In a move to overhaul the benefits system, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall expressed her strong belief in the government’s welfare cuts, despite facing expected opposition from backbench MPs. The draft law to bring about changes to Pip disability benefits and the sickness-related element of universal credit has been unveiled by Kendall. Official assessments… Continue reading Liz Kendall 'firm in convictions' ahead of welfare vote
Category: UK News
RTS meter switch-off is pushed back
BBC business reporter Tom Espiner reported that the government has announced a cautious and targeted phase-out plan for Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters, which are set to be switched off. This decision comes after concerns that hundreds of thousands of households could be left without hot water and heating. The initial switch-off will be on… Continue reading RTS meter switch-off is pushed back
Future of Notting Hill Carnival 'in jeopardy'
The Notting Hill Carnival is facing an uncertain future if urgent funding is not provided by the government, according to a letter leaked to the BBC from its organisers. Ian Comfort, the Carnival chair, reached out to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to request essential funding to ensure the future and public safety of the iconic… Continue reading Future of Notting Hill Carnival 'in jeopardy'
Cats ruled out as Parliamentary pest controllers
An appeal by a Labour peer to introduce cats for pest control in the Houses of Parliament has been denied, despite Larry the cat’s successful tenure as 10 Downing Street’s chief mouser. While mice continue to plague the Grade I listed landmark, there are no immediate plans to bring in furry friends to combat the… Continue reading Cats ruled out as Parliamentary pest controllers
UK weather: Temperatures to soar above 30C as heatwave expected
The UK is bracing for soaring temperatures as forecasts predict highs of up to 30C (86F) in some parts of the country later this week. This surge in temperature is expected to mark the beginning of the first heatwave of 2025, with balmy nights in store as well, with temperatures in the high teens. Yellow… Continue reading UK weather: Temperatures to soar above 30C as heatwave expected
Two huge issues and MPs – for once – can make up their own minds
Westminster operates on a system where power is often wielded through patronage, party loyalty, warnings, threats, and arm-twisting. Whipping, the discipline and enforcement of voting within parties, is a crucial component of the British political landscape. However, despite its significance, MPs have been granted unprecedented freedom in two major debates this week. The House of… Continue reading Two huge issues and MPs – for once – can make up their own minds
Briton dies from rabies after 'scratch' from stray puppy in Morocco
A tragic incident has occurred in which a British woman from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, passed away from rabies after being “scratched” by a puppy while on holiday in Morocco. Yvonne Ford had minimal contact with a stray dog during her trip to North Africa back in February. According to her family, Mrs. Ford began experiencing… Continue reading Briton dies from rabies after 'scratch' from stray puppy in Morocco
HS2 line to be delayed again with no new date given
Multiple delays have been announced regarding the opening of HS2, the high-speed railway line in the UK. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirmed that the target date of 2033 will not be met due to budget constraints and project mismanagement. She described the situation as an “appalling mess” with costs rising by £37bn since the project… Continue reading HS2 line to be delayed again with no new date given
Michael Sheen's new Welsh National Theatre to be based in Swansea
Hollywood actor Michael Sheen is embarking on a new venture by establishing a theatre company, Welsh National Theatre, in the city where his theatrical journey began. The company will be headquartered overlooking Swansea Bay in the city’s civic centre. Sheen made this decision after the closure of National Theatre Wales due to significant cuts in… Continue reading Michael Sheen's new Welsh National Theatre to be based in Swansea
Worksop explosion: Murder suspect released without charge
In Worksop, Nottinghamshire, a tragic house explosion occurred on the evening of 12 April, resulting in extensive damage to properties and the displacement of residents. Emergency services were swiftly summoned to John Street following the blast, which prompted a thorough investigation by law enforcement authorities. Tragically, the body of 53-year-old David Howard was discovered amidst… Continue reading Worksop explosion: Murder suspect released without charge