Blair’s former policy chief Matthew Taylor to lead Fair Work Agency

A group of 13 Labour MPs is urging Rachel Reeves to abolish council tax, advocating for a new system that reflects the rising house prices in the south-east. This push comes as the Chancellor prepares for next month's budget, highlighting the growing concern over property taxes in Great Britain. The MPs, primarily from northern constituencies, believe that reforming the tax system could lead to a fairer approach for homeowners, making this a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about economic equity.

A group of 13 Labour MPs is urging Rachel Reeves to abolish council tax, advocating for a new system that reflects the rising house prices in the south-east. This push comes as the Chancellor prepares for next month's budget, highlighting the growing concern over property taxes in Great Britain. The MPs, primarily from northern constituencies, believe that reforming the tax system could lead to a fairer approach for homeowners, making this a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about economic equity.

In a significant development, all living Israeli hostages have been freed, and hundreds of Palestinian detainees and prisoners have been released during a summit led by Donald Trump in Egypt. This momentous event marks a potential turning point in the long-standing conflict, as both Israelis and Palestinians celebrate a truce and look forward to a new era of peace. The involvement of international leaders like Trump and the proposed 'board of peace' raises hopes for a more stable future in the region.

In a significant development, all living Israeli hostages have been freed, and hundreds of Palestinian detainees and prisoners have been released during a summit led by Donald Trump in Egypt. This momentous event marks a potential turning point in the long-standing conflict, as both Israelis and Palestinians celebrate a truce and look forward to a new era of peace. The involvement of international leaders like Trump and the proposed 'board of peace' raises hopes for a more stable future in the region.

In a heated exchange, Minister Badenoch has accused the Labour Party of prioritizing economic ties with China over the UK's national security. This accusation comes amidst claims that the government may have influenced the collapse of a Chinese spy trial due to fears of losing Chinese investment. The Prime Minister's spokesperson has firmly denied these allegations, calling them entirely false. This matter is significant as it raises questions about the balance between economic interests and national security, a topic that resonates deeply in current political discourse.

In a heated exchange, Minister Badenoch has accused the Labour Party of prioritizing economic ties with China over the UK's national security. This accusation comes amidst claims that the government may have influenced the collapse of a Chinese spy trial due to fears of losing Chinese investment. The Prime Minister's spokesperson has firmly denied these allegations, calling them entirely false. This matter is significant as it raises questions about the balance between economic interests and national security, a topic that resonates deeply in current political discourse.

The recent ceasefire in Gaza has drawn significant attention, especially as hostages are released and many Palestinians return to their homes. In a podcast discussion, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey explore the UK's involvement in this critical moment, highlighting the roles of global leaders like Donald Trump and Keir Starmer at a peace summit. They also delve into Tony Blair's contributions to the ceasefire efforts. Understanding the UK's position is crucial as it may influence the next steps in the peace process.

The recent ceasefire in Gaza has drawn significant attention, especially as hostages are released and many Palestinians return to their homes. In a podcast discussion, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey explore the UK's involvement in this critical moment, highlighting the roles of global leaders like Donald Trump and Keir Starmer at a peace summit. They also delve into Tony Blair's contributions to the ceasefire efforts. Understanding the UK's position is crucial as it may influence the next steps in the peace process.

The upcoming by-election in Caerphilly is poised to challenge Labour's long-standing dominance in the region. This election is significant not just for selecting a representative but also for testing the party's influence and relevance in contemporary politics. As voters head to the polls, the outcome could signal shifts in public sentiment and party loyalty, making it a crucial event to watch.

The upcoming by-election in Caerphilly is poised to challenge Labour's long-standing dominance in the region. This election is significant not just for selecting a representative but also for testing the party's influence and relevance in contemporary politics. As voters head to the polls, the outcome could signal shifts in public sentiment and party loyalty, making it a crucial event to watch.

Tony Blair has received a positive nod from the Palestinian Authority to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza following a recent ceasefire. This endorsement came after a meeting with Hussein al-Sheikh in Jordan, marking a significant step towards rebuilding efforts in the region. Blair's involvement could bring valuable experience and resources to the recovery process, which is crucial for the stability and future of Gaza.

Tony Blair has received a positive nod from the Palestinian Authority to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza following a recent ceasefire. This endorsement came after a meeting with Hussein al-Sheikh in Jordan, marking a significant step towards rebuilding efforts in the region. Blair's involvement could bring valuable experience and resources to the recovery process, which is crucial for the stability and future of Gaza.

Madagascar is facing a political crisis as President Rajoelina has fled the country following mass protests and the dissolution of Parliament. This situation raises significant concerns about the country's stability and governance, as the courts will now determine the legality of the dissolution. If deemed legal, Parliament could convene an extraordinary session to potentially impeach Rajoelina, which could lead to further unrest. The unfolding events are crucial for Madagascar's future and its democratic processes.

The recent release of around 1,700 Palestinian prisoners by Israel has sparked immense joy and emotional reunions as they return to their families. This significant event, part of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, also included the release of 250 security detainees in exchange for 20 hostages held by Hamas. This moment not only highlights the human aspect of the conflict but also represents a step towards potential peace and reconciliation in the region.

The Bank of England's Alan Taylor has raised concerns about the U.K. economy, suggesting that there is an increasing risk of a recession, primarily due to high borrowing costs. This matters because a recession could lead to significant economic challenges for individuals and businesses alike, affecting everything from employment rates to consumer spending.

In a significant statement, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that the recent Middle East peace deal owes much to former President Trump's efforts, marking it as a historic achievement. However, he stressed that the focus now should be on the implementation of this deal to ensure lasting peace in the region. This discussion comes amid calls from Europe's top human rights official for a review of UK protest laws following mass arrests related to Palestine Action, highlighting the ongoing tensions and the importance of balancing rights with security.

Letitia James, the New York attorney general, recently made a strong statement at a rally for Mamdani, marking her first public appearance since her indictment. Her remarks come amid rising tensions between the US and China, as both nations exchange accusations regarding the impact of their trade policies on the global economy. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges in US-China relations and the political climate in the US, where powerful figures are often at odds with the pursuit of truth.

Iran's recent sentencing of two French citizens to over 30 years in prison raises serious concerns about human rights and judicial fairness. Convicted on charges of espionage and collaboration with foreign entities, this case highlights the ongoing tensions between Iran and Western nations, particularly France. The harsh penalties reflect Iran's strict stance on national security and its approach to foreign relations, making it a significant issue for international diplomacy.