Polls close in Makerfield by-election, a key contest for Andy Burnham's political future. The Labour candidate faces Reform's Robert Kenyon in a seat traditionally safe for Labour but recently leaning towards Reform.
A new study of election data suggests young men are not shifting rightwing more than other demographics, challenging claims they are a key driver of parties like Reform UK. Age is a bigger factor than gender in political opinions, and young men remain the most progressive male cohort.
Pauline Hanson, leader of Australia's rightwing party, delivered a speech at the National Press Club criticizing multiculturalism and Islam, vowing to cut public broadcasting, and blaming 'global warming hoax' for poverty.
Guardian Australia's Matilda Boseley won for innovative storytelling, while The Sydney Morning Herald's Riley Walter was named Young Australian Journalist of the Year at the 2026 Walkley mid-year media prizes. Other winners included ABC teams for women's leadership and reporting on violence against women.
News highlights include Russia's appreciation for Malaysia's ASEAN partnership, escalating tensions in Iran with US and Israeli operations, and ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Discussions also touch on nuclear arsenals, energy supply crises, and international diplomatic efforts.
The Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) faces internal power struggles and declining approval ratings post-election wins. Leader Jung Chung-rae faces pressure to resign amid factional rifts, highlighting tensions ahead of the August party convention. This infighting may hinder the Lee administration's economic and democratic reform efforts.
Pauline Hanson's National Press Club address, criticizing a journalist and pledging to end multiculturalism, has drawn sharp reactions from Environment Minister Murray Watt and Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie. McKenzie expressed concern over Hanson's selective questioning of media, deeming it undemocratic, while Watt criticized Hanson's proposed policies targeting workers, migrants, and the ABC.
The article outlines scenarios for Andy Burnham to become Labour leader and potentially Prime Minister. The fastest route involves Keir Starmer stepping down without other challengers, leading to a swift coronation for Burnham. A slower path includes a full leadership contest, which could take months if not accelerated.
The White House imposed export controls on Anthropic's advanced AI models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5, causing chaos for users and casting doubt on the company's future. Conflicting narratives and internal political struggles within the administration have obscured the reasons and responsibility for the decision, highlighting the volatile nature of AI regulation.
Keir Starmer stated the UK and EU should not dwell on Brexit, emphasizing a forward-looking approach to building a closer relationship. He confirmed a "reset" summit on July 22 in Brussels, despite previous delays. Starmer highlighted progress made through professional, quiet diplomacy and a mutual recognition to move past the Brexit debate.
The St George's Cross flag, once a symbol of English national pride, now evokes mixed feelings due to its association with far-right groups and protests. While some see it as a unifying symbol for events like the World Cup, others find it intimidating and exclusionary, highlighting a complex debate about English identity.
Pauline Hanson's National Press Club speech has drawn widespread condemnation from advocacy groups and politicians. Critics accuse her of using "hatred for political gain," echoing "rubbish" from rightwing figures, and promoting divisive language against transgender people, multiculturalism, and workers.
Former Hungarian PM Viktor Orbán declared his intention to stay in politics and continue challenging the EU, particularly on migration, despite his election defeat. He aims to reform Brussels and believes patriotic parties' progress in Europe is ongoing.
Matt Wrack, general secretary of the NASUWT teaching union, believes Andy Burnham is Labour's strongest candidate to defeat Reform in a general election. Wrack expressed deep concern over Reform's potential impact on education and trade unions, citing hostility from Reform councillors. He also called for more robust change from Labour than currently seen, particularly on academisation and SEND provision.
Matt Wrack, general secretary of the NASUWT teaching union, believes Andy Burnham is Labour's strongest candidate to defeat Reform in a general election and potentially lead the party. Wrack expressed deep concern over Reform's potential impact on education and trade unions, citing hostility from Reform councillors. He also criticized the current Labour government's continuation of Tory policies on academisation and SEND provision.
A British couple, Jane and Alan Kelvey, on a yacht in the Channel reported a Russian warship, Admiral Grigorovich, fired warning shots near them. The couple downplayed the incident, stating it was unnecessary and the Russian account was untrue, emphasizing they were not on a collision course and had right of way.
Hardline factions in Iran are protesting against a leaked memorandum of understanding with the US, fearing it will reshape foreign policy and internal power dynamics. Protests have occurred in Mashhad and Tehran, with calls for the resignation of key negotiators. Analysts suggest hardliners aim to show their influence despite likely being sidelined by the leadership.
Russia's Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov stated that the current geopolitical situation has allowed Russia to create the world's most technologically advanced and secure cybersecurity system. He also highlighted the growth of e-commerce and Russian businesses' readiness to enter ASEAN markets.
A by-election in Makerfield, UK, on Thursday is significant not just for electing a new MP but also for its potential impact on Labour's leadership. Andy Burnham, a popular figure, is contesting the seat, with a win potentially positioning him to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Reform UK's Robert Kenyon is a strong contender, highlighting the rise of the far-right.
Former British ambassador to the EU, Ivan Rogers, criticizes Labour's approach to the UK's post-Brexit relationship with the EU, calling it unprepared and lacking a coherent vision. He argues their proposed solutions are technocratic and irrelevant to the EU's core concerns.
Keir Starmer indicated he would offer Andy Burnham a cabinet role, calling him a "huge asset," as he braces for a potential leadership challenge after the Makerfield byelection. Wes Streeting also signaled readiness to challenge Starmer, demanding an end to "uncertainty and paralysis."
Pauline Hanson revisited her long-standing anti-multiculturalism stance, now targeting 'radical Islam' and non-English speakers. She also attacked climate change policies, proposed defunding public broadcasters, and discussed abortion limits, while facing criticism over her 'champion of workers' image.
Pauline Hanson, a seasoned politician, leveraged her appearance at the National Press Club not for traditional discourse, but for a 'Fight Club' spectacle, engaging with journalists and protesters to energize her base and garner media attention. This strategy, honed over 30 years, capitalizes on her 'outsider' status.
Gold prices are holding strong, supported by central bank purchases and an interim US-Iran peace agreement that shifted focus from geopolitics to economics. Easing tensions reduced inflation fears and Fed tightening expectations, leading to lower Treasury yields and a softer dollar.
