Welsh Parliament: devolved, unicameral legislature of Wales
The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has urged reviving unused heritage buildings as a major, non-niche solution to Britain’s housing shortage. A heritage-to-housing scheme and tax incentives could help bring old buildings back into use, potentially delivering about 670,000 homes by 2029, as ministers face calls for broader VAT relief and better funding and training in heritage crafts.
The Prime Minister has met Scotland’s First Minister in Glasgow amid Commonwealth Games coverage, arguing for deeper devolution to spur growth while ruling out a new independence referendum. Both leaders commit to constructive engagement and addressing the cost of living.
The Welsh election ends Labour’s 26-year hold on the Senedd, with Plaid Cymru forming a minority government alongside Reform UK. The new coalition faces internal clashes over policy, from refugees to devolved powers, as it sets out its first days in power.
UK debate intensifies over data center growth as three-quarters of the country experiences drought. Greens call for stricter rules and local voice, while government argues pausing would risk investment and national data security.
The government has given English regional mayors the power to charge an overnight visitor levy as a percentage of accommodation costs with no statutory upper limit. Industry groups and major hotel chains have warned the uncapped power will raise prices, reduce demand and cost jobs; mayors say revenue will fund local services and infrastructure from 2028.
Reform UK’s Welsh leadership has been in flux as Dan Thomas has stood down after a police arrest. Helen Jenner has been named interim leader, with Laura Anne Jones elected deputy leader. Defections and internal dissent threaten Wales’ second-largest party as Plaid Cymru gains momentum.