George Lithgow

French authorities rescued 96 migrants after an inflatable boat suffered engine failure shortly after leaving the French coast, including people found struggling in strong currents near Le Touquet. A separate attempted crossing days earlier involved around 140 migrants who were rescued or brought ashore after abandoning their journey in deteriorating weather. UK authorities recorded 250 completed crossings in three boats on Monday, amid concerns that smuggling gangs are placing increasingly large numbers of people on individual vessels. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to adopt a different approach to combating the networks.

A record 165 migrants crossed the English Channel to the UK in a single 13-metre boat, exceeding the previous record of 128. In total, 366 people arrived across three boats on Thursday, bringing the year’s arrivals to 13,007—45% below the same period last year. Care4Calais warned that increasingly crowded boats are making crossings more dangerous, while the Home Office blamed criminal gangs and pointed to a new agreement with France intended to prevent the journeys.

Labour MP and Immigration Minister Jo White demanded an apology from Reform UK after it shared an edited audio clip that appeared to show her saying she did not care whether migrant boats were stopped. White released a longer version showing that she said she did not care who stopped the boats, while making stopping them her top priority. She accused Reform UK of deliberately distorting her words to mislead the public and called for the claim to be withdrawn. The dispute came as migrants were seen attempting to cross the English Channel from northern France.

Labour migration minister Jo White has accused Reform UK and its Treasury spokesperson Robert Jenrick of misleading the public by sharing an edited recording that appeared to show her saying she did not care whether small boats were stopped. An extended recording shows her saying that stopping the boats was her top priority. Jenrick’s post was deleted, and White demanded a withdrawal and apology. The dispute coincided with renewed attempts by migrants to cross the English Channel from northern France, where authorities tried to rescue people in the water and prevent some from boarding.

Mike Tapp has stepped down as the UK’s migration and citizenship minister, saying he is disappointed to leave government but remains loyal to Keir Starmer and committed to supporting the Labour administration. His departure follows a reported dispute with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood over whether care workers should be exempt from proposed indefinite leave to remain reforms. Tapp highlighted his work on the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme, visa pauses and the Windrush Compensation Scheme, while Downing Street has not yet announced his successor.

Mike Tapp resigned as minister for migration after previously clashing with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood over proposed immigration reforms. He expressed disappointment at leaving but reaffirmed loyalty to Keir Starmer and highlighted achievements including work on the Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme and improvements to the Windrush Compensation Scheme. Tapp emphasised national security and compassion as guiding principles and pledged to continue contributing in Parliament. Downing Street has not yet named his successor.

New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham spoke with Donald Trump shortly after entering Downing Street and invited him to Manchester, reportedly to coincide with the 2027 G20 Summit. The conversation also covered potential new North Sea oil and gas drilling, despite Labour's manifesto pledge against issuing new licences and Burnham's refusal to rule out approving additional production. Leaders from the EU, Ukraine, Australia, France, Italy and Germany also congratulated Burnham.

New UK prime minister Andy Burnham invited US President Donald Trump to visit Manchester, potentially during the 2027 G20 summit, in one of his first calls after entering Downing Street. Their discussion reportedly included North Sea oil and gas production, an issue on which Burnham has faced scrutiny after Trump celebrated the possibility of new drilling. Burnham has pledged to follow Labour’s commitment not to issue new North Sea licences but has not ruled out approving new production. The call also covered defence and security, while leaders from the EU, Ukraine, Australia, France, Italy and Germany offered congratulations and expressed interest in closer cooperation with Britain.

Andy Burnham has become prime minister and spoke with US President Donald Trump during one of his first calls in office. Trump reportedly commented on Burnham’s liberalism and possible support for North Sea oil and gas drilling. EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, along with leaders from Ukraine, Australia, France, Italy and Germany, congratulated Burnham and emphasized stronger cooperation and closer EU-UK relations.

A Justice Committee report warns that up to half of defendants facing imprisonment in magistrates’ courts may lack legal representation, creating an unacceptably high risk of miscarriages of justice. The committee says criminal legal aid eligibility thresholds are far too low because they have not been updated since 2009, despite a 64 per cent rise in prices, and urges the Government to raise them in line with inflation and living costs. The article also notes a separate court victory involving UK AI-powered law firm Garfield AI, which supporters say could improve access to justice in otherwise uneconomic civil claims.

MPs warn that outdated legal aid eligibility thresholds, unchanged since 2009 despite significant inflation, are causing many defendants in magistrates’ courts to appear without representation, raising the risk of wrongful convictions. The Justice Committee urges the UK Government to update the means test to reflect current living costs and highlights declining availability of legal aid across criminal and civil cases. Alongside these concerns, an AI-powered legal firm, Garfield AI, achieved a notable court victory by preparing a successful civil claim, demonstrating potential to expand affordable access to justice while underscoring that courtroom advocacy still requires human expertise.

Two Sudanese men, Bol Chuol and Charun Magok, were sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court for piloting dangerously overcrowded migrant boats across the English Channel. Chuol was identified by a distinctive Christmas jumper captured on drone footage and received a two‑year sentence, while Magok was given 16 months. Prosecutors said both vessels lacked safety equipment and placed dozens of people, including children and an infant, at risk. The convictions fall under a new endangerment offence introduced in January as part of enhanced UK border security measures, with officials stressing that small‑boat pilots face prison and potential deportation as part of broader efforts to disrupt criminal networks facilitating illegal crossings.

Police officers in England and Wales will receive a 3.5% pay rise from 1 September, including a matching increase in London Weighting, after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood rejected an independent recommendation for a 3.9% award. The Home Office says the lower increase is the highest manageable within existing budgets and has pledged additional funding of £84 million in 2026–27, £144 million in 2027–28 and £145 million in 2028–29. Police Federation national secretary John Partington criticized the decision as a rise on paper only, arguing that inflation, pension contributions and frozen tax thresholds will leave officers no better off in real terms and could damage recruitment, retention and public protection.

An inspection report by Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor found that male detainees at Dungavel immigration removal centre had looked through women’s bedroom windows, while female detainees often avoided outdoor areas or required staff escorts because they felt unsafe. The report also raised concerns about the detention and transfer of vulnerable women, including pregnant women and those at risk of self-harm, as well as the use of handcuffs on a pregnant detainee. Taylor said immigration detention policies remain largely designed around men but acknowledged the efforts of compassionate staff and urged the Home Office and its contractors to improve support for women.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport are leaving X, saying the platform favours abuse and misinformation and is unhealthy for democracy and communities. DCMS becomes the second UK government department to withdraw, after the Attorney General’s Office. The decision follows criticism of Elon Musk by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who accused him of trying to inflame divisions in Britain after violence and racist rioting linked to protests over a student’s murder.

Lisa Nandy announced she and the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport will leave X, citing abuse and misinformation. The move follows the Attorney General’s Office, whose head criticised the platform for racism and misogyny. Tensions have risen after violent protests and unrest linked to online posts by figures including Elon Musk and Tommy Robinson. Keir Starmer has accused Musk of fuelling division, while the government pursues measures including a proposed under‑16s social media ban. The US embassy urged targeted regulation rather than broad bans.

The government is consulting on plans to add 10 years to the starting prison sentence for people convicted of murdering a partner or ex-partner in their home. The proposal would address the current gap between domestic murder sentences, which generally start at 15 years, and murders involving a weapon brought to the scene, which start at 25 years. David Lammy said the change aims to acknowledge the harm caused and address historic failures to protect women from partner violence. Women are overwhelmingly the victims of domestic murders, with two to three killed by partners or ex-partners each week in England and Wales.

The UK government is consulting on increasing the starting point for sentences when someone murders a current or former partner in their home, potentially adding 10 years to the existing 15-year minimum. The proposed change aims to close the gap with murders involving weapons brought to the scene, which carry a 25-year starting point. Justice Secretary David Lammy said the reform would better reflect the harm caused by domestic murders. The Ministry of Justice noted that domestic killings make up more than a fifth of all murders and that women are overwhelmingly the victims; two to three women are killed by partners or ex-partners each week in England and Wales.

The UK has sent a 68-person search-and-rescue team, six specialist dogs and humanitarian personnel to Venezuela after magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes killed 920 people and injured 3,360. The UK is also preparing a possible medical deployment and has committed £2 million in humanitarian funding. The British embassy in Caracas was damaged but all UK staff are safe, and alternative arrangements are supporting British nationals.

International leaders paid tribute to Keir Starmer following confirmation of his resignation as UK prime minister. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Starmer for his steadfast support during the war with Russia and said he would remain welcome in Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen credited him with strengthening European and Ukrainian security, while European Council President Antonio Costa highlighted improved EU-UK relations. Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin praised Starmer's efforts to reset relations between Ireland and the UK and address the legacy of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The responses emphasized Starmer's role in coordinating European support for Ukraine through the Coalition of the Willing.

Palestine Action began in 2020 by targeting defence-related sites and later escalated to attacks on companies, political figures’ homes, universities and military aircraft. Authorities cited its alleged use of covert cells, criminal-damage tactics and the circulation of The Underground Manual when proscribing it as a terrorist organisation in July 2025. The High Court initially ruled the ban disproportionate, but the Court of Appeal overturned that decision in 2026, finding that the government had lawful discretion to impose the proscription. Founder Huda Ammori said she intended to appeal to the UK Supreme Court and, if necessary, the European Court of Human Rights.

The UK government has announced £132.5 million for after-school and enrichment activities, including music, engineering, debating, sport and creative programmes. Ofsted will consider schools’ enrichment provision in personal development assessments. The funding comes as ministers prepare possible restrictions on social media use by under-16s, with an Australian-style ban reportedly under consideration and 90% of consultation respondents said to support a ban. School leaders welcomed the aim but warned that financial and staffing pressures could prevent schools, particularly those in disadvantaged areas, from delivering the promised opportunities.

The UK and Japan are expected to finalise an £18 billion investment package during Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to London, with more than ten agreements potentially creating tens of thousands of UK jobs. The package reportedly includes £9 billion for offshore wind and expanded Rolls-Royce cooperation with Japan’s Atomic Energy Agency, while talks will also focus on business growth and Japanese investment in UK defence companies. The announcement comes as Keir Starmer faces domestic pressure following John Healey’s resignation as defence secretary, further ministerial departures and criticism from Andy Burnham, who warned that Britain risks adopting increasingly polarised US-style politics.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham warned that the UK risks adopting the polarized and “poisonous” political culture of the United States under Labour leader Keir Starmer. Speaking during his Makerfield by-election campaign, Burnham criticized the direction of national politics and said worsening conditions and community divisions required a change of course. His comments came amid debate over increased defence spending, welfare reductions to fund it, and resignations by Defence Secretary John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns. Burnham is expected to win the seat and potentially challenge Starmer for the Labour leadership.

Andy Burnham has criticized Keir Starmer’s Labour leadership, warning that the UK is moving toward the polarized and poisonous politics associated with the United States. Speaking during campaigning for the Makerfield by-election, Burnham also said the changing global situation made increased defence spending unavoidable and suggested welfare reductions could help fund it. A victory in the 18 June by-election could strengthen Burnham’s prospects of returning to Westminster and eventually challenging Starmer for the Labour leadership.

A Justice Committee report warns that proposed court reforms could unintentionally make defendants with previous convictions more likely to receive a jury trial than first-time offenders, because prior convictions can increase the expected sentence and affect trial allocation. The plans would send cases with likely sentences of up to three years to a single Crown Court judge, while magistrates could handle cases carrying sentences of up to two years. The charity Justice and shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy criticized the potential disparity, while the committee also questioned whether magistrates’ courts could manage the increased workload and whether recruiting 21,000 magistrates by 2029 is realistic.

Proposed UK court reforms could make defendants with previous convictions more likely to receive jury trials than first-time offenders charged with the same offence because prior convictions can increase expected sentences. The Justice Committee, legal groups and critics including Nick Timothy and Geoffrey Robertson say this creates an unfair penalty for defendants of good character and may disproportionately affect children. The reforms would reserve jury trials for the most serious cases, with lower-level cases handled by judges or magistrates, but the committee doubts magistrates’ courts have enough capacity, legal advisers or personnel to manage the increased workload. The Courts and Tribunals Bill passed its first Commons hurdle despite Labour dissent and criticism of Justice Secretary David Lammy’s approach.

The UK government plans to trial AI legal assistants across Crown Courts to reduce a record backlog exceeding 80,000 cases. Proposed tools would help judges identify trial-ready cases and combine similar hearings, while probation officers would use AI to record and transcribe offender meetings. The plans come as thousands of trials remain unscheduled for years and amid wider proposals to reduce jury trials. The Law Society and Criminal Bar Association support potential efficiency benefits but demand rigorous evaluation, transparency, safeguards and continued investment in court staff. Concerns are heightened by a police report that reportedly relied on a false football fixture generated by Microsoft Copilot, underscoring the risks of unchecked AI use in criminal justice.

Andy Burnham said laws allowing knives to be carried for religious reasons should be reviewed following the murder of Henry Nowak by a Sikh man carrying a blade. He also confirmed that he would challenge Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership if he wins the Makerfield by-election, subject to support from Labour MPs. Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon declined to apologise for previous sexist comments involving television presenter Carol Vorderman.

Migrants reached the UK in the first small-boat crossing of the English Channel in nearly two weeks after a period of poor weather. More than 1,000 people have arrived by this route during the month, although arrivals are down 44% from the same point last year and 23% from 2024. Possible factors include weather, the availability of boat parts, government policy and migration flows into Europe. The report also highlights official estimates showing UK net migration fell 48% to 171,000 in the year to December, potentially prompting renewed debate over the government’s immigration policies.

Metropolitan Police officer Kevin Beedel was dismissed after a misconduct panel found that he repeatedly groped a female colleague, identified as Pc A, during a 2018 Christmas party in Hertfordshire despite being told to stop. The panel concluded that the touching constituted harassment, caused distress and embarrassment, and was motivated by sexual gratification. Pc A said she did not report the incident at the time because of a laddish workplace culture and fears that it would harm her career. The case was discussed alongside Louise Casey’s 2023 review, which found the Metropolitan Police to be institutionally misogynistic.

The UK government is committing £20 million to a nationwide crackdown on organised crime linked to high street businesses, including convenience stores, vape retailers, American candy shops and fast-food takeaways. The initiative will create a dedicated National Crime Agency cell, add 75 police officers and provide funding to Trading Standards, Immigration Enforcement and HM Revenue and Customs. Authorities expect thousands of raids, hundreds of arrests and the seizure of millions of pounds in illicit funds.

The UK government is investing £20 million in a nationwide crackdown on high street businesses suspected of serving as fronts for organised crime. A dedicated National Crime Agency cell, a unit overseen by security minister Dan Jarvis and 75 additional police officers will target illicit operations, with extra funding for Trading Standards, Immigration Enforcement and HM Revenue and Customs. Authorities expect thousands of raids, hundreds of arrests and millions of pounds in seized cash. The initiative follows concerns that criminal networks are using shops to launder money and facilitate illegal Channel crossings, while Trading Standards warns that years of funding and staffing cuts have allowed suspicious businesses to spread. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticised the government’s record on policing and promoted Conservative proposals for additional officers, stop-and-search powers and facial recognition.

The UK government has barred 11 foreign far-right activists and politicians from entering the country ahead of Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally in central London. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the organisers for promoting hatred and division while affirming the right to peaceful protest. More than 100,000 attendees are expected, leading the Metropolitan Police to deploy thousands of officers, armoured vehicles and live facial recognition technology in an unprecedented security operation.

The Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, William Webster, warns that police forces could face court action when live facial recognition misidentifies members of the public and infringes rights including privacy, freedom of movement and freedom of association. The Metropolitan Police plans to deploy the technology at a Tommy Robinson-led protest in London, despite more than 50 unidentified suspects remaining from violence at an earlier rally. Current legal authority is fragmented, while a proposed Police Reform Bill would create a clearer framework, though concerns remain that legislation will lag behind emerging tools such as gait and iris recognition. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood supports expanding the technology beyond pilot schemes, including increasing camera vans from 10 to 50 for use across England and Wales.

John Worboys has been denied parole for a second time and will remain in prison after a Parole Board panel concluded that he still poses a risk to the public. The serial sex attacker, originally convicted of offences against 12 women, now accepts targeting 90 victims. Carrie Johnson, who testified against him, welcomed the decision. The case previously led to a successful legal challenge against his proposed release and contributed to reforms allowing greater scrutiny of parole hearings. A further review will be scheduled by the Ministry of Justice.

Serial rapist John Worboys has been denied parole for a second time and will remain in prison after the Parole Board found it was not satisfied that he no longer posed a risk to the public. The board also refused his transfer to an open prison. Worboys was originally jailed in 2009 for 19 sexual offences and received two life sentences in 2019 after admitting to additional crimes. Carrie Johnson welcomed the decision, saying it made women and girls across Britain safer.

Polish European Parliament member Dominik Tarczynski threatened legal action against Sir Keir Starmer after the UK Home Office cancelled his electronic travel authorisation, preventing him from attending Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally in London. Tarczynski called the decision “communism in the 21st century.” The government said it was taking a tougher approach to far-right agitators, and at least six other right-wing figures were reportedly also barred from entering the UK.

Polish MEP Dominik Tarczynski says he will personally sue Prime Minister Keir Starmer after the UK cancelled his electronic travel authorization ahead of Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally in London. Tarczynski condemned the ban as “communism,” while former prime minister Liz Truss called it shocking. Starmer defended a tougher policy toward foreign far-right figures whom he says threaten communities and spread hate. At least six other right-wing personalities reportedly claim to have been barred, and the rally follows a September protest attended by an estimated 110,000 to 150,000 people.

The UK government has barred seven people described as far-right agitators from entering Britain ahead of Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally in central London. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood cancelled their entry permissions on public-good grounds, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying the government would not allow people to spread hate. Named individuals include US anti-Islam influencer Valentina Gomez, commentator Joey Mannarino, Spanish activist Ada Lluch and Dutch activist Eva Vlaardingerbroek; three others have not been identified.

The UK government has cancelled the electronic travel authorisations of seven far-right figures expected to speak at Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally in London, saying their presence would not be conducive to the public good. The named individuals include US personalities Valentina Gomez and Joey Mannarino, Spanish activist Ada Lluch and Dutch activist Eva Vlaardingerbroek. Gomez threatened to travel by boat and claimed the White House would intervene, while the others criticised or questioned the decision. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the ban, and the government is expected to detain and deport Gomez if she enters the UK.

Keir Starmer has urged the Labour Party to avoid political infighting and focus on unity amid reports that Andy Burnham may return to Westminster to challenge for the leadership after poor election results. Wes Streeting is also reportedly preparing a challenge with the backing of more than 81 MPs. Starmer reiterated his commitment to a national mission and closer economic ties with the European Union.

A Metropolitan Police misconduct hearing found that officers routinely used personal phones to photograph and share evidence, including images of deceased people, because official equipment was considered inadequate. Pc Billy Manning retained and later showed colleagues a photograph of a decomposed body, while Pc Frankie Jordan also kept evidence images; both received final written warnings. The case exposed confused and conflicting guidance within the Met, prompting senior leaders to prohibit the use of personal phones for policing purposes in February 2022.

HMP Wandsworth is the UK’s most overcrowded prison, holding 1,444 inmates in a facility designed for 894. The south-west London prison has been placed into special measures after inspectors identified deteriorating conditions, weak staff experience, high absenteeism and security failures. Its 170-year-old buildings have been described as having unacceptable or inhumane living standards, despite significant investment, new leadership and Ministry of Justice plans to expand prison capacity and improve conditions.

HMP Wandsworth is the most overcrowded prison in the UK, holding 1,444 inmates—62% above its design capacity of 894. The Category B prison has faced a series of serious incidents, including Daniel Khalife’s 2023 escape, the mistaken release of Brahim Kaddour-Cherif and the conviction of former officer Linda De Sousa Abreu for having sex with an inmate. Inspectors and the prison’s independent monitoring board have described conditions as chaotic, unacceptable and inhumane, citing crumbling infrastructure, weak staff experience and average daily staff absences of about one-third. Although a new governor and recent investment have improved focus, safety and training, substantial problems remain. The Ministry of Justice says it is investing in additional prison places and better conditions while expanding community sentences.

Palestine Action, founded in 2020, has carried out direct-action protests and property damage targeting defence companies, banks, politicians and military facilities. After the group claimed responsibility for damaging two RAF Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, then-home secretary Yvette Cooper proscribed it under the Terrorism Act 2000, making membership or support punishable by up to 14 years in prison. The High Court later ruled that the ban was disproportionate because the scale and persistence of the group's activities did not meet the threshold for proscription, but the ban remains in force while the Home Office appeals to the Court of Appeal. The case raises competing concerns about public safety and criminal damage on one side, and protest rights and opposition to UK involvement in alleged war crimes on the other.

Donald Trump dismissed Prince Harry’s comments on the war in Ukraine, saying the Duke of Sussex does not speak for the UK and claiming that he speaks for the country more than Harry does. Harry, speaking at the Kyiv Security Forum during his third visit to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, called for American leadership and urged the United States to honour assurances connected to Ukraine’s decision to surrender its nuclear weapons. Trump said he appreciated Harry’s advice, while the visit comes shortly before the King and Queen are due to meet the US president during a visit intended in part to improve UK-US relations.

Donald Trump dismissed Prince Harry’s appeal for American leadership and support for Ukraine, saying the Duke of Sussex does not speak for the UK. Trump claimed he speaks for the UK more than Harry, while Harry said he was addressing the issue as a soldier and humanitarian rather than a politician. His visit to Ukraine was his third since the conflict began in 2022.

Labour backbencher Jo White called Keir Starmer’s appointment of Peter Mandelson as British ambassador to the United States the “biggest mistake of his life” and urged the government to cleanse itself of problems exposed by the vetting scandal. White said constituents remain focused on the cost-of-living crisis, industrial rebuilding and economic growth rather than calls for Starmer to resign. The Prime Minister has rejected allegations surrounding the appointments as politically motivated, while further criticism has emerged over reports that former Downing Street aide Matthew Doyle could have been considered for a diplomatic role.

Labour backbencher Jo White called Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States the “biggest mistake” of his life and urged the government to resolve the associated vetting scandal. White said constituents were more concerned about the cost-of-living crisis than the appointment or calls for Starmer’s resignation. Starmer rejected claims of a cabinet split, describing them as politically motivated.

Military planners from more than 40 countries held constructive talks in London on a proposed UK- and France-led defensive mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after the Iran war. The planned multinational operation would restore confidence among commercial shippers and, if necessary, clear mines and protect vessels once hostilities end. Defence Secretary John Healey stressed that unrestricted passage through the strait is vital to global trade, energy supplies and economic stability, particularly after its effective closure caused energy prices to rise and triggered a global economic shock.

Tajik Mohammad, a 32-year-old Afghan national, pleaded guilty at Canterbury Crown Court to the new offence of endangering lives during a Channel crossing. Prosecutors said he abandoned an overcrowded dinghy and its passengers when a rescue ship arrived, despite poor weather and some passengers lacking life jackets. The offence, introduced under the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act, carries up to five years in prison, or six years for someone breaching a deportation order. A 16-year-old Afghan boy was previously charged, while another alleged dinghy pilot is accused in connection with four migrant deaths.

Four people—Joel Bodmer, Shila Bodmer, Carole Bonner and Gabriel Leroy—have been charged over alleged attempts to manipulate a Labour Party database during the selection of a candidate for Croydon East in the 2024 general election. The alleged changes to phone numbers and email addresses were intended to hinder rival candidates. Bodmer additionally faces an allegation of perverting the course of justice for allegedly altering phone records. All four have been suspended by Labour, which referred the matter to police after an internal investigation, and are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 19 May.

Anti-Islam influencer Valentina Gomez has threatened to enter the UK by boat after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood barred her from attending the Unite the Kingdom rally in London on public-good grounds. Gomez said she would defy the ban and claimed the White House and US military personnel would support her if she were arrested. Muslim Women’s Network UK welcomed the decision, arguing that allowing her entry could threaten Muslim safety. The ban follows significant political and campaign-group opposition to her planned appearance at the rally.

Anti-Islam influencer Valentina Gomez was barred from entering the UK by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who said her presence at a Tommy Robinson rally would not be conducive to the public good. Gomez threatened to circumvent the ban by arriving via a small boat and claimed the White House might intervene if she were arrested. Muslim Women’s Network UK welcomed the decision, citing concerns about Muslim safety.

Valentina Gomez, a US anti-Islam influencer, has been barred from entering the UK ahead of a planned appearance at Tommy Robinson’s Unite the Kingdom rally. The government reportedly determined that her presence would not be conducive to the public good, citing the limits of free expression where hatred and extremism are promoted. The decision follows a similar exclusion of Kanye West and comes amid wider backlash against the rally, including Centrepoint ending its relationship with Sharon Osbourne after she expressed support for the event.

UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has barred US-based anti-Islam campaigner Valentina Gomez from entering the country. Gomez had claimed she obtained an electronic travel authorisation and was scheduled to speak at a May rally organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. The government reportedly determined that her presence would not be conducive to the public good, using the same justification recently applied to block Kanye West from entering the UK. Gomez is known for controversial anti-Islam stunts, including burning the Quran with a flamethrower during an unsuccessful Republican campaign in Missouri.

A HMICFRS report warns that police forces are failing to investigate online child sexual abuse effectively as referrals rose 66% between 2023 and 2024 and registered sex offenders increased 48% over the past decade. Investigators face caseloads of up to 54 cases, digital forensic examinations can take two years, training is inconsistent, and some suspects are interviewed voluntarily rather than arrested. The inspectorate says national bodies must establish accredited training, improve offender-management practices and ensure staffing is adequate. Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman said delays and weak supervision expose children to continuing harm, while policing minister Sarah Jones defended plans to move officers into communities and expand technology investment. The Home Office said it would strengthen offences and offender management through the Crime and Policing Bill.

The UK Government is proposing an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill that could make senior technology executives personally criminally liable, including through imprisonment or fines, if their platforms fail to remove reported non-consensual intimate images and disregard Ofcom enforcement decisions without reasonable excuse. Platforms have been told to remove such material within 48 hours. Ministers are also seeking to criminalise the possession and publication of pornography depicting incest or adults pretending to be children, with penalties of up to five years in prison, building on an existing ban on choking-related pornography. The measures are framed as part of efforts to tackle violence against women and girls and prevent harmful online content from becoming normalised.

Victims and bereaved families will have six months, rather than 28 days, to request reviews of sentences they consider unduly lenient. The Ministry of Justice says the extension will give families time to recover, seek advice and navigate the justice system, while the existing 28-day limit will remain for other members of the public. Justice Secretary David Lammy supports the change, and Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman credited campaigner Tracey Hanson and other bereaved families for helping secure it.

Victims and bereaved families will have six months, rather than 28 days, to ask the Attorney General or Solicitor General to refer allegedly unduly lenient sentences to the Court of Appeal. Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman welcomed the change as the result of Tracey Hanson’s campaign following the death of her son Josh, while Justice Secretary David Lammy said families need time to process sentences and obtain advice. The Conservatives supported the extension but characterized it as a government U-turn and said victims are often unaware of the scheme or unable to act within the existing deadline.

Wireless Festival was cancelled after the UK Home Office withdrew Kanye West’s electronic travel authorisation, preventing him from entering the country. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticised the decision to book West, who has used Nazi imagery and faced accusations of antisemitism. The article lists other high-profile figures previously refused entry to the UK, including Tyler, the Creator, Snoop Dogg, Chris Brown and Julien Blanc, noting that Snoop’s ban was later lifted.

Two people reportedly died and another went missing after a migrant boat capsized while attempting to cross the English Channel from the French coast. French emergency services launched a search-and-rescue operation and recovered people from the water, including one treated for hypothermia. The incident occurred shortly after the UK and France extended a beach-patrol agreement by two months. The extension preserves operational funding under a nearly £500 million deal intended to reduce small-boat crossings while the countries negotiate a longer-term arrangement. More than 4,400 people have arrived in the UK by small boat this year, while French ministers have criticized UK demands over potential risks to migrants.

Two migrants reportedly died and another went missing during an attempted English Channel crossing from Gravelines, France, while French authorities mounted a search-and-rescue operation and treated another person for hypothermia. The incident came shortly after UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood extended a beach-patrol agreement with France for two months as both countries negotiate a longer-term deal. The UK wants funding tied to the interception of small boats, while French officials warn that such conditions could endanger migrants, rescue workers and maritime safety. Crossings remain high despite the existing agreement.

Seven locations across the UK have been selected for new towns expected to deliver at least 10,000 homes each, with some potentially exceeding 40,000. The proposals include car-free neighbourhoods, shared green spaces and high streets, with suggested names such as Elizabethtown, Pankhurst, Attleeton, Athelstan and Seacole. Six other locations, including Adlington and Plymouth, were considered but rejected.

Seven locations across the UK have been selected for new towns expected to provide at least 10,000 homes each, with some developments delivering more than 40,000. The projects will prioritize walkable neighborhoods, shared green spaces, high streets, employment, transport and integrated community planning. Housing Secretary Steve Reed described the program as a major shift in how the UK approaches future development, while proposed names for some towns include Elizabethtown, Pankhurst, Attleeton, Athelstan and Seacole.

Seven locations have been selected for new towns across the UK, each expected to provide at least 10,000 homes, with some projected to deliver more than 40,000. The sites include Tempsford in Bedfordshire, Leeds South Bank, Crews Hill and Chase Park in London, Manchester Victoria North, Thamesmead, Brabazon and West Innovation Arc in Bristol, and Milton Keynes. Plans emphasize walkable neighborhoods, shared green spaces, high streets, transport links and employment. Six other proposed locations were rejected, while the government considers several possible names for the developments. The programme forms part of Labour’s pledge to begin work on 1.5 million homes during the parliamentary term.

Reform UK treasurer and property tycoon Nick Candy reportedly visited Nicaragua on a gold mining-related trip and met several people subject to international sanctions, including Laureano Facundo Ortega Murillo, son of co-president Daniel Ortega. Candy also received a message from sanctioned co-president Rosario Murillo, although he reportedly did not meet either her or Ortega directly. The Labour Party criticised Reform UK and Nigel Farage, arguing that the visit showed the party was failing to act in Britain’s national interest.

The French coastguard rescued 78 migrants after their small boat’s engine failed while they attempted to cross the English Channel from Belgium. The migrants were taken to Calais for care by local rescue services. French authorities warned that people attempting the crossing often refuse help until facing extreme danger. The rescue followed a separate operation in which 25 people were saved, while UK Border Security Command chief Martin Hewitt is due to step down after a year with the second-highest annual number of Channel crossings.

David Lammy’s Courts and Tribunals Bill passed its second reading in the UK Parliament by 304 votes to 203, despite opposition from 10 Labour MPs and the absence of 90 others. The reforms would generally limit jury trials to cases carrying a likely sentence of at least three years, with some cases instead decided by a single Crown Court judge. Lammy said the measures are needed to tackle growing court backlogs, which could reach 200,000 cases within a decade, while Labour MP Charlotte Nichols criticized the government’s use of victims’ experiences to support the changes.

Justice Secretary David Lammy is defending a Courts and Tribunals Bill intended to reduce the criminal justice backlog by limiting jury trials for some offences and increasing magistrates’ sentencing powers from 12 to 18 months. Labour MP Karl Turner and thousands of legal professionals, including the Bar Council, oppose the plans, arguing that underfunding—not juries—is the main cause of the crisis and that judge-only trials could undermine constitutional safeguards while delivering little benefit.

Justice Secretary David Lammy is defending reforms in the Courts and Tribunals Bill that would allow judge-only trials for certain offences and increase magistrates’ sentencing powers from 12 to 18 months. The government says the measures are necessary to tackle a crown court backlog projected to reach 125,000 and prevent further delays, while Labour MPs led by Karl Turner oppose reducing jury-trial rights. Courts minister Sarah Sackman argues that most Labour MPs support the plan, but hundreds of judges, barristers and lawyers say it is based on limited evidence and that chronic underfunding, rather than juries, is the main cause of the crisis. Lammy has also promoted artificial intelligence and other digital tools to modernise the courts.

The UK Ministry of Justice will fund a £6 million, two-year Independent Legal Advisor service offering rape victims free guidance throughout the criminal justice process, including help challenging unnecessary requests for personal information and Crown Prosecution Service decisions to take no further action. The government will also expand Operation Soteria, which seeks to focus sexual-offence investigations on suspects rather than scrutinising victims, and promote a consistent victims-first approach in court. The measures come alongside the Courts and Tribunals Bill, which proposes judge-only trials for some offences to reduce the court backlog and faces Conservative opposition. Survivors and justice officials have highlighted the trauma caused by lengthy delays and the need for better communication and support.

Rape victims in the UK are set to receive free legal advice throughout the criminal justice process under a new Ministry of Justice scheme backed by £6 million over two years. Independent Legal Advisors will provide guidance outside court and help victims challenge Crown Prosecution Service decisions to take no further action. The government is also expanding Operation Soteria to improve investigations into sexual offences and promote a victims-first courtroom approach. The reforms coincide with parliamentary consideration of a Courts and Tribunals Bill that includes proposals for judge-only trials for some offences.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is an Iranian military and intelligence organization created to protect the Islamic Republic, suppress dissent and conduct operations abroad. British authorities have linked Iranian intelligence activity to at least 20 credible UK threats since 2022, including alleged surveillance, attacks on dissidents and espionage cases involving Daniel Khalife and Magomed-Husejn Dovtaev. Recent arrests involving suspected targeting of London’s Jewish community have renewed calls, including from Ed Davey, for the IRGC to be proscribed as a terrorist organization. The UK Government is considering legislation but has not committed to proscription, while former MI6 chief Sir Richard has argued that the move could be largely symbolic and have little practical effect.