Suella Braverman has left the Conservatives to join Reform UK. Nigel Farage welcomed the switch, which could bolster his party’s profile and increase pressure on the Tories. Labour figures criticised the move, saying Reform is drawing disaffected Conservatives before a possible election.
Holocaust survivor Eva Clarke, 80, urges action on Holocaust Memorial Day to confront rising antisemitism. Born in a concentration camp and having 15 relatives killed, she calls for education, remembrance and the courage to challenge prejudice to help secure a safer, more tolerant future.
Labour figures fear falling to third in an upcoming by‑election as Greens and Reform gain momentum. The Conservatives expect a poor result, increasing pressure on the PM. Protest votes and tactical switching risk splintering Labour’s support, turning the contest into a test of both leaders.
Pressure on the PM is mounting after 50 Labour MPs signed a letter protesting his move to block Manchester mayor Andy Burnham. They want an emergency party meeting to reverse it, warning it could trigger a leadership challenge before May’s local elections.
UK security sources say a years-long espionage operation linked to China compromised mobile phones in No 10, affecting senior aides to Johnson and Sunak. Investigations are ongoing as ministers weigh a response, including sanctions, expulsions and tighter device security across government.
A celebrated former footballer was awarded France’s Order of Arts and Letters in Paris, with his family in attendance. His partner praised him as “my everything”, presenting a united front after recent family headlines.
Conservatives withdrew a statement implying concern over Suella Braverman’s mental health after she defected to Reform UK. Senior Tories and an ex-Commons deputy speaker condemned the move, while Nigel Farage predicted harsher attacks, highlighting widening defections before May’s locals.
The dollar fell to a four-month low as sliding US yields and rate-cut bets boosted haven demand. Gold hit a record above $5,100. The yen strengthened amid speculation of possible joint US–Japan action to steady markets, with Tokyo pledging an “appropriate” response to disorderly moves.
An inquest found repeated heading likely contributed to the brain injury that led to former defender Gordon McQueen’s death. His family urge limits on heading, stronger safeguards in training, and improved long‑term support for affected players.