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Reeves in tears at PMQs spooks market – 10-year plan for health service – Palestine Action banned
July 3, 2025
Thursday’s headlines are dominated by analysis over Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s tearful appearance at yesterday’s Prime Minister’s Questions. As the PM faced questions at the dispatch box, he was asked if the Chancellor would remain in post and appeared to avoid answering. The Chancellor was seen crying behind him. Starmer has since said he backs the chancellor completely and she will not be replaced.
The chancellor’s tears caused some panic in the market, leading to a multi-billion-pound sell-off. There is further analysis of Starmer’s grip on his party, as some Labour MPs want a cabinet reshuffle.
The prime minister will set out a 10-year plan for a “neighbourhood health service” in England this morning, in a move he’ll surely be hoping will deflect attention from his chancellor.
Four people have been charged by counter-terrorism police over a break-in at RAF Brize Norton last month, during which military planes were damaged. It comes as MPs voted to ban Palestine Action under anti-terror laws.
In sports
Welfare bill passes in the Commons – UK sees hottest day of the year so far
July 2, 2025
Wednesday’s UK news continues to be dominated by the government’s welfare bill after ministers made last-minute concessions to avoid a possible defeat.
The bill passed by 335 votes to 260 – but 49 Labour MPs still voted against the government, while 18 others abstained.
The headlines react to the news that yesterday was the UK’s hottest day of the year so far as Britain battles a second heatwave of the summer. St James’s Park in London saw England’s hottest temperature reach 34.7C. Temperatures are set to cool down across the UK on Wednesday.
July 1, 2025
Tuesday’s headlines look ahead to the Commons vote on the government’s welfare bill, set to take place later today. It’s set to be a busy day for the prime minister, who could still face a rebellion of sorts with some Labour rebels suggesting they want more concessions on the plans before they cast their vote. The Tories have already announced they’ll be voting against the government’s bill.
Energy prices will fall from Tuesday for 21 million households in England, Scotland and Wales, but uncertainty remains over whether costs will stay down for winter.
The ongoing heatwave sweeping the UK and Europe continues to dominate the headlines as Brits rush out to enjoy some glorious sunshine! (Stay safe!!)
June 30, 2025
The UK’s second heatwave of the year is set to peak this Monday with temperatures hitting over 34C. The heatwave is affecting much of the country, with major events such as Glastonbury and Wimbledon issuing warnings that could see people being forced to leave early.
The headlines continue to cover the controversy at Glastonbury after punk duo Bob Vylan’s chants of “death, death to the IDF” during the duo’s performance. The performance, along with Irish band Kneecap, will not be available to stream online.
Wimbledon kicks off today, with the headlines reporting on the record number of British tennis players in the world-famous tournament.
There is some continued coverage of the prime minister’s U-turn on the benefits row. The PM backed down from his harsh welfare reforms, making some huge concessions to appease the Labour backbenchers who were mounting a rebellion.
📅 Key Cultural & Business Events – This Week
- Wimbledon Championships – 🎾 London (30 June–13 July)
- Insect Week – 🐞 Nationwide (23–29 June)
- Women’s Euros – Switzerland (2 July)
✍️ Thought of the day
Remember to sit tall with good posture. A simple change can ease back strain and boost your mood.
🌼 Flower of the Week
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Why it’s special: Blooms into early July, releasing its signature calming scent. Great for attracting bees and butterflies, and beautiful in borders or pots.
- Fun fact: The Romans used lavender to scent their baths and bedlinen.
🐦 Bird of the Week
Skylark (Alauda arvensis)
- Why it’s special: Known for its spectacular “song-flight,” spiralling or hovering up to ~200 m while singing for minutes on end.
- Spot it: Head to open fields, farmlands, or heathland on a still morning and listen for its high-pitched dawn song.
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and brother killed in crash in Spain after burst tyre sends car off road
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and brother killed in crash in Spain
Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota, aged 28, and his 26-year-old brother André Silva died early Thursday in a single-car crash near Zamora, Spain. Their Lamborghini reportedly experienced a tyre blowout on the A52 motorway, veered off the road, and burst into flames. The Spanish Guardia Civil confirmed both fatalities occurred at the scene.
Jota, who had recently married Rute Cardoso and leaves behind a wife and three children, made 182 appearances and scored 65 goals for Liverpool. He helped the Reds clinch the Premier League title this season and won two Nations League trophies with Portugal. His brother André played for Penafiel in Portugal’s second division.
🔁 Reactions:
- Luis Montenegro (Portugal PM): > “Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Diogo and André.” (thesun.co.uk)
- Pedro Proença (PFF President): > “An extraordinary person with contagious joy – Portugal mourns irreparable loss.” (apnews.com)
- Liverpool FC > “Unimaginable loss”
📰 Media Bias & Framing:
- Reuters/AP/Guardian provide respectful factual reporting, focusing on accident details, career legacy, and immediate tributes (thesun.co.uk).
- People/The Sun/The Times offer personal touches – marriage, family, and heartfelt testimonials from peers and pundits (thesun.co.uk).
- El País/OneFootball emphasise technical crash details and local emergency response (onefootball.com).
📊 Sentiment: Negative. The football community and public are in shock and deep sorrow following the death of a celebrated young star and his brother, marking a profound personal and sporting tragedy.
‘Death to the IDF’ chant at Glastonbury sparks backlash for world-famous festival and the BBC.
Glastonbury Controversy: Bob Vylan’s ‘Death to the IDF’ Chant Sparks Police, BBC Fallout
What happened
During their Glastonbury 2025 performance on the West Holts stage, punk-rap duo Bob Vylan led the crowd in chanting “Death to the IDF”, referring to the Israeli Defence Forces, while calling for Palestinian solidarity. The performance was broadcast live by the BBC and quickly sparked backlash across political and media circles. Festival organisers later described the chant as “vile”, while the BBC removed the footage from iPlayer and Sounds, citing editorial standards. Police are now reviewing the footage, as is common in potential hate speech investigations.
Irish rap group Kneecap, who appeared on the same stage earlier in the day, also used their set to deliver pro-Palestinian messages and harsh criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Their lyrics referenced “British complicity” in Israel’s actions and mocked Starmer’s stance on the conflict. No arrests were made during the festival.
Why it matters
The controversy has reignited debate around freedom of speech versus incitement, especially at major cultural events with live broadcast reach. The chant from Bob Vylan, interpreted by many as calling for violence, crosses a red line for critics, particularly given the rise in antisemitism linked to the Israel-Gaza war. For the BBC and Glastonbury, the fallout raises deeper questions about how to handle politically charged performances, especially when aired live to national audiences.
Reaction
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the chant “completely unacceptable” and backed the police review. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the performance was “dangerous and inflammatory”, adding that “the BBC should never have aired it.”
Glastonbury co-organiser Emily Eavis said that while political expression was part of the festival’s ethos, “hate speech and incitement are not”, and confirmed Bob Vylan would not be invited back. Bob Vylan defended the performance on social media, claiming the chant was a “call for justice” against what they described as war crimes in Gaza.
What next
Avon & Somerset Police are reviewing footage to determine whether the chant constitutes a hate crime or incitement to violence, but have made no arrests. The BBC is conducting an internal review of its editorial oversight for live music events. Ministers are expected to summon the BBC and Glastonbury organisers to answer questions in parliament.
At the same time, free speech campaigners have warned against criminalising political performance, while pro-Palestinian groups argue the reaction is part of a broader crackdown on legitimate criticism of Israel. The outcome could set a precedent for how future festivals and broadcasters handle political content.
Labour Delays PIP Reforms to Avoid Commons Rebellion on Welfare Bill
What happened
The Labour government has made major concessions on its flagship welfare reform bill in a bid to defuse an internal rebellion, particularly around Personal Independence Payment (PIP) changes. Disability minister Sir Stephen Timms confirmed that any alterations to PIP will now be delayed until at least autumn 2025, pending the outcome of a full independent review. This marks the second key concession made in response to growing dissent from within Labour’s own ranks. Following this, the bill passed its second reading in the Commons by 335 votes to 260, with a majority of 75.
Why it matters
The delay signals a significant retreat from earlier government plans, reflecting mounting political pressure and divisions within Labour. Ministers hoped the PIP concession would quell resistance, but the scale of concern among MPs, especially those focused on disability rights, has left the party grappling with a fractured front on a key domestic issue. The backlash highlights broader tensions between Labour’s fiscal caution and its social justice pledges.
Reaction
The move did little to appease many Labour MPs, including Rachael Maskell, who called the bill a “farce” and maintained her opposition. Charities such as the MS Society remain unconvinced, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticised the bill as either “pointless” or “damaging”, suggesting Labour has diluted the legislation into ineffectiveness. Campaigners argue the current approach risks both alienating the public and failing to deliver meaningful reform.
What next
The welfare bill now moves to the committee stage, where amendments and scrutiny will intensify. Labour’s leadership faces continued pressure to reconcile internal divisions while defending the bill’s core aims. The review of PIP, due to report by autumn 2025, is likely to shape any future legislative steps, delaying any real changes until after the next general election. How Labour balances credibility on welfare reform with protecting disabled people’s rights will remain a central test of its governance.
UK to be hotter than Barbados! Get your sunscreen and shades!
UK to be hotter than Barbados as temperatures soar to 35C
The UK is enduring a major heatwave, with temperatures forecast to hit 35°C in London and parts of southern England, marking the hottest June in decades. The Met Office has issued an amber heat health alert across multiple regions, warning of risks to health and social care systems. Meanwhile, Wimbledon 2025 is set to begin under potentially record-breaking heat, with organisers introducing cooling breaks to protect players. Fire services have also warned of severe wildfire risk amid dry conditions.
🔁 Political and Public Reactions:
- UK Met Office: “Please take care and stay hydrated during this extreme heat.”
- Health Secretary: “Vulnerable groups must be prioritised as temperatures rise.”
- Public viral post: > “It’s scorching! Wimbledon better sort those cooling breaks ASAP.”
📰 Media Bias & Framing:
- The Independent focuses on health risks and safety measures, emphasising practical advice.
- BBC balances weather reporting with cultural impact on Wimbledon and public services.
- Tabloid outlets highlight the discomfort and disruptions caused by the heatwave, sometimes sensationalising impacts.
📊 Sentiment: Neutral-positive. While the heat poses health risks and challenges, proactive warnings and mitigation measures aim to reduce harm, with public interest high due to Wimbledon and summer events.
Extra cost of disability in UK rises 12% in five years according to new study published ahead of Commons vote.
Extra Cost of Disability in UK Rises 12% in Five Years, Says Scope
What happened
A new report from disability charity Scope has revealed that the additional cost of living with a disability in the UK has surged by almost 12% since 2020. The average disabled person now pays around £1,300 more per month for essential goods and services, with some facing costs exceeding £2,000. These include expenses for heating, specialist equipment, accessible transport, and personal support. Scope attributes the increase to inflation, rising energy bills and ongoing economic instability, arguing that disabled people are facing a “deepening crisis”.
Why it matters
The findings underline the disproportionate impact of the cost-of-living crisis on disabled people, many of whom are already more likely to live in poverty. Despite longstanding calls for reforms to disability benefits, campaigners say support has failed to keep pace with rising costs. This comes amid controversial welfare cuts being pushed through Parliament, prompting warnings that disabled people risk being left behind by the current government policy.
The political backdrop
The report lands at a politically sensitive moment. Labour is already facing pressure from within its own party over disability welfare reforms and the broader direction of the welfare bill. Meanwhile, ministers claim they are tackling inequality, citing upcoming support measures. But campaigners argue that this report exposes the urgent need for targeted, long-term investment. With a general election on the horizon, how parties respond could shape their standing with disabled voters and advocacy groups.
The reaction
Scope’s CEO described the figures as “staggering and shameful”, urging immediate government action to reassess disability payments. Labour’s disability spokesperson said the figures proved the welfare system was “not fit for purpose”. A government spokesperson said they were “listening carefully” and pointed to upcoming targeted support in the poverty strategy.
What next
MPs across the political spectrum are expected to raise the findings in upcoming debates on the welfare bill. Scope is calling for the government to build “a disability price index” to ensure future payments reflect real-world costs. The charity is also pushing for increased access to affordable and inclusive services, including energy and transport. With the Disability Strategy due for review later this year, the cost crisis is likely to dominate discussions.
Three arrested for manslaughter in hospital probe linked to Lucy Letby murders, the former nurse killed 14 babies.
Three Arrested for Manslaughter in Hospital Probe Linked to Lucy Letby Murders
What happened
Three former senior staff members at the Countess of Chester Hospital have been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. The arrests, made on Monday 30 June, are part of a wider investigation launched following the convictions of former nurse Lucy Letby, who is currently serving 15 whole-life sentences for the murder and attempted murder of 14 babies between June 2015 and June 2016.
The Cheshire Constabulary confirmed that the individuals have been bailed while further inquiries continue. The police probe is looking into possible corporate manslaughter as well as individual responsibility for alleged failures in hospital oversight during Letby’s time on the neonatal ward.
Why it matters
This marks the first major criminal development beyond Letby’s prosecution, focusing on institutional accountability. Families of the victims and campaigners have long called for answers about why Letby wasn’t stopped sooner, despite multiple warnings raised by medical staff. The arrests signal that police are now treating alleged failings in leadership and safeguarding procedures as potential criminal offences.
Reaction
Victims’ families cautiously welcomed the news, saying it was “a step closer to justice” for the babies who died. The hospital trust declined to comment while the investigation is ongoing. Legal experts said the arrests suggest detectives are gathering enough evidence to test the boundaries of gross negligence manslaughter in an NHS setting, still a rare move in UK criminal law.
What next
The police investigation remains active, and formal charges have not yet been brought. The individuals arrested could face prosecution if sufficient evidence emerges. Meanwhile, a public inquiry into the Letby case is underway, with hearings expected later this year to examine systemic failings at the hospital and possible whistleblower suppression.
UK-US trade deal comes into effect today but steel tariffs remain unresolved!
UK-US Trade Deal Comes Into Effect, Slashing Tariffs on Cars and Aerospace but Steel Tariffs Remain
The long-awaited UK-US trade deal officially came into force, reducing tariffs on UK exports to the US and strengthening transatlantic economic ties. Tariffs on UK car exports have been cut from 27.5% to 10%, while aerospace goods, including Rolls-Royce engines and BAE Systems parts, now face zero tariffs. However, a 25% tariff on UK steel exports remains unresolved, with negotiations ongoing. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the deal a significant step forward, while former President Donald Trump hailed it as “big and beautiful.”
🔁 Political Reactions:
- Keir Starmer: “This deal strengthens UK jobs and exports, marking a new chapter for our economy.”
- Labour opposition MP: “Good progress but steel tariffs still hold back full potential.”
- Public viral tweet: > “Great news for UK cars but why no deal on steel yet? #TradeFail”
📰 Media Bias & Framing:
- The Independent frames the deal as a pragmatic win with remaining challenges, focusing on jobs and industries affected.
- BBC presents the deal with balanced coverage of benefits and outstanding issues, such as steel tariffs.
- Right-leaning outlets praise the deal as a Brexit success story, emphasising deregulation and free trade.
📊 Sentiment: Neutral-positive. The tariff cuts provide immediate relief to key UK sectors, but unresolved steel tariffs and ongoing negotiations temper enthusiasm.
Wes Streeting tells Israel ‘get your own house in order’ amid Glastonbury row
Health Secretary Wes Streeting condemned the anti-IDF chants by rap punk duo Bob Vylan at Glastonbury Festival, calling them “appalling” and raising concerns over the BBC’s broadcast of the incident. Streeting stressed that such rhetoric incites violence and is unacceptable. However, he also urged the Israeli government to “get your own house in order,” referencing ongoing settler violence in the West Bank.
🔁 Political Reactions:
- Wes Streeting (UK Health Secretary): “Chants glorifying violence are appalling and should not be broadcast.”
- Labour Shadow Foreign Secretary: “We must oppose all hate speech but also hold Israel accountable for human rights.”
- Viral Public Tweet: > “Free speech or hate speech? Glastonbury just crossed a dangerous line.”
📰 Media Bias & Framing:
- The Independent highlights balanced criticism, Streeting condemns chants but calls for Israeli accountability.
- BBC focuses on broadcast controversy and public reaction to hate speech.
- Right-wing outlets frame this as anti-Israel hate disguised as protest.
📊 Sentiment: Neutral–negative. Strong condemnation of hateful chants balances with calls for political accountability, reflecting a complex, sensitive discourse with potential to inflame public opinion.
A round up of what the Politicians have been doing.
The PM has been forced into a humiliating backdown on his controversial welfare reform, days after already making huge concessions. The PM’s bill passed in the Commons yesterday, but still
President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines, a step that follows the Baltic nations and Poland’s move to boost their defence as
Attending the United Nations Conference on Financing for Development in Seville. And using the opportunity to sweeten relations with former African colonies.
On a drive to strengthen the EU, especially with the threat of Trump’s growing allies within the union, who won’t allow a stronger EU.
She is in Seville today and said the EU needs: “A paradigm shift is needed on development aid”. A clash is forming with the EU, right wing are attacking EU
Tracking Trump’s presidency Live:
Trump made an angry start to the week displaying his frustration at Israel.
On Tuesday he headed to NATO to secure billions of spending for
✍️ Quote of the Week
“History is a set of lies agreed upon.” — Napoleon Bonaparte
This week’s news shows how narratives — whether political, digital, or economic — can be engineered, exposed, or reimagined. The truth, as ever, lies between the lines, but there is no doubt, that history belongs to the victor.
🕵️ No, Macron did not hide cocaine on a train to Ukraine
A viral video claiming French President Emmanuel Macron was “caught red-handed” hiding a cocaine bag on a train to Ukraine has been thoroughly debunked by France 24’s fact-checking team. The footage, which showed Macron holding a white pouch before tucking it into his coat, was deceptively edited. The object was a known brand of French facial tissue.
The clip gained traction on platforms like X and TikTok, fuelled by conspiracy influencers. AI analysis of the video confirmed digital tampering.
This story reflects the increasing use of manipulated media to undermine political figures — particularly during periods of tension like Macron’s current Green rebellion.
Key takeaway: In an age of digital warfare, viral misinformation can move faster than diplomacy.
This weeks global cultural & business events provides a round up of the highlights key events taking place around the world. You don’t need a private jet to get around, some are virtual as well.
🌍 Global Cultural & Business Events This Week
- 🇮🇹 La Biennale di Venezia – Venice
- 🇺🇸 G7 Finance Ministers Summit – New York
- 🇺🇳 UN Digital Inclusion Forum – Geneva
- 🇩🇪 Berlin Design Week – Berlin
- 🇺🇸 SXSW EDU Europe – London
🏛️ Political events to keep your eyes on
- NATO: Turkey requests joint monitoring of PKK disbandment
- IMF: Revises 2025 global growth forecast to 3.2%
- UNESCO: Adds Gaza’s Old Port to watchlist of threatened heritage sites
- WHO: Issues early warning for rising dengue clusters in Asia
- World Bank: Launches climate adaptation bond for Sahel nations
FEATURED EVENT – International Summit – Tirana, Albania
Meeting of the European Political Community, 16 May 2025
The sixth meeting of the European Political Community will bring together leaders from across the continent in Tirana, Albania under the theme ‘New Europe in a new world: unity – cooperation – joint action’.
The EU will be represented by the President of the European Council, António Costa, who will co-chair the meeting along with the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama.
🖼️ Art/Culture Highlight – Kunsthaus Zurich: “Surveillance and the Self”
An exhibition tracing the history. A Future for the Past
The exhibition focuses on various – also contradictory – perspectives on the historical context in which the arms manufacturer and patron Emil G. Bührle built up his collection: it highlights the biographies of former owners of individual works, whose sale took place under questionable circumstances, and the question of how a differentiated approach to history can succeed in the immediate present.
The Bührle Collection: art, context, war and conflict.
✍️ Thought of the day
We’ve delveoped this need to move on to the ‘next thing’ standing in one place seems to make one anxious. That may be because of the way we are being engineered, the thirst for more. But the negative impact of that is, we rarely get to enjoy the moment.
When enjoying a meal, a walk in nature, or any other activity, pay attention to the details and fully experience it, just stand still (figuratively) and process what you have done, The next, more is not always better.
✍️ Quote of the Week
➤ Every major achievement once looked daunting. Don’t be discouraged by how far there is to go – just take the next step.
M&S strawberry sandwich raises VAT questions
The summer is here, and the UK is bursting with sports action. Wimbledon kicks off this week, and the Women’s Euros is in action with both England and Wales featuring in the tournament (and in the same ‘group of death’).
🇬🇧 UK Events Guide: 30 June-6 July 2025
🎾 Sport
- Wimbledon Championships – London (30 June–13 July)
Tennis action kicks off on grass courts at SW19, with play starting at 11 am on outer courts, and premier matches from Centre Court at 1:30 pm. Sites include BBC and TNT Sports for broadcast coverage. - Women’s Euros – Switzerland (starts 2 July), England and Wales are in action this week as the women’s Euros kicks off in Switzerland. Wales face the Netherlands on Saturday (17:00) and the Lionesses are in action on the same day, facing France ( 20:00). ITV and BBC are streaming the Women’s Euros. There are plenty of watch-along parties to get involved in.
🔬 Science & Nature
- Insect Week – Across the UK. A national campaign promoting engagement with entomology, featuring photography competitions, public talks, and activities in gardens, museums, and schools.
📚 Literature & Culture
- Bradford Literature Festival – Bradford, West Yorkshire (late June–early July). A ten-day celebration with over 155,000 attendees, known for its diverse programming and accessible ticketing, highlighting BAME authors and community voices.
Lessons in leading through crisis from Jacinda Ardern
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shares insights and lessons in leading through crisis, reflecting on the challenges of leadership at the highest levels.
She shares how her empathetic leadership style, shaped by self-doubt, that drove her with the power of transparent communication and leading with trust, not ego, allowed her to move forward decisively.
Here are the Key Takeaways from her interview on Leadership:
1 – Imposter Syndrome Can Be a Leadership Asset
2 – Trust Is Built Through Honesty, Not Perfection
3 – Empathy and Resilience Aren’t Mutually Exclusive
4 – Crisis Is an Opportunity to Advance Policy Goals
5 – Sustainable Leadership Requires Self-Awareness
A bit of travel inspiration from some of our favourite places and best deals.
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