Labour left figures are backing Andy Burnham’s return to Westminster, with Angela Rayner supportive, amid talk he’s preparing a leadership bid. The PM must decide whether to block him from a vacant seat. Allies fear a challenge; others warn against a ‘Wes Streeting coronation’.
Starmer allies are moving to stop Andy Burnham seeking a Westminster seat after a local MP’s retirement, fearing a challenge to the PM. Labour’s ruling body may bar him, a step that could split the party and divert resources from upcoming local elections.
UK ministers are in talks for RAF and Navy contributions to a NATO Arctic mission, including a small forward presence in Greenland and patrol aircraft from Lossiemouth. The plan would enhance surveillance and deterrence with allies, underscoring Europe’s capacity to defend its northern approaches.
UK-US ties have slumped to their lowest point since Suez, with intelligence sharing reportedly at risk. Tensions follow Washington’s bid to acquire Greenland and new tariffs on British goods. The PM moves to shore up cooperation amid Arctic security concerns, while UK firms rush shipments to beat duties.
Downing Street races to avert a trade clash after Donald Trump vowed 10% tariffs on countries opposing his bid to control Greenland. The PM is coordinating with the EU on a possible £80bn retaliation, has urged de-escalation in a call, and faces pressure to cancel the King’s planned US visit.
Robert Jenrick’s defection to Reform prompts plans for weeks of debriefing on Conservative strategy and internal thinking. He is tipped for a senior role as the party leads polls, but his arrival is expected to intensify an internal power struggle around Nigel Farage.
Robert Jenrick was sacked by the party leader before defecting to Reform. He accuses Conservatives of betraying voters and vows to help make Nigel Farage PM. Allies had tipped off Kemi Badenoch about his plan. The move pleases Reform and Badenoch but widens the split on the right.
The UK is repositioning personnel from a Qatar base as the US weighs a military operation against Iran. Some US units are also redeploying. Allies are preparing for possible reprisals against bases and partners, with ministers coordinating contingency plans amid heightened tensions.
Labour will set out phased rail plans for the North. £1.1bn is confirmed for early upgrades in West Yorkshire, improving links between Leeds, Sheffield, York and Bradford. A new Liverpool–Manchester route is slated for the 2030s, and a Birmingham–Manchester link is promised after HS2 North’s cancellation.
The Government is weighing a ban on social media for under-16s within months. Liz Kendall says she will be led by evidence as the Department of Health examines Australia’s model and the impact of screen time. Fresh guidance for under-fives is also being prepared.