Nick Eardley

Police arrested a man in south London for allegedly posting a threat on X to shoot Nigel Farage following the local and mayoral elections. The Metropolitan Police are investigating and have released the suspect on bail while examining seized digital devices. The arrest occurred shortly after the killing of Reform spokesperson Ann Widdecombe, which is under counter-terror investigation. Farage was notified by parliamentary investigators and urged broader action on similar threats. Reform UK's Zia Yusuf reiterated the party’s call for continuous security protection for all MPs.

The Hillsborough Law is unlikely to return to Parliament before the summer recess despite earlier indications it would reappear within days. Government consideration of amendments concerning an intelligence‑service opt‑out has delayed progress, with campaigners opposing provisions allowing agencies to decide whether to cooperate with inquiries. Andy Burnham, expected to become the next prime minister, plans to advance the bill quickly and fully, maintaining support for Hillsborough families. Lawmakers from several parties pressed for assurances, criticising delays and warning against weakening accountability measures for security services.

The government’s Hillsborough Law is unlikely to return to Parliament before the summer recess despite earlier expectations it would be brought back within days. Changes under consideration relate to concerns over an intelligence‑service opt‑out from a proposed duty of candour for public officials. While ministers say progress has been made, the bill is now expected to be handled by the next prime minister, likely Andy Burnham, who has criticised the proposed exemptions and pledged to move quickly on the legislation. Opposition figures warn that further delays would break promises to Hillsborough families seeking accountability and protections against future failures.

Nigel Farage denies allegations that he failed to declare in‑kind support from ally George Cottrell, including staff assistance and use of a London property prior to his 2024 election as an MP. Farage’s team argues the benefits were personal and received while he was not active in politics. He previously disclosed two Cottrell‑funded trips but no other support. The Parliamentary Standards Commissioner is already investigating a separate £5m gift from donor Christopher Harborne. Labour accuses Farage and Reform UK of being embroiled in a widening funding scandal.