Live: Reinstated French PM Lecornu’s new govt takes office as budget pressure intensifies

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has issued a warning to UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, advising her against a rushed approach to revenue generation in the upcoming budget. They argue that a hasty strategy could lead to significant economic damage, emphasizing the need to address longstanding inefficiencies and unfairness in the tax system. This matters because the decisions made in the budget could have lasting impacts on the UK economy and public services, making it crucial for Reeves to consider a more thoughtful approach.

France's President Emmanuel Macron has introduced a new government led by Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, which is tasked with presenting the draft budget for 2026 by Monday. This development is significant as it comes at a crucial time for the French government, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage the country's financial planning and economic stability.

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has announced a new government following a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron, as the country faces a pressing budget deadline and ongoing political unrest. This reshuffle includes both familiar figures and new faces, but the stability of this team remains uncertain. The situation is significant as it highlights the challenges Lecornu must navigate to restore confidence and address the financial needs of France.

Lucy Powell, a leading candidate for Labour's deputy leadership, urges the party not to dismiss the upcoming May local elections as a lost cause. She believes that the upcoming budget could be a pivotal moment to regain voter interest and support. Meanwhile, her rival Bridget Phillipson is focusing on incorporating grassroots opinions into the party's strategy. This is significant as it highlights Labour's efforts to reconnect with voters and potentially turn the tide in future elections.

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is under pressure to finalize his government cabinet by the upcoming budget deadline on Monday. This situation is complicated by internal divisions within the conservative Les Republicains party regarding their willingness to accept ministerial roles. The outcome of this cabinet formation is crucial as it will impact the government's ability to implement its budget and policies effectively.

Rumors about a potential U-turn on inheritance tax have sparked frustration within the farming community, who feel that any changes may come too late to address their concerns. With the budget still weeks away, the anticipation of policy shifts highlights the ongoing struggles faced by farmers, making it clear that timely support is crucial for their future.

Sebastien Lecornu, the reappointed French Prime Minister, has expressed concerns that his term may be short due to the ongoing political turmoil in the country. This situation is significant as it highlights the instability within the French government and raises questions about the future direction of the administration. Lecornu's caution reflects the challenges he faces in navigating a complex political landscape, which could impact policy-making and governance in France.

In a surprising turn of events, French President Emmanuel Macron has reappointed Sébastien LeCornu as Prime Minister just days after he stepped down. This decision comes amidst ongoing political discussions and a gridlocked National Assembly, raising concerns about the government's ability to pass a budget before the year's end. This situation is significant as it highlights the challenges facing French politics and the urgency for effective governance.

Reappointed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu of France aims to form a government free from party politics to address the ongoing political crisis. In his first public statement since taking office, Lecornu emphasized the need for a cabinet composed of members who are not focused on their ambitions for the 2027 presidential elections. This approach is significant as it seeks to prioritize effective governance over political maneuvering, which could lead to more stable leadership during challenging times.

Reappointed French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized the importance of an independent cabinet that isn't influenced by political parties. This statement comes as he faces the challenge of addressing a growing political crisis while preparing a budget bill due by Monday. His ability to navigate these issues is crucial for maintaining stability in France's governance.

French President Emmanuel Macron has reappointed Sebastien Lecornu as prime minister just days after his resignation, a decision that has sparked outrage among some political opponents who are now vowing to challenge the new government. This move is significant as it highlights the ongoing political tensions in France and the challenges Macron faces in maintaining stability within his administration.

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, is seeking to reduce the influence of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) as Labour grapples with challenging economic forecasts. This move is significant as it reflects Labour's attempt to navigate a tough financial landscape while aiming to bolster the UK economy against potential market volatility. The outcome of this strategy could have lasting implications for fiscal policy and public confidence in economic management.

The recent decision by Israeli authorities to finalize the release of around 1,950 Palestinian prisoners as part of a hostage exchange deal has raised significant concerns. While this move is seen as a step towards resolving the ongoing conflict, the exclusion of high-profile prisoners like Marwan Barghouti and Ahmad Saadat has sparked criticism. Many believe that including these figures could have fostered a more comprehensive peace process. Additionally, the fact that over half of those released are being deported to Gaza or abroad complicates the situation further, highlighting the ongoing tensions and the challenges ahead for both sides.

Recent reports from Moscow allege that Kiev has employed an Islamic State agent to orchestrate an assassination plot against a senior Russian officer. This serious accusation highlights the escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, particularly in the context of ongoing conflicts. Such actions could further complicate diplomatic relations and increase hostilities in the region, making it a significant development in the ongoing geopolitical landscape.

Recent reports suggest that the U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, is considering a plot to assassinate Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro as part of its ongoing efforts against drug cartels. This development raises significant concerns about international relations and the ethical implications of such actions. The potential assassination could escalate tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, impacting not only diplomatic ties but also the stability of the region.

Witkoff has expressed his appreciation for the tireless efforts of a UK Prime Minister's aide in addressing the Gaza situation, highlighting the significant role the UK played in the recent peace agreement. This acknowledgment not only underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in the Middle East but also reflects a collaborative approach to resolving longstanding conflicts, which is crucial for regional stability.

In a significant shift, Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, has announced that the party is moving away from its firm commitment to £90 billion in tax cuts for its 2024 manifesto, now labeling these plans as mere aspirations. This change raises concerns about the party's fiscal strategy and its potential impact on voters who may have supported them for their tax reduction promises. Meanwhile, Keir Starmer expressed hope for a sustainable peace in Gaza and Israel, highlighting the broader political context in which these domestic issues are unfolding.

In a significant turn of events, all living Israeli hostages have been released after more than 780 days in Gaza, marking a moment of relief for families and the nation. This release coincides with Donald Trump's visit to the Knesset, where he received a standing ovation, highlighting the strong ties between the U.S. and Israel. The situation underscores the ongoing complexities of the region but also offers a glimmer of hope for future peace efforts.