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As Labour prepares for its first budget on October 30, Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces a £16 billion financial deficit inherited from the Conservatives. The government is considering tax increases, spending cuts, and potential borrowing to address the fiscal challenges while aiming to promote growth and investment.
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As Labour delegates meet in Liverpool, the party grapples with backlash over cuts to winter fuel payments for pensioners not receiving pension credit. The decision, aimed at addressing a £22 billion fiscal shortfall, has raised concerns about its impact on vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Calls for transparency and impact assessments grow louder.
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Following a record low of -2.7C in North Yorkshire, the UK is set to enjoy a warm spell with temperatures reaching up to 26C in London by Thursday. The Met Office predicts dry conditions and above-average temperatures for much of next week, despite some potential rain in the northwest.
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Central Europe faces devastating floods following heavy rains, resulting in at least 15 deaths and widespread destruction from Austria to Romania. Climate scientists link the severity of these floods to climate change, emphasizing the need for better preparedness against extreme weather events.
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Recent developments in France and Germany highlight a significant shift towards stricter immigration policies amid rising far-right sentiments. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition face pressure from populist parties, reflecting growing public demand for tougher immigration controls. This trend raises concerns about the future of immigration in Europe.
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In Austria's parliamentary elections on September 29, 2024, the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) led by Herbert Kickl secured approximately 29% of the vote, marking a historic first for a far-right party in post-war Austria. The ruling People's Party (ÖVP) followed closely with 26%, while the Social Democrats (SPÖ) received their worst result ever at 20%. Coalition-building remains uncertain.
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The European Commission has proposed a one-year delay to its deforestation regulation, which aims to ban the sale of commodities linked to deforestation. Critics argue this undermines the EU's climate credibility, while supporters claim it allows for better implementation. The delay follows lobbying from various stakeholders, including governments and businesses.
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Following Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in London, questions arose about the security measures taken for her concerts. Senior politicians, including Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Mayor Sadiq Khan, were involved in discussions after a foiled terror plot in Vienna led to heightened concerns. The Metropolitan Police maintained operational independence in their decision-making.