British politician and former Liberal Democrat leader
Water companies have reported higher executive pay despite a 2025 bonus ban aimed at curbing lavish payouts after pollution concerns and environmental penalties. Multiple firms show retention payments and raises for chief executives, with regulators promising action while households face rising bills and drought pressures.
Record heatwaves has driven a surge in demand for portable fans and air conditioning across Europe, shifting consumer habits and political debate. Sales of handheld fans and AC units have jumped, premium gadgets have become status items, and UK parties and advisers are pushing building-rule changes and passive cooling as alternatives.
Lib Dem MPs have publicly and privately criticised Sir Ed Davey’s response to Labour leader Andy Burnham’s plan to change the state pension triple lock to fund a National Care Service. Davey warns the move could push pensioners into poverty, while several Lib Dem MPs argue the policy would address intergenerational inequality and expand care funding. The debate unfolds as Labour pushes a reform that would remove the automatic earnings link from 2030.
Lib Dem leadership tensions have escalated as Maynard has resigned from his Treasury spokesperson role amid internal criticisms of Ed Davey’s leadership. Daisy Cooper backs Davey; several MPs voice support, while others express disquiet over the party’s direction and policy stance on pensions and social care.