Labour has been braced for significant losses across England, Wales and Scotland in local and devolved elections. Polls suggest Reform UK and the Greens are gaining ground, with concerns over the cost of living and public services shaping voter choices. The results are seen as a key test for Keir Starmer's leadership, with potential leadership questions if losses are deep.
Britain’s local and devolved elections are underway, with polls warning Labour faces its worst results in decades while Reform UK and the Greens gain. The outcomes could shape Labour’s leadership future and the country’s political realignment.
Voters are shifting toward Reform UK in Scotland and Wales amid concerns about local economies and longstanding dissatisfaction with mainstream parties. The party is poised to become a major force in the Scottish and Welsh parliaments, while national polls show it leading opposition to Labour and the Conservatives.
Police have arrested a 46-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman in Romford as part of a Counter Terrorism Policing investigation into a suspected arson attack on a memorial wall in Golders Green. The wall was not damaged; detectives have linked the probe to a wider series of attacks on Jewish-linked sites in north-west London.
The UK has passed the Tobacco and Vapes Act, creating a rolling age ban that will permanently bar people born on or after 1 January 2009 from buying tobacco and giving ministers broad powers to regulate vaping: bans on youth sales, tighter limits on flavours, packaging, advertising and where vaping is allowed.
Local elections are taking place in England on 7 May across 136 authorities, including large cities and all of London. A total of 5,013 seats are contested. Labour and the Conservatives defend the bulk of seats, with Reform UK, Lib Dems and Greens seeking gains amid issues like the cost of living and national concerns.
The local elections across England and the semiautonomous parliaments in Scotland and Wales are likely to yield a heavy setback for Keir Starmer’s Labour. Polls open early and results are expected by Friday afternoon, with Reform UK and the Greens poised to gain at Labour’s expense amid wider disillusionment with the government.
The UK new-car market has risen 24% in April to 149,247 registrations, with battery electric vehicles up 59.1% and BEVs accounting for 26.2% of sales. The overall BEV share for 2026 is forecast to fall short of the 33% mandate, as inflation, energy costs and living costs weigh on demand. The SMMT warns the price of compliance may curb consumer choice and decarbonisation.
Sweden's coast guard has detained the Jin Hui on suspicion of flying a forged flag and seaworthiness concerns. The vessel, flagged Syrian and linked to Russia's sanctions evasion network, remains under investigation as authorities coordinate with international partners.
As Wales heads into local and devolved elections, Reform UK has surged in attention, with Nigel Farage delivering a final campaign speech in Merthyr Tydfil. Polls show Plaid Cymru ahead in some surveys, while Labour risks losing control of the Senedd amid a climate of voter polarisation and concerns over immigration policy.
The Independent reports Mo Chara has been involved in a court case over displaying a Hezbollah flag, a case that has been dismissed. The band has used the experience to shape their latest album Fenian, reclaiming a historically charged word and sampling crowds chanting “Free Mo Chara” in their new track Carnival.
IPPR modelling warns the Iran conflict could push inflation to 5.8%, raising debt costs; it calls for a temporary a32,000 energy price cap, a 10p fuel duty cut and a 20mph urban/60mph motorway speed limit plan, paired with demand-reduction measures.
A 41-year-old man identified as Preston Landis has been living in a family’s crawl space and basement undetected until the owners confronted him. He has been charged with residential burglary and theft and is held on a $15,000 bond.
Centrica has completed the acquisition of the Severn gas turbine power station, boosting its flexible generation portfolio to four gigawatts. The company says Severn will help maintain system stability during the energy transition and expects wholesale earnings from the asset from 2027, while retail earnings face headwinds from weather and customer bad debt, keeping guidance at the lower end.
A regional study and global reports show climate risks—extreme heat, health impacts, and security pressures—are intensifying across southern Africa and beyond. Researchers warn heat acts as an integrator hazard, worsening health outcomes, food systems, and governance, with urgent adaptation and inclusive policy needed.
DVLA data show 7,381 stolen plate incidents were recorded last year, up 30% from the year before, with cloning up 53%. Officials warn of ghost plates and regulatory gaps as drivers face fines and penalties.
Helios has raised its 2026 core profit forecast after first-quarter results showing tenancy growth and strong demand for mobile data in Africa and the Middle East. The London-listed tower operator now expects adjusted core profit of $515 million-$530 million for 2026 and plans to add tens of thousands of tenancies.
Zayn Malik has cancelled the majority of dates on his KONNAKOL UK arena tour after a hospital admission for an unspecified illness. He has resumed at-home recovery and plans to perform a limited number of shows with remaining dates rescheduled or cancelled, prompting refunds for ticket buyers.
Manchester City has clinched the Women’s Super League title after Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton. City now lead Chelsea by six points with one match left, while Arsenal has three remaining. Swedish coach Andrée Jeglertz has guided City to the league crown in his first season.
Unite has warned that thousands of airport workers across Scotland are being balloted for strike action over pay, raising the risk of disruption to flights during the summer peak that coincides with the World Cup and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Ballots cover Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen airports with ISC/TCS staff and Menzies Aviation crews also involved.
The Met has announced a new community protection team to safeguard Jewish communities in London, amid a wave of antisemitic incidents following arsons and stabbings in recent weeks. Prosecutions are being fast-tracked as authorities label the trend deeply troubling.
China has hosted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing and urged a comprehensive ceasefire and renewed diplomacy to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States weighs a pause in its naval blockade and seeks a broader settlement. Tehran and Beijing describe efforts as crucial to restoring safe passage for ships and oil flows amid a global energy shock.
Since April 25, al‑Qaida‑linked JNIM and Tuareg separatists have launched coordinated attacks across Mali, captured Kidal and other northern camps, killed Defence Minister Sadio Camara and set up checkpoints around Bamako. The junta under Assimi Goita has been reshuffled, investigations have opened into suspected military complicity, and Russia's Africa Corps has withdrawn from parts of the north.
A Department of Homeland Security intelligence note has found that Cole Allen’s social and political grievances may be linked to the Iran conflict, which DHS says may have contributed to his decision to target the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The assessment is preliminary but represents the clearest evidence to date of a potential trigger.
The two leaders are engaging in talks in Washington after a series of tariff moves and public spats. Officials say the purpose is to advance a joint security and trade agenda, including organized-crime data sharing, amid ongoing efforts to mend relations.
Trump has paused the US-led operation to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz to pursue a negotiation framework with Iran, while Iran demands a fair and comprehensive agreement. The pause comes as diplomacy resumes amid ongoing clashes and a threatened blockade.
Georgetown Law has replaced Morton Schapiro with David Cole as commencement speaker after concerns from students over Schapiro’s views. Rutgers and Michigan similarly faced interruptions over speech selections tied to Israel-Gaza debates.
Naveed Akram has been charged with 19 additional counts, including multiple counts of shooting with intent to murder and discharging a firearm with intent to resist arrest, following the Bondi Beach incident in December 2025. He remains in custody and has not yet entered a plea. A gag order on victims and survivors is under discussion in Downing Centre Local Court, with further hearings scheduled for June.
Iranian Foreign Minister has held talks in Beijing with China’s top diplomat as Beijing urges a full ceasefire and renewed diplomacy in the ongoing crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and wider war dynamics. China describes the move as a critical moment for regional stability.
Thailand has cancelled the MOU 44 framework for joint offshore exploration with Cambodia, but will pursue maritime boundary issues under UNCLOS. Cambodia regrets the move and signals commitment to a peaceful, law-based resolution as border clashes last year underscore volatile dynamics.
Pope Leo has said he has never supported nuclear weapons and has defended his calls for peace after President Donald Trump accused him of "endangering a lot of Catholics" by allegedly backing Iran's nuclear armament. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is due to meet the pope in the Vatican this week to repair relations.
Leaders of ASEAN gather in Cebu to push a regional response to energy shortages and food security amid the Middle East conflict, Myanmar crisis, and regional tensions. The draft communique emphasizes open markets, sea lanes, and a regional contingency plan, including fuel sharing and a coordinated power grid.
Paris Saint-Germain has beaten Bayern Munich 5-4 in a high-octane Champions League semi-final first leg. Harry Kane leads a late fightback, while the tie remains open ahead of the return leg at the Allianz Arena.
Thirteen Australian women and children linked to ISIS are returning from al-Roj camp in Syria. Authorities say some will be arrested on arrival; others are under ongoing investigation. The group’s return prompts questions over legal action, security, and welfare for children.
Washington and Tehran have been closing in on a one-page memorandum that would pause fighting, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and start 30 days of detailed talks on sanctions and nuclear limits; Iran has said it will respond soon via Pakistan, while oil prices have fallen on the prospect of a deal (06 May 2026).
China has extended zero-tariff treatment to 20 more African nations, bringing the scheme to 53 of Africa’s 54 countries. Eswatini remains excluded due to its ties with Taiwan. Analysts say gains are limited, but the policy signals Beijing’s openness push and aims to boost China‑Africa trade.
Japan is discussing the potential transfer of used Abukuma-class destroyers to the Philippines as part of expanding security cooperation, with talks following Japan's policy shift on arms exports. The Balikatan exercises in the Philippines involve Japanese, American and other allied forces.
Romania's pro‑European coalition has collapsed after the Social Democrats (PSD) joined the far‑right AUR to pass a no‑confidence motion that has removed Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan. The motion has received 281 votes in the 464‑seat parliament; PNL, USR and UDMR deputies have abstained from voting.
FIFA has updated its terms for World Cup ticket resale, restricting Toronto Stadium prices to original face value, while other venues remain open to higher resale. Infantino defends pricing, citing market demand and US resale laws. Critics call prices extortionate, and federal funding for security is in play.
Trump has claimed he has passed a cognitive assessment, while allies and opponents accuse him of political manoeuvring as criticism of his health and approach to foreign policy intensifies across conservative circles and media figures.
Three recent incidents involve a bus crash in South Sumatra, a Paris-area river plunge by a trainee driver, and a Seine incident prompting internal reviews. Authorities report fatalities in Indonesia and no serious injuries in France, with investigations underway into causes and safety measures.
The Protection of Sovereignty Bill has been advancing in Parliament, with government officials defending its aim to shield policy independence from foreign influence. Critics warn the bill could curb civil society funding, free expression and economic activity. The World Bank and banks have raised concerns, while President Museveni has framed sovereignty as a national priority.
The U.S. administration is reimbursing companies to abandon offshore wind projects and directing funds toward oil and gas, following court defeats and policy changes. Several agreements have been announced, with TotalEnergies, Golden State Wind, and Bluepoint Wind receiving reimbursements in exchange for investment in fossil-fuel assets. The move implicates California and New Jersey/New York wind efforts, while Congress probes legality and finances.
LIV Golf has announced a transition plan to secure long‑term funding after confirming that Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund will back the league only through the 2026 season. The tour has appointed a new independent board to lead a diversified, multi‑partner strategy and to attract future investors while trying to maintain global expansion and ongoing events.
IPC data show rising hunger in South Sudan, Lebanon, the DRC and Yemen amid conflict, climate shocks and funding shortfalls. Estimates indicate millions face crisis-level food insecurity with children at high risk of malnutrition.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has deepened engagement with Vietnam and Australia, pledging energy and security cooperation as China’s influence and regional tensions rise. The visit outlines measures to bolster oil supply, critical minerals, infrastructure, and space cooperation, while reaffirming peaceful dispute resolution in the South China Sea.
Ukraine has accused Russia of violating a Kyiv-proposed ceasefire that has taken effect at midnight between May 5 and 6, reporting continued Russian strikes, drone and missile attacks across multiple regions including Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro. Kyiv has said it will respond symmetrically and has reported dozens of casualties and infrastructure hits.
The ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan is under strain as Afghan authorities accuse Pakistan of striking civilian sites in Kunar province, including a university, mosques and a health center. Pakistan denies targeting civilians. Cross-border clashes have continued despite peace talks in China and a March ceasefire.
Democrats have sent a letter to Secretary of State Rubio, urging the administration to disclose Israel’s nuclear capabilities and doctrine. The move follows long-standing ambiguity about Israel’s undeclared arsenal amid the current Middle East conflict and broader debates over U.S.-Israel relations.
A string of court decisions has kept Temporary Protected Status in play as the Supreme Court weighs termination actions for Haiti and Syria. Rulings have required due process reviews amid broader political battles over humanitarian protections.
Pope Leo XIV has been navigating a widening diplomatic cycle as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet the pontiff and Vatican officials in Rome. The meetings come amid Donald Trump’s public rebuke of Leo over the Iran war and a push to repair ties between Washington, the Vatican, and Rome.
Executives from more than two dozen global news organisations have urged Israel to grant independent access to Gaza for foreign journalists, arguing on-the-ground reporting is essential despite security concerns. The appeal comes amid a ceasefire and ongoing restrictions, with no immediate response from Israel.
The ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel continues to hold in Beirut and much of Lebanon, while fighting remains active on the southern front. The United States is pressing for direct talks in Washington to move toward a formal peace framework, with Lebanon’s president calling for full ceasefire implementation before any high-level engagement.
The WHO and aid groups warn that attacks on medical facilities and chronic shortages have brought Gaza and parts of Sudan to the brink of collapse, with thousands awaiting treatment, cancer patients at risk, and cross-border evacuations constrained by security and access limits.
Neymar has apologised publicly after an on-field confrontation with Robinho Jr., son of former Brazil star Robinho, at Santos. The clash followed a training-room incident reportedly over being dribbled past; Neymar has since hugged Robinho Jr. after scoring in a Copa Sudamericana draw in Paraguay. Santos has opened an investigation.
An Israeli soldier has desecrated a statue of the Virgin Mary in Debel, Lebanon. The image, showing a cigarette placed in the statue’s mouth while the soldier smokes, has circulated after a delay and amid ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah. The Israeli military says it has identified the soldier and will discipline him; fighting has eased from peak levels but the border region remains volatile.
North Korea has updated its constitution to include a territorial claim that borders China, Russia and the Republic of Korea, while reaffirming Kim Jong Un as head of state and placing authority over nuclear forces in his hands. Analysts view the move as signaling a firmer stance toward the South without specifying border lines.
California’s primary race remains open as seven candidates spar on fuel, homelessness, taxes and leadership. Debates aired on CNN as mail voting progresses and voters prepare for a crowded field with two spots in November at stake.
Pro-Palestinian and feminist groups have disrupted the Venice Biennale, with Pussy Riot and Femen staging protests at the Russian pavilion during previews. The EU has raised concerns about sanctions and funding linked to Russia’s participation. The Biennale has postponed the awards ceremony as tensions run high over geopolitical divides.
FIFA has extended UEFA’s six‑match ban on Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect, following allegations of a racist slur toward Vinícius Júnior during the Champions League playoff. The sanction could sideline the 20-year-old from Argentina’s World Cup fixtures if selected. Argentina’s group includes Algeria, Austria and Jordan; the World Cup starts next month.
Oil prices have fallen amid cautious diplomacy as the Iran-US talks continue; US gasoline prices have risen, while Iran faces storage and economic pressures. The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, and domestic politics in the US are influencing discourse on the conflict.
The International Court of Justice is hearing arguments from Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region, a vast border area rich in natural resources. The 1899 arbitral award largely favored Guyana, but Venezuela contends the 1966 Geneva agreement nullifies that decision. Venezuela argues the ICJ lacks jurisdiction; Guyana says the dispute threatens its sovereignty and resources near offshore oil deposits. Pleadings begin as the court weighs jurisdiction, with a final ruling expected months away.
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has returned to a property in Arroyo Grande, linked to Paul Flores, as part of the ongoing Kristin Smart disappearance investigation. Flores was convicted of Smart’s murder and is serving a 25-years-to-life sentence; her body remains unfound. The sheriff notes continued effort to locate her remains.
The White House has signalled it is closing in on a 14-point, one-page memorandum of understanding with Iran to end the regional war and pave the way for detailed talks on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, and Hormuz transit. The plan would stage a 30-day negotiation period, with a moratorium on enrichment and phased easing of restrictions, depending on compliance.
Bob Skinner, a 12-season Major League Baseball veteran who helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win the 1960 World Series, the 1979 World Series as a coach, and later coached for several teams, has died in San Diego at age 94. He is remembered for his contributions as a player and as a respected coach and scout.
Ukraine has regained €35 million, $40 million and 9 kilograms of gold from Ukraine state-owned Oschadbank that were seized in Hungary in March. Kyiv calls the move a constructive step in relations with Hungary after Viktor Orbán's government has been replaced, and Brussels-funded loans for Ukraine remain under discussion.
Shots were fired near the White House as Secret Service agents confronted a man carrying a weapon. The suspect has been shot and is undergoing medical evaluation. A teenage bystander sustained a non-life-threatening injury and has been released from hospital. Officials say charges will be filed related to assaulting a federal officer and discharging a firearm during a violent crime.
Mali’s junta has appointed Assimi Goita as defence minister, adding the role to his presidency after the death of Defence Minister Sadio Camara in a suicide bombing. The move follows large-scale attacks by JNIM and Tuareg rebels that have disrupted several towns, including Kidal, and heightened civilian casualties.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has shared a warning about AI-generated deepfake images that circulated this week, including one depicting her in lingerie. She says several fake photos are circulating and has urged verification before sharing. She notes deepfakes can deceive voters and stresses support for those who can defend themselves.
Primary results in Indiana show multiple Trump-endorsed challengers defeating incumbents who opposed his redistricting plan, signaling enduring influence within the Republican Party even as tensions rise ahead of the midterms.
Mohamed Sabry Soliman has moved toward a guilty plea in the federal case, while state charges could lead to life without parole. Investigators say he attacked a Pearl Street rally with Molotov cocktails, killing one and injuring others. Federal prosecutors are weighing the death penalty in the federal case.
The Supreme Court has kept the core protections of the Voting Rights Act intact while ruling that Louisiana’s map-drawing to favor a Black-majority district was unconstitutional, signaling a shift in how race can be used in redistricting and prompting immediate map reviews in several states.
Wildfires across the Southeast and the West are expanding containment efforts amid drought and gusty winds. Reports show two large fires in Georgia remain active with thousands of acres burned, while Arizona and California are maintaining large aerial fleets and monitoring fuel costs that threaten firefighting effectiveness.
An 80-year-old crossing guard, Jean Schultz, has died after pushing two children out of the path of a car in Woodland Park, New Jersey. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. Monday. The two children were hospitalized in stable condition; Schultz has been pronounced dead. The driver remains on scene as investigators continue.
A spring storm has delivered heavy, wet snow across the Rocky Mountain region, with Denver, Boulder and Fort Collins expecting several inches to a foot of snow before the system weakens this afternoon. Several districts have canceled classes, and utilities are standing by as temperatures are set to rise later in the week.