Safeguarding rules are said to be used by schools and councils to brand people with conservative or patriotic views as risks to children, limiting volunteering. A former Royal Marine was barred from coaching. Critics seek clearer guidance, evidence-based decisions and a fair appeals route.
Allies of Wes Streeting have sounded out Angela Rayner about a pact to run on a joint ticket for the Labour leadership, aiming for No 10. Informal talks examined roles and timing for a potential challenge to the PM, though both sides publicly downplay any immediate move.
David Lammy has suggested the UK consider joining a customs union, arguing it would boost growth and cut red tape. The PM has ruled it out, insisting current arrangements can deliver. The comments reveal a policy split and are likely to prompt renewed pressure from business.
Ministers plan nationwide live facial recognition, letting police match CCTV to the passport photo database. They say it will speed suspect identification; critics warn of privacy risks, false matches and mission creep. Statutory oversight and safeguards are promised.
The Treasury’s permanent secretary has been drawn into a dispute over the Chancellor’s claims about the state of the public finances and the OBR’s advice. A released letter suggests her remarks misled the public, prompting fresh questions over how the fiscal outlook was presented.
Rachel Reeves is under pressure after OBR chair Richard Hughes was pushed out just before he was due to give Budget evidence to MPs. Critics accuse the Treasury of silencing scrutiny after an internal row; ministers deny interference. MPs from across parties want full transparency and his testimony.
Rachel Reeves faces a referral to government ethics officials after Nigel Farage alleged she misled the public about the size of the fiscal gap used to justify tax rises. He says forecasts don’t back her headroom claims; the Treasury says its figures reflect OBR assessments.
Rachel Reeves faces intense pressure after being accused of misleading the public about a £30bn fiscal hole used to justify tax rises. The OBR is said to have told her no such gap existed. Critics demand her resignation; allies insist the Budget case remains sound.
Starmer has shelved Angela Rayner’s flagship employment rights package, breaking a manifesto pledge and prompting anger among Labour backbenchers. No 10 says small firms need flexibility; unions and MPs argue promised worker protections are being abandoned.
The Chancellor’s Budget pulls millions into the higher rate through frozen thresholds and adds measures on property, pensions and savings. Welfare spending is projected to near £400bn over five years. Ministers say it funds services; critics argue it breaks earlier pledges.