Sarah Wilkinson
Sarah Wilkinson@swilkinsonbc
‘The UN is crumbling under the weight of shame’, inaction & complicity with the israeli genocide: it’s no longer a beacon of anything but inertia
Uncle Hoz
Uncle Hoz@HussainShafiei
What’s happening in the refugee camp of Jabalia in Northern Gaza needs to stop now. Israel is committing war crimes this government of ours and every other western government is going to have to do something about this. If you don’t do something now whatever happens is on your heads.

TL:DR

  • Reform UK gains majority with 53 councillors in Lancashire’s local elections.
  • Councillor Joel Tetlow faces backlash for controversial social media history.
  • Party’s vague policies raise questions about their competency in managing council.
  • Reform promises budget cuts but faces backlash over proposed closures of elder care facilities.
  • Tensions arise over perceived conflicts of interest amid councillors’ actions.
  • Critics express disillusionment as community welfare is prioritized against austerity measures.

Infighting, broken promises and insisting on the national anthem: what seven months of Reform UK in charge actually looks like Reform UK ( Brexit party)

Reform UK’s New Beginning in Lancashire Faces Struggles
On 22 May 2025, Reform UK kicked off its reign in Lancashire as 53 councillors donned turquoise ties, but they face fierce opposition and internal confusion over policies. The new council, under the leadership of former Tory Stephen Atkinson, aims to implement a cost-cutting agenda amid a £1.2 billion debt crisis.

What Happened

The council’s inaugural meeting included demonstrations against its ‘far-right’ recognition by protesters. Joel Tetlow, a new councillor embroiled in controversy for past social media posts, indicated that their challenges only elevate the party’s profile.

Reform’s platform includes promises to freeze council tax and cut ‘bloated salaries’, but their vague policy outlines raise questions about feasibility.

Where It Happened

Lancashire, a diverse region comprising urban areas like Blackburn and rural landscapes, provides a vital testing ground for Reform’s anti-woke and fascist agenda.

With significant issues such as social care and educational needs at stake, the council must navigate complex community expectations.

Stakeholders – Who’s Involved

Key players include Stephen Atkinson and Tetlow, who have made headlines for their provocative statements and approach to governance. Critics, including Labour councillor Samara Barnes, argue that the new administration’s lack of diverse representation undermines inclusive decision-making.

Reaction and Fallout

Public sentiment reveals deep discontent, particularly concerning proposed closures of elderly care homes, sparking outrage from residents like Dorothy Devereux. For many, the council’s actions threaten not only local welfare but also the credibility of Reform UK’s governance ambitions.

Going forward, the council must confront the challenge of delivering on its promises while managing public outrage and complicated bureaucratic realities.

As Reform UK’s strategies unfold, their approach will be scrutinised in upcoming elections, where their handling of social services could define their future.

TL:DR

  • The UK government has no plans to mandate reporting collisions with cats despite a petition with nearly 11,000 signatures.
  • Cats and wild animals are not included in the Road Traffic Act 1988, which only covers specific farm animals.
  • The government cites difficulties in prosecuting drivers as reasons for the current law, noting that many drivers may be unaware of hitting a cat.
  • Advocacy group Cats Matter expresses disappointment, emphasising the need for protections similar to those for dogs.

No plans to force drivers to report collisions with cats, government says

The UK government has ruled out plans to require drivers to report collisions involving cats, despite an e-petition garnering nearly 11,000 signatures advocating for such a law. Currently, cats are excluded from the Road Traffic Act 1988, which obliges drivers to report accidents only involving specified animals.

The absence of legal requirements for reporting cat collisions stems from historical laws that focused on working animals rather than domestic pets. A government statement highlighted the challenges in prosecuting drivers due to the small size and elusive behaviour of cats, often active during twilight hours.

### What Happened

A government announcement confirmed that there are no intentions to amend existing legislation concerning pet animals. The statement acknowledged the emotional distress caused when beloved pets are harmed, but reiterated that those behind the wheel may be unaware of a collision, especially when larger vehicles are involved.

The absence of statutory reporting is further compounded by the legislation being originally enacted for working animals, such as dogs and livestock.

### Stakeholders – Who’s Involved

The campaign group Cats Matter has been actively lobbying for a change in legislation, voicing their disappointment with the government’s response. Co-founder Mandy Hobbis critiqued the current laws, advocating for the humane treatment of all pets, including cats.

Additionally, charity Cats Protection highlighted the dangers cats face on roads and called for stronger measures to support injured animals, urging drivers to take any injured cat to the vet.

#### Reaction and Fallout

Community reactions have been mixed, with strong sentiments expressed by animal welfare advocates who believe that domestic pets deserve equal protection under the law. Hobbis’s statements conveyed frustration over what she perceives as a disconnect between the government’s compassion and its legislative action.

### What Will Happen Next

The Cats Matter group aims to continue advocating for legislative changes, and the issue may gain further traction if the e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures, prompting a parliamentary debate.

Meanwhile, cats’ welfare organisations will likely push for broader public awareness on the importance of reporting such incidents, alongside promoting responsible pet ownership.

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