Emily Smith Joseph Liu

Copy Editors

Beca Fflur Williams Bonnie Wileman Emily Bryant Jess Henderson Libby Griffiths Lois Campbell Maisie Granger

Write to the editor editor@gairrhydd.com

At Gair Rhydd we take seriously our responsibility to maintain the highest possible standards. We may occasionally make mistakes, however if you believe we have fallen below the standards we seek to uphold, please email editor@gairrhydd.com. You can view our Ethical Policy Statement and Complaints Procedure at cardiffstudentmedia.co.uk/complaints. Opinions expressed in editorials and opinion pieces are not reflective of Cardiff Student Media, who act as the publisher of Gair Rhydd in legal terms, and should not be considered official communications or the organisation’s stance. Gair Rhydd is a Post Office registered newspaper.

COP26: The impact of the recent summit has recieved a mixed reception from people. Source: Number 10 (via Flickr).

Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

ollowing the recent conclusion of the COP26 summit, a number of questions have been raised over how productive the recent meetings have been in combating the ongoing impact of climate change around the world. The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (or ‘COP26’) saw an estimated 25,000 delegates travel to Glasgow in order to represent almost 200 countries in discussions on climate change-related issues. All participating countries agreed to adhere to ‘the Glasgow Climate Pact’, a new deal that “reaffirms the Paris Agreement temperature goal of holding the increase in global temperature to well below 2 °C” and recognises coal as the single largest contributor to climate change. As part of the summit, 140 countries also made the pledge to reach net-zero emissions, while approximately 100 stated their intentions to end deforestation by 2030 – The most significant of which being Brazil, a country that was recently found to have reached the highest levels of deforestation in 15 years. During a recent Downing Street press conference concerning the UK’s impact at COP26, Boris Johnson said that he was positive that “for all our disagreements, the world is undeniably

heading in the right direction.” Although the Prime Minister has faced criticism for an apparent lack of action at the summit, his statement does (for the most part) ring true in reference to global efforts to combat climate change. Whilst the COP26 summit was taking place, a large number of people took to the streets of London, Cardiff and other major cities around the world to raise awareness of the ongoing climate crisis. Many took part in protests against what they saw to be slow and ineffectual progress from those attending the conference. One of the largest protests, the ‘Global Day for Action for Climate Justice’, took place Scotland’s Capital and was estimated to include 100,000 people. The claim that COP26 had little impact has been echoed by numerous climate scientists including Hannah Cloke, a professor of hydrology at the University of Reading. Cloke recognised that although the public are more aware of climate change than ever before, she said that, when evaluating the recent summit “from a scientific point of view”, “we are back in the position where the science is ever clearer but the politics is still worryingly murky.” It remains to be seen, however, whether global efforts to combat climate change will be significant enough to make an impact.

COP26: Mae effaith yr uwchgynadleddau diweddar wedi derbyn derbyniad cymysg gan bobl. Tarrddiad: Rhif 10 (via Flickr).

Jack Robert Stacey Prif Olygydd

n dilyn casgliad diweddar uwchgynhadledd COP26, codwyd nifer o gwestiynau ynghylch pa mor gynhyrchiol y mae’r cyfarfodydd diweddar wedi bod wrth fynd i’r afael ag effaith barhaus newid yn yr hinsawdd ledled y byd. Gwelodd Cynhadledd Newid yn yr Hinsawdd y Cenhedloedd Unedig (neu ‘COP26’) amcangyfrif o 25,000 o gynrychiolwyr yn teithio i Glasgow er mwyn cynrychioli bron i 200 o wledydd mewn trafodaethau ar faterion sy’n ymwneud â newid yn yr hinsawdd. Cytunodd yr holl wledydd a gymerodd ran i gadw at ‘Gytundeb Hinsawdd Glasgow’, bargen newydd sy’n “ailddatgan nod tymheredd y Cytundeb Paris o gynnal y cynnydd mewn tymheredd byd-eang i lawer islaw 2 o C” ac yn cydnabod glo fel y cyfrannwr unigol mwyaf at newid yn yr hinsawdd. Fel rhan o’r uwchgynhadledd, gwnaeth 140 o wledydd yr addewid hefyd i gyrraedd allyriadau sero net, tra nododd tua 100 eu bwriad i roi terfyn ar ddadorewigo erbyn 2030 – Y mwyaf arwyddocaol ohonynt oedd Brasil, gwlad y canfuwyd yn ddiweddar ei bod wedi cyrraedd y lefelau uchaf o ddatgoedwigo mewn 15 mlynedd. Yn ystod cynhadledd i’r wasg yn Downing Street yn ddiweddar ynghylch effaith y DU yn COP26, dywedodd

Boris Johnson ei fod yn gadarnhaol “ar gyfer ein holl anghytundebau, mae’r byd yn mynd i’r cyfeiriad cywir yn bendant”. Er bod y Prif Weinidog wedi wynebu beirniadaeth am ddiffyg gweithredu ymddangosiadol yn yr uwchgynhadledd, mae ei ddatganiad (ar y cyfan) yn wir wrth gyfeirio at ymdrechion byd-eang i fynd i’r afael â newid yn yr hinsawdd. Er bod uwchgynhadledd COP26 yn cael ei chynnal, aeth nifer fawr o bobl i strydoedd Llundain, Caerdydd a dinasoedd mawr eraill ledled y byd i godi ymwybyddiaeth o’r argyfwng hinsawdd parhaus.Cymerodd llawer ran mewn protestiadau yn erbyn yr hyn a welsant yn gynnydd araf ac aneffeithiol gan y rhai a fynychodd y gynhadledd. Ategwyd yr honiad na chafodd COP26 fawr o effaith gan nifer o wyddonwyr hinsawdd gan gynnwys Hannah Cloke, athro hydroleg ym Mhrifysgol Reading. Cydnabu Cloke, er bod y cyhoedd yn fwy ymwybodol o newid yn yr hinsawdd nag erioed o’r blaen, dywedodd, wrth werthuso’r uwchgynhadledd ddiweddar “o safbwynt gwyddonol”, “ein bod yn ôl yn y sefyllfa lle mae’r wyddoniaeth yn gliriach byth ond y wleidyddiaeth yn dal i boeni’n bryderus. ” Mae’n dal i gael ei weld, fodd bynnag, a fydd ymdrechion byd-eang i frwydro yn erbyn newid yn yr hinsawdd yn ddigon sylweddol i gael effaith.

GOLYGYDDOL

Gair Rhydd speaks to Steve Hannam - Wrestler, Author, Father Gair Rhydd sat down with the Harlow-based former semi-professional wrestler, author, actor and father to talk over his varied career and plans following his 100th blog post.

Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

It’s not your typical father-son relationship. It’s very much a different and challenging relationship at times.”

challenging relationship at times.” Part of his usual writing process, Hannam explained, is to write each post in one sitting: “It’s very much a stream of consciousness thing. If I think I have something to write about, then I’ll usually write about it in one go and post it. It’s very rare that I’ll go back and edit what I’ve written.” This way, Hannam said that it’s important for him that the blogs to present an accurate representation of life as a parent of a child with autism. A key part of this, he continued, involves him actively acknowledging and reflecting on his own occasional shortcomings as a parent. Hannam was conscious not to come across as a ‘perfect dad’ in his blogs. Instead, he admits that like other parents, “we all have our shortcomings and we all have our failings.” Hannam’s semi-professional wrestling career Growing up in the late seventies, Hannam said that he would often spend his time writing stories or ‘pretend wrestling’ with his brothers. Two activities would eventually dominate his life after leaving education and finding work as a so-called ‘blue coat entertainer’. During this time, Hannam spent a number of years working on the sidelines of semi-professional wrestling matches until, by chance, he was asked whether he would be interested in refereeing a match. “And that’s how it started,” Hannam explained. After acting as a referee, he spent some time on the road with a group of wrestlers where Hannam became familiar with wrestling himself. This experience turned out to be, as Hannam saw it, his ‘on the job training’ as an aspiring semi-professional wrestler. He quickly picked up ‘the basics’ of setting up a ring and began learning how to perform a variety of wrestling moves. To Hannam, this experience was his first ‘real’ chance to be a wrestler:

‘Living with Luke’: (From left to right) Phil Powers, Ben Maytham, Steve Hannam, and Shane Whitworth. Credit: Steve Hannam

Steve Hannam: The ‘Living with Luke’ stage production toured around parts of the UK before COVID-19 restrictions were brought into effect, telling Hannam’s story as a father of a child with autism. Credit: Steve Hannam

“By the end of the week, bearing in mind it was only a five day tour, I had wrestled my first match. One of the guys who was wrestling had injured himself and, as I’d done a bit of refereeing for the shows, they said: ‘You’re on!’ So, yeah, I wrestled my first match a week after I started training and that was pretty insane and it was great, I absolutely loved it!” Hannam would continue wrestling for a while longer, competing at the Harlow ‘Wrestle Fest’ and several charity wrestling matches under the name ‘Danson Thunderbolt’ before eventually settling down to start a family. With his wrestling career on pause, Hannam and his wife had two sons, Jake and Luke who was diagnosed with autism as a child and would become the basis behind the ‘Living with Luke’ blogs. Luke’s diagnosis Speaking about his son Luke’s diagnosis of autism at an early age, Hannam said that, “it was a confirmation of something that [him and his wife] suspected, but didn’t want to admit.” Whilst this news came at a time when public awareness of autism was beginning to increase, Hannam talked of the limited amount of support available which essentially left him with no clear direction to follow. “We pretty much had to start from the beginning,” he said, “in the dark… with a bag over our heads.” Around this time, the public understanding autism was largely shaped around the 1988 film ‘Rain Man’, a road drama centring on the relationship between two brothers; one of which, the character ‘Raymond’, is presented as be-

Although that path was there for Luke, it wasn’t clear as we didn’t know how he was going to react, we didn’t know how everybody else was going to react to him.”

ing on the autistic spectrum. Although the film has been widely recognised for raising the visibility of autism, it remains to be a subject of critical debate over what many have argued is an inaccurate and simplistic representation of ASD. Following Luke’s diagnosis, Hannam understandably found himself dealing with a sudden “fear of the unknown” over what his next steps would be and how Luke’s life would play out. “With a lot of children, there’s almost a logical progression,” he said. “Although that path was there for Luke, it wasn’t clear as we didn’t know how he was going to react, we didn’t know how everybody else was going to react to him.” ‘Living with Luke’ on stage This story and many others eventually became the inspiration behind a stage adaptation of Hannam’s ‘Living With Luke’ blogs, a show that toured the UK before COVID-19 restrictions were brought into effect. Reflecting on the show, Hannam mentioned that he was approached by the playwright Paul T. Davies who expressed an early interest in creating a stage show based on the blogs. As they outlined the performance, Davis stumbled upon an old picture of Hannam during his wrestling days. An idea struck Davies – to set the show inside of a wrestling ring. The basis behind the performance, Hannam explained, became a wrestling match between him and the ‘autistic shadow’, a depiction of his doubts and fears as a father. The show similarly explores a number of the stories in the ‘Living with Luke’ blogs, focusing on Hannam’s attempts to connect with his son whilst overcoming “the perceptions (and sometimes misperceptions) of the general public” – this is, again, an aspect of his life that Hannam feels is important to present in a realistic way. “I hope that the audience do identify with that. We do get a lot of feedback from people who say ‘this is my life, this is what I go through every day, thank

We do get a lot of feedback from people who say ‘this is my life, this is what I go through every day, thank you for presenting that.’” you for presenting that.’” Although live performances of ‘Living with Luke’ have been put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannam expressed that he was looking forward to resuming the show again soon. Hanham’s experiences with autism The show has always been a key way for Hannam to get the message out about the reality of autism in his own uniquely personal way. By connecting people with his experiences as Luke’s father, he said that he hopes to help his audience understand “that no autistic child is the same.” “Sometimes, it doesn’t matter how much education you create around the autistic specrum or special needs because, if you don’t experience it [firsthand], it’s never going to work for you.” Hannam currently spends his time working at Church Langley Primary School in Harlow, a school which has been previously praised for its inclusive attitude towards children with special educational needs. When engaging with people with autism or special needs, Hannam maintains that it’s important to “get onto their wavelength” and make them feel as comfortable as possible. Looking over varied career, Hannam said that the meaning behind his numerous blog entries and performances is still as clear as it was back in mid-2013. All of this, he summarised, is “a love letter to my little boy” “It’s been an honour and a privilege to be able to have done [live performances of ‘Living with Luke’] for so long and for so many people.” “To have that opportunity to keep performing, that is just astounding and I hope that it continues.”

NEWS

Review into English Channel migration Shivika Singh News Editor

B Zoe Kramer

Alex Hughes

ritish Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered a cross-government review into the migrant crisis as he is “exasperated” by a failure to stem the number of crossings from France - The Times reported on Saturday. As more than 23,000 migrants have entered the UK via small boats this year and the number of these crossings have resurfaced again with more than 1000 migrants entering the English Channel within the past week, the conservative government is taking the issue more seriously than ever. The migrant crisis is expected to be a major electoral issue as Boris Johnson has repeatedly pledged to control the UK’s borders and has won the vote of the British public with similar promises. This decision has come after around 1000 migrants reached the UK by boat

across the English Channel, taking the total number of such crossings for the year over 23,000. This number has tripled last year’s total of 8000, according to government figures. According to The Times, Mr Johnson told front and backbench Tory MPs the issue was a priority and asked them for their support if he decided to adopt more “challenging” solutions. The newly set-up committee is to meet next week to organise a coordinated approach to tackling the crisis, with initial efforts reportedly being focused on identifying what is going wrong. As reported by The Independent, the committee is to be composed of members from the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign Office – will take on the responsibility of overhauling Britain’s asylum system with the Nationality and Borders Bill, which is currently going through the House of Commons. The bill introduced by Home Minister Priti Patel, will seek to create a two-

Migration: Prime Minister Boris Johnson has launched a review into migrant crossings from France. Source: Number 10 (via Flickr) tier asylum system whereby those who come to Britain illegally will be denied the same privileges as people who arrive through legal routes. Migrants who cross the Channel in small boats will also face up to four years in jail under the new legislation. This bill received heavy criticism as it grants power to the Home Office powers to strip individuals of their British citizenship without notice. These steps towards controlling the

400,000 books burn in Buckley Industrial Estate Alexa Price Contributor

O Beth Williams

Shivika Singh news@gairrhydd.com

border crises are also significant towards UK and French relations as French President, Emanuel Macron accused Britain of swinging “between partnership and provocation” over the migrant crisis on friday. The migrant crisis has led to increased tensions between the UK and France. Mr Macron’s dissatisfaction is evident as he says- “We did not get what we wanted. They are playing with our nerves.”

n the evening of Tuesday the 16th of November, a fire broke out at the Spencer Industrial Estate in the town of Buckley, Flintshire. While fortunately there was not a single casualty, this saw a devastating 400,000 books burnt at the site of Berwyn Books and its sister company Cheshire Book Centre. They are one of the largest book retailers in the country, who also saw themselves as former homes to thousands of antique books, letters, and journals valued around £1 million. Among those lost was a first ever edition of the Radio Times from September 1923, and a book recently accumulated that was signed by Queen Victoria in 1868. It goes without saying then that irreplacable fragments of history have perished as a result of the fire. Berwyn Books and Chesire Book Centre took to Facebook to alert the

Enormous Loss: Among the books lost in the fire were irreplaceable antique editions. Source: Ann (via Flickr) community of this devastating incident. In a statement they wrote: “We don’t really know what to say, except everything’s gone.” They then went on to write: “As of now, everything is on hold, and we don’t know what is going to be happening in the future.” Throughout the evening, those living around the area were urged to close

their windows and doors, and drivers were asked to avoid the area of the blaze. While the cause of the fire is still uncertain, Berwyn Books have said that the building has been condemned and is “extremely unsafe”, but the business “remains hopeful”. A community fundraiser has already been organized to help the staff and the business remain afloat.

The fire unfortunately set the entirety of the premises ablaze. North Wales Fire and Rescue worked throughout the night and into Wednesday morning to control the flames, following being called just after 17:00 GMT. Controlling the blaze was said to have been extremely difficult after the roof of Berwyn Books collapsed. At the height of the incident, there were eight fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, and a high volume pump used to fight for what was left of the Berwyn Books establishment. Three fire engines remained at the scene the following morning, and neighbours supported those throughout the night in their efforts to put out the blaze. While it is a devastating loss, staff of Berwyn Books were relieved to find that there were no casualties, and are looking for ways to remain evident within their loving community while they take on donations and decide what’s next in store for their business.

Government pledges free school meals for primary school students Beth Williams News Editor

abour and Plaid Cymru have pledged to give free school meals to every primary school pupil in Wales within the next three years. The scheme is one of many policies to be implemented as part of a cooperation deal agreed by both political parties. The Labour party holds 30 of the 60 seats in the Senedd, meaning it is dependent on the agreement of at least one minister from another party to pass legislations. Discussing the deal, First Minister and Labour leader Mark Drakeford said: “This co-operation agreement brings the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru together to respond to some of the most pressing

Through it we plant together the seed beneath the snow of a new society, a new Wales, a new beginning.” aaaaaaaSAdam Price, Plaid Cymru Leader

School meals: The free meals are expected to go into effect within the next three years.Source: Cheshire East Council (via Flickr) issues facing Wales today, such as climate change and the energy and costof-living crisis.” Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price commented: “Through it we plant together the seed beneath the snow of a new society, a new Wales, a new beginning.” 105,000 children between the ages of five and 15 are currently eligible for free school meals in Wales. This figure increased by 19,000 between January 2020 and January 2021 due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Wales still has the highest amount

of children living in poverty and not eligible for free school meals. During this year’s school holidays, the Welsh government allotted £23 million to financing free school meals for pupils. Mark Drakeford called the new policy “ambitious”, with Adam Price hailing it as “historic”. Others, however, criticised the scheme. Conservative MP Rob Roberts said. “Some 35 years ago, I benefitted from free school meals when my parents were in a difficult situation and in need of support,” he said. “There was

no stigma, no embarrassment or issue with that at all.” “People talk a lot about stigma. I respectfully submit that there is no stigma, other than when well-meaning people keep saying that there is.” “In reality, there is absolutely no shame in people falling on hard times and needing some help. It can happen to the best of us.” “Would you rather have free meals for every child, even those whose parents make £100,000 a year, or would you rather have 2/3 new teachers, 5/6 more classroom assistants, etc?” he asked. “I suspect the vast majority of them would rather have these massive amounts of resources focussed on delivering better outcomes.” Some of the other 45 policies outlined in the co-operation deal are to potentially move the country’s net zero target from 2050 to 2035, introduce a new law surrounding Welsh language education and the extending of free childcare to all two year olds. However, this three-year co-operation does not equate to a coalition. No Plaid Cymru members will join the government in

ministers or deputy ministers. The free school meals policy follows outrage after one secondary school instructed its cooks to deny pupils food if they were more than 1p in debt. In a letter sent out to parents, Ysgol Dyffryn Nantlle in Gwynedd wrote that school meal debts had reached a total of £1800. Parents had until 19

In reality, there is absolutely no shame in people falling on hard times and needing some help.” aaaaaaaSRob Roberts, Conservative MP November to clear their debts before the system was implemented on 22 November. At the time, strategic head teacher Neil Foden said that the “scale of the default means that something clearly has to be done”. The intense scrutiny has since forced the council to apologize and school officials to review this policy. However, there is no indication of a similar free school meals scheme for secondary school pupils.

NEWYDDION

CBR continues campaign across from SU Wales to

Zoe Kramer

Head of News

he 2019 AGM decision for the Students’ Union to adopt a prochoice stance has long been a source of contention. The debate extends beyond pro-life versus pro choice. It even extends beyond pro-choice versus neutrality, and whether or not they are separate terms. The issue also concerns free speech, the scientific method, and when it is ethical to take a stance. As in years past, pro-life campaign CBR (the ‘Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform’) set up displays outside the main building of Cardiff University across from the Students’ Union on November 1st. These displays contain unedited images of aborted foetuses (which have been pixelated by Gair Rhydd due to their graphic nature). The campaigners also handed out leaflets with similar images. Anthony Kells, leader of CBR UK, spoke to Gair Rhydd about the campaign, the images and the choice to display them. “We’re here as part of a long term campaign...which started at the Students’ Union AGM 2019” The Students’ Union is a studentled independent part of the University which also functions as the voice for students through the electoral process. As a result, the AGM decision was reached by students and not by the University Executive Board. “CBR UK seek to change public opinion and to challenge Views on Abortion - CBR UK educates society on the humanity and value of unborn children and the reality of ‘Choice.’” “We use images, science and statistics rather than opinions. This allows individuals to come to their own conclusions after considering all of the relevant information.” “We use images showing the unborn child before and after abortion. This conveys the reality in a single glance. There were approximately 210,000 abortions in the UK last year.” “We at CBR UK continue to expose the horror of abortion in all it’s ugliness. We use abortion images to show in an instant, what a thousand words can-

and most skilled advocate for the unborn. They are truly a blessing to life.” “CBR UK will continue with the long term campaign at the University Main gate until such time as: 1) the Student Union reverse the currently held stance of pro choice/ pro abortion to that of the previously neutral position prior to 2019 AGM motion 5.” “2) Until such time as the Student pro life society is allowed to reform without fear and intimidation.” Both the Pro-Life and the Pro-Choice society have been accused of harrassment towards the other side of the debate. At this time, no legal action has been taken against either society, nor has there been disciplinary action from within the SU or the University. There has been a petition to disband the ProLife society, however the pro-life society has not officially been disbanded and maintains its place on the SU website. The Pro-Choice Society issued the following statement: “Firstly, the [Students’ Union] did not decide to suddenly adopt a pro-choice stance, it was democratically voted in by an overwhelming student majority at an AGM held in 2019, meaning it was not forced at all.” “Secondly, the values behind being pro-choice is in fact neutral because there is no wrong nor right way to choose what one may do with their body. These neutral grounds mean students are able to be supported through pregnancy or abortion by the Students’ Union. There is also no ‘continuing debate’ regarding the adoption of the pro-choice stance, as it was put to rest before COVID-19 became a pandemic. It has only recently been picked up by CBR UK who have made their own decision to carry on putting up their displays. For now, the pro-choice society do not wish to fully engage with CBR UK as we have much larger plans to focus on for this coming year and constantly going against CBR UK is not one of them.” “The graphic images that CBR UK display are supposed to be ‘educational,’ but this is not the case at all. Studies have shown that 95% of women do not regret their abortions, even years later. The images are not changing minds at all. If anything, these images can be very

CBR Demonstration: Gair Rhydd has chosen to edit the following images due to their graphic nature. Credit: Jack Robert Stacey not describe, we don’t protest abortion, abortion protests itself.” “We also have our own counselling network PASE (Post Abortion support for everybody) We know mothers are often the forgotten victim of abortion, many women sold the lie it’s just a clump of cells, or a blood clot. We offer counselling for mothers too. It’s fair to say some of the forgotten mothers are a blessing to our future unborn, they can go on to become the most passionate

triggering for mental health. People who have suffered with miscarriages do not deserve to be bothered with images that are only present for shock value, not education.” When asked regarding whether the images could cause undue emotional harm to those who have had miscarriages, Mr. Kells said: “In terms of triggering those post miscarriage. This is not a reflection of our images or our message. Losing an unborn child to

become smoke-free by 2030 KaLong Tung Contributor

CBR Demonstration: Gair Rhydd has chosen to edit the following images due to their graphic nature. Credit: Jack Robert Stacey miscarriage is an incredibly sad and sensitive time for any parent. Indeed, In our experience we found the opposite to be the case, in that those who lose a child to miscarriage can see and fully appreciate the horror of abortion and the wilful, needless taking of a human life. they often stop and share this with us.” The Pro-Choice Society also disputed the accuracy of the images used. “The images are not accurate and are ‘verified’ from anti-choice doctors in the Southern states of America. The images are used as a bullying tactic and shock, not mind-changing ‘education’.” Mr. Kells mentioned the dispute regarding the validity of the images, saying “they’ve actually been challenged in court, and we were successful.” The Pro-Choice Society went on to say: “The role of women’s rights in the campaign for bodily autonomy is the very foundation of being pro-choice. The anatomy of women has been used to control and oppress women for centuries before CBR UK, and this society and generation, and many after to come, will not stand for the anti-choice narrative that CBR UK broadcasts to seek control over women’s bodies and lives.” “CBR UK are obviously against women having access to their own body and serve as an organisation who are essentially against women generally. The women involved in the CBR UK campaign have clearly made up their minds for who they would rather fight for, so that is their choice. Following on from this, CBR UK are within their rights to voice their opinions and campaigns, such as the pro-choice society are within their rights also. However, I do not condone hate speech from either side of the ‘debate’, and I would like to think that although there are opposing views, hate speech is not tolerated. Free speech is also intact within the SU.” “CBR UK protest outside of our university but are not students themselves, they do not belong in our student democracy and have no say in it. Furthermore, in regard to information about the claims CBR UK’s Anthony Kells has put forward, there is misinformation and claims that are false and [our society is] eager to address them.” “The opinion that life begins at conception is not scientific but very emotionally driven and religious. Science still debates the start of life as there are many definitions, and it is rather subjective based on parameters selected. Renowned geneticist, Dr Ricki Lewis, outlined 17 possible time points of life starting based on biological facts. It is highly irrelevant in any case as one cannot breach one person’s life based on a

belief that it could save another.” “Last of all, the claims that the ProChoice society supposedly directed hate speech towards the Students for Life Society is entirely false. There is only one Pro-Choice society at Cardiff University, and it was founded in January 2020 after several students were harassed and violently threatened and sought support. There is no evidence that even remotely suggests that members of the Pro-Choice society harassed other students opposed to the SU’s adoption of being pro-choice. There is, however, an overwhelming amount of evidence that was, and still is, drafted in a report, ready to give to the South Wales police as the harassment [affected] students’ wellbeing during 2019-2020. These students are all [on] the committee of the Pro-Choice society and were all in favour of the [Students’ Union] adopting a pro-choice stance. Students who did not support the democratic vote were absolutely not harassed by members of the ProChoice society, what is said outside of the society is not of our responsibility nor fault.” “Being anti-choice is discrimination against women and women’s right to bodily autonomy and is exactly what CBR UK project through inaccurate and graphic images, bullying tactics and beliefs that do not support science nor medicine. The Pro-Choice society is advancing into its third year and have a lot of events planned for Cardiff students to partake in. [Our society] has come to a mutual agreement that we are not going to respond to CBR UK’s protests outside of the university unless absolutely necessary. We are much more focused on working with supporting groups and building strong bridges with our fellow societies at the SU.” “Pro-choice is the now and the future and will always fight discrimination against women that organisations, such as CBR UK, campaign for. Should CBR UK respond in defiance against this statement, it is confirmation that they believe in discrimination against women and the anti-choice notion that women should have no control over their own bodies.” CBR has challenged the Pro-Choice society to a debate, which they have declined, saying: “We already took part in a debate with them 2 years ago and won but they are ignorant and persistent in displaying anti choice and anti women pictures. We are students, they are not, therefore they have no right to debate with us and do not belong in a student democracy.” CBR is planning to return to campus on the 11th of December, and pro-life students from other parts of the UK are expected to be in attendance.

onsultation of plans to end smoking in Wales by 2030 has been launched by the Welsh government on 8th November. The government press release stated that the goal would be to lower the smoking population to less than 5%, around a 9% decrease compared to the percentage now. The proposal has been welcomed by health experts while the pro-smoking group said people’s choice to smoke should be respected. Detailed plans for the long-term tobacco control strategy have not been released. Consultation has been open until the end of next January. It would seek people’s views on how to push the nation to become smoke-free, and also the detailed actions in the first 2-year delivery plan. In 2018, around 5,600 deaths aged 35 and over and 28,000 admissions to hospital were related to smoking, according to Frank Atherton, Chief Medical Officer for Wales. Dr David Tuthill, officer for Wales at the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health, welcomed the target set by the Welsh government. He said: “Smoking is detrimental to the health of young people throughout their lives, from higher rates of cot death to unnecessary hospital admissions for chest problems.” Suzanne Cass, chief executive of the tobacco control action group Ash Cymru, told BBC that the group was delighted with the plans. She said policies to clamp down on illegal tobacco, support for people being admitted to hospital and digital tools would be helpful to make Wales smoke free. The smoke-free target is a further step of a series of measures from the Welsh government to tackle the smoking issue in the nation. In March, Wales became the first nation in the UK to introduce a ban on smoking at hospitals, playgrounds and school sites. Smokers caught sparking up at these places can face a £100 fine. Next March, smoking in hotel’s bedrooms, guest houses and self-contained holiday accommodating will also become illegal. The smoke-free plan will also support more people quitting smoking through the NHS free service, Help Me Quit, as well as to expand help for smokers who are in hospital in order to help more people to quit, according to the press release. Simon Clark, director of the smokers’ group Forest, said: “No-one should be forced to quit smoking yet freedom of choice and personal responsibility are being replaced by coercion and creeping prohibition.” “Smokers should be informed about safer nicotine products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco but ultimately, if adults still choose to smoke, that choice must be respected by government and society.”

NEWS

Protests of Inflation climbs to highest rate in a decade Covid-19 Alex Hughes restrictions in Europe A News Editor

KaLong Tung Contributor

urope is experiencing large protests as anger over increased Covid-19 restrictions is growing across countries, including Belgium and Netherlands. As many European countries are seeing a sudden surge in Covid-19 cases and governments are bringing in new restrictions as a response, these measures are being met by violent protests in the Netherlands and Belgium. Tens of thousands of people have been marching in the Belgian capital, Brussels, to protest against anti-Covid measures. The protests in The Hague turned violent on Saturday as people hurled fireworks at police and set fire to bicycles, one night after protests in Rotterdam had turned violent. The police intervened with tear gas and water cannons as a response to violent protests. Over 35,000 people took part in protests close to the EU headquarters that later turned violent. Police deployed water cannons, tear gas and mounted officers in response to a group throwing projectiles. Several shops were broken into, barricades were put to fire and police cars were damaged by violent protesters. More than 40 arrests were made and three police officers had to be rushed to the hospital, following the violence. In response to rising covid cases in the country, the Belgium government has tightened rules on face masks including in places such as restaurants where Covid passes are already required. Most Belgians will also have to work from home four days a week until mid-December, which is receiving heavy criticism from citizens. Demonstrators are also opposed to the use of Covid passes in public venues. These restrictions have been imposed after the World Health Organization said it was “very worried” about rising Covid-19 cases in Europe. WHO’s Regional Director, Dr Hans Kluge, told the BBC that unless measures were tightened across Europe, half a million more deaths could be recorded by next spring. The Netherlands witnessed a second night of riots as violence broke out on Saturday in several cities. Hooded rioters set fire to bicycles in The Hague, as riot police used horses, dogs and batons to chase the crowds away. Officials announced an emergency order in the city, and at least seven people were arrested, The Guardian reported. Five police officers were injured in the violence, with one taken away by ambulance with a knee injury. At least three demonstrators are reported to be receiving hospital treatment for gunshot wounds, officers said. The Netherlands imposed a three-week partial lockdown last weekend after recording a record spike in Covid cases. Bars and restaurants are also facing additional restrictions and must close at 20:00. Large crowds are banned at sports events and stadiums. Austria’s capital Vienna also witnessed mass protests after the government announced a 20-day national lockdown starting from Monday and plans to make jabs compulsory in February 2022, becoming the first European country to make vaccination a legal requirement. Croatia and Italy also had thousands of protesters marching in the respective capital cities, Zagreb and Rome. Croatia has mandated vaccines for health workers while Italy has introduced a new “green pass” required to access venues, workplaces and public transport, causing resentment among the public.

s the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, it finds itself perilously close to an inflation crisis. In October, the UK’s yearly inflation rate climbed to 4.2%, the highest in a decade. Equivalent measures hit 4.1% in Europe, and 6.2% in the United States, the highest rate since the 1990s. In the UK even core inflation, which excludes more volatile goods – food, alcohol and energy, whose price fluctuations are often very short-lived – rose by 3.4%. Far more concerning for policymakers are trends in inflation expectations. These can be gathered from consumer or firm surveys, but respondents aren’t exposed to losses if their predictions are wrong. Economists therefore tend to infer the expectations of traders, from the difference between the interest rates on government bonds adjusted for inflation, and those that aren’t. In the UK by late October this measure implied an expected annual inflation rate over the next ten years of 4.25%, more than double the Bank of England’s 2% target. A failure of that magnitude could permanently destroy its credibility. Last month, the Bank of England chose not to raise rates. It might look as though it hasn’t done anything in the last year, but interest rate policy is in fact loosening by the day, because with every uptick in inflation expectations, the inflation-adjusted interest rate falls. It appears highly likely that it will raise rates at its December meeting, but it might already be far behind the curve. According to many central bank spokespeople, the driving force behind the rise in prices lies in global supply chains. Demand is rising as lockdown measures ease and consumers start spending more, and when supply can’t expand, increases in demand raise prices rather than output. Currently, supply chains around the world are beset by delays and bottlenecks. And indeed, a lot of the recent media commentary focuses on specific supply problems in individual markets. The Biden administration, for its part, is pointing the finger at individual companies or groups of companies for rising prices, calling on the Federal Trade

Commission to investigate collusive behaviour in oil and gas markets. Analysts have cast doubt on the evidence the White House presented, but the deeper issue here concerns the nature of inflation. Reports of turmoil in individual supply chains, though they certainly make for interesting stories, can lead people to think that inflation arises from a thousand cuts – that a rise in the price of a product ‘drags the average up’, as it were. In fact, the link here is fairly weak. Inflation is a general rise in the price of goods that consumers spend their money on. When the price of something goes up, consumers don’t just grit their teeth and keep buying goods and services in the same proportions. Constrained by their income, if they’re determined to keep purchasing it in the same quantity they’ll have to spend less on other goods, whose prices will then fall. More often, they will buy less of the product, reducing its importance in the inflation index. The fact that prices don’t respond instantaneously to changes in demand complicates this picture. Different speeds of adjustment can mean that changes in individual prices temporarily affect the average, but this isn’t the main story. The main story is about central banks. As part of their decision-making process, central bankers use models. Typically, these models tie the behaviour of inflation to three variables: expected inflation in the next period (often the next quarter), the extent that productive resources like labour and machinery are being used, and temporary increases in the cost of production. If firms think inflation is set to rise, then they’ll pre-emptively raise the prices of their products to prevent their real prices from falling. Likewise, consumers will bring forward consumption, before their money loses value in the next period. So, to a large extent, inflation expectations are self-fulfilling. If spending in the economy exceeds a certain threshold, then inflation will increase ‘mechanically’ – if few extra resources are available to use in the production process, then the cost to produce each additional good rises, since more workers are required and they must all use a given stock of productive assets, like machinery, that are already in use.

And, if the price of a key input like energy rises, then production costs increase for all the products whose creation involves that input. So, theory implies that inflation positively responds to rising GDP – the total amount of goods and services produced in an economy. But to find the magnitude of that response, researchers must confront data. In an influential paper released last year, Berkeley’s Emi Nakamura and co-authors argued that in general, the response is weak, and that expectations tend to play the central role. Some clear implications can be drawn. First, the rapid growth in UK GDP as the lockdown measures eased was always going to be accompanied by an increase in inflation. But second, if policymakers allow inflation expectations to rise much further above target – implying the central bank’s credibility is eroding – then reducing inflation mechanically might prove to be very difficult, with central banks having to engineer outright recessions. Expectations are a thorny issue in these models, because their self-fulfilling nature – and the fact that people can expect anything – leads to an infinite number of possible outcomes. To collapse this array of possibilities down to a single one, the central bank has to commit to raise interest rates in response to a rise in inflation more than one-for-one, to ensure that the inflation-adjusted interest rate increases, so that overall spending falls. Of course, the Bank of England has not followed this principle in the last year, allowing inflation to surge far above target without raising interest rates. None of the other major central banks have followed it either. Two reasons for their hesitancy stand out. Policymakers, as Churchill said of generals, stand ready to fight the last war. During the recession just over a decade ago, many governments made reductions in borrowing a key priority. It’s now widely agreed that in some of these countries, including the UK, the tax rises and spending cuts that the strategy entailed exacerbated the fall in overall spending that led to the fall in GDP. With their interest rates already lowered to zero, central banks were not in a position to offset this, and GDP remained far below its long-run trajectory for much of the last decade.

In the last year, determined to avoid repeating these errors, governments and central banks held firm. Rather than pre-emptively tightening policy, they would wait until they could ‘see the whites of inflation’s eyes’. In practice, it came faster than they had expected and, it turned out, faster than they were prepared to effectively respond to. In addition, most central banks aren’t solely focused on inflation – explicitly or not, they also have GDP and unemployment objectives. Their models point to trade-offs between inflation and growth, and in the last decade, the Bank of England has implicitly shifted its emphasis toward the latter, allowing more room for inflation to overshoot the target. But while the case for augmenting inflation targets is an easily defensible one, it should go without saying that central banks neither expected nor wanted the overshoot to go this far. With inflation now surging, it’s no surprise that central banks are facing growing calls to explain their behaviour. To ask whether they are responsible for the surge in inflation is like asking whether someone gained weight because they started eating more, or because they failed to offset those extra calories with more exercise. If they’d set themselves the goal of nimbly adjusting their exercise regimen in line with fluctuations in their diet in order to keep their weight stable, and then their weight rose, the failure was the lack of exercise. ‘‘It is dangerous when central banks stop saying that if inflation is high, it’s because of what they’ve done or not done”, Ricardo Reis, a monetary economist at the London School of Economics, noted in a recent presentation, “Because inflation is a monetary phenomenon. There are headwinds and tailwinds, but control of the monetary base and interest rates gives overwhelming power to the central bank”. Conceptually, inflation is best thought of not as the rise in the price of products, but its flipside – the fall in the real value of a currency. In that light, it’s easy to see why the buck stops with the issuer of that currency. And to be sure, the Bank of England still has the opportunity to course-correct in the next few months. There will be trade-offs, but the more that inflation is allowed to embed itself, the starker those tradeoffs will become.

I’m a Celebrity returns to Wales for latest series Beth Williams News Editor

’m a Celebrity… Get Me out of Here has returned to North Wales for its latest series. For the second time, Gwyrch Castle in Abergele will house Ant and Dec and the celebrity campmates for the next three weeks. The coronavirus pandemic has once again stopped the cast and crew from travelling to the jungles of Australia as they previously did from 2002-2019. Mark Baker, the chairman of the Gwyrch Castle Conservation Trust, said: “I’m extremely proud that I’m a Celebrity has chosen Gwyrch Castle as its location for the 2021 series. Gwyrch Castle is a Grade one listed property and is a location that tourists coming to Wales should visit. Having “I’m a Celebrity’’ here will help to support its continued restoration as well as give a big economic boost to the area”. The conservation trust and the rest of Abergele have been preparing for the arrival of the series for the last few weeks. In an attempt to raise money for the castle’s restoration work, an

I’m a Celebrity gift shop has been opened. Local Councillor Delyth MacRae hopes that the area will see a further rise in tourism as coronavirus restrictions have eased since this time last year. “100,000 people came to see the castle and that was because of I’m a Celeb. In the two years prior, it was 30,000 so it shows that there is excitement here in Abergele”. The last series also provided a boost for the Welsh language. According to the show’s Welsh language advisor Garffild Lloyd Lewis, multiple providers of Welsh lessons had commented that the previous series had a positive impact on attitudes and interest towards the Welsh language and culture. His wife, who’s also been helping the production team, said of her husband: “We’ve presented the language in a subtle way. He’s not shouting about it but he has introduced welsh words here and there and the language can be heard around the site. It has brought a positive reaction”. For example, presenters Ant and Dec started every episode by saying “Noswaith Dda”, which is Welsh for “Good Evening”. Bilingual signage can also be seen

Gwrych Castle: The 19th Century country house in Abergale, North Wales will serve as the backdrop for the latest series of I’m A Celebrity, Get Me out of Here. Source: Gwrychcastle (via Wikimedia Commons) in different locations across the set, such as the shop that the celebrities can win prizes from, This series’ first instalment drew in a peak of 9 million viewers, compared to 11 million the previous year.

Despite the drop, locals are still optimistic that the show can have a positive impact on the area. It is yet to be confirmed if the series will remain in Abergele or return to Australia in 2022.

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TAF-OD

TAF-OD Plant Mewn Angen: Ymgyrchu Nel Richards

PennaethTa-fod

E Nel Richards

Gracie Richards

lusen y BBC yw plant mewn angen sydd yn helpu i sicrhau bod pob plentyn yn y DU yn ddiogel, yn hapus, ac yn cael y cyfleoedd i gyrraedd eu potensial. Maent yn codi arian trwy gydol y flwyddyn ac yn creu apêl flynyddol ym mis Tachwedd i godi mwy o ymwybyddiaeth yn allanol. Mae’r elusen yn ariannu elusennau a phrosiectau lleol sy’n helpu i gael gwared ar y rhwystrau sy’n wynebu plant a phobl ifanc, fel y gallant ffynnu. Ariannir mwy na 2,500 o elusennau lleol a phrosiectau sy’n gweithio o fewn cymunedau ar draws Prydain. Yn bennaf, cefnogir plant a phobl

Nansi Eccott

Steffan Alun Leonard taf-od@gairrhydd.com

o arian bob blwyddyn. Ar draws y cenhedloedd, mae codwyr arian o bob cefndir yn dod at ei gilydd - o farathonau i werthu cacennau, i ddigwyddiadau ysgol - mae pob noddwr, pob pâr o glustiau a brynir, pob punt sy’n cael ei ddodi mewn bwced yn helpu i newid bywydau. Codwyd swm rhyfeddol o £39 miliwn ar raglen flynyddol y BBC yn ddiweddar. Daeth llawer o enwogion at ei gilydd i drefnu digwyddiadau, ac i ymgymryd mewn heriau gwahanol i godi arian enwau yn cynnwys Ed Sheeran, Claire Balding, Niall Horan ac ABBA. Penderfynodd y dyn tywydd, Owain Wyn Evans i ddrymio am 24 awr gan godi mwy na £3 miliwn. Cododd y cyflwynydd Matt Baker a’i dîm o bump o bobl ifanc fwy na £2 miliwn yr wythnos hon trwy feicio 142

milltir ledled y DU, a dawnsiodd Sophie Ellis-Bextor am 24 awr gan godi £1 miliwn. Wyneb cyfarwydd i bawb yw’r arth felen sy’n arddangos ar ein teledu sawl gwaith y flwyddyn. Mae Pudsey yn fasgot ac yn arwain ymgyrchoedd plant mewn angen gan gynnwys ‘Pedal for Pudsey’, ‘Pudsey Biscuits’ a ‘Behind the Banana’. Mae pob un ymgyrch yn codi arian ar gyfer yr elusen hon, a phob blwyddyn maent yn codi degau o filiynau o bunnoedd i blant. Er bod y rhaglenni teledu, y diwrnodau gwisgo pyjamas yn yr ysgol a’r holl heriau gwahanol wedi dod i ben - nid yw’n rhy hwyr i gyfrannu at yr achos yma sydd yn newid bywydau. Os ydych yn awyddus i rhoi arian, ewch i wefan Plant Mewn Angen: donate.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk.

uchafbwyntiau’r sîn gerddorol Gymraeg ac eleni Dienw, Kim Hon, Bwncath a’r Cledrau oedd yn perfformio i dros 600 o fyfyrwyr o ledled y wlad yn Undeb Myfyrwyr Prifysgol Aberystwyth. Ar ôl rhyddhau albwm newydd, Cashews Blasus, eleni, Y Cledrau oedd yn cau’r gig Nos Sadwrn. Dywedodd Marged Gwenllian, aelod o’r Cledrau, ei bod hi a gweddill y band wedi mwynhau’r cyfle i allu perfformio unwaith eto mas draw. Ychwanegodd“Dydy chwarae i gamera erioed wedi’n siwtio ni fel band, achos ein bod ni’n dibynnu gymaint ar egni cynulleidfa. Mae’n caneuon ni’n eitha ‘shouty’, sy’n gofyn am gynulleidfa i weiddi canu hefo ni, ac mae’r hwyl i gyd yn ddibynnol ar gynulleidfa dda, felly de ni’n andros o falch o fod nôl yn gigio.” Aeth Marged ymlaen i bwysleisio pwysigrwydd digwyddiadau Rhynggolegol i fyfyrwyr y wlad a thu hwnt wrth ddweud “Dwi’n meddwl ei bod hi’n hawdd iawn byw mewn bybl yn dy

brifysgol, ac anghofio am bawb y tu allan iddo fo, felly mae’n gyfle i weld dy ffrindiau eraill unwaith eto a chwrdd â’u grŵp ffrindiau nhw. Hefyd, mae rhai prifysgolion â chymdeithas Gymraeg gymharol fach (e.e. GymGym Lerpwl neu Abertawe), felly mae’n anodd iddyn nhw drefnu gig neu dwrnamaint chwaraeon mawr drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg, felly mae tynnu pawb at ei gilydd am un penwythnos gwallgo’ yn gyffro mawr bob tro.” Blwyddyn anarferol: Oherwydd cyfyngiadau Cofid-19, fe ganslwyd Y Ddawns Ryng-golegol yn 2020 ac ychwanegodd hyn at heriau’r unigolion sy’n trefnu’r digwyddiadau. Yn ôl Lois Campbell, Llywydd y GymGym yng Nghaerdydd ac un o drefnwyr y digwyddiad: “Roedd hi’n anoddach i ni fel pwyllgor eleni, dwi’n meddwl, i wneud trefniadau ar gyfer y Ddawns Ryng-gol gan ei bod ni heb brofi unrhyw beth o’r fath o’r blaen mewn ffordd, ro’n i’n mynd mewn i’r cwbl ‘yn ddall’ fel petai. Ar ben hyn,

roedd y sefyllfa COVID-19 yn effeithio ar y trefniadau o ran trefnu bysiau ac archebu crysau t, ond dwi’n falch bod popeth wedi mynd yn hwylus yn y pen draw a’n bod ni gyd wedi medru cael penwythnos gwerth chweil.” Er y sialensiau, profodd y digwyddiad yn un llwyddiannus wrth iddo chwarae rôl flaenllaw yn niwylliant prifysgolion y wlad unwaith eto. Yn ôl Caitlyn White, myfyrwraig ail flwyddyn ym mhrifysgol Aberystwyth, mae’r Ddawns Ryng-gol yn “cyfleu diddordeb pobl ifanc yn yr iaith Gymraeg a diwylliant y wlad. Cynigir cyfle i bobl o bob cwr o Gymru ddod at ei gilydd gan greu ffrindiau newydd yn enwedig ar ôl y flwyddyn a hanner diwethaf.” “Roedd yn brofiad pleserus gweld pawb yn ôl at ei gilydd ar ôl bod ar wahân am gymaint o amser. Yn amlwg mae’r flwyddyn yn barod wedi bod yn un gwahanol i ni fel myfyrwyr yr ail flwyddyn ond mae’r Ddawns Ryng-gol yn sicr wedi bod yn uchafbwynt imi hyd yn hyn.”

Y Ddawns Ryng-gol yn Aberystwyth Golygydd Taf-od

Nansi Eccott

ifanc sy’n cael eu heffeithio gan ystod eang o broblemau megis tlodi, anabledd, salwch, neu drawma. Maent yn gweithio gydag ystod o bartneriaid i fynd i’r afael â rhai o’r materion mwyaf sy’n wynebu plant a phobl ifanc y DU heddiw, gan gynnwys iechyd meddwl a lles, trais sy’n effeithio ar bobl ifanc, cam-fanteisio’n rhywiol ar blant, newyn gwyliau; mynediad at gyflogaeth, ac anghyfiawnder cymdeithasol. Trwy gydol y flwyddyn, mae arian yn cael ei godi i ariannu’r elusennau a’r prosiectau lleol sy’n eu cefnogi. Ffocws y codi arian yw’r apêl flynyddol sy’n digwydd ym mis Tachwedd. Cynigir heriau epig sy’n cynnwys pobl enwog yn mynd ochr yn ochr â phlant sy’n derbyn cefnogaeth, i raglenni arbennig a’r Sioe Apêl flynyddol; mae’r BBC yn eu helpu i godi swm rhyfeddol

leni gwelwyd y Ddawns Rynggolegol yn dychwelyd i Brifysgol Aberystwyth am y tro cyntaf ers i gyfyngiadau Cofid-19 lacio. Ar benwythnos yr 20fed o Dachwedd teithiodd cymdeithasau Cymraeg prifysgolion Caerdydd, Bangor, Abertawe a’r Drindod Dewi Sant i ymuno ag Aberystwyth ar gyfer y Ddawns Rynggolegol. Mae gweithgareddau Rhynggolegol yn draddodiad sydd wedi uno siaradwyr Cymraeg Prifysgolion Cymru am ddegawdau ac yn gyfle i hyd at 1000 o fyfyrwyr gymdeithasu, cystadlu a dathlu eu Cymreictod. Mae’r Prifysgolion yn gallu arddangos eu doniau creadigol, cerddorol a chwaraeon drwy gystadlu yn yr Eisteddfod Ryng-golegol a gynhelir yn flynyddol ym mis Mawrth a’r Ddawns Ryng-golegol ym mis Tachwedd Y Ddawns: Y Ddawns Ryng-gol yw un o

Cant Cap dros Gymru i Gareth Bale

Steffan Leonard Golygydd Taf-od

rth i Gareth Bale lwyddo i ennill ei ganfed cap yn erbyn Belarws yn Stadiwm Dinas Caerdydd; mae’n hen bryd i ni edrych yn ôl ac ymfalchïo yn yr hyn y mae ef wedi cyflawni ar hyd y blynyddoedd, a chofio’r atgofion sydd gennym ohono yn ystod y gemau ar hyd ei bymtheg mlynedd yn y cit coch. Mae Gareth Bale fel person ac fel chwaraewr pêl-droed wedi newid ers iddo ddechrau ei yrfa fel chwaraewr pêl-droed i Gymru. Disgrifiwyd Bale gan Robert Earnshaw fel: “Bachgen ifanc, tenau a oedd ychydig yn swil. Ond yr oeddet ti’n

cyrraedd 100 cap yn rhywbeth anhygoel, ac yn rhywbeth nad ydych chi’n meddwl am pan i chi’n dechrau mas.” Gareth Bale, Pêl-droediwr o Gymru

gallu gweld y potensial yn y goes chwith yna, yn ei gyflymder a’r adegau o hud a lledrith a ddaeth oddi wrtho fe. Cyn gynted iddo fe gael ei gyffyrthiad cyntaf, yn dod o’r safle yn y cefn, yr oedd e’n rhedeg gyda’r bêl am bach ac yna’n edrych lan a bron yn dweud ‘Dyma lle i fi fod’. Yn y gêm, yr oedd ganddo ddim ofn bron!” Cafodd ei gyflwyno i ni nôl yn 2006 yn y gêm honno yn erbyn Trinidad a Tobago fel y chwaraewr ifancaf i chwarae i Gymru, yn 16 mlwydd oed a 315 diwrnod, ac erbyn hyn y mae ef wedi dod yn elfen hollbwysig o lwyddiant Cymru. Ond i ni nawr, y mae e’n arweinydd sydd wedi rhoi cymaint o brofiadau bythgofiadwy i’r Wal Goch ar hyd y blynyddoedd ac wedi llwyddo i greu llwybr i chwaraewyr talentog ifanc eraill Cymru i ddilyn yn ei gamau a chwarae ar lwyfannau mawr y byd pêl-droed. A phymtheg mlynedd wedi’r cap gyntaf, ymunodd Gareth Bale gyda Chris Gunter gan ennill ei ganfed cap; wrth hefyd lwyddo ar hyd y ffordd i gyrraedd brig y nifer o

goliau a sgoriwyd gan un chwaraewr i Gymru, gyda 36 o goliau. Cyn y gêm dywedodd Bale fod “cyrraedd 100 cap yn rhywbeth anhygoel, ac yn rhywbeth nad ydych chi’n meddwl am pan i chi’n dechrau mas”. Mae Gareth Bale wedi bod yn un o’r chwaraewyr hynny sydd wedi llwyddo i osod Cymru a’r Gymraeg ar lwyfan rhyngwladol yn aml ar hyd y blynyddoedd. Gyda’r canfed cap allan o’r ffordd i Gareth Bale, y cwestiwn mawr ydy, faint yn rhagor sydd i ddod iddo ef yn y crys coch hwnnw? A fydd y capiau hynny’n dod fel rhan o ymgyrch Cwpan y Byd Cymru a’i peidio? Breuddwyd mawr Bale a’r chwaraewyr i gyd yw sicrhau fod y Wal Goch yn profi twrnament Cwpan y Byd unwaith yn rhagor. Un peth sydd yn sicr - Gareth Bale yw un o’r chwaraewyr gorau i wisgo’r crys coch; a gydag ymgyrch gemau rhagbrofol Cwpan y Byd yn parhau i Gymru, mi fydd y Wal Goch yn gobeithio y cânt nhw weld eu harwr yn chwarae yn y cit coch dros Gymru yn Qatar ymhen rhyw ddwy flynedd!

‘Gareth a’r bel’: Mae Gareth Bale bellach wedi cyflawni capten 100 o gemau. Tarddiad: Jon Candy (via Flickr)

CHWARAEON

Pa effaith fydd COP26 yn ei chael ar newid yn yr hinsawdd? Barn y Bobl:

Mae Gair Rhydd yn holi beth yn union ddigwyddodd yn yr uwchgynhadledd Gracie Richards Golygydd Taf-od

n nhrafodaethau COP26 yr oedd yna ddau brif sgwrs sef: Trafodaethau ffurfiol y Cenhedloedd Unedig sy’n cynhyrchu testun sy’n cynnwys penderfyniadau terfynol y cyfarfod sy’n rhaid i bob gwlad lofnodi. ‘Sioe fasnach anferthol,’ yn ôl ‘Greenpeace’ lle mae “pawb sy’n gweithio ar newid hinsawdd yn dod i ymffrostio am yr hyn maen nhw’n ei wneud.”

Mae’n hanfodol hefyd i fwy o’r arian gael ei wario ar addasu, yn hytrach na thoriadau allyriadau.”

Tannwydd Ffosil: Ar ôl 26 mlynedd mae llywodraethau wedi cydnabod bod rhaid iddynt stopio’r defnydd o danwydd ffosil er mwyn dod i’r afael â newid hinsawdd. Mae cytundeb terfynol COP26 yn sôn am gael gwared â llosgi glo yn raddol. Hwn yw’r tro cyntaf i’r alwad i leihau defnydd o glo arddangos yn nhestun terfynol COP26. Ar y foment olaf yr oedd India a Tsieina wedi gwrthwynebu y cytundeb terfynol oherwydd ei fod yn cynnwys y gobaith i ddileu pŵer glo yn raddol. Daethwyd i gyfaddawd yn y pen draw, gyda Sharma yn ymddiheuro i’r gwledydd datblygedig am y canlyniad hwn. Yn ôl yr Asiantaeth Ynni Rhyngwladol, os na chaiff ein defnydd o glo ei ddileu’n gyflym, nid oes gobaith i’r tymheredd byd-eang aros o dan 1.5℃. Meddai Greenpeace bod y penderfyniad yma wedi methu’r neges bod ‘Amser i fyny’.

Targedau: Y flwyddyn yma fe benderfynodd y cenhedloedd ddychwelyd flwyddyn nesaf gyda targedau cryfach mewn lle. Y rheswm dros hyn yw oherwydd nad yw’r targedau i dorri nwyon tŷ gwydr yn ddigonol i atal lefelau trychinebus o gynhesu bydeang. Mi fydd y dyddiad hwn yn rhoi pwysau ar y gwledydd sy’n rhan o COP26 i sicrhau bod eu targedau yn gweithio ynghyd a’r nod 1.5℃. Gwrthbwyso Carbon: Fe wnaeth y cytundeb swyddogol newydd balu ffordd i wledydd fasnachu toriadau allyriadau, gan dalu i eraill - yn aml yn y De - i ‘wrthbwyso’ y llygredd hinsawdd y maent yn ei gynhyrchu yn hytrach na’i leihau’n uniongyrchol. Mae arweinydd o fudiad cynhenid ‘Grassroots,’ Tom Goldooth a dderbynniodd gwobr Gandhi yn 2015 wedi gwadu gwrthbwyso carbon ac yn nodi: “Mae’n caniatáu i lygryddion

brynu a gwerthu trwyddedau i lygru yn lle torri allyriadau wrth ei wraidd.” Mae erthygl gan ‘Carbon Market Watch’ yn nodi bydd y fargen hon yn gadael i lywodraethau tanseilio’r toriadau allyriadau brys sydd angen yn dymor byr drwy roi dihangfa iddynt rhag eu cyfrifoldebau hinsawdd. Addasu a Chyllid Hinsawdd: Yn 2009 cytunodd gwledydd cyfoethocaf y byd y byddai gwledydd datblygiedig yn derbyn o leiaf £75bn y flwyddyn gan fuddsoddwyr cyhoeddus a phreifat. Erbyn 2019 (Y flwyddyn ddiweddaraf sydd ar gael gyda data) dim ond £80bn a roddwyd yn gyfan gwbl. Mae’r gwledydd cyfoethocaf wedi addo y bydd codiadau yn dilyn yn y pum mlynedd nesaf a fydd yn dod â’r cyllid am y pum mlynedd nesaf i $500bn. Mae’n hanfodol hefyd i fwy o’r arian gael ei wario ar addasu, yn hytrach na thoriadau allyriadau.

Drakeford a Price yn cydweithio Nel Richards

Pennaeth Taf-od

n ddiweddar, cyhoeddwyd Prif Weindidog Cymru, Mark Drakeford ac arweinydd Plaid Cymru, Adam Price eu bod wedi dod i gytundeb gydweithredu yn y Senedd dros y tair mlynedd nesaf. Yn y gytundeb, ceir bron i 50 o feysydd polisi ac hefyd yn cyflwyno mesurau fel prydau bwyd ysgol am ddim i bob disgybl ysgol gynradd, ymrwymiad i gryfhau’r Gymraeg gan gynnwys dealltwriaeth o hanes y wlad. Cyhoeddwyd cynlluniau radical sy’n amrywio o gyfyngiadau llym ar berchnogaeth ail gartrefi i sefydlu cwmnioedd ynni cyhoeddus gan gynnwys gyrru system gofal cymdeithasol am ddim ledled y wlad.Mae’n cynnwys cynnwys cynllun i gael cyngor annibynnol er mwyn dod â’r dyddiad targed netsero o 2050 i 2035. Dywedodd y ddwy blaid y byddent hefyd yn cefnogi cynlluniau i gyny-

ddu maint y senedd. Yn eu dogfen, dywedodd Mark Drakeford ac Adam Price y byddent yn hoffi gweld y Senedd yn ehangu o 60 i “80 i 100 o aelodau”, system bleidleisio “sydd yr un mor gynrychiadol - neu fwy - na’r presennol” ac i gyfwyno cwotâu rhywedd yn y gyfraith. Unwaith y bydd grŵp traws-bleidiol wedi gorffen llunio polisïau ar gyfer bil diwygio’r Senedd, mae Llafur a Phlaid Cymru yn addo cyflwyno’r gyfraith ddrafft “12 i 18 mis” yn ddiweddarach. Dywedodd Mr Drakeford y byddai’r cytundeb yn rhoi’r “sefydlogrwydd sydd ei angen arnom yn y Senedd i barhau i gyflawni dros Gymru”, tra dywedodd Mr Price fod y partïon gwleidyddol yn cymryd “cam hanesyddol ymlaen gyda’n gilydd”. Rhai polisïau arall: -Sefydlu grŵp arbenigol i gefnogi creu “gwasanaeth gofal cenedlaethol”, am ddim pan fydd angen. Cynllun gweithredu i’w gytuno erbyn diwedd 2023. -Sefydlu cwmni adeiladu cenedlae-

thol i gefnogi cynghorau a landlordiaid cymdeithasol i wella’r cyflenwad o dai cymdeithasol a fforddiadwy. -Gwella addysgu hanes Cymru a gwneud ei chyflenwi’n orfodol yng nghwricwlwm newydd Cymru. -Gosod uchelgeisiau a chymhellion newydd i ehangu cyfran y gweithlu addysg sy’n gallu dysgu a gweithio trwy’r Gymraeg. Sut y bydd yn gweithio? Mae’r prif weinidog wedi egluro o’r blaen fod y trafodaethau’n angenrheidiol oherwydd nad oes gan y Blaid Lafur yng Ngymru fwyafrif cyffredinol i ddelio â “materion heriol ac uchelgeisiol” gan fod ganddynt 30 o’r 60 sedd ym Mae Caerdydd. Ni fyddai’r fargen yn gyfystyr â chlymblaid rhwng y pleidiau, ac ni fydd aelodau Plaid Cymru o’r Senedd yn dod i mewn i’r llywodraeth. Ond dywedwyd wrth BBC Cymru y byddai Plaid yn gallu penodi cynghorwyr arbennig i weithio ar y fargen hon yn y llywodraeth. Dywedodd llefarydd ar ran Ceidwad-

3. Beth yw dy hoff albwm? Dros y blwyddyn diwethaf, albwm diweddaraf Phoebe Bridges o’r enw Punisher ydy’r albwm rydw i di bod yn gwrando arni on repeat. 4. Hoff gaffi yn y ddinas? ‘The Plan’ yn y Morgan Quarter. Nid y caffi rhataf ar gyfer stiwdants, ond dwi’n tueddu i fynd yna i ddarllen a chael paneidiau o dê unwaith dwi’n teimlo bo fi di gneud digon o waith! Lle rili lyfli i fynd a ffrindia fyd.

5. Pwy yw dy arwr? Dwi’n credu mai Emma Watson ydy hi, er fy mod i’n edmygu gymaint o bobl eraill yn fy nheulu. 6. Y wlad neu’r ddinas? Dwi’n colli’r wlad yn ofnadwy ar y funud, ond fyddai wastad yn gweld fy hun fel city girl. 7. Beth sy’n cadw ti’n effro gyda’r nos? Fel arfer, y trên gwichlyd sy’n stopio yn stesion Cathays. 8. Disgrifia dy hun mewn 3 gair. Chill ond hwyl.

Haris Hussnain Cyfrannydd

Ail flwyddyn Cwrs: Cymdeithaseg a Hanes Un o fy hoff fandiau Cymraeg yw Bwled ar gyfer fy sant ffolant. Maent yn wreiddiol o Ben-y-bont ar Ogwr ac maent yn un o fandiau mwy amgen Cymru. Fe wnes i eu darganfod pan oeddwn i yn yr ysgol. Clywais rywun yn chwarae un o&#39;u caneuon yn y coridor a gofyn amdano. O hynny ymlaen fe ddaethon nhw’n un o fy hoff fandiau Cymraeg. Fodd bynnag, dydw i ddim yn hoffi graddio fy ffefrynnau felly maen nhw o’r un pwysigrwydd â Dream state, sy’n un arall o fy hoff fandiau roc o Gaerdydd. Fe’u darganfyddais ar Spotify.

Mae gan rai pobl un hoff fand Cymraeg. Mae gen i ddau.”

wyr Cymru fod y “fargen yn rhyfeddol am ei diffyg atebion i drwsio’r GIG - ar hyn o bryd yn profi ei berfformiad gwaethaf erioed - neu wella’r economi yng Nghymru”. “Nid yw cytundeb diweddaraf Llafur â’r cenedlaetholwyr yn cyflawni blaenoriaethau teuluoedd sy’n gweithio ledled Cymru, a bydd yn achosi anhrefn cyfansoddiadol yn unig sy’n peryglu dal ein hadferiad economaidd yn ôl,” ychwanegodd. Mae’r cytundeb amodol yn cal eii gadarnhau gan aelodau Plaid Cymru yn eu cynhadledd flynyddol ddydd Sadwrn. Disgwylir i’r gytundeb gydweithredu ddod i rym ar 1af o Ragfyr.

Ni fyddai’r fargen yn gyfystyr â chlymblaid rhwng y pleidiau, ac ni fydd aelodau Plaid Cymru o’r Senedd yn dod i mewn i’r llywodraeth.’’

Alyssa Upton Cyfrannydd

Ail flwyddyn Cwrs: Newyddiaduraeth, Cyfryngau a’r diwylliant Anodd yw traddodi i hoff fand Cymraeg. Chwarae teg i ddiwydiant cerddoriaeth Cymru, mae yno gymaint o ganeuon safonol yn cael eu cynhyrchu a’i ddarparu, mae yna ddewis eang – felly fel person sydd methu gwneud penderfyniadau efallai dyma un o’r cwestiynau fwyaf heriol. Yn ddiweddar, rwyf o ddifri yn mwynhau’r gân Uno, Cydio, Tanio gan Sŵnami. Mae’r haenau o fewn eu caneuon yn creu cynnwrf ac atmosffer swynol ar y cyd. Gyda defnydd amrywiol o offerynnau, ag effeithiau sain yn plethu’n yn ddiymdrech. Fyddwn i hefyd yn argymell i chi wrando ar gerddoriaeth PRIØN sy’n hudol ac yn denu’r gynulleidfa ar daith geiriau’u caneuon.

Aur Bleddyn Cyfrannydd

Trafod gyda’r Taf-od: Nel Edwards Clarke 1. Pwy wyt ti a beth wyt ti’n astudio? Fy enw i ydy Nel Edwards Clarke ac rydw i’n astudio Ieithoedd Modern a Chyfieithu. 2. Beth yw’r digwyddiad sy’n codi’r mwyaf o embaras arnat? Dwi’n tueddi i gofio un script penodol odd rhaid i mi’i neud yn blwyddyn 10 ar gyfer fy nosbarth Drama. Odd o’n un Cymraeg, reit hên, ond yn andros o un rhamantus. O’n i’n casau bob eiliad tra o’n i’n actio hefo bachgen arall yn fy nosbarth i!

Beth yw’r bandiau Cymraeg gorau?

10. Beth fyddet ti’n gwneud yn ystod dy noson ddelfrydol? Gan bo fi’m yn berson sy’n licio mynd allan i glwbio bob wîcend, os ydw i’n gallu treilio noson hefo criw o fy ffrindiau yn byta a sgwrsio neu gwylio sioeau ar Netflix, hwnnw fysa fy noson ddelfrydol i. 11. Hoff lyfr? Am gwestiwn amhosib i bookworm fatha fi! Yr unig ateb sydd gennai ydy: Atonement gan Ian McEwan, Normal People gan Sally Rooney ac Emma gan Jane Austen.

Ail flwyddyn Cwrs: Cymraeg ac AthroniaethFy hoff fand Cymraeg i di Yr Ods. Dyma’r band Cymraeg cynta i fi wrando ar yn wirfoddol pan ddos i ar draws ‘Pob un gair yn bos’. Rhwng synths hiraethus ‘Gad mi lithro’ a geiriau heriol fel ‘Does dim angen merch i dorri dy galon di pan ti’n byw yng Nghymru’ menw fel cyn gariad sy’n dy dynnu di nol. Dwi dal i awgrymu nhw i unrhywun sy’n newydd i’r SRG a dwi’n gwbo’n barod fydde nw’n rhif 1 ar yn spotify wrapped i am y 3ydd flwyddyn yn olynol. Chwarae teg i ddiwydiant cerddoriaeth Cymru, mae yno gymaint o ganeuon safonol yn cael eu cynhyrchu a’i ddarparu, mae yna ddewis eang.”

POLITICS

POLITICS Court system exposes governments to lawsuits over environmental policies Tom Kingbury

Head of Politics

A Tom Kingsbury

Ella Lloyd

Luthien Evans

n international treaty made over 50 years ago is allowing fossil fuel companies to sue governments if they enact environmental policies that harm the companies’ profits. The mechanism is known as the investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS), and was made in the 1950s in order to ensure companies would not lose out if they invested in sourcing fossil fuels in newly independent countries. The idea was that many of these countries may have sought to regain control of their natural resources, which under colonialism were exploited for the profit of the colonising country. Today, the legacy of the mechanism is that members of the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) are exposed to lawsuits in situations where they enact policies that inadvertently harm these companies’ profits, as countries become increasingly conscious of the need for climate legislation. The ECT has 53 signatories, including the UK, and environmental activists fear the ISDS may mean that climate action is not taken out of fear of lawsuits, which could cost governments as much as billions of pounds. Even where governments do take action, in some cases they may wait years for legal disputes under this mechanism to be settled, slowing action further. Many lawsuits are already ongoing under the ISDS. Italy is being sued by UK oil company Rockhopper Exploration for £275m in damages for

preventing the company from drilling near its coast. RWE, an energy company based in Germany, is suing the Netherlands for £1.2bn after the Netherlands announced its plans to phase out coal by 2030. RWE said it was in support of the move, and that “the only issue is therefore the fact that the coal ban law does not provide for adequate compensation”. Two London companies - Anglo American and Glencore - are suing the government of Colombia after being prevented from mining coal in the country for environmental purposes. Slovenia is being sued by Ascent Resources, an oil and gas company again based in London, for asking the company to make an environmental assessment before it began fracking. Yamina Saheb, a former employee for the ECT secretariat, estimated that fossil fuel companies could sue world governments for a total of €1.3tn between now and 2050. The Guardian reports that ISDS cases are also going up, with a 269% increase in cases between 2001-2010 and 2011-2020. Though the UK has not yet been sued under the ISDS, analysis by Investigate Europe found it is the most at risk European country to lawsuits, with £120bn of fossil fuel infrastructure being owned by foreign investors. Companies do not have to disclose lawsuits under the ECT, and the treaty includes a ‘sunset clause’, which means that even after leaving the treaty countries can be sued for 20 more years. Another feature of the system is that companies can seize state assets as payment of damages. It is for this rea-

Taken to court: Some governments are already facing lawsuits over environmental policies that harm the profits of foreign fossil fuel companies. Source: Number 10 (via Flickr) son the Scottish company Cairn energy is seeking to take control of Indian state-owned airplanes after India was made to pay the company $1.2bn. Those familiar with the mechanism suggest the ISDS has a significant impact on policy. Regarding the Paris climate agreement, Saheb stated: “It’s a real threat. It’s the biggest threat I am aware of”. She reccommended that European countries leave the treaty as a group, despite the sunset clause, as she believed reform of the treaty to be impossible, as central Asian member states would, she argued, veto any reforms that weakened the protection of the fossil fuel industry. Significant reform has not yet taken place, despite representatives of the

ECT’s member countries meeting as COP26 is ongoing for a ninth round of talks on making changes to the treaty. Toby Landau, a top Queen’s Counsel - a legal practitioner recognised for excellence - in ISDS scenarios, told the London School of Economics: “As a practitioner, I can tell you that there are states who are now seeking advice from [legal] counsel in advance of promulgating particular policies in order to know whether or not there is a risk of an investor-state claim.” Reforms may still come to the ECT, but the ISDS has proven to be a hardy system, and for now it seems member countries will still have to contend with the threat of legal action should they enact green policies.

ensions in the disputed region of Kashmir are at risk of overspilling following the killing of four men by Indian authorities earlier two weeks ago. Gunshots were reported in Srinagar, the main city of the region, in the early hours of Monday morning with local police stating that the four men were suspected militants and were killed as part of a counter-insurgency operation at a shopping complex within the city. Local authorities identified Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Mudasir Gul, Aamir Margay and another man who they claimed to be from Paki-

stan, as the four killed in the operation. Witnesses near the scene described how the police had collected the four men and forced them to search the building before gunshots were heard. Controversy immediately followed the operation, with the family members of three of the men; Bhat, Gul, and Magray taking to social media to express their outrage at local authorities not only for the deaths of their family members but also the accusations lauded against them post-mortem. These families have declared their deceased family members innocent and accused the police of murdering unarmed civilians in a “staged gunfight”. The deaths of the four men have

added further fuel to an already raging fire in a region where state authorities have been accused of numerous human right violations against locals - including examples of killings similar to this - and triggered a wave of protests from the deceased family members, who staged a sit-in protest in the main media hub of Srinagar before being removed by police, and by local protestors and separatist groups who orchestrated a shutdown strike across the region. The Kashmir region is situated on the border between India and Pakistan and is claimed by both nations. With two wars being fought in 1947 and 1965, as well as an insurgency against the Indian state since 1989, it is an area rocked with instability

and ultimately violence with over 50,000 people losing their lives to fighting in the region over the past few decades. In response to the outcry surrounding the killings, the Indian government has ordered an immediate investigation into the operation and the bodies of both Gul and Bhat have been returned back to their respected families for burial, but the family of Magray are still awaiting the return of his body with the police maintaining that he was a militant. Promises of an investigation into the deaths has done little to quell the anger in the region as patience with the authorities has been waning thin with the threat of breaking over decades of mistrust and poor treatment.

regulations of its sale, and had protected farmers for decades. Most farmers sell their produce in government owned markets, but under the new laws farmers could sell their procude directly to supermarket chains, agricultural businesses and online grocers. The new laws also removed minimum support prices - a government controlled price for produce - something protesters argued had kept farmers going and without which farmers would struggle to survive. The protesters rejected the new laws, arguing they wouldn’t benefit farmers, since the prices and sale of produce would be dic-

tated by private business. Another controversial aspect of the laws was that they allowed more privatisation of farming, hurting the income of farmers in India. Despite this, the Prime Minister and his ministers had insisted that the laws were in place to benefit famers and that taking these laws back was not a question. Following the U-turn, the unions of farmers are viewing the repeal as a victory. However, the states of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh both have a huge base of farmers, and experts suggest this may have forced the decision on these farming laws, with upcoming state elections.

Prime Minister Modi has stated that the farm laws were meant to strengthen the small farmers. He says that “despite several attempts to explain to the farmers we have failed on the occasion of Guru Parab, the government has decided to repeal three farm laws”. Raj Singh Chaudery is a protester and a farmer. He said that “we have no faith in a verbal promise. Unless we see it in writing that the laws have actually been repealed”. With protests continuing it is clear that opposition to removing protections on farmers in India will remain strong.

A popular U-turn: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reversed the controversial farming laws. Source: Kremlin. ru (via. Wikimedia Commons)

Turbulence in Kashmir after police killings Ryan Jewell Contributor

Manal Ahmed politics@gairrhydd.com

The police murdered these men unarmed and then created a “staged gunfight”.

Families of the four men killed by Indian authorities

India repeals farming laws after mass protests Haris Hussnain Contributor

he Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a repeal of three controversial farming laws after large-scale protests over the last year. Since last November Delhi’s borders have been filled with protesters, facing deadly conditions of heat, cold weather and COVID-19. India’s previous laws on produce marketing concerned the storage and pricing of produce and the

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

Violence erupts in Rotterdam as Dutch police clash with anti-lockdown protesters across country Katherine Seymour Contributor

Bethan Wild Contributor

iots have erupted in Rotterdam following the introduction of new COVID-19 rules and restrictions. Protests in the Dutch city turned violent, leading to a police response in which at least two people were shot. Protesters were gathered to show their anger at fresh coronavirus restrictions being imposed across the Netherlands. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced the introduction of a ‘partial lockdown’ in response to soaring infection rates and hospitalisations in the Netherlands. The announcement came not long after the government implemented a stricter COVID pass system. The pass now allows businesses to restrict access to those who are fully vaccinated or recovering from COVID-19, excluding those who test negative for the virus. Last week a three-week lockdown was imposed across the nation. On November 19, a further attempt to reduce infection rates was made as the Government cancelled the New Year’s Eve firework display for the second year in a row.

The Netherlands imposed fresh restrictions after recording its highest numbers of COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began. The measures mean restaurants and shops will have to close earlier, and sports events must take place without spectators. Another form of protest was football fans breaking into stadiums, following the banning of spectators at sports games. Two games were cancelled as a result. Hundreds gathered at the protests, with some throwing rocks and fireworks at the police and setting cars alight. Social media has been swarmed with videos of protesters setting police cars alight across Europe. At daytime protests during the initial announcement of the restrictions, police had to employ force using water cannons to try to regain control over the protesters. During the night seven people were injured and at least 20 arrested, a figure which later rose to 51, five officers were also said to be injured. The night was condemned by the Mayor of Rotterdam as an “orgy of violence”. Around half of those arrested have been reported to be under 18 years old. The city was placed under a state of emergency, train stations were shut down and travel became restricted. According to the local po-

litical party, Leefbaar Rotterdam, the city centre was “transformed into a war zone”. The mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb, told reporters in the early hours of Saturday morning that “on a number of occasions the police felt it necessary to draw their weapons to defend themselves” following the direct targeting of officers by the protesters. An independent investigation into the shootings has been formally opened, as is protocol whenever Dutch police use their weapons. Dutch justice minister, Ferd Grapperhaus, said: “Protesting is a great right in our society, but what we saw last night is simply criminal behaviour. It has nothing to do with demonstrating.” However, organiser Joost Eras, stated “we’re not rioters, we come in peace”. He insists their intention was to stand against the exclusion of unvaccinated individuals from bars and restaurants over the winter months. Eras emphasised that “People want to live, that is why we are here”. There were also peaceful protests in Amsterdam, as well as the southern Dutch city of Breda where no issues were reported following the announcement of restrictions. Some other protests across the country were called off as a result of the violence in Rotterdam. There have also been protests in

A violent turn: Protests against new coronavirus measures in Rotterdam took a violent turn, with projectiles hurled at the police and police discharging weapons in their response. Source: Mstyslav Chernov (via. Wikimedia Commons) Austria where the toughest lockdown across Europe in months has been announced. Austria became the first country in Europe to make vaccinations mandatory for all, announcing that all those eligible must bevaccinated by February 2022. As many as 40,000 people were reported to have attended protests in Vienna. Cases are rising across  Europe due to a combination of low

vaccine uptake, waning immunity among people already inoculated and growing complacency about masks and distancing after governments relaxed restrictions over the summer. As countries across Europe begin to slowly intensify restrictions for the winter months, there is speculation that we may see an increase in anti-restriction and anti-lockdown protests across the continent.

Olympian Sunisa Lee pepper-sprayed in racist attack Annabelle Martin Contributor

S Tokyo 2020: Lee was the Olympic allaround champion in Tokyo, and won bronze in the uneven bars. Source: Ftaaffe (via. Wikimedia Commons)

unisa Lee, US Olympic gymnastics champion, was waiting for an Uber in Los Angeles with friends when a car sped by them and the passengers yelled anti-Asian slurs while proceeding to spray her with pepper spray. In an interview with pop culture media company PopSugar, Lee revealed that she and a group of Asian friends were targeted. The attack took place in October, when Lee was in Los Angeles to film ‘Dancing with the

Stars’. Lee, 18, grew up in a tight-knit Hmong community in St Paul, Minnesota. Her parents emigrated from Laos before she was born and settled in the city, which is home to the largest Hmong community in the US. Lee made history by travelling to Tokyo this summer, becoming the first US Olympic athlete from the Hmong ethic group. Since the coronavirus was first reported in China, members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities across the US have faced increasing racism in the form of verbal harassment and physical attacks.

More than 9,000 anti-Asian incidents have been reported since March 2020. The gymnast said she and her friends, all of Asian descent, were waiting for their Uber after a night out when a car passed with people inside shouting ethnic slurs and telling them to “go back to where they came from”. One person sprayed her in the arm with pepper spray before the vehicle sped away, she said. “I was so mad, but there was nothing I could do or control because they skirted off,” Lee asserted. “I didn’t do anything to them, and having the reputation, it’s so hard because I didn’t want to do anything that could get me

into trouble. I just let it happen,” she added. Russell Jeung, an Asian American studies professor at San Francisco State and Co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate, said Lee’s response is common among people who are targeted in a hate crime and feel like they have let the incident happen or they were powerless. The US experienced a surge in anti-Asian violence in 2020 according to FBI statistics, with some activists attributing that to the rhetoric of former US president Donald Trump, who characterised COVID-19 as the “China virus”.

MPs under scrutiny over having second jobs Manal Ahmed Politics Editor

ews of Owen Paterson breaking the rules of lobbying for MPs has led to intense scrutiny from the public over MPs having second jobs. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been urged to consider proposing a ban on MPs acting as paid consultants. Paterson, former MP for North Shropshire, announced his resignation earlier this month, stating he would “remain a public servant but outside the cruel world of politics”. His resignation came after Johnson expressed that he would not prevent Paterson’s punishment from being executed – a punishment that was expected to be a 30-day suspension from Parliament – when he had been found to have broken three rules of lobbying for MPs on behalf of two companies.

Former Attorney General Geoffrey Cox, also mired in the “sleaze” scandal, began working as a barrister after he departed from his government job in 2020. Despite his non-parliamentary activities making headlines – such as providing legal guidance to the British Virgin Islands in a corruption inquiry – Cox was found to have broken no rules. Many in the Labour Party have demanded a more detailed inquiry into the activities of Cox and other Conservative Members of Parliament. The code of conduct currently states that MPs are allowed to have second jobs if they are not a minister, including as a consultant or an adviser. However, they are restricted from initiating lobbying of other MPs or “advocating a particular matter” in Parliament in favour of matters that concern their second job, unless they are reporting a “serious wrong or substantial injustice”. MPs must also state any financial

involvement they may have in firms, should it be “relevant” to ongoing activities, such as debates, in the House of Commons. In an attempt to win back public support, Johnson ordered MPs to devote themselves “above all to you constituents”, and anyone found to have broken parliamentary rules “should be punished”. The statement created accusations of hypocrisy from Tory MPs due to Johnson’s history; during his tenure as Mayor of London he was earning £250,000 annually as a columnist for The Daily Telegraph, and during his brief stint as backbencher when he returned to the House of Commons, Johnson earned £1.6 million through speeches, columns, book deals and royalties. Prior to the vote in Parliament last Wednesday, the Prime Minister admitted he mishandled the case of Owen Paterson after No. 10 U-turned on their attempt to overhaul the conduct plan to block the suspension of

Second job controversy: Controversy has risen over MPs holding second jobs. Prime Minister Boris Johnson himself has made a great deal of money taking on paid positions whilst serving as an MP, a Minister and as Prime Minister. Source: Number 10 (via. Wikimedia Commons) Paterson, but ordered MPs to vote against Labour’s proposed ban on all secondary jobs. Instead, Johnson provided a “watered down” version of

Keir Starmer’s proposal, where any external employment should not limit an MPs ability to serve their constituents.

POLITICS

Clause added to bill giving government powers to remove British citizenship without notice Luthien Evans Politics Editor

ome Secretary, Priti Patel, has proposed a controversial addition to the Nationality and Borders bill. Under Clause 9 of the bill, ‘notice of decision to deprive a person of citizenship’ exempts the government from having to give notice to a citizen when revoking citizenship if it is ‘not reasonably practicable’ to do so. The government would also not have to give warning if it was deemed to be in the interests of the public or for national security. Some critics have stated this would allow the Home Secretary to have ‘draconian’ levels of power. It has also been suggested that this will bring complications to cases that occurred prior to the clause being added to law, potentially damaging their ability to appeal their case.

The director of Reprieve, an NGO fighting human rights abuses, discussed the topic with The Guardian, stating: “This clause would give Priti Patel unprecedented power to remove your citizenship in secret, without even having to tell you, and effectively deny you an appeal. Under this regime, a person accused of speeding would be afforded more rights than someone at risk of being deprived of their British nationality.” The vice-chair of the Institute of Race Relations, Frances Webber, stated: “This amendment sends the message that certain citizens, despite being born and brought up in the UK and having no other home, remain migrants in this country. Their citizenship, and therefore all their rights, are precarious and contingent.” He further commented on what this meant for British-born dual nationals, commenting that similar additions have been “used mainly against British Muslims”

and that it “unapologetically flouts international human rights obligations and basic norms of fairness”. In support of the bill, the Home Office has stated that “British citizenship is a privilege, not a right. Deprivation of citizenship on conducive grounds is rightly reserved for those who pose a threat to the UK or whose conduct involves very high harm”. The Home Office added that the amendment will be used for cases where “there is no way of communicating with the person”. Initial powers to strip citizenship were first introduced following the London bombing terror attack of 2005. These were furthered under Theresa May’s tenure as Home Secretary in 2010 and then again in 2014. In 2018, the Home Office began the process of giving notice by “putting a copy of it on a person’s file - but only in cases where their whereabouts were unknown”.

No guarantees of citizenship: Under some circumstances the UK Government will not need to provide warning when revoking citizenship, and being born in the UK will not be a guarantee that citizenship will not be removed. Source: Richard Townshend (via. Wikimedia Commons)

UK to designate Hamas a terrorist organisation George Gourlay Contributor

ome Secretary, Priti Patel, has announced her plans to declare both the political and military wings of the Palestinian authority in Gaza, Hamas, a terrorist organisation and make it illegal for anyone in the UK to support it. The move is a progression on previous motions which has already seen the military wing of the group, the Izzedine al-Qassam, banned in the UK. Now, the government is seeking to declare the entirety of the group illegal after an assessment by the Home Secretary concluded that the distinction between Hamas’ political and military wings was artificial. Hamas is now one of 78 terrorist groups denoted under the Terrorism Act 2000 with the Home Secretary planning to introduce a maximum 14-year prison sentence for

anyone convicted of belonging to or supporting the group to come into force on 26th November. Hamas originated in 1988 after the beginning of the first Palestinian intifada as an opposition group to Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The group has gained notoriety for its use of violence against Israel in the struggle for Palestinian freedom. In May, footage of Hamas rockets looming over Israel’s tourist city, Tel Aviv, garnered international attention. The rockets, launched from the Gaza Strip, were intercepted by Israel’s US-funded ‘Iron Dome’. Decades of conflict between Israel and Palestine has prompted human rights groups to accuse both sides of having committed war crimes. In a speech on security and counter terrorism in Washington D.C. last week, Patel elaborated her position, stating: “Hamas has significant terrorist capability, including access to extensive and sophisticated

weaponry as well as terrorist training facilities, and it has long been involved in significant terrorist violence”. The UK joins the Western condemnation of Hamas, following in the footsteps of the EU and US who have already deemed the group as an outlawed terrorist organisation. While the UK has maintained a policy of “no contact” with the group’s political wing, the official interdiction has solidified the stance of the Conservatives who have now drawn a new line between themselves and the Labour left who have previously shown support for the Palestinian cause. Israel has shown its support of the UK’s “significant decision” as Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid, explained: “There is no legitimate part of a terrorist organisation, and any attempt to differentiate between parts of a terrorist organisation is artificial.” However, the move now aligns

Change of stance: Under Patel’s plan the Home Office will designate the whole of Hamas, and not just its military wing, a terrorist organisation. Source: Canley (via. Wikimedia Commons) the UK against those calling for the liberation of Palestine. Hamas is considered the political authority in Gaza after winning legislative elec-

tions in 2006. Some view this newest move as a further example of lobbying of Conservative MPs who share deep ties with Israel.

Iran seeks to curb fuel smuggling ahead of Vienna talks Manal Ahmed Politics Editor

International smuggling: The ship was carrying over 150,000 litres of diesel when it was siezed by Iran. Source: NASA (via. Flickr)

olonel Ahmad Hajian, a commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, announced on 20 November that a “foreign ship carrying smuggled diesel” had been seized in the Persian Gulf and its 11 crew members were detained. The identities of those detained have yet to be revealed. More than 150,000 litres of diesel were found aboard the vessel in the latest incident of a foreign ship being seized in the area. On 10 November, Iran announced the release of a Vietnamese tanker, after it had been seized the previous month in the Sea of Oman. The frequent reports of fuel smuggling by land and sea from Iran to neighbouring or close countries is in large part due to the low cost of consumption caused by subsidies

on energy prices, as well as the accelerated devaluation of the Iranian rial after former president Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal – officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) – in 2018 and imposed sanctions. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards intend to “deal decisively” with the problem to protect the economy. Earlier this month, President Biden’s special envoy for Iran, Robert Malley, travelled to allies in the Middle East ahead of the indirect U.S.-Iranian talks, which are expected to resume later this week in Vienna after a five-month pause. Malley’s visit to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, and Bahrain was intended to “coordinate our approaches on a broad range of concerns with Iran”, according to a statement made by the US State Department. The special envoy’s tour came as the first joint naval exercise between

Israel and the previously mentioned Gulf states - excluding Saudi Arabia - occurred, coordinated by the US. The purpose of the exercise was to “enhance interoperability between participating forces’ maritime interdiction teams”. This joint five-day drill is part of a number of measures to further normalise ties between signatories of the Abraham Accord, signed in September 2020. While Saudi Arabia has yet to formally establish a diplomatic relationship with Israel, it is expected that this will occur soon. The US’s Gulf allies have voiced opposition to the re-establishment of the JCPOA, Israel in particular creating a significant barrier to peace in the region. US officials have warned Israel that while consistent attacks and strikes on Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities may feel satisfying, the speed at which Iran was able to restart operations in previously incapacitated and bombed

facilities suggests that these attacks will do nothing to hinder Iran’s nuclear programme and may serve as a motivation, according to the New York Times. Israel has expressed that they have no intention of decreasing their attacks in Iran, a position that has frequently been a cause of contention between the two allies. While US officials will not be inside the negotiating room during the Vienna talks, caused by Iran’s refusal to meet US officials after Trump withdrew from the JCPOA, Biden intends to reassert a commitment to a peaceful relationship between the two nations while newly-elected President Ebrahim Raisi hopes to end the American-imposed sanctions and improve the economy. These talks may be in vain as the hope to prevent Iran from nuclear proliferation is dwindling among the US and its allies, as the latter intends to turn to China and Russia to place pressure if the talks fail.

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

US divided after Kyle Rittenhouse IN OTHER found not guilty on all counts NEWS Ella Lloyd

Politics Editor

yle Rittenhouse has been cleared of all charges by a jury after a high profile and politically significant case. He had been charged with two counts of homicide, one count of attempted homicide, and two counts of recklessly endangering safety. The then 17-year-old shot dead Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and injured Gaige Grosskreutz during violent racial unrest in Kenosha, Wisconsin last year. People had been protesting the shooting of Jacob Blake, a black man, by a white police officer. Rittenhouse and the men he shot are all white. Rittenhouse travelled from his home in Illinois to Kenosha with a semiautomatic rifle, saying he intended to protect private property from protesters. Rittenhouse’s lawyers argued that the teenager had shot the three men in self-defense, as he attempted to help the community of Kenosha. Claims of self-defense were supported by testimonies that Grosskreutz had pointed a gun at Rittenhouse, Huber had struck Rittenhouse in the head or neck, and Rosenbaum had attempted to take Rittenhouse’s gun. The prosecution argued that Rittenhouse had acted as a reckless vigilante, and the men he shot were attempting to disarm someone they believed to be an active shooter. The case has received significant

attention over issues of race and gun control. There have been accusations of bias against the trial’s Judge Bruce Schroeder, who ruled that the prosecution could not refer to the men Rittenhouse shot as ‘victims’, but the defense could use the terms ‘arsonists’ and ‘looters’. When Judge Schroeder’s phone rang during trial proceedings last week with the ringtone God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood, often played as former President Trump’s entrance during rallies, these criticisms were re-voiced online. BBC correspondent Nomia Iqbal reported both ‘Free Kyle’ calls from cars and protesters with signs reading ‘Killer Kyle’ outside court. The not guilty verdict has received praise from many Republicans who support the right to bear arms, including the former President Donald Trump who wrote in a statement “If that’s not self-defense, nothing is!”. A number of Republicans, including North Carolina’s representative Madison Cawthorn, have offered congressional internships to Rittenhouse. Cawthorn wrote in an Instagram story “You have a right to defend yourself, be armed, be dangerous and be moral”, although, at the time of the shooting, Rittenhouse was 17 years old, making it illegal for him to own the assault rifle. The NAACP tweeted that the verdict was “a travesty and fails to deliver justice on behalf of those who lost their lives as they peacefully assembled to protest against police brutality and violence”.

On November 2, Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai alleged a former Chinese politician sexually assaulted her. Shortly after doing so, Peng’s post disappeared off of Chinese social media site Weibo, and she was censored. Since then Peng has not been heard of, and posts referring to her are being removed. #WhereisPengShuai? has been trending on Twitter in response to the athlete’s censoring.

‘Free Kyle’: TThe US has been divided in its response to Kyle Rittenhouse’s not guilty verdict, with supporters waving the ‘Free Kyle’ banner and ‘Killer Kyle’ the call of those opposing the verdict. Source: Lightburst (via. Wikimedia Commons) President Joe Biden said he, like many Americans, was angry and concerned about the verdict, but expressed support for the jury’s decision. There are also concerns over the legal precedent the case may set. The parents of Anthony Huber said “it sends the unacceptable message that armed civilians can show up in any town, incite violence, and then use

the danger they have created to justify shooting people in the street”. Rittenhouse’s lawyer said his client “wished none of this had ever happened” and that he just wanted to get on with his life. There was brief unrest in Portland, Oregon in response to the decision, as well as marches in protest in New York and Chicago.

Biden’s $1.9tn spending plan approved by House of Representatives after debate Francesca Ionescu Contributor

he House of Representatives has voted in favour of US President Joe Biden’s Build

Over the first hurdle: The bill has passed the first chamber of Congress, and now moves to the Senate for consideration. Source: The White House (via. Wikimedia Commons)

Better Act, a $1.9tn (£1.4tn) bill covering issues such as healthcare, climate change and immigration. The spending plan will now go to the Senate, where it will face tough opposition from the Republican Party. The bill includes an expansion of Medicare and a reduction in prescription drug prices in the US. It would also provide childcare subsidies and funds for a universal prekindergarten. Hundreds of millions of dollars will be put towards helping combat climate change if the bill is approved. It will also give the US Government the ability to provide work permits and deportation protections for undocumented immigrants in the US, of which there are an esitmated ten million. The plan was approved by a vote of 220 to 213 in the House. The vote fell mostly along party lines, as is becoming the default in Congress despite Biden’s talk of a new era of bipartisan cooperation in his inauguration. Just one Democrat voted against the bill. Cheers met the announcement by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that the legislation had been approved. The vote came on Friday morning, though it was originally meant to take place on Thursday evening. The reason for this delay was an often confusing eight hour and 32 minute speech by House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, which broke the record for the longest

speech in the House, previously held by Pelosi. The speech covered issues including China, Thanksgiving, Hitler, Elon Musk, the making of baby carrots, and the laugh of Vice President Kamala Harris, and was met with ridicule by some members of the House. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said: “This man clearly will not stop talking but has nothing to say”, and Representative Ruben Gallego tweeted: “The climate solutions of the #BuildBackBetterAct couldn’t be more important after all of Kevin McCarthy’s hot air.” McCarthy called the bill “the single most reckless and irresponsible spending bill in our nation’s history.” Whilst the speech delayed the vote by less than 24 hours, some analysts have noted the real reason for the speech may have been the pressure McCarthy is facing by Trumpian elements of the GOP to show more fervent opposition to the Biden administration. Having passed through the House, the Senate will now consider the spending plan. All 50 Democrat Senators will have to approve the bill, assuming no Republicans vote for it, for it to pass. With two Democrat Senators not yet having committed to approving it, this may be easier said than done. To secure these Senators’ votes, the bill may have to be changed, or elements of it removed completely. If this happens, the House will need to approve it once again.

Protests have arisen in Australia’s biggest cities this past week. Protests have been seen as anti-vaccination, anti-lockdown and anti-government. This is following the announcement of a bill which would allow the government to enforce and create Covid-19 orders. Counter-protests have been held condemning the rhetoric of the anti-vacciantion protesters.

The Taliban have issued new rules to television broadcasters banning women from appearing in drama programmes and mandating the wearing of a hijab for all female journalists and presenters. Films which do not reflect sharia law or ‘Afghan values’ have also been banned, as well as comedy programmes which insult religion. As Afghan television broadcasts mostly foreign programming, this may lead to broadcasters being forced to close.

Taiwan has thanked Joe Biden for an invitation to a virtual summit on democracy alongside more than 100 countries, a figure that does not include China. The move comes as Beijing has increased the effort to prevent Taiwan interacting with international bodies and from being officially recognised as an independent state.

politics@gairrhydd.com

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COMMENT

COMMENT Nostalgia and Franchises: A crisis in film

What impact does a focus on established franchises and 'reboots' have on the film industry?

Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

T Vicky Witts

Catarina Pinto Vicente

Katherine Wheeler

he film industry is, perhaps unsurprisingly, in an uncertain place at the moment. Although film is (to a certain extent) beginning to recover from the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on both cinema attendance and the production-side of the industry, a new issue has been raised to the forefront of discussion in recent years – the industry-wide dominance of nostalgic franchise films. These discussions have recently resurfaced following the recent release of Ghostbusters Afterlife, a film that has received a mixed response from reviewers and audiences alike. The film’s relationship with original 1984 Ghostbusters film, specifically, has been called into question. Although Ghostbusters Afterlife has been praised for its direction, Alison Willmore, a reviewer for Vulture, criticised the film for what she saw as an over-reliance on references to the original, an aspect that she says goes to “prove there’s nothing it won’t do to achieve a sense of maudlin coziness. As an industry that continues to draw on nostalgic images of former films and reboots of established stories, this is by no means a new issue to many. One of the most prominent voices in this debate has been Martin Scorsese, the legendary film director behind such films as ‘Goodfellas’, ‘Casino’, and ‘The Irishman’ – a film that remains to be one of Netflix’s most successful releases of all time.

franchise films are now your primary choice if you want to see something on the big screen.”

Megan Evans comment@gairrhydd.com

Martin Scorsese, American Film Director

Nostalgia in the movies: As movies are becoming increasingly based on established franchises, the industry is facing a crisis of identity brought on by its focus on nostalgia. Source: igorovsyannykov (via Pixabay) Scorsese has previously stated that rylines or characters that they might Marvel Movies are “closer to theme not otherwise have been aware of. it's equally important for parks than they are to movies as I’ve Nostalgia has been an entrenched films and their directors known and loved them throughout part of popular culture for many years. to break away from my life.” In film-making, specifically, directors conventions and build on To him, Scorsese said that these and script writers frequently make refthese established stories.” worldwide franchises are mostly driv- erences to aspects or characters feaen to achieve financial success, often tured in previous films. signiture style, the film draws on real becoming repetitive and lacking artisWhilst there is nothing inherently events and iconography of the period, tic innovation. This potentially means wrong with making references to pre- but also breaks away from these conthat “people are only given one kind of vious entires in franchises, it's equally ventions and presents his own, reimthing,” due to the continued success of important for films and their directors agining of the events around the late these franchises, they are “endlessly to break away from conventions and actress Sharon Tate - an aspect the sold only one kind of thing.” build on these established stories with director has previously used in his Although a number of other indus- new, exciting elements. WW2 film 'Inglourious Basterds'. try figures have come out in support One key film that comes to mind For the time being, it seems that of Scorsese’s claim, several others have is Quentin Tarantino's critically-ac- reboots and franchises are not going criticised the director for an appar- claimed 'Once Upon in Hollywood' - a away anytime soon. Their continued ent failure to recognise that franchise comedy/drama exploring the end of reliance on nostalgia, however, will films are often well-received and can the so-called 'Golden Age' of cinema continue to be debated by many of introduce modern audiences to sto- (1960s) in Los Angeles. In Tarantino's those involved in the industry.

Women in positions of global power

How are large businesses making efforts to reach workplace gender equality? Vicky Witts Head of Comment

ince 2000, the total number of women in positions of the highest power across the world has dou-

bled. Recently, Kamala Harris made history when she briefly assumed presidential powers while President Biden was undergoing an operation- the first time a woman has had such powers in the US. Sweden also saw a monumental moment for women, when Magdalena Andersson was elected as the country’s first ever female Prime Minister. Although these examples are demonstrating the progress being made by women to break through the infamous ‘glass ceiling’, women across the world are still struggling to reach top management positions for seemingly no other

According to the ONS, in 2020 the gender pay gap fell to 7.4% in full timeworkers.”

reason than their gender. Additionally, as well as being restricted in the jobs that they do, many women are being paid less than their male counterparts for the same jobs. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2020 the gender pay gap fell to 7.4% in fulltime workers, and 15.5% among all employees in the UK, showing that whilst improvements are being made to tackle gender inequality, there is still a long way to go. What is being done currently? The fact that more women are running in elections than ever before, from failed attempts like Hillary Clinton, to successes like Angela Merkel, is increasing the likelihood of more women in positions of power in the future. Seeing women succeeding at some of the highest positions across the world can be nothing short of inspirational to women and young girls, showing them that women are finally being able to succeed in areas that they have not before. In attempts to tackle gender inequality in the workplace, many companies and organisations are making extra ef-

more than a third of tech industry employees in the US have experienced or witnessed sexism.”

Kamala Harris: Harris made history in the US as the first woman to assume presidential powers. Source: Gage Skidmore (via Flickr) forts to ensure their businesses are fair and diverse. For example, the FCDO have created a Work and Opportunities for Women (WOW) programme, which “aims to enhance the economic empowerment of 300,000 women working in global value chains by September 2022”.

Such schemes are making huge steps in encouraging young women that they are able to be successful in top careers, without gender limitations. However, while some individual business are making efforts to promote equality, in many sectors there is still an overwhelming inbalance within the

highest-paying roles. In a recent US study, "more than a third of tech industry employees have experienced or witnessed sexism". This is a staggering figure, especially considering that in the US only an estimated 19% of software developers are women. Organistations such as Women in STEM aim to help improve working conditions and increase the number of women working in Science, Tech, Engineering, and Maths, as these are industries that are commonly regarded as being heavily male-dominated. It is hopeful that seeing women in positions of power, such as Kamala Harris and Magdalena Andersson, will inspire a new generation of young women to break gender stereotypes, and have the equality that generations of women have fought for over hundreds of years.

SYLWADAU

'All Too Well' and the 'failed love' music trope

Is it fair for artists to profit off of albums on their private relationships and heartbreak? Vicky Witts

Adele's album alone saw 60.7 million streams on the day of its release according to music streaming platform Spotify. ”

Head of Comment

n the last few weeks, the music industry has seen two hugely successful album releases that are quickly taking over the charts and collecting many online streams - Adele’s 30, and Taylor Swift’s re-recording of Red (Taylor’s Version). Adele's album alone saw 60.7 million streams on the day of its release. While both albums are different in terms of genre and target audience, themes of relationships and heartbreak appear in both to be the most important to fans. In one of Swift’s most popular songs from the album, ‘All Too Well’, listeners have suggested that she sings about the heartbreak of her relationship with actor Jake Gyllenhaal, when she was 20 and he was 29. Although this is merely speculation, and has not been confirmed by Swift, fans have been using the song as a catalyst to criticise Gyllenhaal online. Similarly, Adele is known for writing emotional songs about love and relationships, and ‘30’ was no different. She has claimed that the album was a way of explaining her divorce from ex-husband Simon Konecki to her nine-year-old son Angelo. Unlike Taylor Swift however, Adele appears to take a kinder view of her ex-relationship, stating to her son in the song ‘My Little Love’: “I love your dad ‘cause he gave you to me”. Regardless of the approaches that the

artists who show real emotions and experiences may be viewed as good role-models for fans.”

Go easy on them: Some artists have been criticised for encouraging fans to 'cancel' their famous ex-partners. Source: Jana Beamer (via Flickr) two singers have chosen to take towards portraying their romances in songs, both have used their albums to reveal private aspects of their lives that would otherwise likely stay covered. This poses two major questions: is it ‘right’ for artists to profit off their private lives, and (in the case of Swift’s album), is it fair for fans to criticise the likes of Jake Gyllenhaal? On one hand, celebrities are well within their rights to use their past experiences as inspiration for their music. Songs about love and heartbreak are common all throughout music, regardless of genre, and are often a way for artists to cope with emotions which can be complex to manage otherwise. In an interview about her debut album ‘Sour’, Olivia Rodrigo stated that, when facing

sexist criticism that young female artists sing only about boys, “I’m a teenage girl, I write about stuff that I feel really intensely… and I think that’s authentic and natural”. Writing about the hardships that they have faced, also may be a useful way of making artists appear more like ‘real people’, which is particularly important for young people who can learn that they are not alone in their feelings. As such, artists who show real emotions and experiences may be viewed as good role-models for fans. However, as many responses to Taylor Swift’s ‘All Too Well’ have shown, publicising intimate details of a relationship to a dedicated audience can also damage the reputation of those involved. From TikTok to Twitter, fans of Swift have tak-

en to social media to show their support for Taylor and her new album. In many cases, the support has been seemingly harmless, and only goes so far as to compliment the song, and the ways she was able to write such deep lyrics about her feelings when she was just 20 years old. Much like Adele, Swift is entitled to use her own experiences about her relationships to inspire her song writing, and many fans have stated that her song has helped them in their own breakups or hard times. Overwhelmingly though, many fans online have engaged in ‘cancel culture’, attempting to portray Jake Gyllenhaal as a villain in his relationship with Swift, and suggesting more generally that he shouldn’t be supported. As listeners have no true knowledge of what goes on in the private lives of artists, such strong accusations are unfair, and can have damaging consequences on those targeted. This is not to say that what fans are suggesting about Gyllenhaal and many others is or isn’t true, but rather that it should be considered that the messages within songs are not necessarily works of fact and are instead simply expressions of the songwriters’ emotions. In future, fans need to consider supporting artists and their emotions, without going to extremes or getting swept into the hysteria of ‘cancel culture’.

Growing concerns about COVID-19 'anti-vaxxers'

How should the government be dealing with people refusing to get the vaccine? Catarina Pinto Vicente Comment Editor

ith the pandemic, many countries were faced with the choice of making the vaccine mandatory – some have stressed its importance through laws or punishment, whereas others, like the UK, have given people the choice. With the pandemic persisting months after it began, it’s worth delving into whether this is a matter of free choice or one of protecting the community at large. Some have gone the way to make the vaccines mandatory, such as Turkmenistan and Indonesia. Several countries have introduced different types of ‘penalties’ for those who choose to go unvaccinated: Austria has imposed restrictions for unvaccinated citizens, keeping them from

For now, the Public Health Act of 1984 prevents vaccince schemes from being made mandatory.”

more crowded venues. These penalties can be harsher: in Singapore, unvaccinated people have now been blocked from the financial help in covering medical bills that has been provided to all vaccinated people. Although the UK has never indicated the possibility of restrictions for unvaccinated people, it has introduced the COVID pass, which allows entry into events with larger attendance, and is currently focused on vaccine roll-out. Some have called this the bare minimum: 68% of the UK’s population is vaccinated, as well as 72% of Wales’, but the infection rates remain at 511.1. This caused many people to urge the government to do more. However, it has also incited a discussion around freedom of choice. Those who chose to forgo the vaccine have cited skepticism over its origin, fear of subsequent symptoms, or mental and physical circumstances. While some have chalked this to freedom of choice, others have also mentioned the dangers of infection from unvaccinated citizens. In England, the Government an-

nounced that COVID-19 vaccination became compulsory for NHS front line health and social workers, however, Welsh ministers stated that there there is "no need" for such measures in Wales. For now, the Public Health Act of 1984 prevents vaccine schemes from being made mandatory to all. But if the UK were to enforce penalties

in Singapore, unvaccinated people have now been blocked from financial help in covering medical bills.” for refusing the vaccine, this would largely improve the UK’s condition and slow infection rates across the country.

Can you say no?: Ethical questions have been raised about making COVID19 vaccinations compulsory to all. Source: UNICEF Ethiopia (via Flickr)

How is Tiktok changing the global music industry? Catarina Pino Vicente

Comment Editor

iktok is the app that took the world by storm. In the 5 years it’s been around, it has infiltrated every aspect of contemporary culture, cultivating dance trends, turning upcoming artists into celebrities, and changing the future of music forever. With its significance in the music industry, it bears the question – has this been for the better? For artists, this has meant adapting to an entirely new platform. Upcoming artists who make the most of the app have higher chances than ever of becoming famous or even going viral, as well as scoring song promo deals and sponsorships; these new streams of income have been revolutionary for young musicians looking to enter the industry, and some would argue that it has ‘democratized’ the industry. As for already-established artists, this has meant old songs can become popular again, with the notorious example of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams”. This increased engagement by artists in the app has also meant users are exposed to more music which they are more likely to seek out outside the app, as a study conducted in November for Tiktok revealed. In lockdown, the reach of Tiktok as a music platform felt particularly prevalent, with songs such as the Weekend's 'Blinding Lights' , which became Billboard's all-time number 1 single after the song became infamous with a popular dance trend online. Undoubtedly, this shows the impact that Tiktok has had on both new and existing artists in the music industry, after songs are picked up as trend-worthy. However, some argue that the emergence of Tiktok has deteriorated, or even ‘ruined’, music. Music producers now analyze the songs to create songs that are more likely to go viral on the app, capitalizing on catchy and repetitive tunes or lyrics that can be shaped into a new trend or a ‘meme’. Such songs tend to become more popular enough to feature on the charts, and some musicians have called out this for being a contest of popularity rather than musical quality, as well as showing the control Tiktok has over what music becomes popular. This seems to limit songs which perhaps are less catered to the world of dances and trends. As Tiktok continues to grow, its impact on the music industry does as well, and although this significance is guaranteed for the near future, it is hard to tell whether it will be mainly positive or negative.

Music producers now analyse the songs to create songs that are more likely to go viral on the app, capitalizing on catchy and repetitive tunes or lyrics.”

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ADVICE

Mental Health: How to start the conversation

All of the ways that you can help others and yourself engage with mental health more Megan Shinner Advice Editor

I Harriet Lowbridge

Megan Shinner

Ruth Hoey advice@gairrhydd.com

n light of mental health week during October, and Movember coming to a close, we must keep spreading awareness and destigmatising mental health all year round. According to Mind, 1 in 4 people in the UK experiences a mental health problem each year. This is 16.8 million people. Below are some things to keep in mind whilst talking about mental health and how to deal with a difficult conversation. Listening is key Knowing how to bring up a serious conversation regarding mental health or how to respond once you have started one can be a difficult thing to do. Although, you don’t need to do much at all in some cases. Sometimes, we just need to let our thoughts out and address what is worrying us or stressing us out. Becoming frustrated or being upset is a completely natural response with no shame attached. A problem shared is always a problem halved. However, these conversations may have more to them than nerves around exams or stressing about deadlines. A friend may turn to you and want to openly discuss their mental health with you or to let you know of their situation. As long as you are okay with this, it is a very important conversation you will have, but it’s also important that it is dealt with in the right way. The first step is to not attempt to casually relate to someone. Examples of this are when people use OCD as an adjective; “I’m so OCD!”, telling someone

with anxiety to “just stop thinking about it, it’ll all be fine”, or someone with depression that “we all get sad sometimes”. Understandably, you may think you are trying to help them by reducing the worry around the situation. However, it can come across as invalidating their feelings. Simply showing your support by saying: “I am listening, and I understand what you are saying” and asking, “Is there anything I can do to help?” is a good way to go about this difficult conversation. There is no black-and-white way to help someone as different mental health illnesses affect every sufferer differently. You will never be expected to cure someone’s mental health illness or to make anxiety or depression go away; this is not expected of you and your friend won’t expect it from you. The opening of this conversation is a mixture of trust, respect, and comfort within your friendship. All you need to do to show this is to simply listen and to listen well. Educate yourself This doesn’t mean reading tons of psychology books or endlessly researching different kinds of ental health illnesses and disorders. Our understanding of mental health will always change nd develop yet our knowledge applies in our everyday conversations and content engagement. Searching through trusted social media accounts and reliable websites, like the NHS or Mind, is a great place to start learning about the different mental health illnesses and disorders. There is some great information out there on symptoms of different mental health conditions, how to ask for help, or places to read about different illness-

Mental Health: It’s important to educate yourself about mental health in order to help others if they need it. Source: Abbat1 (via Pixabay) es simply for you to understand them. One thing we can always be in control of Dr. Alex George is the current Mental is ourselves, and what we say. Make sure Health Ambassador and has released a that you understand the difference bedocumentary in aid of Children in Need tween stereotype and fact so when you to show the current youth mental health discuss information regarding mental crisis in the UK. His social media is also health, you are putting the right inforused to spread awareness. mation out into the world. Normalising In some cases, educating yourself also mental health and discussing it without includes un-educating yourself. Stigma a shameful or negative tone is also a and stereotypes can be very harmful to great way to make a positive impact anyone; it may discourage sufferers from on the general discussion. speaking out and it may give someone If you ever find a conversation who doesn’t fully understand a certain distressing or you are worried about mental health condition false informa- yourself or someone else; there is altion. If we continue to associate mental ways someone you can contact. Sahealth with its stereotypes and discuss maritans have a 24/7 phone line (116 mental health with such stigma, the 123) for anyone in emotional distress conversation will never get easier, and and Cardiff University has Nightline the false assertions will never go away. (02920870555).

Maintaining a long-distance relationship while at University Ruth Hoey

This goes without saying, but to have a relationship with someone you have to talk to them. It’s easy to get caught up in the university lifestyle.”

Advice Editor

f you’re at university and in a relationship, the chances are it’s long distance. There are two likely cases which you fall into. Either you head off to university each term leaving your significant other behind in you. Or, you met at university, had a whirlwind romance only to face the dreaded, almost month-long holiday breaks. Both are common situations. According to a 2021 Cornell study, 25% of students in America claim to currently be in a long-distance relationship and 75% say that they have been at some point in their university career. However, in both situations, it’s safe to say that it’s not ideal. Maintaining a long-distance relationship can be overwhelming and frustrating at times as getting used to not having your partner available 24/7 can take some time. Even then, with so many people saying that ‘long-distance relationships are doomed to fail’ it can start to feel all the more likely. It doesn’t have to be this way. It’s all too easy to focus on the negatives, on top of managing this relationship you have the struggles of ‘adulting’ and fending for yourself away from home. But being at university, in a longdistance relationship can be an amazing opportunity, both for your-

But being at university, in a long-distance relationship can be an amazing opportunity.”

Long-distance relationships: Despite what other people may say about maintaining long-distance relationships whilst at university, it can be a great opportunity to learn how to be independant of each other. Source: pixel2013 (via Pixabay) self and for you and your partner as a couple. It’s a great way to learn independence, trust and build a relationship based on quality time talking to each other rather than just the physical side. To begin with it’s important to work out whether you’re both ready and willing to commit to a long-distance relationship. For some people, it’s just not for them, or what they have the capacity to cope with: it is a commitment which takes a little bit of work. It’s absolutely okay if you decide that you don’t want to commit to this, but it’s important to sit down

and have a chat with your partner about it before either of you leave. It saves you from a messy chat you’ll have to have over a phone call! However, if you both sat down and decided that you want to make this work; here are some tips for maintaining a long-distance relationship. Set boundaries and expectations Preferably before the long-distance element of your relationship begins, it’s important to let your partner know what you need and expect from them, so that you feel valued in the relationship (and vice versa). Let them know what they can do to make you feel loved at such a

distance. This can be things such as how many times (approximately) you would like to FaceTime them throughout the week or how many in-person visits you need throughout the term. Ironing out the details can really benefit you as a couple as it allows you to feel as if you are on the same page. Make time for each other This goes without saying, but to have a relationship with someone you have to talk to them. It’s easy (and also important) to get caught up in the university lifestyle. Having a busy schedule with lots of friends

to see is amazing. But also, just remember how important your partner is to you and set a little bit of your time aside to devote to catching up with them. Be aware of miscommunication It’s so easy for a text message to be misconstrued due to a full stop in the wrong place or a poorly chosen word. Remember to be really careful when texting that you say what you actually mean, and if something your partner sends you seems a little bit off, it’s better to ask for clarification that to get into a fight over something that they didn’t even intend to suggest. Plan the next time you will be able to see them A great way that I’ve found helps to alleviate the sadness that comes with beginning a stint of long-distance is the countdown to the next time I can see my partner. Having an end point to the longdistance can make it seem more manageable. Even if this means booking train tickets or even flights a long time in advance, it can really help. Let the excitement build as weeks turn into days until the next time you meet!

Let the excitement build as weeks turn into days until the next time you meet!”

CYNGOR

‘The Daily Grind’ - Keeping yourself motivated

Help from Harriet Advice Column

Alexa Price Contributor

Wintertime: For a number of reasons, the coming weeks can be a difficult and stressful time as many people make the journey home for christmas and begin preparing to celebrate with friends and family. Source: JillWellington (via Pixabay)

How to celebrate during the festive period

Wintertime can be a difficult and potentially stressful time for many people Harriet Lowbridge Head of Advice

he festive season is nearly upon us! It is time to once again celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Yule, amongst many other December celebrations. This is a time of family, joy, fun, rest, and goodwill towards others. Unfortunately, it has also become equated with stress, overspending, over indulgence and drama. With a little advanced planning in advance, however, we can avoid a large portion of all this unnecessary stress. Getting your finances in order Budget at the start of the month. Make sure that you have all of your outgoings calculated so that you know what money you will have left over to enjoy. Do not forget to factor in food, decorations, gift wrapping expenses, travel costs. It is often the little things that add up and catch us off guard when it comes to our budgets. Pay your bills. Ensure that all of your regular expenses are paid or put money aside for them before you start your festive spending spree. You want to ensure that you have working electricity and heating before you invite all of your friends and family over to eat a big feast together. Do not be afraid to keep things simple. Our festive holidays are not about who can spend the most money on one and other. We can simplify things and appreciate what we have already. Communicate with the people in your life

With a little advanced planning in advance, however, we can avoid a large portion of all this unnecessary stress.”

and if a large spending spree is out of your budget this year, then maybe it is for your friends and family too. Token gifts that have meaning to them can be worth just as much, if not more than large collections of presents. Be careful relying on credit cards and overdrafts. Your loved ones would not want you to go into debt over a seasonal holiday. No matter how important the event might be to them. Try to keep to your budget where possible and do not be afraid to return some items if you have over spent. If you do need to rely on an overdraft, discuss one with your bank first. Most banks will have a preapproved amount that you can apply for, up to £250, to help you cover your costs. Unarranged overdrafts, however, can be far more costly or even affect your credit score. Discuss what options are available to you that will not drag you into debt. Pay off your debts early. If you have ventured into credit cards and overdrafts, or even personal loans from friends and family, ensure you pay them back promptly. No one wants debts hanging over them in the new year. The sooner you get your debts paid back, the easier your life will be. Shop around for presents. Holiday presents tend to get cheaper the further into December we get. Though most places will still try to maximise their profits from you. You can always take a second to check online if you see something in a shop that you like. Often stores will have exclusive online deals. You might also find other retailers that offer the same product but cheaper. Focusing on your mental health Manage your expectations. No festive season is going to be perfect. Life always finds ways to throw a bump in the road. Whether that is a burnt din-

ner, an unexpected illness, or family drama. Mentally preparing yourself for some of these eventualities will have a big impact on your mental health. Then if everything does proceed smoothly and as planned, then you have even more to enjoy at the time. Do not feel obligated to provide for toxic people in your life. Not everyone has a perfect family. Do not allow people to pressure you into using your time on the people in your life that have hurt you. Taking the holiday season for yourself is not a crime. This is a season for joy and peace. If that means spending it with the one or two people that matter to you most, then you enjoy that time. You deserve your own happiness too. Delegate. Many people feel pressured to provide a perfect holiday for everyone they know. If you have friends and family over you could get them to help out. Spend some time together in the kitchen if you have a meal to prepare. Go gift shopping with others when you can. Let others help you decorate and clean your home. A lot of people will be willing and happy to help you out. Plus, this allows you to spend extra time with the loved ones in your life. You will overwhelm yourself if you try to provide everything for everyone. Avoid being alone. Where possible try to spend your time with people. Spending a festive holiday alone can get very depressing, especially with the knowledge that others will be spending it with loved ones. If you do not have friends or family about, there are multiple organisations for lonely people to enjoy together. Alternatively, you could spend your time volunteering and helping others with your time, rather than festering on your loneliness. Be aware of miscommunication Avoid overindulgence. The fes-

Many people feel pressured to provide a perfect holiday for everyone they know.” tive season is a time for us to enjoy ourselves, but moderation is the key. Abusing alcohol or overindulging on food will not make you feel good in the long run. They can also land you in hospital if you are not too careful. Allow yourself some treats but remember that they will still be there the next day. Your health is not worth abusing for the sake of a holiday. Keep yourself hydrated. Most of us will be running around to buy gifts, cook dinners, or decorating and cleaning. Keeping yourself hydrated will help you keep motivated and healthy while doing so. It will also help your liver recover if you have overindulged on the alcohol. Keep active. Once your festive holiday celebrations are over, give yourself time to move about. Try to avoid spending the day on the sofa or in bed. You will feel better for shaking off the celebrations and motivating yourself into the new year. Another helpful tip is to analyse previous festive seasons and see what affected you the most. This year you could try to overcome the challenges of past Decembers. If time was an issue, create a planner this year to schedule your time better. If family drama ruined your celebrations, see what you could do to prevent it from recurring. December should be a time of peace and joy. Try not to let the pressures of creating it prevent you from actually enjoying your holiday. In short, my best advice is to stay safe and look after yourself this holiday season.

id-terms season is officially in full swing, and our deadlines are getting closer by the minute! While it’s easy to slip out of your daily routine to work around said deadlines, it’s hugely important to maintain healthy habits so that you don’t fall into mental and physical burnout. Now is definitely the time to face the challenge, set your own goals, and build studying habits that will not only reflect on your grades but on your own personal happiness as well. Considering how much the world has changed since this time last year, I think it’s vital that we take advantange of all the different locations that students now have full-time access to! With librairies like the ASSL now open 24 hours, (and the booking system finally abolished) we’re able to leave the confining desks of our student homes and allow ourselves to finally get back into that hard-working headspace - because let’s face it, working that closely to our beds all the time was far too tempting! We can also take advantage of all of Cardiff ’s cozy coffee shops, providing us with the perfect vibes and immaculate vanilla lattes. Switching up my study locations is key to retaining focus and means that I don’t get bored or distracted as quickly. On top of this, it definitely gives me something to look forward to - there really is no feeling quite like treating yourself to a coffee (or three!) and cake. Something else all students should remember to do is to get that fresh air! Perhaps it’ll be a walk through the autumnal leaves at Bute Park or feeling that fresh sea breeze over Cardiff Bay blow through your hair, taking just an hour to stretch your legs can do wonders for your mental and physical state. There is nothing more refreshing than clearing your head through exercise, whether you prefer to walk, run, cycle, or just taking an hour at the gym. As a morning person, I can confidently say that I am most prepared to study after returning to my workspace following an early walk and the occasional yoga sequence! There is nothing worse than trying to get into the correct headspace while being consumed by grogginess and tiredness, I can assure you. It’s also crucial that students recognise when exactly they are most succesful when it comes to studying. As I previously mentioned, I am a morning person and so I find that I work best between around 9am and 3pm. Studying later in the evening then can be difficult and much more stressful than it needs to be and so I tend to block out that time to do things that I enjoy, from going to the pub with my closest friends, to cooking meals that remind me of home, listening to audiobooks, or working on some crochet! Ensuring that I have this time to myself means that I have healthy balance between studying and the other aspects of my life. It also allows me to put my all into every task at hand. While it seems like such a stressful period, it’ll be over before we know it!

REVIEW Animal Crossing: ‘Happy Home Paradise DLC’

REVIEW

Rhiannon Botica-Wood gets to grips with the latest Animal Crossing DLC released for the Switch Rhiannon Botica-Wood Contributor

A Iris Knapman

Jess Clifford-Jones review@gairrhydd.com

Ghostbusters Afterlife - “feel good entertainment” Annabelle Martin Contributor

his feel-good continuation of the 80s film will appeal to fans of the original – and, with Stranger Things’ Finn Wolfhard costarring, brings in a new audience. Director Jason Reitman takes the reins from his father Ivan in this remake that not only shares DNA, but many sharp-witted links to the past. The film’s main appeal is its sense of nostalgia that runs throughout, linking to Egon Spengler past and the premise that his family didn’t know the truth behind Egon’s abandonment of his Ghostbusters colleagues and his family when he relocated to Summerville, Oklahoma. Like the original, there is a goofy tone, however this remake is less about special effects and more an entertaining demonstration of wit which can be inviting to both a parent and child. Playing to both audiences is difficult and is often not realised, however Reitman’s accomplishment is impressive. A tough audience may miss the nonstop supernatural adventures of the original, but the strength of plot in ‘Afterlife’ leaves most audiences satisfied. The moment when Jason Reitman would have made his father proud was the ingenious re-use of the marshmallow man, which he resourcefully recreated as a ghost invasion of thousands of tiny and rather cute marshmallows causing havoc and meeting very sticky ends. Somewhat predictable, but nevertheless touching, was the return of the original cast to save the day, demonstrating their loyalty to their old friend despite their previous differences. Like the original and the 2016 sequel, it kept to the plot with a supernatural episode occurring. Overall, this fourth in the franchise adeptly rekindles the blend of comedy and horror of the 80s original and provides feel-good entertainment and escapism.

fter playing Animal Crossing for most of the first lockdown in 2020, it felt great to have a final update to our much-loved animalbased social simulation game. This update came in the form of the recent 2.0 and final free added to the New Horizon’s title. This wholesome game has kept many going through lockdown, but people got more disinterested as time went on. Nintendo, however, has since added the paid Happy Home Paradise DLC as well. This near successor to the 2015 Nintendo 3DS Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer, a sandbox designer game, a standalone title, outside of Animal Crossing: New Leaf. Happy Home Designer had a small core fan base, but this new DLC integrates naturally into the central experience of New Horizons, giving it much-awaited depth. Costing £22.49, the DLC content comes with a reasonable price and is easy to access from the main game. After being greeted by Lottie (a character introduced in Happy Home Designer) at the airport, you can access your ‘work’ from anywhere you go with the seaplane. This means that Happy Home Paradise can seamlessly become a part of your Animal Crossing routine, as you are encouraged to play in small chunks at a steady pace. It does allow those who want to design for hours to do just that, with it feeling more like working on holiday in paradise, compared to the perceived relaxed mundanity of the main game.

Animal Crossing: The new ‘Happy Home Paradise DLC’ introduces new customisation options for players. Source: Charlotte Powell (via Flickr) For those interior-design challenges, there are still benefits. Playing the levels of DLC gives more design customisation opportunities in the main game. Such as the addition of partitions, the introduction of new characters and interactions, alongside new furniture, which can be bought in the DLC’s currency poki. For older consumers, the first couple of levels may feel over explanatory, as it can feel like you do not need all things explained to you, but there should still be an understanding that it is a game for all ages. Outside of the three items required by each ‘client’, the rest of the custom-

isable interior and exterior design is up to you. Although there is a sense of hollow reward with all these design options in Happy Home Paradise, you are given the same amount of poki, no matter how much effort you put in. Even the photo portfolio you create is more for sharing online with like-minded designers rather than helping with any score, which means you may lose the incentive to keep playing the game. Unlike the main game’s Happy House Academy ranking system for your own house, which utilises the art of Feng Shui and colour coordi-

For those interiordesign challenges, there are still benefits.” nation to encourage you to change your layout and furniture in exchange for a higher score. Overall, the Happy Home Paradise DLC is good for what it set out to be, which is a design game at heart, using characters you may not have had the opportunity to invite to your main island, and it also gives you the freedom to design how you please.

‘SOUR’ by Olivia Rodrigo - “a wonder to behold”

Jess Clifford-Jones gets to grips with the former Disney star’s latest album release, ‘SOUR’ Jess Clifford-Jones Contributor

his year Olivia Rodrigo, Disney star and now singer-songwriter, took the world by storm. Her debut single, the power ballad ‘Drivers License’, was released early in the year and topped the charts upon release. Despite the strong start, many believed Rodrigo to be a one-hit wonder and credited her single’s success to the drama it was about, namely her relationship and break-up with her High School Musical co-star Joshua Bassett. However, Rodrigo swiftly proved them wrong. Her follow-up singles ‘Deja Vu’ and ‘Good 4 U’ also broke into the top 10 and achieved critical acclaim, making Rodrigo the first artist to debut their first three singles in the top 10 of the Hot 100 chart. Her album ‘Sour’ was released not long after to the great anticipation of many and it did not disappoint. ‘Sour’ is a primarily alt-pop album but it draws inspiration from a variety of genres, from pop-punk and altrock to ballads and folk. It’s a Gen Z perspective on the messy emotions of adolescence and all that comes with it, and Rodrigo’s incredible lyricism and emotive vocals lend itself perfectly to it. The album’s title, ‘Sour’, refers to the ‘sour’ feelings that teenagers, teen girls in particular, commonly experience but are criticised and mocked for. Rodrigo takes inspiration from female artists known for singing about those messy emotions, such as Alanis Morrissette, Taylor Swift, and Lorde, but she brings her own unique twist. Rodrigo does an excellent job at alternating between slower indie-inspired ballads, upbeat pop songs, and

Animal Crossing: The new ‘Happy Home Paradise DLC’ introduces new customisation options for players. Source: Brett Jordan (via Flickr) angsty punk tracks (something that’s well reflected in her choice of singles) - something Rodrigo set out to do. The album opens with ‘Brutal’, an angry insecure banger that incorporates pop-punk and alt-rock; it’s simultaneously playfully tongue-incheek and sharply sincere, a balance that Rodrigo is a pro at. She is selfaware but authentic, alternating between light-hearted and raw. The chorus ends on a biting, Valley Girl drawl singing, “God, it’s brutal out here”, a line that you can almost hear the eyeroll and scowl in. Rodrigo does angsty and alterna-

tive well, inspired by 90s rock and punk acts, her cutting lyrics and emotive vocals working perfectly with the genre. The songs like this are some of my favourites on the album. ‘Jealousy, Jealousy’ is an upbeat and funky altrock track about social media and how it feeds into insecurity; ‘Good 4 U’ is a wrathful storm of bass and drums that brings back memories of early 2000s emo and grunge (unsurprising given the song takes inspiration from Paramore’s hit ‘Misery Business’). Rodrigo emulates sad indie girl just as well as she does angsty emo punk, as she displayed in her first single

‘Drivers License’, which is a power ballad about heartbreak and longing. It uses the sound effects of a car’s ‘door ajar’ chime ingeniously as a fading transition into the song’s piano key and it’s crescendo followed by Rodrigo’s impressive belt is breath-taking. The other songs that follow the indie pop and ballad themes are similarly gorgeous, such as the folky ‘Favorite Crime’ and the slow acoustic song ‘Traitor’ that culminates into a vocally stunning bridge. However, my main criticism is that the slower indie-inspired songs verge towards dominating the album, the genre balance leaning more in their favour. Some have criticised them for being too similar and while I don’t think that’s necessarily true, I do think that so many of them so close together does render them dull (though naturally this is a matter of taste). The only song on the album that I’m not a fan of is the closing track ‘Hope Ur OK’, which reminisces about old friends who are struggling and wishing them well. While a sweet song, it borders on saccharine and cheesy, and also feels very out of place on the album. The rest of ‘Sour’ is unapologetically about Rodrigo’s teenage angst and obsessive heartbreak over her recent breakup and that refusal to be ashamed of her intense emotions is refreshing to see, especially from a teen girl. ‘Hope Ur OK’ is a deviation from that theme that feels almost like a cop-out. However, ‘Sour’ overall is a phenomenal album and an extraordinary debut from a young artist; her musical versatility, evocative lyricism, and unashamed raw emotion is a wonder to behold. I’m waiting in excited anticipation to see what Olivia Rodrigo does next.

Palaye Royale

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Launch of the James Webb Telescope faces more delays

SCIENCE

A recent ‘incident’ has resulted in the telescope’s launch being pushed back further Mia Becker-Hansen

Head of Science and Technology

T Mia Becker-Hansen

Elie Gould

he launch of the £7.5 billion James Webb telescope has been delayed again, after an incident during its final preparations to place the telescope on top of its launch vehicle. The launch date has been pushed back at least four days to allow for more checks to be done. It will now go up no earlier than the 22nd of December. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the successor to NASA’s famous Hubble telescope. It’s designed to look deeper into the Universe than its predecessor, and therefore look further back in time - more than 13.5 billion years ago. The aim is to see the first stars that were created. Scientists also expect to use its more advanced capabilities to study the atmospheres of distant planets in the hope that signs of life might be detected.

The launch date has been pushed back at least four days to allow for more checks to be done.”

NASA even consulted with origami specialists to find an optimum way for the telescope to essentially ‘unfold’ in space.” The JWST will primarily be an infrared telescope, optimized for 600 to 28,000 nm wavelengths of light. This means it won’t be able to see green or blue light, just orange and red – plus a wide range of longer wavelengths beyond that. For many astronomical objects including star-forming regions, exoplanets, and the most distant galaxies, these very long wavelengths are more useful to astronomers than the visible spectrum. JWST’s complicated design is due to its mirror, which is constructed from 18 hexagonal segments which can fold up for launch and then deploy once in space. NASA even consulted with origami specialists to find an optimum way for the telescope to essentially ‘unfold’ in space. The mirror has to be shaped and polished to extremely high accuracy in order to produce images with the necessary clarity, they are then coated with a thin layer of pure

Jemma Powell

Theodore Tadros science@gairrhydd.com

Cryogenic testing: Source: NASA/MSFC/David Higginbotham (via Wikimedia Commons)

James Webb Telescope: The new telescope is currently NASA’s flagship project. Source: NASA/Desiree Stover (via Wikimedia Commons) gold, to maximize reflectivity at infrared wavelengths. The main mirror has a 6.5 metre diameter. That’s around 2.7 times as big as Hubble, but the actual performance improvement is around six times better. Engineers were in the process of attaching the telescope to its launch adapter, the large ring that will hold it in place atop its rocket, when a securing clamp unexpectedly popped open. The concern is that the event will have sent a sharp mechanical shock through the telescope. Dr Thomas Zurbuchen, NASA’s Director of Science, said that his team remain committed to getting the telescope back online, but would continue working carefully on the project. “When you work on a $10 billion telescope,” he said, “conservatism is the order of the day” He explained that the team at

NASA have gone back to check over “a small number of subsystems” in order to “make sure that nothing happened as this energy went into the” telescope. The US space agency statement read: “A Nasa-led anomaly review board was immediately convened to investigate and instituted additional testing to determine with certainty the incident did not damage any components. Nasa and its mission partners will provide an update when the testing is completed at the end of this week.”

Nasa and its mission partners will provide an update when the testing is completed at the end of this week.” The National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Pterosaurs may have been able to fly directly after hatching New research has highlighted that some species of pterosaurs were capable of flying shortly after hatching Mia Becker-Hansen

Head of Science and Technology

esearch from the University of Portsmouth has found that Pterosaurs may have been able to fly as soon as they hatched. Pterosaurs were a group of flying reptiles that existed on Earth 228 to 66 million years ago, from the late Triassic to the end of the Cretaceous periods. They are known as the earliest vertebrates to have evolved powered flight. Pterosaurs are often referred to by popular media as “flying dinosaurs,” but dinosaurs are defined as the descendants of the last common ancestor of the Saurischia and Orni-

These tiny animals – with 25cm wingspans and bodies that could neatly fit in your hand – were very strong, capable fliers.” Dr Mark Witton, Palaeontologist and Palaeoartist

thischia, which excludes the pterosaurs. They are nonetheless more closely related to birds and other dinosaurs than to crocodiles or any other living reptile, though they are not bird ancestors. Some were as large as a modernday fighter jet, while others were as small as a model aeroplane. A team of scientists studied four previously unearthed hatchling and embryo fossils from two Pterosaur species, Pterodaustro guinazui and Sinopterus dongi. They compared wing measurements, as well as the size and strength of the humerus bone, with those of adult pterosaurs of the same species. The humerus bone is found on the limbs that pterosaurs used to launch themselves into flight, details of that bone help reveal whether a pterosaur could get off the ground. The bone was found to be stronger in hatchlings than in many adults, indicating they were well primed for flight from birth. The study’s co-author Dr Mark Witton said “These tiny animals – with 25cm wingspans and bodies that could neatly fit in your hand

we’re confident that, whatever they were doing as they grew up, they were capable of flying from the moment they hatched.” Dr Mark Witton, Palaeontologist and Palaeoartist

“Flying Dinosaurs”: This new research shines a light on the early lives of pterosaurs. Source: mrganso (via Pixabay)

– were very strong, capable fliers… Their bones were strong enough to sustain flapping and take-off, and their wings were ideally shaped for powered, as opposed to gliding, flight. However, they would not have flown exactly like their parents simply because they were

so much smaller: flight capabilities are strongly influenced by size and mass, and so pterosaur hatchlings, being hundreds of times smaller than their parents, were likely slower, more agile fliers than the wideranging, but less manoeuvrable adults.”

The young hatchlings may not have been as equipped for longdistance flight like their parents, but were much more agile and capable of nimble, abrupt changes in direction and speed. This may have benefitted them to be able to chase nimbler prey and be able to fly amongst dense vegetation unlike their adult counterparts. This also could have helped the hatchlings escape predators. “There’s still a lot to learn about the life histories of these animals,” continues Dr Mark Witton, “but we’re confident that, whatever they were doing as they grew up, they were capable of flying from the moment they hatched.”

GWYDDONIAETH A THECHNOLEG

Netflix unveils new ‘Virtual Production Volume’ The worldwide streaming giant is set to begin using its new set, the so-called ‘Volume’ Elie Gould

Technology Editor

vatar the Last Airbender is a much-beloved TV show, with many remembering it with fond memories from their childhood and its early appearance as a Saturday morning cartoon. After a live-action movie remake that faced widespread criticism, many fans were sceptical when Netflix raised their hand, wanting a shot at possible glory. Animation is a challenging medium to translate into live-action, especially when elemental powers are involved.

‘Virtual Production’ accumulates decades in software advances, uniting a specially constructed curved LED wall and ceiling”

To a number of fans, this was one of the many ways in which M. Night Shyamalan’s movie remake fell short. It was suggested that the animations of the fire, water, air, and earth were ‘out of place’ with the actors’ martial art actions, which were meant to cause said animations feeling forced and unnatural. This being said, there have been some hopeful rumours coming from the new Netflix set. Photos from the scene show a custom-built Virtual Production Volume. Before exploring what impacts this new set may have, it’s important to understand what is meant by the term ‘Virtual Volume Production’. ‘Virtual Production’ accumulates decades in software advances, uniting a specially constructed curved LED wall and ceiling. Together it is known as The Volume. This Volume will envelop actors in a virtual display while also ensuring that the actors are lit with the correct natural light. In Virtual Production, the

screen isn’t just the screen; it is also the lights. Furthermore, an ordinary digital backdrop would be unconvincing as soon as you move the camera. However, thanks to the Unreal Engine, software popularised by Fortnite and Epic Games, the virtual environments now exist within an immediately editable and relatively user-friendly program. This means that not only FX artists can use the program, but the director and crew on set can also be a part of this process. Making it accessible for all onsite. This is not the first time that a virtual set has been created. Back in 2019, the Mandalorian was released, receiving praise for its immersive storytelling and impressive virtual design. The series was able to come together thanks to Virtual Production. Disney was the first production studio to master this practice, and now Netflix hopes to follow suit.

This means that not only FX artists can use the program, but the director and crew on set can also be a part of this process.” In fact, the direct comparison of the sets shows us that Netflix’s Virtual Production Volume is more extensive than Disney’s. The Mandalorian’s is 75 feet across, 20 feet high. In comparison, ATLA’s is 84 feet across and 28 feet tall. This Volume doesn’t only show that the streaming giant is beginning to move toward virtual sets, but that it plans for ‘Avatar; to become one of, if not the, most expensive Netflix show. To many in the industry, this acts as a statement from Netflix that they hope this new series will be their challenger to the success of the Mandalorian.

Russian anti-satellite test adds to ‘space debris’ A recent test has faced criticism for worseing the problem of debris in the Earth’s orbit Aditi Girish Kallanagoudar Contributor

ussia’s recent test of an anti-satellite which caused the destruction of one of their own satellites has sparked international outrage as the debris poses a serious threat to other satellites in a low-earth orbit and even the International Space Station. On Monday, Russia carried out the anti-satellite test from Plesetsk Cosmodrome which is about 800km north of Moscow. The missile destroyed an old Soviet spy satellite, Kosmos 1408, which was once part of Russia’s Tselina radio signals surveillance programme. According to US State Department spokesperson Ned Price, the destruction of Kosmos 1408 generated about 1,500 pieces of larger orbiting objects whose tracking information is available to civilian sources but it also created hundreds of thousands of smaller fragments which are too small to detect from the ground. The debris field from the Russian anti-satellite test is found at an altitude of between 440km and 520km above the Earth, and threatens the ISS, China’s Tiangong space station among other spacecraft. This Russian anti-satellite is not the first of its kind with China’s missile test against one of its own weather satellites in 2007 resulting in 3,000 pieces of debris as big or bigger than a golf ball and over 100,000 smaller pieces. The debris

the resulting fragments, in terms of test time and orbital parameters, did not and will not pose a threat to orbital stations, spacecraft and space activities.” Spokesperson, Russian Military

‘Space Debris’: The recent anti-satellite test has faced criticism from the UK and US for contributing towards the amount of debris in the Earth’s orbit. Source: European Space Agency (via Wikimedia Commons)

from this test contributes to one third of all orbiting fragments that pose a threat to the ISS. These missile tests only worsen the increasing issue of space debris and join the rockets that continue to orbit the earth decades after being launched and flecks of paint shed off once brand new space vehicles as marks of humanity’s 64 years of space exploration. Currently, there is close to 10,000 tonnes of hardware in orbit and though most of it still active and useful, far too much of it useless and dysfunctional. The 30,000 pieces of large, easily visible debris are tracked on a daily basis but the nearly 300 million objects of a scale below a centimeter move around practically untracked. While it may seem like these objects

are too small to cause any real damage, these objects are travelling at several kilometres per second which is enough velocity to enable them to be damaging projectiles if any were to strike any operational space mission. When the ISS passed close to the debris cloud of the Russian anti-satellite test on Monday, crew members were asked to shelter in the Soyuz and Crew Dragon spacecraft attached to the orbiting outpost so that they would be able to detach and return to the Earth in case of any danger. The space shuttle and a few other vehicles were hit by smaller pieces of debris, leaving the ISS and everyone inside unharmed, but it&#39;s likely that a collision with any large objects at orbital speeds would be catastrophic to

Word of the week: Space Debris

These missile tests only worsen the increasing issue of space debris and join the rockets that continue to orbit the earth.” the ISS. The Russian military, which is facing criticism from both the US and the UK, has said that it was carrying out planned activities to strengthen its defence capabilities, and completely denies that the test was dangerous. “The United States knows for certain that the resulting fragments, in terms of test time and orbital parameters, did not and will not pose a threat to orbital stations, spacecraft and space activities,” it said.

• ‘Space debris’ refers to artificial objects that remain in orbit until they eventually re-enter into the atmosphere. • All ‘space debris’ is the result of human activity with most of it forming from when satellites collide. • According to recent estimates, there are approximately 34,000 individual pieces of space junk in the Earth’s orbit which, as outlined by NASA’s

Deforestation of the Amazon Rainforest reaches new 15year high Anna Thomas Contributor

razil’s deforestation rates are the worst witnessed in 25 years according to new

data. Statistics released by Brazil’s national space research agency Inpe – reported a 13,235 square kilometre diminution in Brazilian Amazon rainforest in the 2020-21 period, an area 17 times larger than New York City. This shocking figure marks a 22% increase in deforestation in a year, the highest level since 2006. A jarring statistic from the World Wildlife Fund elucidated that, at the current rates of deforestation, 27% of the Amazon will be without trees by 2030. Destruction like this would be catastrophic for a number of reasons, not least for the one million indigenous people who live in the rainforest and rely on its preservation for their livelihoods and lifestyle. Should deforestation continue, we place the three million animals and plants in the habitat at risk of endangerment and extinction. Moreover, the Amazon encompasses some 390 billion trees; collectively, these plants remove vast quantities of carbon dioxide from our atmosphere. Reduced removal of carbon dioxide as a direct consequence of deforestation will result in a vast increase in atmospheric levels of the gas which would increase global temperatures making the targets set at the COP26 summit all but unattainable. Deforestation in Brazil has been steadily on the rise under the presidency of Jair Bolsonaro who took office in 2019. Frequently criticised for his ‘anti environment’ policies, the leader is notorious for encouraging agricultural and mining activities in the rainforest and under his jurisdiction, penalties for illegal logging fell by 20% in 2020. Promisingly, despite Jair Bolsonaro’s notable absence from the COP26 summit, Brazil was one of over 100 other nations to sign a pledge promising to eliminate deforestation worldwide. However, this newly published damning data as well as the indictment that the Brazilian government were aware of these figures before COP26 and chose to conceal them casts aspersions on the integrity of such guarantees. Going forward, we can only hope that Brazil intends to prove to the world their commitment to the climate and instigate the changes needed to mitigate a deforestation disaster before it is too late.

This shocking figure marks a 22% increase in deforestation in a year, the highest level since 2006.”

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

EXCLUSIVE: Gair Rhydd takes an inside look at COP26 Jemma Powell Science Editor

tepping out of an all-electric shuttle bus into the warm November air, the ‘Blue Zone’ of COP26 is an impressive sight. Situated next to the river Clyde in Glasgow, the sprawling mass of marquees and glass-panelled buildings is separated from the wider world by a network of 12ft-tall steel barricades. However, once you’re past the airport-style security, the world couldn’t feel more connected. COP26 was the best attended event on climate action ever seen, with over 40,000 delegates arriving from 197 countries - but what actu-

The world is watching us… we know we cannot afford to fail them.” Alok Sharma MP, President of COP26

ally was it? Well, I attended this event as an official delegate for Cardiff University, and now I’m back to report what it was like. The 26th Conference of Parties (COP26), provided a space where global officials could negotiate tackling climate change. COPs are common events, occurring annually since the first in Berlin (1995). Each year they’re held in a different location, ranging from Bali in COP13 (2007) to Peru in COP20 (2014). Organised by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), COP presidency offers a chance to showcase your country’s superior climate initiatives, and gain official support from the UN. It’s sort of like hosting the Olympics, but with more suits. The UK is acting as the conference’s host for the first time during COP26. Glasgow was chosen as the principal city due to its “experience in hosting world class events, commitment to sustainability and firstrate facilities”. Specifically, the facilities were the Scottish Exhibition

Centre (SEC) which would form part of the official ‘Blue Zone’, and the neighbouring Glasgow Science Centre based the unofficial ‘Green Zone’. Until now, the most famous COP was COP21, hosted by Paris in 2015. That conference established the internationally renowned Paris Agreement. This ground-breaking legally binding treaty, saw world leaders pledged to limit global warming to less than 2°C. Part of the Paris agreement stated that every 5 years the treaty needed to be reviewed. Therefore, COP26 was already highly anticipated as it held the first reassessment of the Paris Agreement. But there’s extra importance added to this gathering. Many believe that this year’s COP is our last chance to limiting global warming to 1.5°C. For reference, a 1.5°C rise in temperatures will result in a loss of 70% of the world’s coral reefs. A 2°C warming results in 100% coral reef loss. The effects of climate change can no longer be stopped, but they can be limited.

COP26: Representatives from around the world gathered in Glasgow. Source: Dean Calma / IAEA (via Wikimedia Commons)

My experience being a participant at COP26

The atmosphere of COP26: Source: Dean Calma / IAEA (via Wikimedia Commons)

1995

was the first year ‘COP’ was held in Berlin

25,000

attendees represented almost 200 countries

12 days

of discussions made up the schedule of COP26

100,000

people took part in the largest protest of the summit

s a first time COP participant, there are two main phrases I would use to describe the experience; inspiring and exhausting. Official events tended to start at around 9am, meaning an early get up to start the commute through Glasgow. Like during any large event, accommodation prices sky rocketed in the weeks leading up to COP26 and still sold out. This led to officials staying in hotels or Airbnb’s in Glaswegian outskirts, or even neighbouring cities such as Edinburgh. Free public transport travel passes were provided to delegates, but already inequalities between the richer and poorer delegations were starting to show. Speaking to a group of indigenous elders I discovered that some had resorted to sleeping on scout hut

floors. There was a protest on this subject happening one morning just outside the blue zone divide. Climate protests definitely caught the imagination and attention of many during the two weeks of COP. Across the world, cardboard boxes were made into pickets, demanding leaders to do more as thousands marched. You could feel the charged atmosphere they produced throughout the city. Transferring from trains to buses, the sound of chanting reverberated off the buildings, and it was impossible to not listen. Each morning more ribbons and prayer flags inscribed with multilingual pleas would hang from the security fencing. Stuck to the surrounding walls were posters and

signs all bearing similar messages; “the world is watching- don’t fail us”. Inside, the atmosphere was just as electric. Everywhere you went, hundreds of people in suits or formal traditional attire surrounded you. People sprinting down corridors holding briefcases, people sitting on the floor furiously typing on laptops, people surrounded by their own security guards and trailed by a flock of press consulting. There was a constant and infectious sense of urgency, of everyone working as hard as they possibly could to pull-off the impossible. Despite the borderline frantic surroundings (I once witnessed a minister of the British government feed lunch to their colleague who was having a heated phone negotiation while lying on the canteen floor), everyone was always considerate.

The mix of different authority levels in the same area led to a sort of social-status temporary upheaval. In queues, you would talk and joke with the people around you, who would turn out to be high ranking politicians or CEOs more often than not. I ended up having a coffee with a member of the House of Lords. The founder of a UN backed international climate resilience organisation invited me to karaoke. On the bus home one day I swapped stories with a high levelminister from the Indian Government, and had many more similar interactions. It was a surprisingly compelling and eye-opening experience- to understand the people in power are just people.

What were the reoccuring themes in the discussions?

n every meeting or debate I attended; the same three themes kept surfacing. These were: it is critical that the public and private sector join forces on climate issues, climate change exacerbates pre-existing inequalities, and that diversity breeds innovation we need. The private sector In terms of the private sector, many panellists were reeling in the hardwon mindset shift of major companies. To paraphrase one panellist, “Five years ago I had to fight to get companies to even think going green could be beneficial. Now it’s a given”. This is a pretty uplifting and very true statement. How many electric cars

“If keeping funding in the global north could solve climate change, I’m sure a lot more would have been done by now.” Oluwadabira Abiola-Awe, Student Energy Associate

would you see five years ago vs now? How many people would roll their eyes when you suggested buying sustainable goods five years ago vs now? The change in consumer mindset has forced prominent companies to change their business plans. If people want to buy green products, people are going to make and sell green products. This has led to an increased cooperation between the private and public sectors in terms of their climate aims, but they need to join forces like never before in order to fund the start ups and new technologies required to get us on a 1.5°C trajectory. Inequality Climate effects people unequally. Geographical, financial, and even gender inequalities are all exacerbated by the effects of climate change. As a result, the hardest hit demographic are poor women in developing countries. The poorest countries are not the polluters of this world yet tend to suffer the consequences first and hardest. Women are less likely to

have the emergency savings to protect their livelihoods, and are more often the ones left behind in a disaster event. These were acknowledged facts supported by mountains of evidence, and there was a real push to ensure equity in mitigating climate change. More funding will be given to poorer countries, with large proportions of it going to projects guaranteeing gender equal outcomes. This was the first COP to hold a ‘gender day’, and hearing Nancy Pelosi speak on that panel was truly something to behold. “Without a gender perspective, we risk missing out long term sustainable solutions.” Diversity and innovation The main point of tension in both the negotiating rooms and open meetings was the fact that G20 countries seem unwilling to supply the agreed funding. Promises made in 2009 of richer countries providing $100bn to poorer countries have still not been fulfilled. This has resulted in

Without a gender perspective, we risk missing out long term sustainable solutions.” Nansi Pelosi, U.S. Representative deep distrust and anger from many representatives of parties from the global south towards members of the G20. There was a constant reference to the fact that if we’re going to pull this off, it’s going to take everyone working together. That requires an even distribution of funding throughout the globe. However, no one was asking for charity, they were demanding investment. As so eloquently put by Oluwadabira Abiola-Awe in a presidential meeting: “If keeping funding in the global north could solve climate change, I’m sure a lot more would have been done by now”

GWYDDONIAETH A THECHNOLEG

What outcomes were leaders able to reach at COP26? Following the 12 days of discussions, world leaders managed to enact a number of new policies and develop international efforts to combat the effect of climate change by combining their resources

fter discussions concluded on the final day of COP26, there were a number of important conclusions reached and aspects that I noticed over the course of the summit: First, it would be impossible for these events to happen online. During the national lockdown, organisers decided to delay the 2020 COP26 instead of moving it online. If this hadn’t occurred, COP26 may have had very different outcomes. This is due to several reasons aside from the obvious of connection issues. Firstly, language barriers. In every meeting I attended people tended to speak their native languages. In person, headsets were provided allowing live translation. Online, this resource would not have been available, resulting in many people being unable to convey points. This would have furthered the divide between those with a good command of English (generally G20 countries) and those who would have preferred speaking in a native language. Equally, the physical interactions occurring during breaks are just as important as those in meetings. The decision to reschedule saved many key but unofficial interactions between agencies. CEOs of tech start-ups who may never have met normally would exchange ideas

COP26 if held online may have resulted in very different outcomes, due to the loss of these discussions.”

Everyone worked tirelessly for a good set of solutions and were genuinely desperate for them.”

World Leaders: The recent COP26 summit saw world leaders and other influential figures from around the world meet to discuss climate change. Source: Number 10 (via Flickr) and details over lunch. Parties held informal discussions over coffee. Completely separate fields saw their similarities walking past one another’s presentations. COP26 if held online may have resulted in very different outcomes, due to the loss of these discussions.

Common misconceptions The second thing I’ve learnt is that in the nitty gritty negotiations of climate politics, the heads of state do very little. They give speeches and some instructions to their delegates, but they’re never really ‘in the room where it happens’. The negotiators

and secretariats do the majority of work. Sadly, the general public tends to overlook their efforts. The same applies to the news headlines such as “Putin will not attend climate summit”. Just because Putin or Xi Jinping didn’t go in person does not mean Russia or China’s delegates

didn’t attend. They were there. They were working on this too. Another unmissable point was that everyone wants to solve this. The idea that those in power don’t care about climate change is no longer true. Everyone worked tirelessly for a good set of solutions and were genuinely desperate for them. The end of fossil fuels? Saying this, there were definitely forces the negotiators couldn’t seem to control at play. One of these was the influence of major fossil fuel provider companies. The largest delegation present did not belong to a country, but to the fossil fuel industry. Throughout proceedings there were subtle nods to their influence. For example, there was a major focus on green hydrogen as the main source of clean energy powering our planes and cities in the future. Yet those pushing it were reluctant to say where they were planning on sourcing this from. Usually, it comes from natural gas provided by, you guessed it, the fossil fuel industry. Every ten years or so, green hydrogen gains popularity then gets discounted due to safety and logistical issues. The focus on this solution was unnerving. Especially when so many other, much more viable alternatives, were on display throughout the conference (and were seemingly ignored).

What COP26 a success? And what impacts will it have?

The ‘climate conversation’: Source: Number 10 (via Flickr)

he success of COP26 will depend on what happens now. “Humanity will not be saved by promises”, but it might be saved by people keeping them. We known for a while now there’s a lot of work to do. Now, thanks to the dedicated work of thousands over countless years, we know exactly what needs to be done, and by when. There seems to be so little time to save the planet from ourselves it’s easy to feel hopeless. Levels of climate related anxiety and depression are on the rise, a factor why so many denied climate change was because they believed it to be fear mongering. We now know the effects of climate change are not over exaggerated. They’re not a figment of mad scientists’ imaginations. Even in the UK, floods are more extreme, summers are getting hotter and winters more erratic. What many don’t realise is we (in Britain) have already been protected by potential disasters caused by climate change. For example, on the 28th of Oc-

tober there was severe flooding in Cumbria due to climate change driven storms. While 40 homes were flooded, 1400 were protected by flood defences installed over the last seven years. On the same weekend, the Boston Barrier (off the Lincolnshire coast) closed for the first time, protecting over $3bn of infrastructure. The main conclusion from the scientists at COP26 is that climate change isn’t a future idea, it’s a present situation, the effects of which we’ve been seeing for decades already. The politicians and companies at COP26 know what needs to be done, and they have the resources to do it. The main conclusion from the people at COP26 is everyone needs

Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.” Anna Lappe, Best-selling author

to work together and do more. The next decade will be a decade of great change. We have the technologies, ability, and ambition to save this planet, and everything’s going to start changing very quickly. One take-home message from COP is that innovation is always exponential. That curve has already started; we’ve just got to keep it going. Here we come to the main barrier; Money. Everything comes down to what funding we put where, what we prioritise, who provides financial backing to which projects. There are already so many real technologies that can contribute to saving the planet, but the one shared barrier is production cost. It feels so arbitrary when put in relation to the survival of the entire planet, yet the proper movement of money is the only way to solve this. There was a huge call for complete transparency in where invested money was going, and larger incentives to invest. In response, this was built into the official document produced.

Climate protests: Source: Tim Dennell (via Flickr)

A few final reflections on the impact of COP26 on the ongoing climate crisis

o one can say for sure what’s going to happen in the future, but there is one undeniable definite. If we get too overwhelmed and scared, if we stop fighting and working, only the worst will come to pass. It may be up to those in charge

of the big decisions to make the most impact, but that doesn’t mean we can just sit back and relax. There is, as many climate scientists and influential figures have recognised, still a lot of work left to do in order to further

mitigate the damage that is happening around the world due to climate change. Over the next few years, specifically, a number of countries and international aid committees efforts are planning to work together to tackle climate change at

both national and local levels. I left Glasgow on an unnervingly warm November day feeling that bad things are definitely coming, but COP26 has improved our prospects significantly. With a lot of work and a bit of luck, we might have just bought ourselves

a better future. If you would like to learn more about COP26 and the outcomes reached throughout the discussions, the United Nations has a comprehensive web-page dedicated to the ‘UN Climate Change Conference UK 2021’.

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CHWARAEON

Racism at YCCC: The Azeem Rafiq story so far Anurag Hegde

It has been reported that I used a racial slur and, as I told the independent enquiry, I accept that I did so and I regret doing so.” Garry Ballance, England Cricket Player

SPORT

I’m incredibly relieved, like a massive weight off my shoulders It’s really important that the game, and wider society listens to the experiences.”

Head of Sport

believe I lost my career to racism” were Azeem Rafiq’s words to the DCMS (Digital, Culture, Media and Sport) Select Committee as he recounted several instances of racism during his time as a player at the Yorkshire County Cricket Club. In what has emerged as one of the biggest cricketing scandals in recent times, the case of Azeem Rafiq has raised wider questions about racism and equity in the sport and it would be safe to argue that it has served as a stark but much needed eye-opener. It began back in September 2020, when Azeem Rafiq, a former England U-19 captain and player for YCCC, alleged that he had been subject to racism and bullying during his two stints (2008-14 and 2016-18) at the club. Rafiq’s allegations and pressure from the media prompted the YCCC to conduct an independent investigation into the matter. Many people, however, assert that the findings of the report and the stance that the club adopted in the aftermath of the investigation did more harm than good. Firstly, despite being under a lot of pressure to do so, the YCCC refused to publish the report publicly and instead admitted that Rafiq had been “the victim of inappropriate behaviour” through a public summary of the report and apologised to Rafiq.

Azeem Rafiq, England Cricket Player

Cricket: YCCC has come under fire for its response to Rafiq’s allegations. Source: BatAndBall (via Geograph) However, a majority of Rafiq’s claims were dismissed due to “insufficient evidence” with only 7 of them being upheld. Despite recognizing that Rafiq had been a victim of racist treatment during his time at the club and apologizing for it, the YCCC concluded that it would not be taking any disciplinary against any members of staff, players or coaches. The report further went on to state that the comments directed to Rafiq were made in the context of “banter between friends” and stated that Rafiq might have been “expected to take such comments in the spirit in which they were intended”. The findings of the report and the conclusions that the YCCC had reached did not sit well with Rafiq

and the wider cricketing community. The club faced widespread criticism over its reluctance to publish the report, which was first delayed on multiple occasions, and it eventually prompted parliamentary intervention as the DCMS ordered the report to be publicised and asked Rafiq to testify to the DCMS Select Committee. During the parliamentary hearing that was held on November 16, Rafiq recounted several accounts of racist treatment he suffered during his time at the club. Rafiq named former England player Garry Balance as one of the perpetrators and claimed that he had used the racist slur “P***” on multiple occasions. Ballance admitted this was indeed true and stated that he “deeply regretted” some of the language

he had used in the past. Former England captain Michael Vaughan was the other senior player Rafiq alleged had made racist remarks. Vaughan, however, denied all allegations and said that “I completely and categorically deny that I ever said those words”. The YCCC has suffered massively in the aftermath of the ordeal. Their chairman at the time, Roger Hutton, resigned and has since been replaced by Lord Kamlesh Patel. The club also lost several prominent sponsors, including title sponsors Emerald and other leadings sponsors like Nike and Yorkshire Tea. In addition, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) suspended the club from hosting England’s matches and stated that Yorkshire’s handling of the issue was “wholly unacceptable and is causing serious damage to the reputation of the game”. Speaking to the BBC after the hearing, Rafiq said; “I’m incredibly relieved, like a massive weight off my shoulders. It’s really important that the game, and wider society listens to the experiences and we don’t let this moment go on and we try and use this moment as a real watershed moment for the future.” Undoubtedly, the case of Azeem Rafiq will go down as an epochal moment in the history of the sport and it could lead to some fundamental changes in the English cricketing system.

Anurag Hegde

Adam Brown

Joe Edgar-Smith

Tom Hawkins

Wales beat Australia 29 - 28 with Last Kick of the Game Tom Hawkins Sport Editor

ales managed to defeat a 14 – man Australia in a tight competition that went down to the wire. The home side were fresh off a hard fought win against Fiji whilst the Wallabies were looking to bounce back from a defeat to Welsh neighbours England. Australia got off to the better start when a grubber kick from number 12 Hunter Paisami cut through the Welsh defence for Andrew Kellaway to run on to and give the Wallabies a 7 – 0 lead once it was converted shortly after. However, the visitors soon found themselves a man down in the fourteenth minute when Rob Valentini got sent off for a head on head challenge on second row Adam Beard, when attempting a tackle during open play. This was made worse when Kurtley Beale was sin binned for foul play leaving Australia temporarily down to thirteen men. Wales were able to capitalise on the disciplinary errors made

Rugby: Wales emerged triumphant in a close encounter against Australia. Source: Nick Richards (via Flickr) by the Wallabies, making the most of the extra men by distributing the ball wide to hooker Ryan Elias to get over the touchline and score Wales’s first try of the game. Dan Biggar converted to give Wales an 11 – 10 lead going into the second half. There was controversy after the restart when Wales’ Nick Tompkins at-

tempted to intercept a Wallaby pass only for the ball to bounce down off his arm into the ground and back up for him to catch. Every man on the pitch stood still expecting referee Mike Adamson to blow the whistle for a knock on. This gave Tompkins the rest of the pitch and all the time in the world to touch

the ball down for a try, increasing Wales lead to 23 – 13. Then the game became even man for man when Wales lost Gareth Thomas to the sin bin for an illegal challenge to the head on the Australian player who was already on the floor from Thomas’s tackle. The Wallabies were then able to put together a superb team move with Nic White scoring the try to edge closer to Wales. This is where the drama increased as the sides drew closer on the scoreboard. James O’Connor hit the post from a touchline conversion with just over two minutes left. Australia scored another try which was converted and Beale converted a penalty which looked set to win the visitors the match with the score currently 28 – 26. This was until Wales piled on the pressure on the Wallaby try line in the final minute. The try that resulted was deemed to have been held up by Australian defenders but the game was pulled back from an advantage for a Wales penalty. The replacement off the bench Rhys Priestland converted to win Wales the game with the last kick of the match.

Sam Joseph

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Raducanu becomes ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ Emma Raducanu was voted Sunday Times Sportswoman of the year

sport@gairrhydd.com

CHWARAEON

Josh Cavallo and the case of homophobia in football Manchester United sack Joe Edgar-Smith manager Ole Gunnar O Solskjær Sport Editor

n October 27, Adelaide United’s Josh Cavallo came out as the first openly gay male footballer playing in the top flight of the game. The 22 year-old left back and central midfielder, currently playing in the first division of Australia’s A-league, announced in an emotional series of twitter posts that he was “ready to speak about something personal that I’m finally comfortable to talk about in my life”. In the accompanying video, he made the statement “I am a footballer, and I am gay”. Cavallo said that he was “proud to make the announcement” and that he hopes it will encourage more gay footballers to come out and create a culture change. At the Women’s World Cup in 2019, there were at least 41 players and staff who were openly gay or bisexual. At the Men’s tournament the previous year, there were none. In fact, there are no openly gay male players across any of England’s top four divisions. In a society that is generally becoming more and more accepting of people’s sexual identities, men’s football seems to be occupying a position of ten or twenty years behind where it should be. According to the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 2.7% of the population identified as lesbian, gay or bisexual in 2019. Which begs the question, what

Football: Adelaide United’s Josh Cavallo. Source: Dailyausfootball (viaWikimedia Commons) is the reason for this disparity between the men and women’s game? Unfortunately, in the men’s game there is still an atmosphere of racism, homophobia and sexism that can be attributed to the culture of ‘laddish banter’ associated with the sport. Eric Najib, a former player and now manager for Stonewall FC, the world’s most successful LGBT+ football club, says that “the women’s game has a more open-atmosphere at matches, it’s more family-orientated”.

Conversely, he believes that in the male leagues that “there’s still tribalism attached”. This view is also shared by Dr Stefan Lawrence, an expert in masculinity in sport and senior lecturer at Newman University in Birmingham, who says that the women’s game is “more inclusive and accepting” and that inclusivity has created “better levels of tolerance within the culture of the women’s game”. Despite there being no openly gay male players playing in the premier league, players have still

received homophobic abuse in the past for reasons like having ‘un-laddish’ hobbies, as seen in the case of Graeme le Saux. The former England left-back suffered homophobic taunts despite being married with children due his interest in antique collecting. One example of the abuse he suffered occurred in a premier league match between Chelsea and Liverpool on the 27th February in which Robbie Fowler repeatedly bent over in front of the England international. Fortunately, there are motions striving to achieve greater inclusivity within football such as the FA driven Football v Homophobia campaign, which according to their website “exists to challenge discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression at all levels in football”. Additionally the Rainbow Laces campaign, which saw players across England’s top divisions donning laces in the colours of the pride flag, focuses on promoting acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBTQ+) footballers. Through movements such as these, the bravery of players such as Josh Cavallo and the support of the fans the men’s game can move away from some of it’s outdated attitudes and instead towards creating a safe and inclusive space for anyone to play and enjoy football regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or race.

After qualifying for the World Cup in Qatar, will England speak up? Sam Joseph Sport Editor

fter a dominant 10-0 win against San Marino last week, England’s men’s football team secured a place at the 2022 World Cup. A flurry of goals, including a quartet from captain Harry Kane, allowed the Three Lions to seal the top spot in Group I and thereby also an automatic qualification for next winter’s competition. But as England now shift their attention from preliminary stages to the tournament itself, the focus is now also on whether the players and the coaching staff will comment on the controversial decision to host the World Cup in Qatar. The middle-eastern nation has long faced criticism over the alleged corruption involved in its successful bid to host the tournament, as well as accusations of discrimination against minority groups, restrictions on individual rights and forced labour in regard to its treatment of migrant workers. A February 2021 report by The Guardian stated that over 6,500 workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka had died in Qatar since it won the right in December 2010 to host the tournament, while

Football: Qatar is set to host the 2022 Fifa World Cup. Source: StockFreelr (via Pixabay) human rights organisation, Amnesty International, stated in August that Qatar had failed to explain up to 70% of the deaths of migrant workers over the last ten years. Amnesty are one of the groups that have urged England’s footballers to speak out against these issues and have been encouraged to follow the example of Norway, Germany and the Netherlands, who have all held prematch protests expressing concerns

over Qatar’s human rights record. However, there have been some calls for England players to avoid discussion on this subject and simply focus on their football in order to remain neutral on what can be perceived as a political issue. Furthermore, players and federations can be subjected to disciplinary action from FIFA, the sport’s governing body, if a footballing event is used to promote a ‘non-sporting’ cause.

So far, England have stayed silent, although recent comments from manager Gareth Southgate have fuelled the idea that the Euro 2020 runners-up will use their platform and speak out. “I’ve been in some conversations as part of an FA delegation with people from Qatar,” said Southgate. “So I’ve been trying to get a better understanding of exactly the situation. I think we’ll obviously take the time to inform the players a bit more about what’s going on.” In addition to Southgate’s assertion that the England team will be “educated”, defender Conor Coady made it clear this month that the team would “speak about the situation when the time is right” with Coady stating; “We are not robots, we are humans, we are seeing things in the news that are going on every day.” Southgate and Coady’s words come after the news that David Beckham had agreed to a ten-year deal to act as an ambassador for a Qatar, a move that will see the England legend earn £15m per year. England players are not averse to publicly discussing social issues, as seen with Marcus Rashford’s prominent efforts to combat child poverty in the UK, but for now we must wait and see if, or when, the Three Lions decide to speak up.

Adam Brown Sport Editor

arlier this week football giants Manchester United confirmed the sacking of club manager and legend, Ole Gunnar Solskjær. This decision had been a long time in the making with a horrific run of performances in the recent past. The club had only 1 win in their last 5 games having picked up 1 draw and 3 defeats along the way. Even with such a poor record, it was still a difficult decision for the Manchester side to make as Solskjær, a renowned club legend, was a part of the infamous treble winning 98-99 side. Chelsea, not long ago, were in a similar position to what Manchester United are currently in. Club legend Frank Lampard took charge of the London side but was sacked after an 18 month period. Even though it was a tough day for Chelsea fans seeing one of their idols get sacked, it worked out better for the London giants as they went on to win the Champions League with a new manager, Thomas Tuchel, in the same season Lampard left. It is important to consider whether former legends of a club enjoy a favourable bias when they become managers of the same club and a closer look at the tenure of some of Manchester United’s former managers suggests so. Whilst Ole Gunnar Solskjær was manager of Manchester United, he spent a total of around £440 million over a 3-year span and yet, was unable to find any league or domestic success having not won a single trophy. On the other hand, other managers such as José Mourinho, who spent nearly £100 million less and won the UEFA Europa League, League Cup and FA Community Shield in his first season was sacked after only a 2-year stint at the Manchester club. It is fair to say that Solskjær was not successful in the trophy department, but he achieved other things with United, just not the kind of achievements that are put in the bright lights. He rebuilt what was an ageing and dysfunctional team, the mess that Mourinho left behind, developed some truly exciting talent from the youth development team at United, and made purchases of current key players. In conclusion, the Danish club legend may not have won trophies with the club, but most certainly built the foundations that has the potential to go on and achieve major success in English and other European tournaments.

the Danish club legend may not have won trophies with the club, but most certainly built the foundations.”