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Reuters Rachel Reeves pictured outside No 11 Downing Street, wearing a light blue suit
Politics

Spring Statement 2026: Key Economic Updates from Rachel Reeves

The UK’s economic forecast received a cautious update on 3 March 2026 as Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her Spring Statement. While the announcement avoided major tax hikes or spending shifts, it highlighted critical adjustments shaped by emerging global uncertainties and domestic challenges.

Getty Images Yes and No campaigners on the Scottish independence campaign trail in September 2014 in Blantyre.
Politics

Why Scottish Independence Remains a Deep Political Divide in 2026

More than a decade after the historic 2014 referendum, the question of Scottish independence continues to sharply divide public opinion. Despite the initial vote to remain part of the United Kingdom, recent data reveals that Scotland remains almost evenly split on the issue, underscoring its enduring role as a central fault line in Scottish politics.

Reuters Lord Mandelson speaks into a microphone at the ambassador's residence in Washington. Behind him is a US flag, flowers and a painting on yellow wallpaper.
Politics

Inside Lord Mandelson’s Ambassador Appointment: How Thorough Was the Vetting?

Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the United States has sparked intense scrutiny after revelations about his past connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. As documents related to Mandelson’s vetting process prepare to be released under parliamentary pressure, questions abound over how much was truly known and assessed before he assumed one of Britain’s most sensitive diplomatic roles.

PA Media Sir Keir Starmer making a statement about the situation in the Middle East from 10 Downing Street on Sunday night
Politics

Starmer Defines Unique UK Stance Amid Middle East Conflict

Keir Starmer confronts a complex challenge: forging a distinct British policy on the escalating military conflict in the Middle East, diverging from the broader US and Israeli objectives. This delicate balancing act reflects his legal background and political evolution since he first warned against unlawful war in 2003.

BBC Black and white photo of Prof Sir John Curtice who has a bald head with grey hair at the sides. He is wearing metal-rimmed glasses, a dark suit and tie and a light-coloured shirt. He is smiling at the camera. The background is a prism r triangle made up of different bright colours
Politics

Key Issues Set to Shape 2026 Elections in Scotland and Wales

As voters prepare to head to the polls on 7 May 2026 for the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd elections, understanding what influences their decisions has never been more crucial. A recent BBC-commissioned poll reveals the dominant concerns driving voter behavior in both nations, highlighting the pivotal issues political parties must address to secure victory.

Politics

Is Angela Rayner Positioning Herself for a Future as Prime Minister?

Angela Rayner , the current Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, has increasingly become a focal point in British politics, sparking speculation about her ambitions to eventually become Prime Minister. As the UK faces significant political and economic challenges, her rising profile and strategic moves within the party have raised questions about whether she is preparing to step into the top job.

PA Media Sir Keir Starmer stands at a podium and raises his right hand. A large Union Jack is behind him.
Politics

Why Keir Starmer Stands Firm on Iran Conflict Despite Trump’s Sharp Criticism

President Donald Trump has launched a series of pointed attacks against UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in recent days, taking every opportunity in front of cameras to question Starmer’s leadership and the UK’s response to the escalating tensions with Iran. Yet, despite Trump’s relentless barbs, Starmer remains confident he has made the right calls amid a complex international crisis.

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

Inside the Mandelson Files: Why the Starmer-Epstein Controversy Is Far from Over

The release of the first tranche of government documents surrounding Lord Peter Mandelson ‘s controversial appointment as ambassador to Washington has captivated political observers—but it stops short of delivering a definitive verdict. While the papers expose troubling details, including warnings about Mandelson’s ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein , they fail to provide a knockout blow that settles the escalating dispute between Mandelson and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starme

AFP via Getty Images A motorist refuels a vehicle with unleaded petrol at a Jet petrol station, a subsidiary of Phillips 66, in Brentford, north west of London.
Politics

Cost of Living Crisis Intensifies Amid Middle East Conflict

The escalating war between America, Israel, and Iran has thrust the global spotlight back on the Middle East, capturing headlines with scenes of conflict in Iran, Israel, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates. Yet, beyond the immediate geopolitical turmoil, the reverberations are hitting households thousands of miles away—most notably in the UK—where the cost of living crisis is resurfacing with renewed urgency.

Katya Adler profile image
Politics

Europe’s Fragmented Response to Iran Highlights Deep Divisions

As the US and Israel launched military strikes against Iran three days ago, Europe’s leaders revealed a troubling lack of unity. Despite forewarning signs and escalating tensions, the continent now appears divided and reactive, struggling to present a cohesive front amid a rapidly unfolding Middle East crisis.

Laura Kuenssberg profile image
Politics

Why Westminster Still Feels Like a Men’s Club Despite Progress

Westminster has long been criticised as a “boys’ club,” and despite significant advancements in female representation, many insiders argue that this perception remains stubbornly entrenched. The question is not just about numbers—more women are now MPs and senior civil servants than ever before—but about influence, access, and whether women truly have a seat at the table where power is wielded.

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