Polanski in the news as Green Party leader confrontation over policing and Israel sanctions; London Assembly member since 2021, Green leader since Sep 2025.
In the Gorton and Denton by-election, allegations of high levels of illegal family voting have emerged, with election observers reporting the highest incidence in a decade. The Electoral Commission and police are investigating, amid claims from parties about potential electoral misconduct and questions over the legitimacy of the results.
Hannah Spencer, a Green Party candidate and former plumber, won a parliamentary by-election in Gorton and Denton, overturning nearly a century of Labour dominance. The result signals a significant shift in voter sentiment and challenges for Labour's leadership amid broader political fragmentation in Britain.
Labour suffered a significant defeat in the Gorton and Denton by-election, with the Greens winning a seat Labour had held for nearly a century. Lucy Powell suggests Burnham's popularity could have helped Labour retain the seat, highlighting internal party disagreements and strategic missteps.
As of March 10, 2026, the UK has deployed the HMS Dragon destroyer and counter-drone helicopters to the eastern Mediterranean following an Iranian drone strike on RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus on March 1. British Typhoon and F-35 jets are actively intercepting Iranian missiles and drones in the Middle East. The UK has authorized limited US use of British bases for defensive strikes against Iranian missile sites amid escalating regional tensions.
Over the past days, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks targeting US and regional assets, retaliating against US and Israeli strikes. The conflict has caused regional disruptions, including airspace closures, flight cancellations, and civilian casualties, with ongoing military exchanges and international concern.
A YouGov poll shows divided UK opinion on US military actions against Iran, with 49% opposing and 28% supporting. UK initially refused to allow bases for strikes but later permitted US use. Prime Minister Starmer emphasizes lawful, defensive measures amid escalating Middle East conflict.
The government has framed its new migration strategy as a way to curb illegal migration and reduce strain on public services, arguing that Britain’s asylum system is being exploited by traffickers. Shadow Labour insiders warn the plan could be punitive, while party colleagues say bold action is needed to avoid populist backlash.
The UK Home Secretary announced new immigration policies including temporary refugee status, removal of support for illegal workers, and incentives for voluntary deportation. The proposals aim to curb small boat crossings and illegal migration, sparking opposition from Labour and human rights groups. The policies are set to be piloted soon.
Angela Rayner has publicly criticised Keir Starmer's leadership, warning Labour is 'running out of time' and calling for urgent change. She attacked government immigration reforms and signalled her leadership ambitions amid upcoming local elections and party turmoil.
The Prime Minister is confronting questions at PMQs after Angela Rayner's leadership challenge and amid rising energy costs tied to the Middle East conflict. The government has unveiled targeted support for heating oil and is signaling de-escalation as essential to stabilizing prices, while critics argue that policy must go further to protect working people.
Green leader Zack Polanski outlined a new economic vision emphasizing wellbeing, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability. He proposed policies including a wealth tax, rent controls, and renationalisation of water, criticizing current fiscal rules and Brexit's economic impact. The speech signals a strategic move to attract left-leaning voters.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan and other Labour figures advocate rejoining the EU, citing Brexit's economic damage and global instability. Khan suggests Labour should commit to rejoining in the next election manifesto, while the government maintains its red lines against re-entry into the customs union and single market.
Public satisfaction with the NHS has increased for the first time since 2019, reaching 26%, according to recent surveys. While dissatisfaction remains high at 51%, government efforts to improve services are showing signs of progress, with plans to address underperforming trusts and reduce waiting times. However, public confidence varies across age groups and regions.
Avi Lewis has been elected leader of Canada's New Democratic Party, promising to rebuild the party after its worst electoral losses. Lewis, known for his anti-Zionist stance and family political legacy, campaigned on principles including affordability and the environment. His victory signals a shift in the party's direction.
Hundreds of civic groups organized the largest protest in UK history to oppose right-wing extremism. The march drew between 50,000 and 500,000 participants, featuring speeches from politicians and musicians. Police made 25 arrests, including supporters of banned groups. The event occurred ahead of upcoming elections amid rising far-right support.
Zack Polanski, leader of the UK Green Party, has called for the government to impose sanctions on Israel and withdraw from the UK-Israel trade agreement following Israeli strikes on Lebanon that have killed over 250 people. He also urges banning US military use of UK airspace amid ongoing Middle East conflict.
Recent reports reveal that multiple Reform UK candidates have shared extremist, racist, and sexist social media posts. Despite Nigel Farage's claims of improved vetting, allegations of offensive remarks and links to far-right supporters have emerged, raising questions about candidate screening ahead of the May local elections. The party's vetting procedures are under scrutiny.
A 45-year-old man, Essa Suleiman, has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article after two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green, north London. He has also been charged over an earlier south London incident. The suspect has been remanded and the UK terrorism threat level has been raised to "severe."
Voters are shifting toward Reform UK in Scotland and Wales amid concerns about local economies and longstanding dissatisfaction with mainstream parties. The party is poised to become a major force in the Scottish and Welsh parliaments, while national polls show it leading opposition to Labour and the Conservatives.
Local and devolved votes held 7–8 May have produced major gains for Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and for the Green Party while Labour has lost hundreds of council seats and control of key authorities. Scotland and Wales results are reshaping national parliaments; Keir Starmer has said he will stay in office and has taken responsibility for the losses.
In a London speech, Keir Starmer has taken responsibility for Labour’s poor local election results and argues a Labour government remains the country’s best path forward, despite pressure from MPs and rivals.
Leading climate and transport groups are urging ministers to ban non-essential private jets and lower motorway speeds to blunt a looming jet fuel shortage amid geopolitical tensions. The call follows warnings that supplies could tighten this summer unless demand falls and energy sources diversify.
Prime Minister has warned of “very dangerous opponents” and has pledged a closer relationship with Europe after Labour’s disappointing local election results. The party has lost councillors and seen votes fall in Scotland and Wales, prompting questions about Keir Starmer’s leadership and potential leadership bids.