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Chancellor Rachel Reeves is initiating a comprehensive spending review aimed at identifying waste and ensuring government budgets align with key priorities. Departments are required to find 5% efficiency savings, with scrutiny from panels of private sector experts. Critics express concerns over potential austerity measures and the involvement of bankers in the review process.
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Scotland faces a housing emergency and stalled renewable energy investments due to intergovernmental discord. Recent budget announcements signal increased funding for affordable housing, while developers call for urgent planning reforms to address the housing crisis and unlock renewable energy potential.
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Negotiations between the UK and Greece regarding the return of the Elgin Marbles are reportedly advancing. Former Chancellor George Osborne indicated a potential long-term loan arrangement, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government appears more open to discussions than the previous administration. The sculptures, removed from Athens over 200 years ago, remain a contentious issue.
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent budget has drawn significant criticism for its tax increases and spending reforms, raising concerns about economic stagnation and job losses. The housing market is also affected, with a notable decline in high-value property sales and investor confidence waning as the government grapples with fiscal challenges.
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Recent polling indicates a decline in Labour's support following a controversial budget that raised taxes significantly. Kemi Badenoch, the new Conservative leader, has gained traction, narrowing the gap with Labour. The political landscape is shifting as both parties navigate public sentiment and economic challenges.
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The British Museum has received a permanent donation of 1,700 Chinese ceramics from the Sir Percival David Foundation, increasing its collection to 10,000 pieces. This donation, valued at approximately £1 billion, includes significant historical artifacts and aims to inspire future generations.
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Sir Keir Starmer has expressed willingness to collaborate with SNP ministers to abolish the two-child benefit cap in Scotland. This policy, deemed 'pernicious' by the SNP, requires UK government cooperation for implementation, which remains uncertain as funding has not yet been allocated.