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Kemi Badenoch, a leading candidate for the Tory leadership, has faced significant backlash after calling statutory maternity pay 'excessive' during a radio interview. Her comments have sparked criticism from rivals and unions, highlighting ongoing debates about maternity rights in the UK. Badenoch later attempted to clarify her statements, asserting her support for maternity pay.
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As the Conservative Party conference unfolds, frontrunners Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick face scrutiny over their policies and remarks. With the final two candidates to be decided by Tory MPs on October 10, the leadership contest is intensifying ahead of the November 2 announcement of the new leader.
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On October 4, 2024, Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled plans for two carbon capture clusters in Merseyside and Teesside, committing nearly £22 billion over 25 years. This initiative aims to create 4,000 jobs, attract £8 billion in private investment, and support the UK's climate goals by capturing and storing carbon emissions from industrial processes.
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UK house prices rose to an average of £293,399 in September, just shy of the record £293,507 from June 2022. This marks a 4.7% annual increase, the fastest growth since November 2022, driven by improved mortgage affordability and rising incomes. The market shows signs of recovery despite ongoing challenges for first-time buyers.
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Labour's new government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is facing significant backlash from trade unions over proposed cuts to winter fuel payments for pensioners. Union leaders express concerns about austerity measures and the impact on vulnerable populations, as the government emphasizes the need for tough economic decisions amid a £22 billion fiscal shortfall.
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As the 2024 election approaches, Donald Trump has proposed significant tax cuts aimed at working-class voters, including eliminating taxes on overtime pay and restoring the state and local tax (SALT) deduction. These proposals have raised concerns about their fiscal implications and potential benefits for high-income earners, with contrasting views emerging from analysts and political figures.
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In his inaugural speech as Foreign Secretary, David Lammy emphasized the urgency of the climate crisis, proposing a Global Clean Power Alliance to enhance international cooperation on renewable energy. He criticized the previous government's inaction and outlined plans to integrate climate action into all Foreign Office initiatives, highlighting the systemic nature of the threat posed by climate change.
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Recent data reveals a significant decline in housing planning permissions in the UK, with only 31,562 proposals granted in the year to June, an 8% drop. This poses challenges for the Labour government's pledge to build 1.5 million homes in five years, as developers face rising costs and market uncertainty.
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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has come under fire for accepting over £107,000 in gifts and hospitality since December 2019, significantly more than any other MP. Critics raise concerns about potential conflicts of interest, particularly regarding his ties to the Premier League amid ongoing regulatory discussions.
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Labour's recent cuts to winter fuel payments have sparked significant backlash, particularly among pensioners. Critics argue that these measures, reminiscent of past Tory austerity, could undermine Labour's authority and electoral support. The government is under pressure to address the growing discontent as winter approaches.
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves addressed the Labour Party conference, emphasizing a commitment to avoid austerity while tackling a £22 billion deficit. She announced plans for public investment and defended controversial cuts to winter fuel payments for pensioners, amidst criticism from opposition and unions. The budget is set for October 30, 2024.
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Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated that interest rates may continue to decrease as inflation approaches target levels. Following a significant half-point cut earlier this month, Powell emphasized a cautious approach, noting the economy's solid condition while acknowledging potential risks. The Fed aims for a neutral rate that neither stimulates nor restricts economic growth.
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Since Labour's election victory in July, Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government has faced criticism for its economic messaging and reliance on Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Concerns are growing over the impact of their approach on public confidence and the NHS, as the government prepares for a crucial budget announcement in October.
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At the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, members expressed unexpected optimism despite recent electoral defeat. The leadership contest among Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Robert Jenrick, and Tom Tugendhat is energizing the party, while Labour's early struggles in government provide a backdrop for discussions on future strategies.
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Keir Starmer faces scrutiny over borrowing Labour donor Waheed Alli's luxury flat for filming during the pandemic. He claims it was necessary for his son's GCSE studies, while critics question the appropriateness of accepting such gifts. The controversy has impacted Starmer's popularity amid ongoing public concerns about government transparency.
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Russell Findlay, the new leader of the Scottish Conservatives, faced his first First Minister's Questions (FMQs) on October 3, 2024. He challenged John Swinney on the Scottish Government's National Care Service plans, which have lost support from key stakeholders. Findlay's performance was marked by direct questioning and criticism of the SNP's handling of care issues.
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As the Conservative Party prepares for its conference in Birmingham, internal divisions and leadership challenges emerge following a historic election defeat. Key figures like Lord Ben Houchen and Pat McFadden highlight the need for change and the lessons learned from past mistakes, setting the stage for a contentious leadership race. The party's future direction remains uncertain amid calls for a return to core values and public trust.
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The Conservative Party's annual conference in Birmingham is underway, featuring a leadership contest among Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Robert Jenrick, and Tom Tugendhat. This follows a historic electoral defeat in July, prompting candidates to redefine the party's identity and appeal to voters. The new leader will be announced on November 2, 2024.
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The merger between Wildberries and Russ Group has sparked significant controversy, with allegations of a hostile takeover and violent confrontations. The deal, approved by the Kremlin, raises questions about asset redistribution amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Tensions escalated following a deadly incident at Wildberries' headquarters involving co-founder Vladislav Bakalchuk.
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At the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, Robert Jenrick emerged as a frontrunner in the leadership race following Rishi Sunak's departure. Jenrick's campaign focuses on immigration reform and regional economic issues, while other candidates vie for support amid party divisions. The conference has also seen unusual incidents and rivalries among members.
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Frasers Group has proposed a £83 million takeover bid for Mulberry, valuing shares at 130p each. Mulberry's board rejected the offer, citing its potential for future growth and support from its majority shareholder, Challice. The luxury brand is currently facing financial difficulties, including a £34 million pre-tax loss last year.
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As the Conservative Party conference unfolds, leadership candidates Kemi Badenoch, Robert Jenrick, Tom Tugendhat, and James Cleverly are vying for support. The party grapples with internal divisions and the aftermath of a historic election defeat in July 2024, prompting calls for significant change and reflection on past failures.
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During a recent interview, Labour's Ed Miliband discussed long-term plans to reduce energy bills by 2030, while facing criticism for not addressing immediate concerns. The government announced a £22 billion investment in carbon capture technology, aiming to bolster energy security and create jobs. The debate highlights contrasting views on energy independence and climate policy.
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On October 3, 2024, the UK government announced a historic agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including Diego Garcia, to Mauritius. The deal secures the continued operation of the US-UK military base on Diego Garcia for at least 99 years, amid concerns over China's influence in the region.
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Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey indicated potential for more aggressive interest rate cuts, contingent on inflation trends. Following a recent rate drop, the Bank is closely monitoring geopolitical developments, particularly in the Middle East, that could impact oil prices and inflation. Analysts anticipate further cuts in upcoming meetings.