Steve Robson

Andy Burnham is expected to propose giving England’s mayors greater control over income-tax revenue and spending on transport, infrastructure and services. Under a Re:State model allowing authorities to retain up to 2.5 per cent of basic-rate income tax, London could receive about £2.3bn in 2026–27, compared with £135m for Hull and East Yorkshire and substantially smaller sums for other regions. Supporters argue that the system could reward economic growth and help tailor local policies, but critics and regional leaders warn it could deepen existing inequalities and create a two-tier system of mayors. A redistribution mechanism and a flexible assessment of authorities’ administrative capacity may be needed, particularly to avoid excluding places such as Tees Valley.

Analysis of rainfall data and sewage discharge records indicates that most sewage spills by England’s water companies in 2024 and 2025 occurred without sufficient rainfall to justify storm overflow use, suggesting they could be classed as illegal. Threshold comparisons show at least 80 per cent of spills fall below rainfall levels deemed compliant, with Yorkshire Water and Thames Water among the worst performers. Peter Hammond’s research, grounded in thresholds used during Southern Water’s 2021 prosecution, argues both companies and regulators have failed in their responsibilities. The Environment Agency disputes the applicability of a single rainfall threshold, citing site‑specific permits, and notes ongoing inspections, regulatory tightening and investment in upgrades while maintaining that unlawful discharges are subject to enforcement.

Andy Burnham’s pledge to end rough sleeping faces major structural obstacles, including rising homelessness levels, gaps in housing benefits, and the impact of Home Office asylum decisions. His plan centres on a national Housing First model backed by increased funding and a devolution agenda empowering local leaders. While successful international examples suggest the approach can work, experts note that complex mental health, addiction, and migration-related issues require long-term intervention. Burnham’s earlier Manchester initiatives highlight both progress and persistent challenges, and collaboration across government departments will be essential to meeting his goal.

A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been identified as the suspect arrested in connection with the killing of former MP Ann Widdecombe at her Devon home. Kerry, described as a recluse who cared for his recently deceased father, was detained in Rotherham and later rearrested on suspicion of preparing for an act of terrorism after evidence was recovered from his property. Neighbours reported increasingly withdrawn behaviour following his father’s death, while relatives expressed shock at his arrest. Investigators are examining possible ideological motivations, including left-wing or single-issue extremism, though authorities have not confirmed any specific link.

Repeated technical failures with Hitachi’s new Class 810 Aurora trains have forced East Midlands Railway to cut services between London and major cities, intensifying scrutiny of the company’s ability to deliver bi‑mode trains and raising concerns about its £2bn HS2 contract. Local leaders criticised the late announcement of service reductions, while experts questioned both Hitachi’s capabilities and the Government’s oversight. The disruption comes as Labour prepares for further railway nationalisation under Great British Railways, placing additional pressure on ministers to resolve the issues before the transition. Hitachi and EMR acknowledged the problems and pledged further testing and improvements to restore reliability.

Andrew and Tristan Tate were arrested in Miami after the Crown Prosecution Service authorised 38 additional charges, including rape and trafficking for sexual exploitation, bringing the number of alleged victims to seven. British authorities are seeking their extradition, with Bedfordshire Police leading the investigation. Officials urged the public not to speculate, while the brothers’ lawyer dismissed the allegations as slander and politically motivated. The Tates also face ongoing legal proceedings in Romania and have previously denied all wrongdoing.

Counter-terrorism police have taken over the investigation into former MP Ann Widdecombe’s killing, assessing whether other former MPs could also be at risk. A 28-year-old man remains under arrest on suspicion of murder and terrorism offences, with investigators treating the attack as targeted. Security arrangements for current and former parliamentarians are being reviewed, and former MPs have been advised to engage with local police forces. Reform UK has called for increased security funding, while authorities continue examining potential ideological motives and any wider threats.

Police are treating the killing of Ann Widdecombe as a terrorist incident following new evidence, with a 28-year-old suspect arrested in Rotherham and later rearrested under terrorism laws. The man, who was unknown to the Prevent programme, was seen leaving his home before the attack and allegedly carried a wooden pole, according to neighbours. Relatives expressed shock, saying they had little contact with him. Armed police searched the property and seized a red car, while CCTV placed a man entering a vehicle hours before the killing in Haytor, Devon.

Reform UK’s opposition to the UK’s net-zero agenda is causing uncertainty in the Humber region, putting at risk up to £44bn in potential private investment and 20,000 jobs tied to green industries. Local Reform mayors Luke Campbell and Andrea Jenkyns face criticism for positions that conflict with regional economic priorities, particularly as industry leaders warn that decarbonisation and clean energy are essential to securing long-term employment and competitiveness. Business figures express concern that investment may shift to other regions or abroad due to policy instability, while experts argue that the Humber remains well placed to benefit from clean energy if political signals support confidence. Rising frustration among local leaders has led to discussions about potentially dissolving the newly formed combined authorities if progress falters.

Reform UK's mayoral candidate Sian Astley seeks to challenge Labour's Bev Craig and the Greens' Geraldine Coggins in a tight Greater Manchester race timed just after Andy Burnham is expected to become prime minister. Astley promotes her property and media background as qualifications while pledging to scrutinise Burnham's past record, as Labour warns that electing a Reform mayor could undermine the region’s opportunity under a Burnham government. The Greens aim to expand their recent local gains and frame the contest as a battle with Reform, highlighting housing and governance issues as core divides among the three leading candidates.

Andy Burnham’s proposed No 10 North office may temporarily be located in Manchester’s Heron House, a building above a Slug & Lettuce pub and currently occupied by GCHQ, due to its existing security infrastructure and available space. Longer-term plans indicate a move to the forthcoming Manchester Digital Campus, though it will not be ready until at least 2028 and fully operational by 2032. Government officials view Heron House as the most practical interim site, while Burnham is expected to seek a modest, low‑cost office reflecting his desire to avoid unnecessary spending. The surrounding area is undergoing major redevelopment following delays and local opposition to earlier council plans. The Government Property Agency has secured funding and contracts for the new campus, envisaged to house thousands of civil servants once completed.

More than 352,000 train services were cancelled or part‑cancelled in Britain between April 2025 and 2026, a slight improvement on the previous year. Fourteen major operators, including most publicly run services, reduced cancellations as the network moves toward full nationalisation under Great British Railways. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted progress but said further improvements are needed. Northern recorded the biggest gains after timetable changes, management restructuring and greater local accountability. Andy Burnham, expected to become prime minister, continues to support rail nationalisation and further devolution. Northern’s leadership credits nationalisation for improved cooperation and long‑term planning, though industrial disputes remain a challenge.

Sources who have worked with Andy Burnham describe his leadership strengths and weaknesses as he prepares to enter Parliament and potentially succeed the prime minister. His personal charm and ability to motivate officials contrast with concerns that he avoids difficult decisions until crises peak. His experience leading Greater Manchester during major events, including the Manchester Arena attack and Covid‑19 disputes with central government, is highlighted alongside controversies over policing failures, the iOps system and grooming gang inquiries. Burnham’s recent by‑election experience is said to have sharpened his focus on issues such as immigration, welfare and defence, though critics argue his reluctance to confront unpopular decisions could pose challenges in national leadership.

Thirteen men from the Greater Manchester area are set to stand trial for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to drug and sexually assault a woman said to have been incapacitated by her husband, who has already admitted to multiple offences. Fourteen men in total have been charged, with one having pleaded guilty to all charges against him. The accused include a former paramedic, a taxi driver, a former football club chief executive and others, most of whom deny the allegations, ahead of a trial scheduled for September at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court.

Andy Burnham is considering reviving a Birmingham–Manchester rail link using a slower and cheaper alternative to HS2, funded partly through local taxation or revenue sharing. A rebranded HS2 team is already conducting early work on Northern Powerhouse Rail, and existing land and legislative provisions could support a revived project. Supporters argue that local funding mechanisms and fiscal devolution would improve accountability and enable faster delivery, while critics accuse Burnham of wasteful spending. The proposal would still require major Treasury support, with debates ongoing over feasibility, local contributions, and political challenges.

Voters across Greater Manchester express sharply differing views on Andy Burnham as he leaves the mayoralty following his Makerfield by‑election victory and positions himself as a potential challenger to Keir Starmer. Some criticise him as ineffective or overly focused on personal ambition, while others credit him with leadership and local understanding and believe he would outperform Starmer nationally. Reactions reflect broader dissatisfaction with mainstream politics and diverging expectations about Burnham’s future role in national leadership.

Andy Burnham signals potential shifts in UK tax policy if he becomes prime minister, pledging no rises to income tax, VAT or national insurance while exploring targeted changes such as cutting business rates for pubs and reviewing capital gains tax. He rejects benefit cuts to fund defence spending and faces internal pressure over maintaining VAT on private school fees. Burnham expresses interest in a wealth‑focused tax approach, including a possible care levy to replace inheritance tax and long‑term reform of council tax toward a land value system, amid growing frustration over outdated property valuations.

Voters in Makerfield who once backed Reform UK are shifting to Rupert Lowe’s new party, Restore Britain, citing dissatisfaction with Nigel Farage and a desire for harder-line immigration policies. Local supporters praise Lowe as more uncompromising, while polling suggests Restore could significantly impact the by-election by drawing votes from Reform. Many residents link immigration to pressures on housing, public services and community safety, while expressing frustration with both major parties. Reform argues the contest remains a two-way race with Labour.

Reform UK is set to influence changes to England’s SEND system after gaining leadership of the County Councils Network. New chair-elect Sean Matthews plans to prioritise SEND reforms, citing Lincolnshire’s development of school-based SEND hubs as a model to reduce costs and expand local provision. Rising SEND expenses and limited local government funding remain central concerns, with councils arguing that more support from central government is needed despite efforts to cut waste and manage budgets. The CCN will continue pressing for fairer funding amid tensions over Labour’s proposed allocation formula and ongoing financial pressures across local authorities.

Voters in Makerfield are sharply divided across Labour, Reform UK and Restore Britain, yet many share a strong dissatisfaction with Labour leader Keir Starmer. Andy Burnham’s campaign attempts to distance itself from national Labour politics, while Reform and Restore capitalize on concerns about immigration, crime and local neglect. Residents cite economic pressures, unresolved flood damage and frustration with political leadership as reasons for shifting support toward Reform or rejecting Labour. The by‑election serves as a key test for Labour’s leadership direction and the broader national political climate.

Andy Burnham’s bid for the Makerfield by-election is overshadowed by lingering public anger over the cancelled Greater Manchester clean air zone, a £100m scheme that triggered strong backlash from residents and business owners. Focus groups show the abandoned plan is viewed as his biggest misstep, with voters citing wasted money and poor handling. Conservatives continue to weaponise the issue locally, while taxi and business representatives say they still feel betrayed. Burnham’s team maintains that no clean air zone will be introduced and that the region is becoming compliant through alternative measures, but distrust over the scheme persists.

Prince William is preparing reforms to end rent-free accommodation and subletting arrangements for non‑working royals as part of his future approach to modernising the monarchy. The initiative follows heightened public scrutiny after revelations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor earned rental income from properties at the Royal Lodge while paying minimal rent, and that Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have lived rent‑free for years. Royal commentators say William aims to distance his future reign from practices that developed decades earlier and are now viewed as outdated. Further scrutiny of royal finances is expected as Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee prepares findings, while decisions on immediate action remain with King Charles III.

The Post Office is opposing the appeal of former sub-postmaster Steve Marston despite admitting it cannot locate the original prosecution files and acknowledging that prosecutions based on the faulty Capture system are unsafe. It has urged the Court of Appeal to rely on two 1998 newspaper reports as evidence, a move criticised as unreliable by Marston and media experts. The case forms part of the wider Post Office IT scandal, with judges expected to scrutinise the Post Office’s position at a full hearing later in the year.

Russia barred five additional British nationals, including The i Paper’s security correspondent Richard Holmes, as part of its response to UK sanctions and criticism over the war in Ukraine. The move reflects escalating restrictions on foreign media, with Russia accusing British officials and journalists of spreading anti-Russian rhetoric while the UK intensifies sanctions targeting Russian revenue and infrastructure. The article outlines previous bans, detentions, and attacks on journalists, highlights investigative reporting by The i on Russian espionage and wartime abuses, and notes ongoing geopolitical tension between Moscow and Western governments.

Andy Burnham pledged not to raise income tax, VAT or employee national insurance if he were to succeed Keir Starmer, affirming Labour’s manifesto commitments while signalling room for more radical action within those limits. He expressed caution about adopting Wes Streeting’s capital gains tax proposal and committed to current fiscal rules to maintain market confidence. Burnham advocated a major expansion of council house building and greater public control of utilities, positioning these as priorities aligned with his by-election campaign and broader call for change within Labour.

The family of former sub-postmaster Bill Roberts has received a substantial compensation payout for losses caused by the faulty Capture IT system, yet the Post Office continues to oppose overturning the criminal conviction of his late wife, Liz. Despite official acknowledgment that Capture caused financial discrepancies, her conviction remains under review by the Criminal Cases Review Commission, with appeals significantly delayed. Campaigners and political figures condemn the situation as incoherent and unjust, particularly as similar Horizon-related convictions were overturned by legislation. The Post Office is contesting early Capture appeals, arguing the system faults were not central to convictions. Lawyers and families accuse the organisation of prolonging suffering, while the Government maintains that convictions must be reviewed through established judicial processes.

Reform UK defends Makerfield by‑election candidate Robert Kenyon after scrutiny over a suspended X account and links to individuals with criminal convictions or far‑right associations. Kenyon, a local plumber who previously boosted Reform’s vote share and recently won a Wigan Council seat, portrays himself as a grassroots candidate in a high‑profile contest against Andy Burnham. Allegations include a suspended social media account tied to inflammatory posts, nomination by a councillor with a history of violent offences, and associations with individuals involved in the 2024 Southport riots and far‑right groups. Reform UK dismisses the concerns as politically motivated smears as campaigning intensifies ahead of the June vote.

HS2’s cost has risen to more than £100bn and completion has been delayed by up to 17 years, prompting criticism from ministers and experts who say years of mismanagement and overly complex design choices have plagued the project. A costly bat tunnel, slow civil works, incomplete designs and contractor risk arrangements contributed to escalating delays, while the northern leg’s cancellation has left a 2km spur ending in a Staffordshire field. Tens of billions have been spent without track being laid, and properties bought for now-cancelled sections remain empty. The Government says it is resetting the project to deliver the Birmingham–London route at the lowest viable cost.

Reform UK’s strong local election gains were accompanied by pledges to crack down on asylum accommodation and HMOs, despite limited council powers over national immigration policy. Asylum applications have risen sharply nationwide, with significant regional imbalances that do not consistently align with Reform victories. The party’s claims that councils could halt asylum housing contrast with existing national schemes and legal constraints. While Reform councillors have targeted HMOs, most such properties are unrelated to asylum seekers, and many councils already enforce strict planning controls. Local leaders express resident concerns but acknowledge limited authority over asylum placements.

Manchester’s redevelopment is reassessed as analysts and political insiders argue that Andy Burnham’s role in the city’s economic success is overstated, with much of the transformation attributed to decades of prior policy, leadership and investment. While Burnham promotes ‘Manchesterism’ and points to regional economic growth under the mayoralty, data shows similar or higher growth before the position existed. Long-term regeneration efforts following the 1996 IRA bombing, substantial private-sector partnerships, and leadership by figures such as Richard Leese and Howard Bernstein played central roles. As Burnham seeks election in Makerfield amid rising support for Reform and ongoing regional deprivation, critics question whether his policies have benefited outlying towns and whether his popularity-focused approach will withstand national scrutiny.

Voters in Makerfield who recently backed Reform UK say they are open to supporting Andy Burnham in the upcoming by‑election, seeing him as capable of delivering for the local area despite national polling favouring Reform. Keir Starmer continues to suffer from historically low satisfaction ratings, while Burnham remains the most popular Labour figure according to recent polling. Several former Reform supporters indicate they will switch to Burnham, citing his local ties and leadership qualities.

Voters in Ashton‑in‑Makerfield express strong local support for Andy Burnham as he seeks selection for Labour in the upcoming Makerfield by‑election, with several residents citing his regional ties and record as Greater Manchester mayor. Although Reform UK made significant gains locally and intends to heavily contest the seat, many residents believe Burnham’s profile, community presence and perceived effectiveness give him an advantage. Opinions reflect general disillusionment with national politics but continued trust in Burnham’s connection to the area and understanding of local needs.

Reform UK councillors in Doncaster are threatening to reverse approval of a £57m loan critical to reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport, escalating an already volatile dispute with Labour-led regional authorities. The conflict has produced death threats, resignations and allegations of withheld lease information, while leaked terms have deepened Reform’s concerns about financial risk. Labour leaders maintain the airport can be viably reopened with public funding, backed by national and regional allocations. Senior Reform figures Nigel Farage and Richard Tice have intervened, advocating acquiring the airport freehold and criticising the current deal with Peel Group. With a decisive council vote approaching and tensions between parties rising, the project faces uncertainty and potential financial jeopardy for the council.

Sunderland’s local elections saw Labour collapse after decades of dominance as Reform UK won 58 council seats, reflecting voter frustration over antisocial behaviour, limited regeneration outside the city centre, council debt and concerns about immigration. Reform councillors Chris Eynon and Paul Donaghy outlined priorities including housing and infrastructure, while immigration rhetoric raised concerns for Labour MP Lewis Atkinson, who warned about the risk of division after anti‑migrant unrest in 2024. The city’s demographic changes, largely driven by visa policies and increased international recruitment, were noted as poorly understood by the public.

Polling suggests Reform UK could take control of multiple West Midlands councils, with close races in several others. Key issues shaping campaigns include Birmingham’s unresolved bin strike, council tax policy, restrictions on HMOs, road repairs, and green belt development. Reform candidates pledge tax freezes, productivity‑linked pay deals, tougher planning responses, and prioritisation of brownfield development. Analysts expect significant Labour losses and note potential coalitions between Reform and Conservatives, while highlighting governance challenges for the relatively inexperienced party.

A subdivided Chorley house used to accommodate asylum seekers highlights growing tensions around HMOs as political debate intensifies ahead of local elections. Reform UK candidates link the rise in HMOs to immigration, while Labour councillors express concerns despite introducing stricter planning controls. Private landlords and developers report backlash and misinformation, including far‑right targeting. Home Office policy to close migrant hotels increases reliance on dispersal accommodation, with Chorley seeing a sharp rise in asylum placements. Local distrust of authorities and conflicting political narratives continue to fuel disputes over the use and perception of HMOs.

More than £3.2m in compensation has been paid to victims of the Post Office’s faulty Capture IT system, though many remain years away from full redress as criminal convictions must be overturned before payments are made. Labour minister Blair McDougall acknowledged widespread frustration over delays and the Post Office’s decision to oppose the first Capture-related appeal despite accepting the software was defective. Campaigners object to the slow pace of justice, noting parallels with the Horizon scandal. The Government has not ruled out mass exoneration, an approach supported by Post Office chair Nigel Railton. With further Capture appeals pending and a new inquiry report expected later this year, ministers argue the organisation is undergoing a cultural shift while victims continue to await resolution.

Al Carns, a highly decorated former Royal Marines officer and Labour MP since 2024, is being discussed as a possible alternative to Keir Starmer amid increasing leadership uncertainty. His military background, including service with the Special Boat Service and multiple honours such as the Military Cross and Distinguished Service Order, has earned him notable respect within defence circles and among some Labour members. Supporters view him as a credible, disciplined figure who could appeal to voters in traditional Labour areas and strengthen the party’s stance on defence. While his limited political experience makes a leadership bid unlikely, he is regarded as a diligent minister with a strong reputation for integrity and commitment.

Security concerns following an apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump have prompted Buckingham Palace and the White House to review plans for King Charles III’s state visit to Washington. The visit already faces potential complications including renewed scrutiny of Prince Andrew’s links to Jeffrey Epstein, tensions over UK-US positions on Iran, the risk of inflammatory comments by Trump about the UK Government, and sensitivities surrounding Nato and Ukraine. Experts warn that protests, awkward public moments, and geopolitical developments could disrupt the trip, though Palace officials are working to minimize risks.