The UK government's ambition to abolish the leasehold system for new houses faces significant legal and financial complexities, with a phased approach now considered more viable than outright immediate repeal.
The Green Party has chosen Chris Kennedy, a local registered nurse and children's safeguarding specialist, to contest the Makerfield by-election on 18 June. The seat became vacant after Labour MP Josh Simons resigned, reportedly to facilitate Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham's return to Westminster.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a series of 'Great British Summer Savings' initiatives, including free bus travel for children and fuel duty measures. However, immediate assistance for energy bills is not included, with the government focusing on targeted winter contingency planning due to affordability concerns over broad support schemes.
