The Justice Secretary plans a courts overhaul that would end jury trials for most offences, reserving them for the gravest cases. Supporters say it will cut delays and costs; critics warn it weakens a core democratic safeguard and risks undermining public confidence in justice.
The BBC faces an internal rift after board members disclosed sharp divisions over bias allegations. The chairman refuses to quit as MPs scrutinise governance and impartiality. Calls for reform grow, with a review of oversight and culture expected.
Rachel Reeves plans a £15bn expansion of welfare in the Budget, raising benefits and adjusting child support. Critics warn workers will shoulder the cost via tax rises, labelling it a giveaway. Ministers say the measures target poverty and support low‑income families.
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.
Britain’s Covid inquiry faces backlash as costs near £200m. Critics say it has revealed little new, arguing nationwide restrictions were avoidable and should be a last resort. The chair defends the process, citing lessons for leadership, accountability and future pandemic preparedness.
Allies of Donald Trump are exploring a ‘cash‑for‑land’ plan: leasing contested eastern regions for 100 years and giving a local language official status, in exchange for security guarantees. UK and European officials reject it as rewarding aggression and weakening the rules‑based order.
A parliamentary report warns the UK is poorly prepared to repel an invasion, citing gaps in air and missile defence, mobilisation, civil resilience and procurement. It urges a national homeland‑defence strategy, urgent investment and faster decision‑making.
The Home Secretary mounted a firm defence of plans to reform the asylum system after criticism from MPs and unions, calling the status quo unsustainable. She pledged faster decisions, tighter controls and lower costs, dismissing what she described as sanctimonious opposition.
Shabana Mahmood will outline plans to push states to take back nationals who have no right to remain, warning of visa bans and tourism curbs. The package would speed removals and tighten rules, aiming to reduce net migration and deter abuse of the system.
Rachel Reeves is preparing a new property levy affecting about 2.4m homes after dropping plans to raise income tax. A revaluation would lift bills for higher‑value properties, particularly in the South, with some northern areas paying less. The move aims to raise billions for the public finances.