Author name: Test

BBC A stylised image of a back dog next to a polling station sign, against a multi-coloured triangle on a purple background
Politics

What You Need to Know About the May 2026 Elections in England, Scotland, and Wales

Millions of voters across the United Kingdom will head to the polls on Thursday, 7 May 2026, for a pivotal series of elections that will shape governance at multiple levels. These elections represent the most significant democratic exercise since the 2024 general election, involving local councils and mayoral races in England, and parliamentary contests in Scotland and Wales.

Niall Carson/PA Wire Martin and Trump are sitting next to each other in a room with a fire place, a bust of a head and a glass vase. Martin's hands are up as he talks.
Politics

Irish PM Navigates Tense Oval Office Meeting with Trump on St Patrick’s Day

Taoiseach Micheál Martin brought more than diplomatic skill to his meeting with US President Donald Trump on St Patrick’s Day in Washington — he relied on his boxing instincts honed during years as an amateur fighter. The encounter in the Oval Office quickly turned into a high-stakes sparring match over Middle Eastern conflicts, Anglo-Irish relations, and political leadership, testing Martin’s agility both verbally and strategically.

Getty Images An older woman with long silver hair looks out a bedroom window. She wears a pale grey top with silver beads on the shoulders.
Politics

Assisted Dying Laws in England and Wales: What’s Next?

The debate over assisted dying laws has intensified across the UK, with Scotland rejecting legislation while England, Wales, and Jersey move forward with their own proposals. As the clock ticks on critical parliamentary sessions, the future of assisted dying legislation remains uncertain but deeply consequential for terminally ill patients seeking control over their end-of-life choices.

Getty Images Trump wearing a black suit and blue tie looks into the distance. The background is black.
Politics

Allies Hesitate as Trump’s Iran Crisis Deepens: No Easy Solutions in Sight

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly challenged Washington’s NATO allies during his tenure, but his recent assertion that failing to secure the Strait of Hormuz would threaten NATO’s future has sparked fresh controversy and exposed deep divisions within the alliance. The situation in the Gulf region has escalated dramatically, yet the response from America’s European partners remains cautious and fragmented, underscoring that there is no quick or straightforward fix to the growing Iran crisi

A composite image of Theo Leggett holding up his wallet, next to a vegetable aisle in a supermarket
Politics

Churchill’s Granddaughter Supports Bank of England’s Decision to Replace His Image on £5 Note

The Bank of England has announced a significant change to the design of the £5 note, revealing that the iconic portrait of Sir Winston Churchill will be replaced by an image of an animal. This move has sparked widespread discussion across the UK, but Churchill’s granddaughter, Emma Soames , has expressed her approval of the decision, rejecting criticisms that the change represents “wokery.” Nicole The Bank of England’s New £5 Note Design The Bank of England’s decision to replace Churchill’s imag

AFP via Getty Images Lord Mandelson stands next to Keir Starmer. Both are wearing suits.
Politics

Inside the Mandelson Files: Why the Epstein Controversy Around Starmer’s Ambassador Appointment Is Far From Resolved

The recent release of government documents concerning Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer ’s controversial appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington offers a glimpse into a complex and unresolved political drama. While these 147 pages provide intriguing details, they fail to deliver a decisive blow to either side of the unfolding dispute, signaling that the story is only just beginning.

PA Media Lord Peter Mandelson outside his home in north west London following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Politics

A ‘Weirdly Rushed’ Appointment: Inside the Mandelson Files and Their Fallout

The unveiling of a 147-page trove of government documents has shed new light on the controversial appointment and subsequent dismissal of Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. These files illuminate the complexities behind Mandelson’s hiring, the warnings ignored, and the scandal that ultimately led to his downfall last year.

Reuters Lord Mandelson
Politics

Who Is Peter Mandelson? Inside the Life of the Controversial British Politician

Lord Peter Mandelson has once again become the focus of intense public scrutiny as he faces a criminal investigation for allegedly passing market-sensitive government information to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as a UK minister. This shocking development has reignited interest in his tumultuous political career and his controversial connections.

PA Media Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaking during a press conference to give an update on the latest situation in the Middle East, in the Downing Street Briefing Room in London
Politics

Starmer Faces Rising Pressure as Iran Crisis Shows No Sign of Easing

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confronted mounting public anxiety on March 5, 2026, as the Middle East conflict deepened and thousands of British nationals remained stranded. Speaking from Downing Street, Starmer admitted the nation was “worried sick,” acknowledging fears over family safety, economic fallout, and the risk of wider escalation.

Scroll to Top