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.
About 4.5m people will miss out on voting in May after more local contests were postponed. Ministers approved delays in two large Conservative-run councils, citing reorganisation and boundary work. Critics say this reduces accountability, leaving residents without a say until later polls.
Allies of the PM are moving to stop Andy Burnham re‑entering Parliament after an MP’s resignation opened a by‑election route. The NEC may impose tight control over candidate selection, possibly a loyalty pledge, amid concern he could emerge as a leadership rival.
Charities, campaigners and a journalist with advanced bowel cancer urge ministers to put mental health at the heart of the forthcoming National Cancer Plan. With a blueprint due next month, they say psychological support and timely help remain patchy and must be prioritised alongside treatment.
Donald Trump said UK troops weren’t on the front line in Afghanistan, sparking anger from bereaved families and veterans. Critics note 405 British personnel died during the 20‑year campaign and call his remarks inaccurate and disrespectful.
A safe Labour seat in Greater Manchester is set to be vacated, creating a route for Andy Burnham to return to Westminster and potentially mount a leadership bid. The prospect has angered Starmer allies and could face competition from Nigel Farage.
Following a fan-led campaign that sent the matriarch’s track to No 1, the eldest son and his wife made a supportive public appearance, projecting unity and easing talk of a rift within the high-profile family.
At Davos, Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Europe to “stand up for yourselves,” criticising “Greenland mode” complacency and reliance on Washington. He called for tougher, united measures against aggression, stronger energy support, and sustained aid to rebuild and protect infrastructure.
Donald Trump has pitched a lavish redevelopment of Gaza into a global tourism and business hub, with futuristic waterfront towers and a casino. Backers tout investment and jobs; critics say the vision is unrealistic and insensitive, questioning funding, governance and local consent.
SpaceX is working with major Wall Street banks, including Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley, on a potential record IPO as soon as this year. The move follows a sharp rise in valuation, with investors focused on the growth prospects of Starlink and launch services.