Housing minister mum on development fee cuts despite Liberal campaign vow

Sébastien Lecornu has officially taken office as the French Prime Minister, stepping into a challenging role as his government faces urgent pressure to produce a budget amidst rising political turmoil. This situation is causing concern among businesses and investors, potentially impacting France's reputation. Lecornu's ability to navigate these challenges and seek compromises will be crucial to avoid a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly, making this a pivotal moment for his administration.

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.

In today's news, experts have dismissed the Australian Labor Party's ambitious plan to build 1.2 million homes over the next decade as unrealistic. This skepticism highlights the challenges facing the housing market in Australia, where demand continues to outpace supply. Meanwhile, former Trump officials have expressed strong support for the AUKUS security pact, indicating ongoing international interest in Australia's strategic alliances. These developments are crucial as they reflect both domestic housing issues and international political dynamics.

The leader of the Alliance party is urging the Northern Ireland secretary to clarify the criteria for calling a border poll. This call for transparency is significant as it addresses the ongoing discussions about Northern Ireland's future and the potential for a referendum on its status. Understanding the process and criteria could help inform public opinion and political strategies moving forward.

British social media star Big John Fisher faced a setback during his tour in Australia after being detained by immigration officers for arriving on the wrong visa. Known for his fast food reviews and having a significant following on Instagram, Fisher's experience highlights the importance of proper visa documentation for international travel. This incident serves as a reminder for travelers to ensure they have the correct paperwork to avoid disruptions to their plans.

The US State Department has revoked six visas in response to threats made against Americans following the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. This action underscores the government's stance that it will not tolerate foreign individuals who express wishes for harm against its citizens. The move is part of a broader crackdown on social media behavior that promotes violence or hostility, highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe environment for all.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia has erupted, sending volcanic ash soaring 10 kilometers into the sky. Authorities are urging locals and tourists to maintain a safe distance of at least 6 kilometers from the volcano to ensure their safety. This eruption highlights the ongoing volcanic activity in the region and serves as a reminder of the natural hazards that can impact communities and travelers alike.

A new report reveals that flooding in Britain is set to worsen significantly, with some towns potentially facing abandonment due to the severity of the risk. This alarming prediction comes not from environmental activists but from insurers, highlighting the urgent need for action. As climate change intensifies, the reality of flooding is becoming more tangible for many, making it crucial for communities and policymakers to address these risks proactively.