Christine Jardine

Scottish Water’s decision to award three senior executives a combined £258,000 in bonuses is criticized as insensitive while customers face higher bills, sewage problems, leaking infrastructure and a cost-of-living crisis. Although the company says performance targets, pollution figures and customer satisfaction have improved, the column argues that investment should instead prioritize sewage plants, drainage systems and keeping bills affordable. It supports the Scottish Liberal Democrats’ proposed Clean Water Act and calls on the Scottish Government to update outdated sewage regulations and strengthen enforcement, particularly as Scotland faces low water levels and potential drought.

Andy Burnham’s expected move into Downing Street has lifted morale in Westminster, creating a more optimistic atmosphere following months of instability. His leadership pitch stresses hope and clearer direction, contrasting with frustrations over Keir Starmer’s communication and early policy missteps. Burnham is presented as working to unite Labour MPs and restore stability after a succession of short-lived premierships. His challenge now is to convert renewed political optimism into progress for the country as well as the party.

Nigel Farage’s decision to trigger a Clacton by-election is depicted as a strategic misstep that deprives Reform UK of meaningful political advantage while exposing the party to renewed scrutiny over financial controversies. Other parties’ refusal to engage with the contest has turned the campaign into farce, overshadowed by Count Binface and eclipsed entirely by national attention on Andy Burnham’s new Labour government. Even a Farage victory is predicted to be hollow, reigniting the paused standards inquiry and offering no electoral benefit, while Labour and other established parties stand to gain from Reform’s diminished credibility.

Keir Starmer’s apology for historic forced adoptions is described as emotionally significant but insufficient without concrete follow‑up measures. The piece argues for dedicated mental health support, improved access to adoption records and consideration of financial compensation, noting that other countries have already implemented such schemes. The apology is welcomed, but the government is urged to take further responsibility to address the long‑lasting harm experienced by affected parents and children.

Rhetoric from senior Conservatives, including Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, is condemned for inflaming tensions and undermining public trust in politics following personal attacks made during Prime Minister’s Questions. The reaction among MPs and on social media highlights widespread concern over increasingly divisive language, which is seen as driving voters toward populism. The piece argues that British politics faces a choice between deepening division or addressing core issues such as the economy, cost of living and national security, noting Andy Burnham’s strong by‑election win as a possible trigger for the heightened Conservative hostility.