UK Politics

Keir Starmer’s first prime minister’s questions: Four things we learnt

— In his first PMQs as PM, Keir Starmer criticised his predecessors and rival parties, while Rishi Sunak focused on Ukraine, avoiding direct attacks, and the SNP challenged Starmer on Labour’s internal issues, revealing ongoing tensions.

UK Politics

Suella Braverman: “I want Trump to be president.”

— Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has thrown her support behind Donald Trump’s presidency, citing global stability and peace as her reasons. An endorsement coming at a pivotal moment in her own turbulent political career in the UK.

UK Immigration Policy

Labour promised to scrap the Rwanda policy. But its new approach aims to be just as tough on asylum seekers

— Labour’s new migration policy focuses on border security and reducing asylum claims by targeting criminal gangs. They have scrapped the Tories’ Rwanda plan, aiming to deter migration with international aid and tougher enforcement, yet face criticism for potentially dehumanising asylum seekers.

Environment

Why Westminster’s new backbench MPs may unlock progress on climate change

— Climate policy differences between Labour and Conservative MPs reveal Labour’s pro-climate stance. The new Labour government swiftly removed windfarm restrictions. However, Labour faces challenges in implementing its climate plans, including opposition from rural MPs and unions.

2024 General Election

Election 2024 polls were wide of the mark on Labour’s margin of victory – this is what may have happened

— The 2024 UK election campaign was heavily focused on polls, revealing a mix of accurate and inaccurate predictions. While Labour’s lead was often overestimated, varying accuracy among pollsters highlighted challenges in achieving representative samples.

2024 General Election

Young people led surge for smaller parties but no Reform ‘youthquake’, says UK election survey

— The General Election highlighted a stark age divide: young voters rejected the Conservatives, favouring Labour, Greens, and the Liberal Democrats. Turnout among young people, especially from poorer backgrounds, was also significantly lower, indicating rising political disengagement.

Westminster

What a House of Commons with fewer privately educated MPs could mean for the UK

— The UK parliament is becoming more diverse, with more women, ethnic minorities, and state-educated MPs. Despite progress, significant gaps remain in representing working-class backgrounds and educational diversity, which is crucial for truly reflecting society.

Green Policies

Labour’s Green promise: A new dawn or mere words?

— Labour’s recent election victory spurs promises to review housing planning laws and lift the onshore wind ban. These pledges signal a potential shift towards sustainable energy and housing, boosting local communities’ autonomy and environmental benefits.

Podcasts

French and British politics experts discuss what their election results mean for the right

— Keir Starmer’s landslide win as British PM ended 14 years of Conservative rule, while a left-wing coalition triumphed in France. A political shift that highlights growing left-wing influence in Europe.

UK Politics

Keir Starmer: What we know about Britain’s new prime minister and how he will lead

— Keir Starmer, known for his methodical, professional, and pragmatic approach, contrasts with visionary leaders. With experience as director of public prosecutions, he prioritises outcomes, focusing on delivering solutions amidst high expectations.

UK Politics

Rachel Reeves is the UK’s first female chancellor. Why that’s so significant

— Rachel Reeves has become the UK’s first female chancellor, promising transformative economic policies. Her goals include closing the gender pay gap, promoting flexible working, and boosting economic growth through women’s empowerment.

UK-US Relationship

The UK’s new Prime Minister Keir Starmer – hoping for a Democrat in the White House, preparing for Trump

— Keir Starmer is preparing for potential challenges in US-UK relations, particularly with a possible Trump presidency. He aims to maintain strong transatlantic ties, navigating diplomatic and military strategies.

Lobbying

Lovebombed by lobbyists: How Labour became the party of Big Business

— A year before its historic election win, Labour engaged with major corporate lobbyists, including arms, oil, and financial sectors. This unprecedented access influenced Labour’s policies, risking a significant corporate sway over future government decisions, potentially harming public interests.

Brexit

Starmer must seize the chance to rethink the UK-Europe relationship

— PM Keir Starmer faces the challenge of improving UK-EU relations amid Brexit’s unpopularity. Key strategies include leading on migration and security, aligning with EU regulations, and addressing both domestic and European concerns.

Long-Read

The day the country turned on the Tory Party

— Brexit, barely discussed during the general election campaign yet ever-present, catalysed the Tory downfall, culminating in a significant vote share drop. The new Labour government faces challenges, but now is a moment to celebrate the defeat of a damaging political ethos.

2024 General Election

Labour sweeps to victory in historic General Election

— The Labour Party, led by Sir Keir Starmer, has achieved a monumental victory in Thursday’s General Election, ending 14 years of Conservative rule with a landslide win.