Guardian UK Politics
Nigel Farage condemned over call to ban public prayer for Muslims in the UK
Nigel Farage has drawn sharp condemnation from Muslim leaders after calling for a ban on public prayer by Muslims in the UK, remarks made at the launch of Reform UK's Scottish parliament election manifesto. The comments followed a public prayer event at London's Trafalgar Square, which also prompted Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch to question whether such gatherings align with "British cultural norms." Muslim groups warned the rhetoric signals a "growing tide of hate," raising fresh questions about the boundaries of political speech on religion in Britain.
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UK borrowing costs hit highest level since 2008 financial crisis
UK government borrowing costs have surged to their highest point since the 2008 financial crisis, driven by mounting investor anxiety over inflation, persistent high interest rates, and public spending pressures. Rising gilt yields signal that markets are demanding greater returns to hold British debt, tightening the financial constraints on the government. The development adds fresh pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves, narrowing the fiscal headroom available for spending commitments.
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Warning UK borrowing rise makes energy bill help harder
Government borrowing has risen to a level that leaves the UK in a weaker fiscal position than when it last launched a major energy support scheme in 2022. Economists warn this significantly narrows the Treasury's room to maneuver if energy bills spike again. Any new support package would come at a steep cost to already strained public finances.
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Ministers look at blueprint for economic overhaul amid fears cost of living could hand election to far right
Labour ministers are circulating an internal blueprint calling for sweeping economic reforms — including abolishing national insurance, devolving tax powers, and overhauling property taxes — amid growing alarm that cost-of-living frustration could deliver the next election to the far right. The document, shared among dozens of MPs, argues the party needs a fundamental rethink of both policy and messaging. Frustration is mounting within the parliamentary party over a communications strategy that lumps Reform and the Greens together as extremists, a framing many MPs believe is politically counterproductive.
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Sky News UK
Cabinet ministers look at blueprint for how Labour could cut taxes
Labour's senior ministers are examining a plan to reduce taxes on work by targeting companies accused of profiteering during the cost of living crisis. The proposal frames tax cuts as financially viable only by taking on entrenched economic interests driving up prices for ordinary people. If adopted, it would mark a significant shift in Labour's economic positioning ahead of the next electoral cycle.
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