Alicia Curry

Spain is sending military forces to reinforce the Civil Guard in Ceuta after thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco by swimming, with at least 18 people reported drowned. Local reception facilities are overwhelmed, further crossings and clashes have continued, and several hundred people reportedly reached the nearby enclave of Melilla. Spain says it is coordinating with Morocco to return those who crossed, while its Interior Ministry blames human-trafficking networks for exploiting legal and political circumstances. The influx has also triggered a dispute with Italy: Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni raised the possibility of suspending Schengen arrangements with Spain, while Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares accused Italy of politicizing migration. The episode highlights continuing tensions over Spain’s North African enclaves and the challenges facing European border and migration policy.

Andy Burnham is expected to approve new North Sea oil and gas drilling when he becomes prime minister, shifting from Labour’s previous pledge not to issue new licences. The fields at the centre of the debate, Rosebank and Jackdaw, had their approvals overturned in 2025. The move comes amid wider policy plans including public control of water and energy firms and expanded council house building. Keir Starmer previously resisted new drilling, drawing criticism from opposition parties and Donald Trump, while Labour figures remain divided over balancing energy transition with job protection. Industry groups and unions have urged Burnham to support North Sea production. Cabinet appointments remain unconfirmed as speculation grows over key posts.