Andrew Sparrow

Polling opened in the Clacton byelection, where Reform UK leader Nigel Farage faced 33 candidates, including the novelty candidate Count Binface. Politico analysis found that Farage and Reform had spent more than £10,000 on Meta advertising portraying him as a local champion opposed by the political establishment. The contest was widely expected to deliver a Farage victory but was described as delaying rather than resolving parliamentary scrutiny over allegations that he failed to declare a £5m donation and other financial support. The live coverage also reported record temporary accommodation and child homelessness in England, severe NHS pressure including more than 3,000 daily cases of corridor care, higher water bills approved by Ofwat, debate over zero-hours-contract reforms, concerns from the Metropolitan police about underinvestment in the criminal-justice system, and disputes over social-care reform and Chinese investment in Scottish renewable energy.

Prime minister Andy Burnham urged retailers to stop selling disposable barbecues after chairing an emergency Cobra meeting on extreme heat, drought and wildfire risks. England and Wales have already recorded 1,017 wildfires, while heat-related deaths and the economic cost of repeated heatwaves are rising. The live coverage also reported that a proposed zero-hours contract ban could cost employers up to £2.9bn annually, NHS England is being asked to prepare for regular summer heatwaves, and the government faces disputes over early prisoner release, asylum accommodation and Chinese investment in a Scottish wind-turbine factory. A fact-check found Chris Philp’s claim about small-boat arrivals under Burnham was incorrect, while Nigel Farage faced a largely uncontested but politically controversial Clacton byelection.

Probation officers voted 91% in favour of potential strike action, warning that excessive workloads and planned autumn prisoner releases could prevent staff from protecting the public effectively. The government defended its recruitment, pay and technology measures, while Napo called for workload reductions and exemptions for higher-risk offenders. Andy Burnham said he was increasingly confident that the killers of PC Andrew Harper could be excluded from early release and sought cross-party consensus on resolving prison capacity pressures, though Conservatives accused him of changing policy without a coherent plan. The live blog also covered government proposals to give councils more control over betting, vaping and gaming premises on high streets; the betting industry disputed claims that betting shops were spreading unchecked. Reform UK faced further controversy over Zia Yusuf’s attacks on Ben Wallace, warnings to activists about irresponsible social-media posts, and claims about complaints concerning LGBT+ library books that were challenged by freedom-of-information findings.

Amnesty International UK condemned Reform UK’s proposal to send foreign prisoners from Britain to El Salvador, warning that it would finance an overcrowded and abusive prison system and prioritise hostility over practical leadership. The live blog also covered Reform’s plan to criminalise charities and others assisting asylum seekers, a record Channel crossing involving 230 people, disputes over the early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers, and a reopened police inquiry linked by Nigel Farage to the murder of Ann Widdecombe. Labour held a narrow lead over Reform UK in an Ipsos poll after Andy Burnham became prime minister, although satisfaction with the government and Burnham’s personal approval remained low. Other developments included criticism of Thames Water’s £1m payment to its finance chief, an investigation into GB News, and condemnation of Scottish Green MSP Q Manivannan’s comments about rape.

Andy Burnham said he had told Donald Trump he would take a pragmatic approach to North Sea oil and gas, despite Labour’s commitment not to issue new exploration licences. Green leader Zack Polanski criticized any new drilling amid deadly heat and wildfires. The live blog also covered allegations that convicted fraudster George Cottrell was the ultimate source of major Reform UK donations, Reform’s attacks on Burnham’s undeclared social care funding plans, and criticism of Robert Jenrick’s “death tax” claims. Other developments included a government crackdown on misuse of the title “nurse,” concerns about online job interviews, more than 70,000 early prisoner releases, and an estimated 2,877 heat-associated deaths in England during the May and June heatwaves.

Labour has moved ahead of Reform UK in More in Common polling for the first time since Andy Burnham became prime minister, with the party benefiting largely from former Labour voters who had shifted to the Greens. Burnham said he would not become carried away by the result but welcomed signs that his message of optimism was connecting with voters. He is seeking cross-party talks on adult social care and hopes to find common ground with the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, although the Conservatives and Reform UK oppose any reform involving tax rises, while Nigel Farage has revived the attack that Burnham is proposing a “death tax.” Burnham ruled out scrapping stamp duty in the forthcoming budget, while Downing Street denied that replacing council tax or stamp duty was under active consideration. He also described a close future partnership with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and indicated plans to visit Ukraine. Further expected policies include adapting school curricula to local employers’ needs and reducing welfare dependency by strengthening links between education and work.

Reform UK confirmed plans for a 6 August Clacton byelection following Nigel Farage’s resignation, which triggered criticism amid ongoing scrutiny of the party’s financial dealings and reports of transactions flagged to the National Crime Agency. Count Binface emerged as a prominent challenger, attracting thousands in donations as major parties opted not to contest the seat. Keir Starmer indicated Labour would stand only if Farage faced a potential recall byelection, while Rachel Reeves approved Farage’s resignation despite calls to delay it. The government announced a conditional pardon for Ruth Ellis, recognising domestic abuse factors overlooked in her 1955 conviction. Other developments included IMF upgrades to UK growth forecasts, discussions at the Nato summit, and data showing the impact of scrapping the two-child benefits cap.

Major UK political parties refused to field candidates in a byelection triggered by Nigel Farage’s resignation, as scrutiny intensified over his undeclared financial gifts. Labour, the Conservatives, the Lib Dems and Restore Britain argued the contest was a distraction from investigations into Farage’s finances. Farage portrayed the vote as a battle between the people and the establishment while denying wrongdoing over a £5m gift and additional undeclared support. The dispute unfolded alongside parliamentary debates on crime, asylum accommodation and planning reforms, with ministers defending government policies amid growing criticism.

Nigel Farage faces warnings that attacking the parliamentary standards system over undeclared donations could result in a harsher penalty, potentially including a suspension long enough to trigger a recall vote. The standards commissioner is examining a £5m donation from Christopher Harborne along with new allegations. Harriet Harman argued that Farage’s rhetoric risks aggravating any sanction. Other developments include pressure on Andy Burnham to pursue proportional representation, disputes over the inability to deport grooming gang leader Shabir Ahmed, US criticism of Nato defence spending ahead of Keir Starmer’s final summit, and Downing Street’s disapproval of Donald Trump’s intervention in a Fifa disciplinary case. The government announced sanctions on Russian scientists linked to chemical weapons, while Lord Timpson argued that most women in prison should not be there, citing systemic failures. Two English councils remain without leadership following fragmented local election results.

Keir Starmer is set to deliver a formal state apology to survivors of historic forced adoption practices in England and Wales, acknowledging the harm caused to thousands of unmarried mothers and their children between 1949 and 1976. The move follows recommendations from parliamentary committees and long-running campaigns by affected families. The live coverage also tracks Conservative proposals to relax rules on youth employment, renewed calls to amend immigration law to allow the deportation of Rochdale grooming gang leader Shabir Ahmed, and emerging tensions over a potential tax increase on UK banks. Ministers state they are examining all options to remove Ahmed, while survivors of forced adoption express relief ahead of the anticipated apology.

Debate over the government’s defence investment plan intensified as Keir Starmer defended funding gaps by pointing to fiscal headroom, prompting criticism from Kemi Badenoch and other MPs. Andy Burnham faced pressure over potential borrowing to meet the shortfall, while wider political disputes unfolded over devolution, education pay settlements and migration figures. Union leaders warned that partially funded pay awards would strain school budgets, and ministers highlighted the need for structural reform in central government as devolution expands. Migration across the Channel fell markedly compared with the previous year, attributed to policy measures and external factors.

Government figures show a nearly £5bn shortfall in funding for the UK’s new £15bn defence investment plan, leaving the next chancellor to identify additional resources. The plan is supported by cuts to departmental capital budgets, including deeper reductions in transport and energy spending, while further funding decisions are deferred to the next budget. Senior ministers, military leaders, and political parties express mixed reactions, with some describing the plan as inadequate and others stressing the need for increased defence capability amid global threats. Labour figures emphasise commitments to meet Nato spending targets, though critics highlight limited detail on long-term delivery and concerns over prioritising defence over domestic services.

Andy Burnham outlined plans to create a No 10 North office in Manchester as part of a sweeping devolution agenda aimed at rebalancing power and boosting regional growth. Reactions from political parties, thinktanks, business groups and unions showed broad support for devolving authority, though concerns were raised about resources, delivery capacity and contradictions within the proposals. The speech triggered debate across the political spectrum on economic policy, public services and regional governance, while markets responded positively with slight improvements in borrowing costs and the pound.

Extreme temperatures across Europe set multiple national records, triggered red alerts and caused rising mortality in Spain, France and Italy. The UK recorded its hottest June day, straining public services as hospitals faced equipment failures and London Ambulance Service saw unprecedented emergency calls. France shut down nuclear reactors to protect overheated rivers, while school closures and union strike calls spread amid unsafe classroom temperatures. Germany and the Netherlands faced extreme heat warnings, with travel disruptions and cancelled events. Authorities across Europe issued health alerts, introduced emergency cooling measures and highlighted links between climate change and the severity of the heatwave.

Labour’s national executive committee set a leadership timetable that could see Andy Burnham become prime minister as early as 17 July if no other MP secures enough nominations. Keir Starmer emphasised the need for an orderly transition as he prepares to step down. Green party leader Zack Polanski warned that early signs of Burnham’s positions were straining prospects for cooperation, citing Gaza, proportional representation and wealth policy as potential red lines. Polling showed Burnham outperforming Starmer and other party leaders on public perceptions of who would make the best PM. Additional developments included disputes over a £5m undeclared Farage donation, a draft bill on conversion practices, claims the Foreign Office prioritised UAE ties over Sudan atrocity prevention, and criticism between Kemi Badenoch and Bridget Phillipson during political exchanges.

Kemi Badenoch refused to apologise for her aggressive PMQs remarks about Keir Starmer, prompting criticism from figures including the Commons speaker and senior Labour ministers. Andy Burnham moved closer to securing the Labour leadership as Darren Jones ruled out standing, while reactions to James Purnell’s expected appointment as chief of staff revealed divisions within the party. Louise Casey signalled major upcoming recommendations on adult social care reform, a priority for Burnham. The UK Statistics Authority reprimanded the Conservatives for inaccurate welfare spending claims, and Keir Starmer confirmed he would remain an MP after leaving office. Additional developments included fallout from Jeffrey Donaldson’s conviction, scrutiny of Shabana Mahmood’s asylum policy, and coverage of Nigel Farage’s appearance at a conservative policy summit.

Keir Starmer’s resignation set off a rapid transition process in which he and Andy Burnham held a private meeting to discuss an orderly handover, while senior Labour figures urged against a leadership contest. Polling and commentary highlighted public frustration over Brexit, economic pressures and political instability. Burnham’s advisers signalled potential policy shifts, including greater infrastructure borrowing, and the government named Jonathan Haskel as preferred chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility. EU officials suggested the UK could rejoin the bloc relatively quickly if it chose, and multiple party controversies and parliamentary developments unfolded throughout the day.

Keir Starmer’s resignation as UK prime minister triggered a rapid leadership transition in which Andy Burnham was sworn in as MP for Makerfield and positioned as the likely successor. Senior Labour figures, including Wes Streeting, declined to challenge him, while critics such as Nigel Farage demanded a general election. European leaders offered praise for Starmer’s international record, and polling suggested the public largely supported his decision to step down. Commentators assessed the causes of Starmer’s downfall, while internal debates continued over policy, national security and the timing of any future election as preparations began for a new Labour-led government.

Andy Burnham’s decisive Makerfield byelection win intensified pressure on Keir Starmer as Labour figures urged the prime minister not to contest an expected leadership challenge. Burnham framed the victory as an opportunity to redirect Britain’s political direction, while Starmer insisted he would fight any contest and rejected calls for a transition. Reform UK placed second but expressed disappointment, and the Conservatives secured Aberdeen South amid disputes over energy policy. As Labour prepares for a Greater Manchester mayoral byelection to replace Burnham, internal debate continues over the party’s direction and leadership stability.

Andy Burnham used an eve‑of‑poll speech in Makerfield to argue the byelection should reshape British politics, calling for an end to trickle‑down economics and promising lower household bills and economic renewal in the north. Keir Starmer signalled he would offer Burnham a major government role as Labour figures prepared for potential leadership manoeuvring following the vote. Additional developments included a reported cyberattack on the Liberal Democrats, tributes to Jo Cox in parliament, government confirmation that driving‑test backlogs will persist into 2027, and continuing debate over Brexit and public‑service insourcing.

UK defence officials and former ministers warned that current investment plans fall short of security needs, with John Healey calling for tougher decisions and faster spending increases. Rising pressure on Keir Starmer intensified amid polling suggesting Labour could perform better under Andy Burnham, while multiple party figures challenged government positions on asylum policy, workers’ rights and energy strategy. Kemi Badenoch positioned the Aberdeen South byelection as pivotal for North Sea drilling policy, and G7 discussions continued as Starmer defended his leadership despite expected challenges.

The government outlined plans for a social media ban for under‑16s, with Liz Kendall requesting Ofcom to develop age‑verification proposals by October and report annually on enforcement. Keir Starmer said regulations could be passed by Christmas, aiming for implementation next spring. Major technology firms, including Meta and YouTube, warned the ban could push teens toward unregulated platforms. Political debate intensified, with opposition figures questioning the policy’s timing and coherence, while some leaders in Northern Ireland expressed differing views on its merits. Reform UK engaged in a dispute with Serco over reported positions on deportation policy, highlighting tensions between the party and private contractors. Other parliamentary discussions addressed defence funding, equipment updates and party leadership dynamics.

Keir Starmer defended his defence investment plan and vowed to resist any leadership challenge amid turmoil following John Healey’s resignation over inadequate defence spending. Al Carns also resigned, accusing the government of underfunding the military and criticising its Northern Ireland Troubles bill. The government maintained that all departments contributed to the defence plan and that defence will be prioritised in upcoming spending reviews. Internal Labour tensions grew as Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham questioned Starmer’s leadership and decision-making. The Makerfield by-election intensified political pressure, with Labour activists heavily mobilised and Reform UK's candidate criticised over controversial endorsements. France’s cybersecurity agency accused Israeli firm BlackCore of interfering in Scottish elections, while UK economic data showed a slight contraction linked to the Iran war. Pro-Palestine activists pushed for a tougher Labour stance on Israel as polling suggested voter shifts driven by Gaza policy.

Dan Jarvis was appointed defence secretary after John Healey resigned over the government’s defence investment plan, arguing the proposed funding fell short and risked making the UK less safe. Armed forces minister Al Carns also stepped down, criticising the government’s handling of defence and institutional resilience. Keir Starmer defended the funding plan as a major but sustainable increase, while senior military figures and politicians expressed concern over the direction of defence policy. Additional developments included immigration‑related unrest in Northern Ireland and Scotland, the clearance of asylum seekers from a hotel in Essex, and new government targets to expand walking and cycling infrastructure.

Violence across Northern Ireland escalated for a second night as rioters in Newtownabbey and Belfast set fires, threw petrol bombs and confronted police using water cannons. The disorder followed a knife attack on Stephen Ogilvie, whose family urged calm, condemned misinformation circulating online and emphasised the positive role of migrants. Political leaders across the UK and Northern Ireland denounced the unrest, with several criticising the influence of social media and Elon Musk’s platform X on the spread of incitement. Police reported injuries, arrests and significant damage to property, while emergency services worked to contain fires and protect residents. Authorities warned of serious consequences for further disorder as investigations continued.

Anti‑immigration protests erupted across Belfast after a Sudanese man was charged with attempted murder in a stabbing that left one victim seriously injured. Demonstrators set vehicles and buildings on fire, attacked homes and businesses, and clashed with police. Political leaders across Northern Ireland condemned the violence, urging calm and warning against targeting immigrant communities. Senior officials, including Keir Starmer and Northern Ireland ministers, described the unrest as unacceptable thuggery. Police reported multiple pockets of disorder while immigrant groups closed businesses and took precautions amid fears of retaliation. By late evening, rain dispersed crowds, leaving significant damage across parts of the city.