The PM urged Nigel Farage to purge Reform of any ties to a hostile foreign state after disclosures that a former party figure received payments to promote that state. Starmer criticised Farage’s leadership and demanded action; Farage denies wrongdoing and says he will investigate.
Leaked internal polling suggests the Conservatives could be reduced to about 14 seats at the next election, with Reform surging. The findings, circulated in CCHQ, are described as an existential threat to the party and intensify pressure on its strategy and leadership.
Washington is urging a European partner to accept a land‑for‑peace deal, warning support could be cut within days. The PM and European allies push back, arguing forced territorial concessions and defence cuts would reward aggression, weaken deterrence and erode sovereignty.
Donald Trump has set a Thursday deadline for Volodymyr Zelensky to accept a 28-point peace plan or risk losing US support. Reported terms include territorial concessions, a smaller military and mineral quotas for Washington. Allies warn it would undermine sovereignty and reward aggression.
Ex-Reform figure Nathan Gill has been jailed for 10 years for accepting £40,000 in bribes from a foreign tycoon to deliver favourable speeches. An ally of Nigel Farage, he is under scrutiny as the PM urges Reform to investigate any further links and ensure transparency.
A European leader warns a proposed US-backed deal could trade national dignity for short-term calm and risk future US aid. Allies criticised it as overly concessionary, with Europe caught off guard. He seeks terms that protect sovereignty and keep Western support, with Britain aligned.
Ahead of the Budget, the PM faces unrest among Labour MPs and a faltering whipping operation as demands grow for stronger cost‑of‑living help. Options floated include easing the housing allowance cap. Andy Burnham urges wider support, while the PM dismisses talk about his position.
MPs are considering an injury-in-service medal to recognise police officers forced to leave the job due to serious injuries. The plan would honour those retiring on medical grounds and address concerns their sacrifice is overlooked.
Sean Reddington is giving staff 12 days off at Christmas and instructing them to attend their children’s pantos and nativities during paid time. He says family comes first, and managers will challenge anyone who skips the events.
Days before the Budget, discipline is fraying as the PM struggles to keep Labour MPs in line. Sources say the Chief Whip is reluctant to continue. MPs and ministers demand stronger cost‑of‑living support, with hints of lifting the housing allowance cap.