Scottish National Party faces scrutiny over delayed role split review as they hold 60 of 129 seats, amid ongoing debates on independence and governance.
The UK is heading to local and devolved elections with Labour facing predicted poor results. Analysts say the outcome will test Sir Keir Starmer's leadership as Reform UK and Plaid Cymru gain ground and the Greens push in London.
The Times of Israel, AP News and The Independent report that Keir Starmer’s centre-left Labour Party is expected to take a battering in local England elections and in Scotland and Wales, with leadership questions intensifying as parties on the right and Greens gain ground.
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.
A 41-year-old man identified as Preston Landis has been living in a family’s crawl space and basement undetected until the owners confronted him. He has been charged with residential burglary and theft and is held on a $15,000 bond.
Jeane Freeman, former Scottish health secretary and SNP MSP, died aged 72 after a brief cancer battle. She was known for her leadership during Scotland’s Covid response and her long public service career. Tributes highlight her compassion and dedication.
Recent data shows over 5,200 incidents of violence against teachers in Scotland from 2019 to 2025, with hundreds requiring hospital treatment. Critics blame the SNP government’s guidance discouraging exclusions, which they say has led to increased assaults and declining discipline in schools.
Scottish, Welsh, and Northern Irish elections in May could see first ministers advocating independence, signaling a potential seismic shift in UK politics. Polls show rising support for regional parties, with debates over devolution, governance, and union stability intensifying amid broader UK political tensions.
The SNP has announced plans to cap prices of essential foods and bus fares if re-elected, aiming to address the cost-of-living crisis. The policy faces opposition from the UK government and retail groups, with debates over its feasibility and legal implications ongoing.
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.