UK manufacturers face a "heavy drag" on competitiveness due to the highest electricity prices in the G7. Make UK and TUC call for expanded government relief, costing £3bn, to cover all manufacturers, as current schemes are too narrow.
The Makerfield by-election on Thursday is described as highly consequential. A win for Andy Burnham could position him to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour leadership, while a loss might indicate Reform's growing influence and Nigel Farage's proximity to power.
Wes Streeting is preparing a Labour leadership bid focused on attracting global talent through a "global talent programme" and using North Sea oil and gas tax revenues to cut energy bills. He criticizes the US for deterring scientists and AI experts, vowing to welcome them to Britain.
UK Labour figures Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting are considering a wealth tax on the super-rich, inspired by economist Gabriel Zucman's proposals. The tax aims to address growing inequality, with Zucman advocating a 2% levy on assets over $100 million, even for those who leave the country.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has ruled out direct financial compensation for WASPI women, citing affordability. However, he expressed openness to alternative benefits like subsidized transport, echoing past support for the group facing state pension age changes.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer vows to contest any leadership challenge, as pressure mounts post-election losses and rivals like Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting indicate interest in running.
Andy Burnham stated he would enter a Labour leadership contest if he wins the Makerfield by-election on June 18. He aims to "change politics" and "change this county". Reform UK's Robert Kenyon criticized the move as using Makerfield as a "stepping stone".
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is running in a by-election on June 18th. If elected, he plans to challenge Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership, aiming to become Prime Minister.
Wes Streeting supports cutting employers' national insurance to boost hiring and calls for oil/gas drilling in the North Sea. Pat McFadden defends current policies, citing NHS improvements. Ed Miliband faces a decision on drilling consents.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, runs in the Makerfield byelection, potentially to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour leadership, advocating against London-centric politics.
A by-election in the UK constituency of Makerfield on June 18 is gaining national attention as it could trigger a Labour leadership contest. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, a potential challenger to current leader Keir Starmer, is expected to run, aiming to win a parliamentary seat and potentially lead the party.
Rachel Reeves is actively campaigning to retain her position as Chancellor of the Exchequer, even if Labour's leadership changes. Allies argue her fiscal credibility is vital for market confidence, contrasting her with potential rivals like Ed Miliband. Despite recent economic good news and policy wins, Reeves faces challenges from potential new leaders and ongoing economic pressures.
Wes Streeting has launched a shadow campaign for Labour leadership, vowing to win over the party's left and beat the odds. He criticized Keir Starmer's leadership following poor election results, warning of a "Reform government" and a "Joe Biden situation." Streeting outlined plans for housing, a national care service, and a wealth tax, positioning himself as an underdog ready to challenge frontrunner Andy Burnham.
Andy Burnham's political philosophy, 'Manchesterism,' emphasizes deindustrialization, social housing, and public control of essential services. This approach, drawing parallels to The Smiths' song 'London,' contrasts with past Labour leadership bids and positions him as an outsider with concrete ideas.
Allies of UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves are warning against Ed Miliband potentially succeeding her, fearing he would "torpedo" her position if Keir Starmer is removed as PM. They criticize Miliband's economic policies, contrasting them with Reeves' perceived market stability.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer faces internal pressure as Andy Burnham's campaign gains traction. Starmer pledges support for Burnham's by-election bid, despite speculation of a leadership challenge.
TUC leader Paul Nowak voiced anger over Labour's perceived lack of change and Keir Starmer's leadership, warning of Reform UK's rise. He urged focus on working-class issues and suggested Andy Burnham could be a strong contender.
UK services sector activity hits lowest since Jan 2021, driven by political uncertainty and the Iran war. S&P Global PMI shows contraction, with economists predicting GDP collapse. Job cuts rise as costs soar.
Wes Streeting, a former Health Secretary, has proposed a "wealth tax that works" by equalising Capital Gains Tax (CGT) with income tax rates (20%, 40%, 45%). He estimates this could raise £12bn annually and aims to encourage investment while closing loopholes. Tax experts have offered mixed reactions, with some calling it a necessary reform and others noting it's not a new idea and the "devil is in the detail."
A by-election in Makerfield on June 18 will see Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor, attempt to secure a parliamentary seat, a prerequisite for challenging Keir Starmer for the Labour Party leadership. Burnham faces main rival Robert Kenyon of Reform UK.
Independent readers are divided on who should lead the Labour party, with Andy Burnham narrowly ahead of Keir Starmer in a poll. Debates focus on Brexit, leadership credibility, and policy promises.
Nigel Farage has been absent from public view for six days, cancelling a Reform UK rally amidst scrutiny over a £5m crypto gift. His explanations for the gift have shifted, and questions arise about his finances and property purchases.
Defence Secretary John Healey warned Labour leadership rivals that the party's credibility is at stake amid a contest to replace Keir Starmer. Healey urged colleagues to focus on national interests rather than personal ambition, referencing past pains of opposition and criticizing focus on "photo opportunities or PR firms."
A little-known British defence minister, Al Carns, is being urged by MPs to consider a bid to replace Keir Starmer amidst a Labour leadership crisis. Supporters see Carns, a former special forces commander, as a fresh face with a compelling backstory to win back voters.
