British digital radio station owned by News UK
Reform UK faces renewed questions as undercover Channel 4 footage shows senior aides discussing how foreign money could fund polling and influence campaigns. Farage denies wrongdoing, while police say offences may be investigated and internal reviews continue amid a Birmingham conference backdrop.
The defence secretary and armed forces minister have resigned amid a long-delayed Defence Investment Plan. Downing Street names a new defence secretary while ministers push back on funding and NATO commitments, keeping the government under pressure as it faces questions over defence spending and leadership.
The Defence Investment Plan (DIP) has been published, detailing a 2.7% of GDP defence spend by 2029 with a 3% target in the next Parliament. The plan shifts funding away from road and energy projects to weapons, drones, and naval capabilities, while promising efficiencies and a long-term upgrade in nuclear deterrence. Several ministers have resigned over the funding levels amid a controversial rollout that may be revisited by a new prime minister.
The Amos review has recommended appointing a national maternity and neonatal commissioner to drive urgent reforms in England. Ministers are now pursuing this plan, signaling a turning point after years of concerns about safety, listening to women, and discrimination. An accompanying 10-point plan sets out actions to improve triage, staffing, capacity, and accountability.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has announced that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport will leave Elon Musk’s platform X, joining the Attorney General’s Office in suspending official posts. The move comes amid scrutiny of X’s handling of misinformation, racist content and online safety, with Ofcom investigations and past government actions raising pressure as violence and protests linked to recent incidents unfold.
The Reform UK leader has quit as an MP to trigger a Clacton by-election, arguing the people of Clacton should judge his actions amid ongoing scrutiny over a 35m gift and separate fundraising allegations. Most major parties are not fielding candidates, leaving Count Binface as the primary challenger; the by-election carries potential legal and financial implications for Farage and Reform.
The dispute over moving the Mexico City kick-off and related disciplinary actions around Balogun has been resolved. FIFA has kept the start time, while discussions highlighted the PM’s and US President’s differing approaches to interference and safety concerns.
Reform UK politicians face renewed scrutiny over protective security as counter-terror police lead the investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s death. Ministers are reviewing MP protection; Nigel Farage’s security package is under renewed debate after he reportedly declined a government offer.
Ann Widdecombe, 78, has been found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon; prosecutors have charged 28‑year‑old Joshua Kerry with her murder after his arrest in Rotherham. Counter‑terrorism teams have taken the lead and police are continuing to investigate whether the attack had a political or terrorist motive.
The government has taken British Steel into public ownership to protect steel production in the UK, secure thousands of jobs, and safeguard national infrastructure. Parliament has enacted new powers allowing state intervention, with ministers aiming to stabilise the plant, back communities, and modernise the sector toward green steelmaking.
A record summer of heat, drought and wildfires has prompted an emergency Cobra meeting and voluntary retailer suspensions of disposable-barbecue sales. Green groups have written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham urging him to call the crisis 'climate change' and stop new North Sea drilling; Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has questioned net zero and urged adaptation and celebration of warmer weather.
The government has unveiled proposals to introduce technical subjects for 14-year-old pupils from September 2028, aiming to close gaps between vocational and academic paths. The plan has sparked a national debate about whether Britain overvalues degrees or risks limiting opportunities for those who need it most. Education unions demand more funding and clarity while warning that implementation hinges on investment in schools and staff.
Rod Liddle, a controversial British columnist and former BBC Radio 4 Today editor, has died at 66. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and politicians, highlighting his wit and provocative voice, while critics note his history of targeting marginalized groups. The news is confirmed by multiple outlets, with ongoing updates on his legacy and influence in British journalism.
Ukraine’s sacked Defence Minister has urged Zelenskyy to schedule presidential elections amid ongoing war. He says democracy must not be Russia’s hostage, while allies debate safe conditions for votes. Polls show strong trust in various leaders, complicating the scene.
Reform UK has unveiled a plan to reform social housing allocation, prioritising British-born workers under 35, married couples with children, and veterans, while promising to evict foreign nationals from social housing. The proposals aim to expand social housebuilding without new taxes or borrowing, drawing criticism from Labour and charities.
Reform UK has launched an investigation after Channel 4 News alleged funding from a US firm for three polls costing 33250 pounds, with undercover Verbatim reporters posing as donors. James Orr and Dan Jukes have stepped down as the party gathers for its Birmingham conference. The party denies any illegal funding and says the investigation is independent.