British Labour politician, active in housing and local government
Hollie Ridley has announced she is stepping down as Labour general secretary to work with the next leader. With Sir Keir Starmer's resignation and Andy Burnham the frontrunner, Labour MPs and allies debate whether a formal leadership contest will occur. UK politics enters a swift transition as Burnham’s ascent to prime minister looms.
Andy Burnham has reiterated that there is room for movement on tax within Labour’s 2024 manifesto while outlining possible changes to business rates to support high streets and pubs. He has not promised revenue-raising measures on income tax, VAT or National Insurance but is considering reforms to business rates and targeted reliefs as part of his broader policy package.
The Renters’ Rights Act has abolished Section 21 no‑fault evictions in England, shifting tenancies to open-ended agreements, tightening upfront rent rules, and capping annual rent increases. The reforms aim to grant greater security to private tenants, with penalties for non-compliance and expanded rights to have pets and non-discriminatory access.
Labour is under intense scrutiny as local and devolved election results unfold. While leaders deny immediate plans to quit, backbenchers and allies are weighing the party’s direction, amid warnings of potential leadership challenges if results catastrophically worsen.
Prosecutions for hate crimes are being fast-tracked after antisemitic attacks; government warns Iran over possible links; universities and arts funding under scrutiny amid a broader plan to counter extremism. Authorities urge swift action while lawmakers call for tougher online regulation.
Since mid-May 2026 Labour has been forced into open leadership turmoil after heavy local election losses. Wes Streeting has resigned and declared a challenge; Andy Burnham has been enabled to seek a Commons seat via a Makerfield by-election; party members are expressing stronger support for Burnham than Keir Starmer.
Pubs in England are set to gain flexibility to host outdoor screenings and late openings during the World Cup, with ministers pushing councils to approve applications quickly. The measures aim to boost venues’ takings while preserving safe, community-focused spaces.
Andy Burnham has secured a decisive Makerfield by-election victory, prompting renewed talk of a leadership transition. Labour figures warn against a prolonged leadership contest, as Burnham appears set to assume power in July if no challenger surfaces.
Mayors and Labour figures are advocating a bold devolution agenda, arguing for wider control over public services, policing, and local taxation. The momentum follows Andy Burnham’s devolution plan and calls for a decade-long reform to shift power away from Whitehall to local authorities.
The government is considering a one-off extension to licensing laws so pubs can stay open past midnight to show England’s 1am World Cup match with Mexico. Transport of information follows that earlier matches were allowed under extended hours, but Monday’s game falls outside current provisions. Officials say councils can approve Temporary Event Notices, though time is tight.