Alex Bughart, the Deputy Chair of the Conservative Party, has reiterated the government's dedication to maintaining the state pension triple lock. Bughart characterised pensioners as a "special case", citing their inability to increase their income, as the rationale behind the policy.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham expressed gratitude for support following the death of his father, Frank Burnham. The Mayor cancelled all public engagements for the week.
Wandsworth Council warns residents could see their council tax bills nearly double, an increase of 97%, unless the central government reverses its funding reductions. The proposed hike would take the average Band D council tax from £961 to £1,894, a significant burden for local households.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed an 'associate member' status for Canada, a move signalling intensified economic and political alignment with the European Union. This initiative follows Canada's increasing disengagement from its traditional alliance with the United States.
