‘Reverse Midas touch’: Starmer plan prompts collapse in support for digital IDs

Keir Starmer's recent conference speech aimed to rally support against the Reform party, addressing concerns within the Labour party about his leadership. While his patriotic message resonated with delegates, there remains apprehension about potential challenges to his authority. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing struggles within the Labour party and the need for Starmer to solidify his position as he navigates a complex political landscape.

In a recent article, Adrian Chiles reflects on the recent Ryder Cup defeat faced by the American team, suggesting that such losses can foster a sense of unity among fans. He points out that while Americans are typically dominant in sports, experiencing national sporting despair is a rare occurrence for them. This perspective invites readers to consider how losing can sometimes bring people together, highlighting a cultural difference in how sports are experienced in the UK compared to the US.

The Labour conference has sparked significant debate as Lucy Powell and Bridget Phillipson present their cases for the deputy leader position. Phillipson warns that a Powell victory could lead to division within the party, highlighting the stakes involved in this leadership contest. This matters because the outcome could shape Labour's unity and direction, especially as Ed Miliband prepares to announce a total ban on fracking, a move that could further influence party dynamics.

The sisters of Alaa Abd el-Fattah, a British-Egyptian human rights activist recently released from an Egyptian prison, are urging UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to advocate for the release of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh activist imprisoned in India. This call comes as Starmer prepares to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about human rights and arbitrary detention, making it crucial for leaders to address these issues on the international stage.

The Guardian's Young Country Diary series is inviting children aged 8-14 to share their experiences with nature this autumn. This initiative not only encourages young writers to express their thoughts and observations but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. By publishing these articles, The Guardian aims to highlight the importance of nature in children's lives and inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect the natural world.

Lucy Powell, a deputy leadership candidate for the Labour Party, expressed concerns that party members feel increasingly disconnected from the government. During a recent hustings event, she highlighted that this disconnect could lead to a loss of motivation among activists, emphasizing the importance of listening to feedback from constituents. This situation is significant as it reflects broader issues within the party and could impact its effectiveness and unity moving forward.

Ed Miliband's recent announcement to expedite Labour's fracking ban is a strategic move aimed at preventing potential voters from supporting Nigel Farage's pro-fracking party, Reform. This decision is significant as it reflects Labour's commitment to environmental issues and could reshape the political landscape in the UK, especially as the country grapples with energy policies and climate change.

Selfridges is facing significant challenges as it reports a 7% decline in sales, attributing this downturn to a drop in international tourists shopping for luxury goods in the UK and a general decline in consumer confidence. This marks the fifth consecutive year of losses for the retailer, which has not seen a pre-tax profit since 2019. The situation highlights the ongoing struggles within the retail sector, particularly for high-end brands, as they navigate changing consumer behaviors and economic uncertainties.

In a significant move, Ed Miliband has announced that the UK government will accelerate its plans to permanently ban fracking, a controversial practice that has faced widespread opposition. This decision comes as a direct response to the Reform party's proposals to reinstate fracking, which has raised concerns about environmental impacts. By taking this step, the government aims to reinforce its commitment to sustainable energy practices and address public concerns over climate change, making it a pivotal moment in UK energy policy.

The FTSE 100 has reached a record high, marking a significant milestone as global stocks celebrate their best September since 2013. This surge in the UK stock market is noteworthy, especially in light of the weakening US jobs market and rising employment costs that have led to a drop in business confidence. The contrasting trends highlight the resilience of the UK market amidst broader economic challenges, making it a crucial point of interest for investors and analysts alike.

Storm Amy is set to hit the UK this weekend, bringing heavy rain and winds exceeding 80mph, particularly affecting northern and western regions. This is the first named storm of the season, and the Met Office has issued warnings to prepare for potentially dangerous conditions. It's important to stay informed and take precautions as severe weather can lead to disruptions and safety hazards.

A significant legal victory was achieved as the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang was sentenced to 35 years in prison. This ruling not only brings justice to the victims but also sends a strong message about the seriousness of such crimes. The case has highlighted the ongoing issues of child exploitation and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals in society.

In an exciting Champions League match, Union Saint-Gilloise faced off against Newcastle, showcasing the intensity of European football. The game kicked off at 5:45 PM BST, and early moments included a humorous mishap where Newcastle's Botman accidentally kicked the ball into his own face. This match is significant as it highlights the competitive spirit of teams in the prestigious tournament, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.

The US government has officially shut down after both Republican and Democrat funding bills failed to pass in the Senate. This shutdown is anticipated to have a more severe impact than previous ones, affecting federal workers and services across the country. The White House held a press briefing to address the situation, highlighting the urgency of resolving the funding impasse. This matters because a prolonged shutdown could disrupt essential government functions and services that millions rely on.

The B.C. Lions are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Stampeders in the West Division, with Nathan Rourke leading the charge. This late-season push is significant as it could determine playoff positioning, making every game count. Fans are excited to see if the Lions can maintain their momentum and secure a vital win.

In a significant development, German authorities have arrested three men suspected of plotting attacks on Jewish and Israeli institutions within the country. This alarming news highlights ongoing security concerns in Germany regarding potential extremist activities and the safety of minority communities. The federal prosecutors' involvement underscores the seriousness of the allegations, as the nation grapples with rising tensions and the need for vigilance against terrorism.

The US government has officially shut down after a stalemate in the Senate, with both Democrats and Republicans pointing fingers at each other for the failure to extend funding. This marks the first government shutdown in nearly seven years, impacting federal services and employees. The inability to reach an agreement highlights ongoing political divisions and raises concerns about the implications for the economy and public services.

Oktoberfest, the renowned beer festival in Munich, has reopened after a temporary closure due to a tragic incident involving a man who committed acts of gun violence and arson against his family. The festival was shut down for seven hours following the discovery of a threatening note, raising security concerns among attendees. This reopening is significant as it reflects the resilience of the community and the importance of the festival to local culture, despite the recent events.