British Labour politician and long-serving MP
Northern Ireland's bonfire season has again drawn condemnation after a replica mosque was placed on a Moygashel bonfire and lit early. Police are investigating incitement to hatred, amid broader debates over safety, immigration rhetoric, and community tensions surrounding the Twelfth of July celebrations.
The new Labour government is taking office as Northern Ireland faces a looming Stormont budget shortfall and ongoing talks with local parties. Benn says the onus is on the executive to seal a budget, while Sinn Féin and other parties call for early engagement and reform. Public services are operating under contingency measures as the budget stalemate continues.
Prime minister has announced an 850 million VAT cut on household electricity bills from October, funded by scrapping the Digital ID programme. The move is part of a broader plan to ease the cost of living, with ministers pledging to pass savings through to consumers as cabinet reshuffles unfold.