Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party and former director of public prosecutions, has committed to making courts and justice systems more open and accountable, emphasizing the importance of journalistic access. This comes in response to concerns about the lack of transparency in magistrates and immigration judges' decisions, particularly under the Single Justice Procedure (SJP) and in asylum appeal cases. Justice Secretary Alex Chalk acknowledged the need for transparency and is considering adjustments to the SJP. The article also references the case of Abdul Ezedi, an Afghan asylum seeker whose dishonest claims were exposed after media outlets requested access to his immigration files.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has ignited controversy by awarding a knighthood to Mohamed Mansour, a major Conservative Party donor, in an unusual honours list released before the Easter Bank Holiday. The list also includes honours for loyal Tory MPs and cultural figures like Christopher Nolan. Critics, including Labour's Anneliese Dodds and Reform UK's Richard Tice, accuse Sunak of cronyism and disrespect for the office. The announcement comes amid scrutiny of Tory finances and speculation about a potential snap election. Sunak's decision has been defended by government sources as a celebration of British cultural and technological achievements.

Keir Starmer, Labour leader, has warned that cash-strapped councils will not receive extra levelling-up funds if he wins the election, citing economic constraints caused by the Conservative government. He criticized the upcoming council rate hikes as a 'new Tory stealth tax' and emphasized the need for economic growth before additional funding can be provided. Starmer's remarks come amid a financial crisis for many local authorities, with several declaring bankruptcy in recent years. He also attacked Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt for their economic policies, while Conservative chairman Richard Holden dismissed Starmer's criticisms as cynical.

More than £10 billion of taxpayers’ money is wasted annually by the public sector, according to Gareth Davies, head of the National Audit Office. In a speech to MPs, Davies will highlight poor management, benefits fraud, and outdated IT systems as key issues. He will argue that the government can achieve more with existing spending and emphasize the need for a new approach to national infrastructure. The Taxpayers’ Alliance supports his remarks, calling for productivity-boosting solutions. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has ordered a review to enhance public sector productivity.

Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, is set to announce the deployment of 20,000 British military personnel to a major NATO exercise in eastern Europe, marking the largest deployment since the Cold War. This move comes as the UK increases its military funding to Ukraine and addresses threats from Iran-backed groups like Hamas and the Houthis. The exercise, Steadfast Defender, aims to provide reassurance against Russian aggression. The announcement highlights the end of the post-Cold War 'peace dividend' and underscores the need for military preparedness in a new era of global insecurity.

Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of weakening his leadership pledge to require a Commons vote on military interventions, as he backed airstrikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen without prior consultation with MPs. Despite his 2020 campaign promise to introduce a Prevention of Military Intervention Act, Starmer now distinguishes between full-scale military campaigns and other operations, suggesting his commitment may not be enshrined in law. This shift has left only four of his original ten leadership pledges intact, potentially angering left-wing MPs. Additionally, Starmer has stepped back from his pledge to halt arms sales to Saudi Arabia amid the Yemen civil war, opting instead for a review of Britain's arms sales.

Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of weakening his leadership pledge to require a Commons vote on military interventions, now stating that his promised legislation would only apply to full-scale military campaigns. This shift has left only four of his original 10 leadership pledges fully intact. The Labour leader has also backed away from his commitment to halt arms sales to Saudi Arabia amid the Yemen civil war, opting instead for a review of Britain's arms sales. This has caused discontent among left-wing MPs, with Diane Abbott criticizing Starmer's selective application of his 2020 promise.

Lord Cameron has labeled the current global situation as the most dangerous in decades, attributing the instability in the Middle East to Iran's support of proxy groups like Hamas and the Houthis. Following Houthi attacks on a Royal Navy warship, the UK and US conducted airstrikes in Yemen to ensure Red Sea shipping safety. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to address Parliament regarding the military action. Sir Richard Dearlove, ex-MI6 chief, acknowledged the difficulty in separating Middle Eastern conflicts in public perception, noting the interconnectedness of regional events.

Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, has declared the current global situation as the most dangerous in decades, attributing the instability to Iran's influence in the Middle East. He highlighted the recent UK and US airstrikes in Yemen following Houthi attacks on a Royal Navy warship, emphasizing the need for action against the Houthis to protect Red Sea shipping. Rishi Sunak is expected to address Parliament regarding the military action. Sir Richard Dearlove, former MI6 head, acknowledged the difficulty in separating Middle Eastern conflicts, noting the interconnectedness of the situation in Yemen with the Israel-Hamas war.

Gary Lineker faces criticism for retweeting a call to ban Israel from international sports due to its actions in Gaza. Conservative MPs and organizations accuse him of endorsing an anti-Semitic campaign and question the BBC's impartiality. The article highlights the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the role of Hamas, and the broader implications for media figures commenting on sensitive political issues.

Rishi Sunak is facing significant opposition from Conservative voters over his net zero policies, particularly the planned bans on gas boilers and petrol cars. Polling indicates that these policies are unpopular among homeowners, especially those who voted Tory in the last election. Former energy secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg and Tory MP Greg Smith have criticized the policies, suggesting they could lead to financial strain without global emissions benefits. Despite the backlash, Sunak is not abandoning the legally binding targets and is continuing to push for the transition to electric vehicles and heat pumps, with companies facing fines if they do not meet sales quotas. The Better Homes Alliance poll found that while homeowners are willing to change their lifestyles to reduce carbon emissions, there is strong resistance to switching to electric cars and heat pumps.

Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of weakening his leadership pledge to ensure all military actions are put to a vote in Parliament. Despite previously promising to pass legislation requiring Commons' consent for military interventions, he supported airstrikes in Yemen without consulting MPs. Starmer argues that his commitment applies only to full-scale military campaigns and hinted that the requirement might not be written into law. This shift has angered left-wing MPs, including Diane Abbott, and raises questions about his stance on arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

Labour leader Keir Starmer faces criticism for proposing multiple policies funded by a tax raid on private schools, with doubts about the financial feasibility of raising £1.7 billion annually. The policies include mental health support in schools, recruitment of new teachers, and youth violence prevention. Critics argue the numbers don't add up, suggesting Labour might need to increase national debt or taxes. Independent experts estimate the tax raid could generate between £1.3 billion and £1.5 billion, with some research indicating it might raise significantly less.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, has been criticized for using a £25,000 private jet provided by the Qatari government to travel to and from the Cop28 summit in Dubai, despite previously attacking Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for similar actions and vowing to boycott Qatar over human rights concerns. The trip's cost and details were revealed in Sir Keir's latest parliamentary declaration of financial interests. His actions have been called hypocritical by Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson and contrast with Labour's stance on private jet use and Qatar's human rights record.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, has been criticized for using a £25,000 private jet provided by the Qatari government to travel to and from the Cop28 summit in Dubai. Despite previously attacking Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for similar actions and vowing to boycott Qatar over human rights concerns, Starmer accepted the jet for a meeting with Qatar's leader, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The Labour Party has faced accusations of hypocrisy, especially since shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves had pledged to stop ministers from using private jets. Starmer's trip and car travel expenses were declared in his latest parliamentary financial interests.

Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart suggested that AI could replace civil servants in fraud detection, leading to a smaller, better trained, and better paid civil service. This follows Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden's praise for AI's potential to save taxpayer money. The Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenue and Customs have increased their workforce to combat fraud, but AI could streamline these efforts. Ministers are trialing 'AI red boxes' to sort and summarize papers, which could become a standard tool across government departments.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak authorized air strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen without consulting Parliament, sparking criticism from MPs like Layla Moran and Jeremy Corbyn, but receiving backing from Labour leader Keir Starmer. The article reviews the UK's recent history of military interventions, noting the lack of legal requirement for parliamentary approval but the convention established since 2003. Instances from Iraq in 2003, Libya in 2011, Syria in 2013 and 2018 are discussed, highlighting the varying approaches to parliamentary consent and the outcomes of the military actions.

Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart suggests that AI could replace civil servants in fraud detection, potentially leading to a smaller, better-paid civil service. His comments align with Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden's praise for AI's cost-saving potential. The Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenue and Customs have increased their workforce to combat fraud, but AI could streamline these efforts. Burghart also mentions the trial of 'AI red boxes' to improve efficiency in Whitehall departments. The Centre for Policy Studies hosted the event where these remarks were made.

Keir Starmer has definitively ruled out reviving the northern leg of the HS2 project, citing the prohibitive costs and the government's reallocation of funds. Despite campaigners' hopes, he confirmed that the high-speed line between Birmingham and Manchester will not proceed. The decision follows Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's cancellation of the project and reallocation of its budget to other transportation schemes. Starmer emphasized his commitment to the Northern Powerhouse Rail project, which aims to improve transport links across northern England.

Tory MPs are calling for Post Office investigators to repay their bonuses and pensions into a compensation scheme for wronged branch managers affected by the Horizon scandal. Over 700 branch managers were wrongfully convicted due to faulty accounting software, leading to significant financial and reputational damage. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a new compensation offer, including a blanket exoneration and upfront payments for affected postmasters. MPs are also urging the government to seek financial redress from Fujitsu, the company behind the Horizon software, and to curb excessive bonuses in publicly funded bodies.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other political figures, including Esther McVey and Keir Starmer, have expressed support for Alan Bates to receive a knighthood for his role in exposing the Post Office Horizon scandal. Bates, a former sub-postmaster, identified flaws in the Horizon accounting software that led to over 700 wrongful convictions of branch managers. The High Court ruled the software contained errors, and the Post Office settled with all claimants. Paula Vennells, the former Post Office boss, has forfeited her CBE in light of the scandal. The government plans to exonerate those affected and authorize compensation.

Alan Bates, a former sub-postmaster, is being widely supported for a knighthood for his role in exposing the Horizon accounting scandal, which led to wrongful convictions of over 700 managers. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other political figures, including Esther McVey and Keir Starmer, have expressed strong support for Bates. The scandal, which involved faulty software that falsely indicated financial discrepancies, has led to significant legal and financial repercussions for the Post Office. Bates' efforts have been recognized in an ITV drama, further highlighting the issue.

Sir Ed Davey faces an election challenge from former postmistress Yvonne Tracey over his handling of the Post Office scandal during his tenure as Post Office minister. Local residents and independent councillors are planning to stand an independent candidate against him in the next general election. Criticism of Sir Ed's role in the Horizon fiasco has intensified, with calls for his resignation and the return of his knighthood. The Liberal Democrats defend their leader, acknowledging public anger and promising participation in the public inquiry.

Rishi Sunak has announced new emergency legislation to exonerate postmasters affected by the Post Office IT scandal, aiming to quash convictions and provide compensation. The government plans to introduce the law within weeks, allowing victims to claim £600,000, though some may opt for court settlements. The move follows public outcry after a TV drama highlighted the issue. While the legislation aims to deliver swift justice, concerns remain about the adequacy and speed of compensation, and the risk of guilty individuals benefiting. The Labour Party proposes additional measures to prevent future abuses of private prosecution powers.

Former Post Office boss Paula Vennells returned her CBE amid the Horizon IT scandal, increasing pressure on Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader and former Post Office minister, to return his knighthood. Over 700 branch managers were wrongfully convicted due to a faulty Fujitsu accounting software. Downing Street is considering a blanket exoneration for those affected. Vennells apologized for the devastation caused, while Rishi Sunak and others welcomed her decision. Critics are calling for Davey to take responsibility for his role during the scandal, as he faces accusations of failing to act and being misled by Post Office executives.

Mel Stride, the Work and Pensions Secretary, emphasizes the need for benefits claimants to seek employment or face losing their benefits. He criticizes Labour's plans to soften welfare sanctions, arguing it would be costly for taxpayers. Stride outlines new legislation to increase housing support for the poorest families and measures to encourage claimants to find work. The article highlights the Conservative Party's belief that a tough stance on benefits will be a key issue in the upcoming election, contrasting it with Labour's approach, which Stride deems reckless.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to clean street drains every autumn to prevent flooding, criticizing the government's slow response to heavy rainfall. He proposed a new flooding preparations task force to improve local and national organization. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the government's efforts, citing a £5.2 billion investment in flood defenses and a compensation scheme for flood victims. A National Audit Office report highlighted the need for better preparation for climate disasters.

The Institute for Government has urged that talks on the potential transfer of power from the Conservative Party to the Labour Party must commence this month to prepare the Civil Service for a possible new government led by Sir Keir Starmer. The think tank emphasized the importance of these 'access talks' to ensure a smooth transition and effective governance. Despite speculation of a snap May election, the Prime Minister has not yet authorized the Civil Service to begin these discussions, and Sir Keir has not requested permission to start planning with Whitehall officials. The IfG highlighted the critical nature of the final months before a general election for any opposition party and advised Sir Keir to finalize his policy platform and share some details with Whitehall in advance.

The UK Government plans to relax planning rules to allow easier installation of heat pumps and solar panels on listed buildings as part of efforts to meet net zero targets. The proposals would enable owners of nearly three million historic properties in England to install green technology without individual consent. Critics argue that this could lead to unsightly additions that could damage the heritage value of these buildings. The changes are expected to be implemented without new legislation, avoiding potential conflicts with Conservative backbenchers. Historic England suggests conditions to protect the appearance of listed buildings, while some MPs express concerns over the aesthetic impact and advocate for better technological solutions.

The UK government is set to relax planning rules to facilitate the installation of heat pumps and solar panels on listed buildings as part of its net zero targets. The proposed changes will allow owners of historic homes to install green technology without individual consent in conservation areas. Critics argue that this could lead to unsightly additions to historic buildings. Historic England suggests conditions to minimize visual impact. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities found that current planning rules are a significant barrier to retrofitting historic homes with green technology.

Planning rules in England will be relaxed to allow easier installation of heat pumps and solar panels on listed buildings, aiming to meet net zero targets. The changes, proposed by the housing department, will enable councils to grant blanket permissions for green technology installations, affecting nearly three million properties. Critics argue the plans could harm historic buildings, while supporters believe they are necessary for energy efficiency and heritage preservation. The government aims to balance climate goals with protecting historical features, amidst ongoing debates within the Conservative Party.

The UK government, led by Environment Secretary Steve Barclay, plans to introduce new food labeling rules to highlight lower quality imports that undercut British farmers. The initiative aims to increase transparency about the origin and standards of imported food, ensuring consumers are better informed and British farmers are fairly rewarded. The changes will include clearer packaging information and consultations with businesses to implement the new labels without additional costs. The government also plans to enhance farming grants and support the adoption of new technologies to boost domestic food production and environmental sustainability.

Welsh Secretary David TC Davies criticizes the Labour Party's governance in Wales, blaming it for economic stagnation and a failing health system. He argues that Sir Keir Starmer's endorsement of the Welsh administration's policies as a 'blueprint' for the UK is misguided, citing high taxes, poor public services, and low educational rankings. Davies warns that the potential successors to outgoing First Minister Mark Drakeford are likely to exacerbate these issues. He challenges Starmer to defend these policies to the Welsh constituents who are suffering daily.

Kemi Badenoch has appointed Baroness Phillippa Stroud, a prominent Right-wing Tory peer, as the new head of the Low Pay Commission. This move is seen as a strategic effort to prevent Labour from appointing a union figure who might impose high costs on businesses. Baroness Stroud, known for her role in the rollout of Universal Credit and her involvement in various Conservative initiatives, will serve a three-year term starting January 1. The appointment aims to embed Conservative thinkers in public bodies ahead of the next election, countering what is perceived as Left-wing dominance in key institutions.

Jacob Rees-Mogg has been named the most popular Conservative backbencher in a survey by Conservative Home, narrowly beating Miriam Cates and Suella Braverman. The survey reflects the mood of the party's grassroots, with many critics of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's policies, particularly on net zero. Rees-Mogg's new role on GB News may have contributed to his popularity, and the survey also notes Rishi Sunak's declining popularity in a monthly Cabinet ministers' league table.

Lord Cameron warns of unprecedented global danger and instability, attributing much of the Middle East's turmoil to Iran's support for groups like Hamas and the Houthis. Following attacks on a Royal Navy warship, the UK and US conducted airstrikes in Yemen. Rishi Sunak is expected to address Parliament on the military actions. Sir Richard Dearlove links the Yemen conflict to the broader Middle East tensions, emphasizing the difficulty in separating issues on the Arab Street.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to clean street drains every autumn to prevent flooding, criticizing the government's slow response to heavy rainfall. He proposed a new flooding preparations task force to improve local and national organization. The announcement follows severe flooding in the South of England and the Midlands due to Storm Henk. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the government's handling of the crisis, highlighting a £5.2 billion investment in flood defences and a compensation scheme for flood victims. A National Audit Office report recently warned that Britain is not adequately prepared for climate disasters, including floods.

More than £10 billion of taxpayers' money is wasted annually by the public sector, according to Gareth Davies, head of the National Audit Office. In a speech to MPs, Davies will highlight poor management, benefits fraud, and outdated IT systems as key issues. He will argue for improved contract awarding processes and a new approach to national infrastructure. The Taxpayers' Alliance supports his remarks, calling for productivity-boosting solutions. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has ordered a review to enhance public sector productivity.

Keir Starmer has confirmed that the Labour Party will not revive the northern leg of the HS2 project between Birmingham and Manchester, citing the prohibitive costs and the government's reallocation of funds. This decision follows Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's cancellation of the project and the redirection of the £36 billion budget to other infrastructure schemes. Starmer emphasized that while the HS2 northern leg is off the table, Labour remains committed to the £39 billion Northern Powerhouse Rail project, which aims to enhance transport links across northern England.

Mel Stride, the Work and Pensions Secretary, emphasizes the need for benefits claimants to seek employment or face losing their benefits, criticizing Labour's plans to soften welfare sanctions. The Conservative Party aims to ensure fairness for taxpayers by balancing support with expectations for employment. Stride's proposals include removing perks for those who refuse to work and increasing housing support for the poorest families. The article highlights the Conservative Party's belief that a tough stance on benefits will be a vote winner, contrasting it with Labour's approach, which they deem reckless and costly.

More than £10 billion of taxpayers' money is wasted annually by the public sector due to poor management, benefits fraud, and outdated IT systems, according to Gareth Davies, head of the National Audit Office. In a speech to MPs, Davies highlights the need for improved contract awarding processes and modernized infrastructure management. He warns that simply cutting budgets is insufficient and calls for a new approach to national infrastructure. The Taxpayers' Alliance supports his remarks, urging productivity-boosting solutions. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has initiated a review to enhance public sector productivity.

Keir Starmer has definitively ruled out reviving the northern leg of the HS2 project, citing the prohibitive costs and the government's reallocation of funds. Despite campaigners' hopes, Starmer confirmed that the high-speed line between Birmingham and Manchester will not proceed. The decision follows Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's cancellation of the project and reallocation of the £36 billion budget to other infrastructure schemes. Starmer emphasized his commitment to the Northern Powerhouse Rail project, which aims to improve transport links across northern England.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey faces increasing calls to resign over his role in the Post Office Horizon scandal. Criticized for his complacency and failure to act as Post Office minister, Davey is under fire from Reform UK leader Richard Tice and several Tory MPs. The scandal involved over 700 branch managers wrongfully convicted due to faulty Horizon accounting software by Fujitsu. Davey insists he raised concerns but was misled by Post Office executives. The controversy highlights political accountability and the need for justice for affected sub-postmasters.

The Work and Pensions Secretary, Mel Stride, emphasizes the need for benefits claimants to seek employment or face losing their benefits, criticizing Labour's plans to soften welfare sanctions. The Conservative Party aims to ensure fairness for taxpayers by balancing support with expectations for employment. Stride's proposals include removing perks for those who refuse to work and increasing housing support for the poorest families. The article highlights the Conservative Party's belief that a tough stance on benefits will be a vote winner, contrasting it with Labour's approach, which they deem reckless and costly.

More than £10 billion of taxpayers' money is wasted annually by the public sector, according to Gareth Davies, head of the National Audit Office. In a speech to MPs, he attributes the waste to poor management, benefits fraud, and outdated IT systems. Davies calls for improved contract awarding processes and a new approach to national infrastructure. He warns against simply cutting budgets and highlights the need for skilled leadership to achieve genuine efficiencies. The Taxpayers' Alliance supports his remarks, urging productivity-boosting solutions. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has initiated a review to enhance public sector productivity.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride emphasizes the need for benefits claimants to seek employment or face losing their benefits, criticizing Labour's plans to soften welfare sanctions. The Conservative Party aims to ensure fairness for taxpayers by removing perks from those who refuse to work. Stride's proposals include cutting off benefits after 18 months for those not seeking employment and increasing housing support for the poorest families. The article highlights the Conservative Party's belief that a tough stance on benefits will be a vote winner, contrasting it with Labour's approach, which they deem reckless and costly.

Keir Starmer has faced criticism for weakening his pledge to ensure MPs vote on military interventions, backing airstrikes in Yemen without prior consultation. Despite his 2020 promise to introduce legislation requiring Commons' consent for military actions, he now argues this applies only to full-scale campaigns. His shift has left only four of his ten leadership pledges intact, drawing ire from left-wing MPs, particularly over his stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict and arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

Cabinet Office minister Alex Burghart suggests that AI could replace civil servants in fraud detection, potentially leading to a smaller, better-paid civil service. His comments align with Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden's praise for AI's cost-saving potential. The Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenue and Customs have increased their workforce to combat fraud, but AI could streamline these efforts. Burghart and other ministers are trialing 'AI red boxes' to improve efficiency, with hopes of broader implementation across government departments.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg has been named the most popular Conservative backbencher in an annual survey by Conservative Home, surpassing Miriam Cates and Suella Braverman. Rees-Mogg, a prominent figure on the Right of the party, has gained additional recognition through his role on GB News. The survey reflects the mood of the Tory grassroots, with many members critical of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's policies, particularly on net zero initiatives.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has announced a plan to fund mental-health support in every school in England using money from a tax raid on private schools. The plan, costing £576 million annually, is part of a broader set of policies totaling at least £1.3 billion, funded by removing private schools' VAT and business rates exemptions. Critics, including senior Tory sources, question the feasibility of these financial plans. The Institute for Fiscal Studies and EDSK think tank provide varying estimates on the potential revenue from the tax changes, suggesting it may be less than Labour's projections. Additional policies include hiring new teachers, funding youth violence prevention hubs, and providing professional career advice for young people.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg has been named the most popular Conservative backbencher in an annual survey by Conservative Home, surpassing Miriam Cates and Suella Braverman. Rees-Mogg, a prominent figure on the Right of the party, has gained additional recognition through his role on GB News. The survey reflects the mood of the Tory grassroots, with many members critical of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's policies, particularly on net zero. The results also highlight the enduring popularity of figures like Lee Anderson and the recovering reputation of Theresa May among party members.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg has been named the most popular Conservative backbencher in an annual survey by Conservative Home, surpassing Miriam Cates and Suella Braverman. Rees-Mogg, a prominent figure on the Right of the party, has gained additional recognition through his role on GB News. The survey reflects the mood of the Tory grassroots, with many members critical of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's policies, particularly on net zero. The survey also noted the recovering popularity of former Prime Minister Theresa May.

Alan Bates, a former sub-postmaster, is being widely supported for a knighthood for his role in exposing the Horizon accounting software scandal at the Post Office, which led to wrongful convictions of over 700 managers. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other political figures, including Esther McVey and Keir Starmer, have expressed strong support for Bates. The faulty Horizon system caused significant financial and reputational damage to many, with the government now working on legislation for exoneration and compensation. Bates' efforts have been highlighted in an ITV drama, bringing the issue to public attention.

Planning rules in England will be relaxed to allow easier installation of heat pumps and solar panels on listed buildings, as part of efforts to meet net zero targets. The changes, announced by the housing department, will enable councils to grant blanket permissions for entire areas, affecting nearly three million properties. Critics argue that the plans could harm historic buildings, while supporters believe they are necessary for energy efficiency and long-term preservation. The government aims to balance heritage protection with climate goals, amid broader policy shifts and internal party debates.

Kemi Badenoch has appointed Baroness Phillippa Stroud, a prominent Right-wing Tory peer, as the new head of the Low Pay Commission. This move is seen as a strategic effort to prevent Labour from appointing a union figure who might impose higher costs on businesses. Baroness Stroud, known for her role in the rollout of Universal Credit and her involvement in various Conservative initiatives, will serve a three-year term starting January 1. The appointment aims to embed Conservative thinkers in public bodies ahead of the next election, countering what is perceived as Left-wing groupthink in key institutions.

Paula Vennells, former Post Office boss, has returned her CBE following pressure and intervention from Rishi Sunak due to her role in the Horizon IT scandal, which wrongfully convicted over 700 branch managers. This decision has increased pressure on Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader and former Post Office minister, to return his knighthood. The scandal, involving faulty software by Fujitsu, is one of the largest miscarriages of justice in British history. Senior Conservatives and other political figures have criticized Davey for his handling of the issue, while Downing Street focuses on ensuring compensation and justice for the victims.

Paula Vennells, former Post Office boss, has returned her CBE following pressure over her role in the Horizon IT scandal, which led to wrongful convictions of over 700 branch managers. This decision has intensified calls for Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, who was the Post Office minister during the scandal, to return his knighthood. The scandal, involving faulty accounting software by Fujitsu, is one of the largest miscarriages of justice in British history. Senior political figures, including Rishi Sunak and members of the Conservative Party, have welcomed Vennells' decision and are urging further accountability. Ed Davey faces criticism for his handling of the issue, with calls for him to step down as party leader.

Sir Keir Starmer has faced criticism for weakening his pledge to ensure MPs vote on military interventions, backing airstrikes in Yemen without prior parliamentary approval. Despite his 2020 leadership promise to introduce legislation requiring Commons consent for military actions, he now argues this applies only to full-scale campaigns. His stance has angered left-wing MPs, including Diane Abbott, and he has also indicated a shift from his pledge to halt arms sales to Saudi Arabia, opting instead for a review of Britain's arms sales.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer faces criticism for proposing a seventh policy funded by a tax raid on private schools, aimed at providing mental-health support in schools. The plan, estimated to cost £576 million annually, is part of a broader £1.3 billion pledge, raising questions about the feasibility of Labour's financial planning. Critics argue the numbers don't add up, while Labour defends its approach. Independent experts suggest the tax raid may generate less revenue than projected. The article also highlights other Labour policies, including hiring more teachers and mental-health professionals, funded by various tax changes.

The UK Environment Secretary, Steve Barclay, announced plans to label cheap food imports that undercut British farmers as lower quality. The initiative aims to increase transparency around the origin and standards of imported food, ensuring British farmers are rewarded for their high standards. The reforms will include clearer packaging information and consultations with businesses to implement changes without additional costs. The government also plans to introduce a 'Buy British button' on supermarket websites and provide grants to support sustainable farming and new technologies. The changes are part of a broader effort to boost domestic food production and environmental sustainability post-Brexit.

Kemi Badenoch has appointed Baroness Phillippa Stroud, a prominent Conservative, as the new head of the Low Pay Commission. This move is seen as a strategic effort to prevent Labour from appointing a union figure who might impose higher costs on businesses. Baroness Stroud, known for her role in the rollout of Universal Credit and her involvement in various Conservative think tanks, will serve a three-year term starting January 1. The appointment is part of a broader Conservative strategy to embed right-wing thinkers in public bodies ahead of the next election.

Alex Burghart, a Cabinet Office minister, suggested that AI could replace civil servants in fraud detection, leading to a smaller, better-paid civil service. His comments align with Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden's praise for AI's potential to save taxpayer money. The Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenue and Customs have increased their workforce to combat fraud, which may be mitigated by AI in the future. Burghart also mentioned the trial of 'AI red boxes' for sorting documents, which could be expanded across departments if successful.

Labour leader Keir Starmer has announced a new policy to fund mental-health support in schools using money from a tax raid on private schools, adding to a series of pledges totaling at least £1.3 billion. Critics, including a senior Tory source, question the feasibility of these financial plans. The Labour Party aims to raise £1.7 billion annually by removing private schools' VAT exemptions, though experts suggest the actual revenue may be lower. Other policies funded by this tax include hiring new teachers, providing retention bonuses, and establishing youth violence hubs. The article highlights ongoing debates over the financial viability of Labour's education and mental health initiatives.

Kemi Badenoch has appointed Baroness Phillippa Stroud, a prominent Right-wing Tory peer, as the new head of the Low Pay Commission. This move is seen as a strategic effort to prevent Labour from appointing a union figure who might impose high costs on businesses. Baroness Stroud, known for her role in the rollout of Universal Credit and her involvement in the Centre for Social Justice, will serve a three-year term starting January 1. The appointment aims to embed Conservative thinkers in public bodies ahead of the next election, countering what is perceived as Left-wing dominance in key institutions.

Tory MPs are calling for Post Office investigators to repay their bonuses and pensions into a compensation scheme for wronged branch managers affected by the Horizon scandal. Over 700 branch managers were wrongfully convicted due to faulty accounting software, leading to significant financial and reputational damage. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a new compensation offer, including a blanket exoneration and upfront payments for affected postmasters. MPs are also urging the government to seek financial redress from Fujitsu, the company behind the Horizon software, and to curb excessive bonuses in publicly funded bodies.

Tory MPs are calling for Post Office investigators to repay their bonuses and pensions into the compensation scheme for wronged branch managers affected by the Horizon scandal. More than 700 branch managers were wrongfully convicted due to faulty accounting software, leading to significant financial and reputational damage. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a new compensation offer, including a blanket exoneration and upfront payments for affected postmasters. MPs are also urging the government to seek financial redress from Fujitsu, the company behind the Horizon software, and to curb excessive bonuses in publicly funded bodies.

Tory MPs are calling for Post Office investigators to repay their bonuses and pensions into a compensation scheme for wronged branch managers affected by the Horizon scandal. Over 700 branch managers were wrongfully convicted due to faulty accounting software, leading to significant personal and financial losses. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a new compensation offer, including a blanket exoneration and financial payouts. MPs are also urging the government to seek financial redress from Fujitsu, the company behind the faulty software, and to curb excessive bonuses in publicly funded bodies.

Sir Ed Davey faces an election challenge from former postmistress Yvonne Tracey due to his role in the Post Office scandal. Local residents and political figures criticize his handling of the Horizon fiasco, with some calling for his resignation. The scandal has intensified scrutiny on Sir Ed, potentially impacting his chances in the upcoming election. The Liberal Democrats defend their leader, acknowledging the public's anger and emphasizing his regret over the issue.

Sir Ed Davey faces an election challenge from former postmistress Yvonne Tracey over his handling of the Post Office scandal during his tenure as Post Office minister. Local residents and political figures criticize Davey for his role in the Horizon fiasco, with some calling for his resignation. The Liberal Democrats defend their leader, acknowledging public anger and promising participation in the public inquiry.

Keir Starmer warns cash-strapped councils that no additional levelling-up funds will be available if Labour wins the election, blaming the current economic situation on the Conservative Party's policies. He criticizes the upcoming council tax rise as a 'new Tory stealth tax' and acknowledges the financial crisis many local authorities face. Starmer emphasizes the need for economic growth before additional public service investments can be made. The article also highlights internal Labour Party tensions and criticisms from Conservative Party members.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey faces increasing calls to resign over his handling of the Post Office Horizon scandal, with criticisms from Reform UK leader Richard Tice and several Tory MPs. The scandal involved over 700 branch managers being wrongfully convicted due to faulty accounting software by Fujitsu. Critics argue that Sir Ed was complacent and failed to question Post Office executives adequately. Sir Ed defends his actions, stating he was misled by senior Post Office officials and insists on the exoneration of the wrongfully convicted sub-postmasters.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey faces increasing calls to resign over his handling of the Post Office Horizon scandal. Critics, including Richard Tice of Reform UK and several Tory MPs, accuse him of complacency and failing to act on warnings about the faulty Horizon accounting software, which led to the wrongful conviction of over 700 branch managers. Sir Ed defends his actions, claiming he was misled by Post Office executives and insists on the exoneration of the affected postmasters.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey faces increasing calls to resign over his role in the Post Office Horizon scandal. Critics, including Richard Tice of Reform UK and several Tory MPs, accuse him of complacency and failing to act on the faulty Horizon accounting software that led to wrongful convictions of over 700 branch managers. Davey defends his actions, stating he was misled by Post Office executives and insists on the exoneration of affected postmasters.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to clean street drains every autumn to prevent flooding, criticizing the Government's slow response to heavy rainfall. He proposed a new flooding preparations task force to improve local and national organization. The Government, defended by Rishi Sunak, has invested £5.2 billion in flood defences and opened a compensation scheme for flood victims. A National Audit Office report highlighted the need for better preparation for climate disasters.

David TC Davies criticizes Labour's governance in Wales, arguing that Keir Starmer's support for Welsh policies would harm the UK economy and public services. He highlights issues such as economic stagnation, high business rates, and poor healthcare and education outcomes under Mark Drakeford's administration. Davies warns that Labour's policies in Wales serve as a negative blueprint for the rest of the UK.

Paula Vennells, former Post Office boss, has returned her CBE following pressure over her role in the Horizon IT scandal, which led to wrongful convictions of over 700 branch managers. This decision has increased pressure on Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, who was the Post Office minister during the scandal, to return his knighthood. The scandal, involving faulty accounting software by Fujitsu, is one of the largest miscarriages of justice in British history. Senior political figures, including Rishi Sunak and members of the Conservative Party, have welcomed Vennells' decision and called for further accountability.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg has been named the most popular Conservative backbencher in an annual survey by Conservative Home, surpassing Miriam Cates and Suella Braverman. Rees-Mogg, a prominent figure on the right of the party, has gained additional recognition through his new role on GB News. The survey reflects the mood of the party's grassroots, with many members critical of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's policies, particularly on net zero. The article also notes the recovering popularity of former Prime Minister Theresa May and the consistent support for Lee Anderson.

Rishi Sunak has sparked controversy by awarding a knighthood to Mohamed Mansour, a major Conservative Party donor, in an unusual honours list released before the Easter Bank Holiday. The list also includes honours for loyal Tory MPs and cultural figures like Christopher Nolan. Critics, including Labour's Anneliese Dodds and Reform UK's Richard Tice, have condemned the move as cronyism. The announcement has fueled speculation about a potential snap election, despite Downing Street's denials. The honours list is seen as an attempt to bolster support amid scrutiny over Tory finances and previous honours proposed by Boris Johnson and Liz Truss.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has sparked controversy by awarding a knighthood to Mohamed Mansour, a major Conservative Party donor, in an unusual honours list released before the Easter Bank Holiday. The list also includes honours for loyal Tory MPs and cultural figures like Christopher Nolan. Critics, including Labour's Anneliese Dodds and Reform UK's Richard Tice, have accused Sunak of cronyism and disrespect for the office. The announcement comes amid scrutiny of Tory finances and speculation about a potential snap election. Sunak's decision has been defended by government sources, who emphasize his support for British cultural and technological achievements.

Rishi Sunak has sparked controversy by awarding a knighthood to Mohamed Mansour, a major Conservative Party donor, in an unusual honours list released before the Easter Bank Holiday. The list also includes honours for loyal Tory MPs and cultural figures like Christopher Nolan. Critics, including Labour's Anneliese Dodds and Reform UK's Richard Tice, accuse Sunak of cronyism and disrespect for the office. The announcement comes amid scrutiny of Tory finances and speculation about a potential snap election. Sunak's decision to honour Mansour, who donated £5 million to the party, has been particularly contentious.

Romania is questioning the EU's commitment to free movement of people due to concerns over the 'brain drain' effect, where Eastern European countries lose skilled workers to the West. Romanian Finance Minister Eugen Teodorovici suggested introducing time-limited work permits to prevent permanent loss of talent. This stance reflects a growing unease in Eastern Europe, with countries like Poland and Romania raising issues about losing medical professionals to Western Europe. The policy has also been criticized in the West for impacting labor standards and social cohesion. Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed difficulties in defending EU rules that allow migrants to claim benefits for children living abroad and highlighted abuses of the freedom of movement principle.