UK Lib Dems in the news over UK politics, reforms, and EU ties; Lib Dems generally push liberal democracy and UK-specific policy.
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.
Malcolm Offord, now Reform UK's Scottish leader, says he has lost friends after defecting from the Conservatives. He aims to challenge the Holyrood status quo, facing opposition from mainstream parties. Polls suggest Reform UK may come second in May, but recent surveys show a dip in support.
The UK government has announced that existing guidance on mobile phone restrictions in schools will be made statutory. This move formalises policies most schools already enforce, aiming to strengthen child safeguarding legislation amid ongoing debates about technology's impact on young people. The legislation is part of broader child protection reforms.
Local elections across 136 councils are underway in England, Wales and Scotland. Labour faces losses; Reform UK, Greens and Lib Dems are set to gain in different areas. Voters are deciding on council seats and mayoralties, with results expected this weekend and broader implications for national politics.