Wine enthusiasts face increased prices due to a tax rise on bottled beverages – however, there is a silver lining for pub-goers.

There's a bit of good news for those who enjoy a drink at the pub, as the tax on draught offerings has been reduced by 1.7%, which translates to a one-penny saving per pint.

Saturday, February 1, 2025, 05:

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Starting this Saturday, shoppers can expect to pay more for alcoholic beverages due to an increase in taxes and duties.

The tax on alcohol will increase by 3.6% to match the Retail Price Index, while simultaneously, a new method for taxing wines and spirits according to their alcohol content will be implemented.

This indicates that the tax on a bottle of gin will increase by 32 pence, and for wine with an alcohol content of 14.5%, the tax will go up by 54 pence.

As of August 1, 2023, new regulations adjusting excise duty and implementing a tax based on the alcohol content of wine were enacted. However, the Conservative government has implemented a temporary measure that applies a uniform tax rate of 12.5% to wines with an alcohol content ranging from 11.5% to 14.5%.

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has determined that the price of a bottle of red wine with an alcohol content of 14.5% would have increased by 98p over a period of 18 months, factoring in the latest duty increases that were implemented in August 2023.

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The text also highlighted that starting in April, recycling fees for waste packaging will incur additional expenses, with wine bottles costing an extra 12p and spirit bottles 18p.

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Miles Beale, CEO of the WSTA, commented: "The UK's severe alcohol taxation system leaves no victors.

"Increased tax rates lead to decreased purchases, thereby lowering revenue for the government; this puts pressure on businesses and forces consumers to face higher prices."

In a bit of good news for pub-goers, the tax on draught beverages served in bars, such as beer pints, will decrease by 1.7%, effectively reducing the cost by one penny per pint.

James Murray, the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, remarked: "Our pubs and brewers form a vital component of the UK's fabric and our vibrant high streets.

"By implementing draft relief, providing support for small-scale producers, and widening market opportunities for lesser-known breweries, we aim to stimulate growth in the industry and enact our Strategy for Transformation, which is designed to increase the financial capacity of the working population."

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Richard Naisby, the head of the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates, commented, "With the government boosting funding for draught relief, draught beer available in community pubs now benefits from a reduced alcohol duty compared to beer available in supermarkets, which should motivate more individuals to patronize their local pubs."

"Additionally, by enhancing small producer relief, the government has the opportunity to assist small breweries in competing and expanding their enterprises."

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Members of the European Parliament observe Holocaust Remembrance Day

Spread the word:

Today, at midday, the European Parliament will honor International Holocaust Remembrance Day with a keynote speech by Corrie Hermann during a plenary meeting in Brussels.

Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament, is set to commence the formal session honoring International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27 at noon. Following her opening, there will be a musical rendition of a concerto by Pál Hermann.

Corrie Hermann is set to talk to Members of the European Parliament, sharing the tale of her father, Pál Hermann, a cellist and composer from Hungary who was killed by the Nazis in 1944. The musical event will highlight a performance with his original Gagliano cello.

Following a moment of silence observed by the Members of the European Parliament, the event will conclude with a musical rendition of Maurice Ravel's "Kaddish."

January 27th commemorates 80 years since Auschwitz was freed.

You have the option to view the live session at this link

Corrie and Pál Hermann

Pál Hermann, born in Budapest on March 27, 1902, was a renowned cellist of his time, having studied under Béla Bartók. During the 1920s, Hermann relocated to Berlin and performed concerts across Europe using his prized Gagliano cello. In 1933, he sought refuge in Belgium and France. In 1944, after being detained by the Nazis in Toulouse, Hermann managed to toss a note from the train, pleading for the preservation of his Gagliano cello. The note was discovered, and a friend of Hermann's embarked on a 100-kilometer bicycle journey to save the instrument. This friend broke into Hermann's home, swapped the Gagliano with a less valuable cello, and made his escape with the Gagliano fastened to his back.

In 1944, Hermann fell victim to the Nazis, who killed him in a camp located in the Baltic region. Eight decades later, his cello was found being played by a participant in the Queen Elisabeth Competition. At 92, Pál Hermann's daughter, Corrie (Cornelia) Hermann, is set to share her father's life story, his unfortunate end, and his contributions at a commemorative plenary session.

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Court Blocks Drilling at Rosebank and Jackdaw Oil and Gas Fields

A court decision supports legal objections to the development of new offshore oil and gas fields, marking another instance of fossil fuel initiatives being overturned in legal settings. However, the Rosebank and Jackdaw projects may still proceed if they receive approval following new government evaluations of their environmental effects.

Environmental journalist @SeabrookEnviro

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 12:

Efforts to exploit the UK's biggest undeveloped oilfield were thwarted following a significant legal battle centered on environmental concerns.

A court in Scotland found that the former Conservative administration had illegally approved the offshore Rosebank oilfield and the smaller Jackdaw gas project.

The proceedings might still continue in the future. However, the judge pointed out that the initial evaluations of the projects did not consider the environmental effects of burning the extracted oil and gas, focusing only on the extraction process.

The outcome represents a triumph for environmental activists, marking another defeat for fossil fuel initiatives in a chain reaction initiated by a pivotal court decision in June.

The Labour government, which came into power last July with a commitment to address climate change, is now required by the court to assess the complete environmental impact of the so-called "downstream" emissions and to make a new decision.

Oil and gas account for over two-thirds of the UK's energy supply, yet the reserves in Rosebank and Jackdaw won't significantly reduce UK imports. As a result, any upcoming decisions regarding these fields are "political," according to Dr. Ewan Gibbs, an energy historian at the University of Glasgow.

Labour might approve these projects without breaking its campaign pledge of "no new licences" for North Sea ventures since these initiatives already possess the necessary licences and merely require final approval from the government.

Activists rejoice over 'monumental victory'

Philip Evans, a leading activist at Greenpeace UK, the organization responsible for initiating the Jackdaw lawsuit, stated: "This victory is historic – the era where governments sanction new drilling locations without considering their effects on the climate has ended."

Last year, the advocacy of Greenpeace and Uplift was significantly strengthened by a pivotal decision from the Supreme Court in June, which determined that such emissions must now be accounted for.

Greenpeace described it as a "revolutionary breakthrough".

Following that, similar initiatives, including the West Cumbria coal mine, were also overturned for the same reasons, and the newly elected government announced it would cease to support these projects legally.

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At a November hearing, the developers behind the sites – Shell, Equinor, and Ithaca Energy – acknowledged that their prior approvals were indeed illegal.

They contended that despite the changes in expectations, the initiatives should continue because they were already significantly developed.

Exploring why oil and gas corporations are content

Today, Lord Ericht of the Court of Session in Scotland reversed the previously granted approvals.

"He stated that the general public's concern for legal action by authorities and the individual interest in climate change surpass the private interests of the developers."

"The rulings will be overturned and reconsidered, this time with consideration for emissions released further along in the process."

For now, the firms can keep working on their sites, but they are prohibited from extracting any oil or gas.

An Equinor representative expressed satisfaction regarding the recent court decision, stating, "We are pleased with today's ruling, which permits us to move forward with the Rosebank project as we await further approvals."

"Rosebank plays a vital role in stimulating the UK's economy, as UK businesses are projected to receive 77% (£6.6 billion) of the overall direct investment."

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Rosebank holds approximately 300 million barrels of oil, with the majority set for export. Conversely, the lesser quantities of gas from Jackdaw are intended for consumption within the UK, though they are unlikely to significantly impact domestic energy costs.

An official from the government's energy department announced that new guidelines for environmental assessments will be released this spring, at which time companies may submit new applications under the revised criteria.

They continued, "It is our foremost goal to ensure a just, organized, and thriving transformation in the North Sea, adhering to our environmental and legal commitments. This aims to propel us towards a future of clean energy that guarantees energy security, reduced costs, and sustainable, quality employment."

A representative from Shell, the company behind the Jackdaw project, stated: "The government must act quickly to enable us and other operators in the North Sea to make crucial decisions regarding the UK's essential energy infrastructure."

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves has expressed her support for the addition of a third runway at Heathrow Airport, stating that the expansion of Europe's most frequented airport is "crucially necessary." However, Green Party's Sian Berry criticized the decision, describing it as "the most reckless statement by any government since the Liz Truss budget."

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 7:

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves has declared that the government endorses the addition of a third runway at Heathrow.

Ms. Reeves stated that the growth of Europe's most frequented airport is "crucially necessary" for linking the UK with the global stage and unlocking new possibilities for development.

She stated that the addition of a third runway would catalyze additional growth, enhance investment opportunities, boost exports, and make the UK more accessible and interconnected.

Latest in Politics: Responses to Decision on Third Runway

She noted that a study by Frontier Economics predicts a potential rise in GDP by 0.43% by the year 2050. She added that 60% of this economic uplift would benefit regions beyond London and the Southeast, enhancing trade prospects for products such as Scotch whiskey and Scottish salmon.

Ms. Reeves stated that widening the scope could generate over 100,000 new employment opportunities.

The revelation has received praise from certain business circles, yet it has provoked outrage from London's Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan, the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, and various environmental organizations.

Over the weekend, Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative leader, expressed her backing for a third runway during an interview with Sky News.

Discover Further: Insight – Key Takeaways from the Chancellor's Speech That Might Go Unnoticed

During a discussion about investing in UK infrastructure to boost economic development, Ms. Reeves stated, "Continuous postponements have led to skepticism regarding our commitment to enhancing our economic future."

She noted that organizations such as the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), and the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), along with trade unions, unanimously agree that there is a dire need for a third runway.

'Britain is a nation with vast, unrealized possibilities'

Following her discussion with Sky's economics and data editor Ed Conway, Ms. Reeves expressed her vision for the UK, stating, "My goal is for the UK to become a hub for international investment… we need to open our doors to top-tier businesses and elite talent globally. I envision businesses and investors worldwide recognizing the UK as I do: a nation brimming with vast, yet unrealized, possibilities."

The chancellor discussed assisting UK firms in expanding their operations.

She stated: "We are implementing changes in the capital market, focusing especially on pension reforms. This includes freeing up £80 billion of long-term patient capital through the establishment of large-scale funds, which involves combining defined contribution and local government pension schemes. These larger pools of capital will then be capable of investing significantly in the promising opportunities available in the UK."

"Taking a cue from nations such as Australia and Canada, which utilize their substantial pension funds to bolster their industries, the UK aims to support businesses transitioning from start-up phase to growth phase. Often, these companies encounter a financial gap post-initial funding when they attempt to scale up. Unfortunately, they find that necessary funding is not readily accessible in the UK, compelling them to seek financial resources from countries like the United States, for instance."

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Funding for eco-friendly airplane fuel

In her address, Ms. Reeves highlighted that the UK is making significant progress towards adopting more environmentally friendly aviation practices. She revealed a government commitment of £63 million in the coming year to the Advanced Fuel Fund grant programme, which aims to foster the growth of facilities producing sustainable aviation fuels.

The administration will continue to receive project submissions until the summer, after which it will conduct a comprehensive evaluation via the Airport National Policy Statement to guarantee that the construction of a third runway adheres to our legal, environmental, and climate commitments.

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Ms. Reeves stated that the government anticipates all related ground transportation expenses for the new third runway to be covered by private investment.

She noted that the transport secretary will soon make a decision regarding the ongoing expansion proposals for Gatwick and Luton.

Discover further: A detailed timeline of the proposals for a third runway at HeathrowEnvironmental organizations express concerns over the involvement of a Heathrow advocate in shaping Labour's policies

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A long-standing discussion

Discussion about whether to enlarge Europe's most frequented airport has been a recurring topic in British political circles for many years.

Ms. Reeves's choice may conflict with the stance of Climate Secretary Ed Miliband, who has stated that airport expansions will be halted if they fail to align with environmental goals.

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He previously stated that he would not step down if the government greenlit a third runway, although he had considered resigning from Gordon Brown's cabinet in 2009 as the climate change secretary over similar proposals. Additionally, in 2018, he mentioned that expanding the runway would "very likely" exacerbate air pollution.

He has stated that the government is capable of achieving both its economic growth and net zero objectives simultaneously.

London's mayor objects to new

Sadiq Khan expressed his continued opposition to the addition of a third runway, citing significant concerns over noise, air pollution, and the challenges it presents to achieving climate goals.

He stated he would thoroughly examine all forthcoming proposals, "taking into account their effects on local residents and the significant consequences for our transportation system."

"Although there have been advancements in making the aviation industry more eco-friendly, I remain skeptical that increasing the number of flights at Heathrow by hundreds of thousands annually won't severely harm our environment," he stated.

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Green Party Representative Sian Berry criticized the decision to expand airports amid a climate crisis, calling it "the most reckless action by any government since the Liz Truss budget."

Conservative shadow chancellor Mel Stride criticized Ms. Reeves and Sir Keir Starmer, labeling their budget as "job-destroying" and calling it "the greatest obstacle to economic growth."

"He further added that the chancellor, who is against growth, did not dismiss the possibility of introducing additional tax increases in March."

"This Labour administration is led by officials who lack comprehension of business operations and the origins of wealth. With fresh leadership, the Conservatives will persist in supporting businesses and scrutinizing this government's actions."

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Prescott's Pork Pie Incident

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 08:04 AM, UK

🎧 Tune into the "Politics At Jack And Sam's" podcast on your favorite podcast platform! 🎧

Sky News’ assistant political chief, Sam Coates, along with Politico’s Dan Bloom, preview the upcoming events in UK politics.

The Labour Party gathered in Hull to attend the funeral of John Prescott. Sky News' lead political reporter Jon Craig, who often clashed with the former deputy prime minister, recounts several memorable encounters, one of which features a pork pie.

In another segment, Sam and Dan discuss public responses to Chancellor Rachel Reeves' major economic address, with Sam expressing frustration over government restrictions.

Feel free to message us on WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or drop us an email at jackandsam@sky.uk

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"Lord Mandelson retracts his statement about Trump being a global threat," announces the peer himself. As Lord Mandelson is poised to be appointed the new UK ambassador, his earlier remarks concerning Donald Trump have sparked speculation that he may face difficulties gaining acceptance in Washington DC.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 6:

Lord Mandelson admits that describing Donald Trump as a "danger to the world" in 2019 was a mistake and incorrect.

The ex-Labour official has been appointed as the forthcoming British ambassador to the United States, though there are concerns regarding President Trump's approval of this selection.

In a conversation with Fox News, Lord Mandelson retracted his earlier criticisms of the president's initial term.

Latest in Politics: Administration Unveils Economic Expansion

The 71-year-old stated on the conservative-leaning US television network, "I now view my comments about President Trump as poorly considered and incorrect.

"I believe that public perceptions and feelings about the president have shifted over time.

"People are not only struck by the remarkable second term mandate he received from the American electorate, but also by the vigor and enthusiasm he has shown in both his campaign and his governance."

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Numerous members of the Labour Party, among them the current Foreign Secretary David Lammy, have voiced criticism of Mr. Trump prior to, throughout, and following his initial tenure in the White House.

Now that they hold governmental power and Mr. Trump has resumed authority in Washington DC, their language has taken on a more diplomatic tone.

Explore further: In the world of Trump, no one is secure. Trump's assistant labels Mandelson as an 'idiot'.

On a previous episode of the Alain Elkann Interviews podcast, Lord Mandelson expressed: "The views and ideals of Donald Trump are fundamentally opposed to the general consensus in Britain."

He further commented, "Even individuals who might secretly appreciate Donald Trump for his charisma often view him as impulsive and a threat to global stability."

The probable future ambassador expressed criticism of Mr. Trump's behavior towards a former ambassador, describing the president as "essentially a white nationalist and a racist."

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In his recent remarks, Lord Mandelson commended Mr. Trump, describing him as a "pleasant" and "equitable" individual who has the potential to be "one of the most significant American presidents I have encountered in my adult years."

He commented, "His method of governance appears far more structured and clear-cut to us in Britain, which is truly encouraging and boosts our confidence significantly."

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"Lord Mandelson retracts his previous statement on Trump being a global threat," he declares.

As Lord Mandelson prepares to potentially be the next British ambassador, his earlier remarks regarding Donald Trump have sparked speculation that he may face resistance in securing a position in Washington DC.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 6:

Lord Mandelson admitted that his 2019 description of Donald Trump as a "danger to the world" was "misguided and incorrect."

The ex-Labour official has been appointed as the upcoming British ambassador to the United States, though there are uncertainties regarding President Trump's approval of the selection.

In a conversation with Fox News, Lord Mandelson retracted his previous criticisms of the president's initial term.

Latest in Politics: Administration Unveils Economic Expansion

The 71-year-old stated on the conservative-leaning US television network, "I believe my comments regarding President Trump were misguided and incorrect."

"People's perceptions and feelings about the president seem to have shifted over time.

"People seem to be not only amazed by the incredible second term he was granted by the voters in America, but also by the vigor and enthusiasm he has shown in both his campaign and his governance."

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Numerous Labour members, such as the current Foreign Secretary David Lammy, have expressed criticism of Mr. Trump prior to, throughout, and following his initial tenure in the White House.

Now that they hold governmental authority and Mr. Trump has regained control in Washington DC, the rhetoric has shifted towards a more diplomatic tone.

Discover further: Safety eludes everyone in Trumpland Trump assistant labels Mandelson 'idiotic'

In a past episode of the Alain Elkann Interviews podcast, Lord Mandelson expressed that Donald Trump's ideals and beliefs are fundamentally opposed to the general views held by most in Britain.

He also mentioned: "Even individuals who secretly admire Donald Trump for his charisma still view him as impulsive and a threat to global stability."

The probable next ambassador expressed disapproval of Mr. Trump's behavior towards a former occupant of the position, describing the president as "essentially a white nationalist and a racist."

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Lord Mandelson recently expressed his admiration for Mr. Trump, describing him as "nice" and "fair-minded" and suggesting that he might be "one of the most significant American presidents I've encountered in my adult life."

He further stated, "The way he is managing government affairs appears significantly more structured and clear to us in Britain. His clarity and coherence in his objectives boosts our morale and enhances our confidence."

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Most people favor limiting political contributions, with half of Reform Party supporters agreeing, according to survey

The survey results, provided solely to Sky News and carried out by Survation for the advocacy group 38 Degrees, reveal a broad apprehension regarding the impact of financial contributions on UK politics.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 5:

A new survey indicates that most people favor limiting the amount of money that can be donated to political campaigns, with this view shared by half of those who vote for Reform UK.

Information provided solely to Sky News highlights extensive worries regarding the impact of financial contributions on UK political processes.

Latest Political Update: Prime Minister and Badenoch Disagree on Government's Economic Expansion Strategy

Individuals and companies can donate unlimited amounts to their favored political parties.

The poll, carried out by Survation on behalf of advocacy organization 38 Degrees, indicates that 60% of respondents support the implementation of a limit.

This encompasses more than two-thirds of voters supporting Labour and the Liberal Democrats in the 2024 general election, as well as over half of those backing the Conservative and Reform UK parties.

The information regarding Reform arrives amidst rumors that Elon Musk might contribute several million pounds to the group, a move that both leader Nigel Farage and top members have expressed support for.

Matthew McGregor, the CEO of 38 Degrees, expressed to Sky News that such an event would bestow upon the wealthiest individual unprecedented and alarming power, and emphasized that government officials must actively engage in this issue.

He stated: "The studies are conclusive – should the government decide to limit political contributions, they would receive support from the British populace, ranging from two-thirds of Labour supporters to most of the Reform party voters."

"We need fresh laws to limit political contributions, safeguarding our valued democracy in Britain from external interference."

This follows comments from ex-Labour Home Secretary Lord Blunkett, who suggested to Sky News that there ought to be a maximum limit on the donations that corporations and labor unions can make to political parties, and called for more rigorous regulations concerning the sources of these funds.

In its platform, Labour committed to "safeguard democracy by enhancing regulations on political party contributions."

A representative from the government informed Sky News that as of now, there are "no immediate intentions to impose limits on donations." They added that political parties are legally obligated "to reasonably ensure the identity of donors and their eligibility to donate."

They also stated, "We're exploring various alternatives, including suggestions previously made by the Electoral Commission and the Committee on Standards in Public Life. More information will be released in due time."

Demands to Seal 'Gaps'

The Standards in Public Life Committee has advocated for a yearly limit of £10,000 on contributions from individuals and entities.

Authorities have also recommended mandatory verification processes for donors, alongside a cap on corporate contributions to ensure they do not surpass earnings made in the UK.

Political groups in the UK are prohibited from receiving funds from foreign sources, yet certain gaps in the law enable international donors to contribute through companies established within the UK.

This indicates that while American national Mr. Musk is prohibited from directly contributing to a British political party, he is permitted to make donations through the British branches of his businesses.

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Government officials are facing scrutiny due to issues surrounding the tech mogul, who has frequently expressed his opinions on UK politics through his X platform.

The problem is longstanding and has affected every political group, with Labour's initial period in power marred by controversies surrounding donations and perks.

Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick faced criticism for receiving a £75,000 donation from a business that had obtained a loan from a company based in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

Advocates for reducing financial influence in politics argue that it undermines public trust and jeopardizes democracy by opening the door to foreign meddling and excessive sway from major contributors.

Political financing has reached unprecedented levels, following a discreet move by the Conservatives to adjust party spending caps for election campaigns to reflect inflation rates, while also elevating the minimum amount at which parties must disclose their accepted donations to the Electoral Commission.

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer are banking on economic expansion as a crucial battle they must win to secure victory in the upcoming election.

Political correspondent @BethRigby

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 8:

On Wednesday, Rachel Reeves discussed topics like deregulation, simplifying the process of planning decisions, and restricting judicial reviews, which may have seemed somewhat technical and esoteric.

Continue reading, as this is significantly important and likely will be regarded in the future—whether positively or negatively—as a pivotal moment for Sir Keir Starmer's Labour government.

On Wednesday, the chancellor clearly defined her extensive aspirations for economic expansion and the lengths to which her administration is willing to go in order to realize those goals.

Latest in Politics: Disputes Arise Regarding Expansion of Government

The commitments were ambitious. She planned to streamline the planning process and reduce the number of judicial reviews to facilitate the construction of 1.5 million homes throughout the UK.

Her administration planned to push forward with the OxCam Arc project, aiming to establish "Europe's Silicon Valley" by constructing a new railway linking Oxford and Cambridge, improving highways, and developing as many as 18 new towns across the region.

She was on track to become the first chancellor to secure planning permission for a third runway at Heathrow before this parliamentary term concluded.

The proposal for a third runway at Heathrow was initially suggested in 2001, but it quickly became entangled in prolonged political debates and legal disputes.

The OxCam Arc, initially proposed in 2003, was a major focus for consecutive Conservative administrations, until Boris Johnson deprioritized it in 2021, redirecting attention to enhancing economic equality across Northern England.

In the realm of residential construction, the cost of homes continues to exceed average incomes by more than fivefold, a trend underscored by past administrations consistently falling short of their

Brave or bold? Choose one.

From her speech, it's evident that Ms. Reeves believes she has the capability to achieve what many politicians before her could not: to navigate and surpass the formidable challenges posed by environmentalists, NIMBYs, MPs, and even Labour mayors from her own party, where others have not succeeded.

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Further details: Chancellor unveils backing for additional airstrip 'Europe’s Tech Hub' central to administration’s expansion strategy Prime Minister pledges to challenge local opposition

Many are skeptical that she and Sir Keir will succeed, and even if they manage to launch these initiatives, the advantages might not be realized for years or even decades, which doesn't help Sir Keir's electoral prospects in the next four years.

The strategic thinking behind this approach is that tackling obstacles becomes more manageable with a substantial majority in parliament. The government believes that demonstrating progress through overcoming these challenges and initiating development projects will serve as sufficient evidence to gain the support of the electorate.

"A key Treasury official acknowledged that the extended timeline was expected to be an issue, noting, 'there's no other option.' However, they added, 'Visible progress, like cranes at work and new structures, will help build public trust.'"

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If the construction cranes aren't visible, Labour faces a grim prospect of reversing negative polls as the success of Starmer's initiative hinges entirely on economic expansion. Without this growth, Labour will find it challenging to fund public services and enhance the quality of life for citizens. This is a critical juncture—there's simply no alternative but for the government to succeed in this endeavor.

Detractors might say that based on recent events, this Labour administration doesn't appear to be the group of leaders capable of achieving economic expansion where previous ones have failed.

During her defense of the budget on Wednesday, Ms. Reeves insisted it was essential for ensuring economic stability, despite the fact that it unexpectedly burdened businesses with a £25 billion tax increase. This financial strain was evident last week when Sainsbury announced the elimination of 3,000 positions due to difficult cost conditions. Furthermore, Tesco revealed a reduction of 400 jobs just after the chancellor concluded her address.

At the same time, inconsistencies are apparent. The government expresses a desire to eliminate obstacles to economic expansion, and the chancellor disclosed on Wednesday that an action plan aimed at dismantling regulations that hinder growth will be released in March.

Conversely, there is pushback from the business community who argue that the new package of workers' rights being advanced by Labour could stifle growth and impact employment negatively. This was a point of contention raised by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch in Wednesday's session of Prime Minister's Questions.

According to the government's assessment, businesses might face annual expenses as high as £5 billion. While Ms. Reeves discusses economic expansion, the Conservatives respond sharply, criticizing the proposed taxes and regulations.

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Consult with companies, and they'll agree that the Conservatives make a valid argument.

Today, Ms. Reeves aimed to demonstrate her desire to leave behind the negativity of the previous fall and to present businesses with new considerations aside from the impacts of increased taxes. She hopes this will alter the view that the Labour government is solely focused on taxation and expenditure.

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In this instance, the chancellor was clearly adopting strategies from the Conservative agenda focused on supply-side reforms to stimulate economic growth. Meanwhile, Sir Keir penned a piece for The Times, drawing parallels between his efforts on deregulation and the Thatcher-era financial changes that led to the significant economic expansion in the 1980s.

Undoubtedly, a major question remains as to whether Ms. Reeves and Sir Keir will actually deliver on their promises. Previous Conservative administrations have capitulated under intense opposition. They claim they're ready to battle, a fight they desperately need to win.

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Is Wales on the verge of a major political transformation? For years, the Labour Party has held sway over Welsh politics. Yet, Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party are setting their sights on the upcoming Senedd elections, scheduled for early 2026.

Political reporter @AliFortescue

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 2:

Is it possible that Wales will shape the course of British political affairs?

One hundred and twenty-five years after Keir Hardie presided over the founding of the Labour Party in Merthyr Tydfil, the same issue is up for discussion again, this time 149 miles away from the Welsh Parliament, in the dining and social venues of the Palace of Westminster.

In a span of 16 months, insights into the future of British politics will again be gleaned by observing the political behavior of the Welsh populace.

Latest in Politics: Prime Minister and Badenoch Disagree on Economic Expansion

This will be crucial to the destiny of a man named Keir, though he was born a century following the establishment of the Labour Party.

The catalyst? The surge of Reform. In the upcoming May elections, Welsh voters will decide on their new First Minister. Surveys indicate a tight contest among Reform, Labour, and Plaid Cymru.

"Nigel Farage said to me with a sly chuckle, 'She's probably terrified!'"

Further Insights on Reform UK

Nigel Farage Draws Parallels Between Reform's Poll Numbers and Donald Trump's Electoral Win

Farage and Candy will lead a Reform party fundraiser with tickets priced at £25,000 each.

Labour Close to Major Reform, Survey Indicates Shift Towards a 'New Era' in UK Politics

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I had recently relayed to him the statement from Eluned Morgan, the Welsh Labour First Minister: "Reform has no Welsh inclination. It is a party centered on English interests."

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She makes a valid argument. Currently, there are no specific reform policies for Wales from the party, which states that these policies are in development.

Indeed, Mr. Farage raises a valid argument. In the recent general election, the Reform Party secured the runner-up position in 13 of the 32 seats in Wales. They chose to unveil their manifesto in this region and are successfully attracting voters who have become disenchanted with traditional parties.

Explore further: Is Reform UK capturing the male demographic? New poll shows Reform closely trailing Labour.

At Tonyrefail Rugby Club, a typical post-industrial, pro-Brexit location where the Reform Party aims to make inroads, we encounter three individuals who support Reform.

Everyone desires a unique angle, yet no one is willing to appear on camera. Labour supporters, however, are more easily persuaded.

"Linda shares with me, 'I'm dedicated to the Labour Party, it's in my very core, like the writing in a stick of rock candy.'"

"Growing up in a working-class family, supporting Labour was just what we did," says Ceirion, who is seated close by. "But now, that automatic allegiance seems to be fading."

It's fair to say that Welsh Labour stands as the most successful electoral power in the Western world, maintaining its status as the dominant party in the region for over a hundred years.

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Securing a victory in Wales might seem like a far-reaching, if not improbable, achievement for Reform, yet attaining a strong opposition status is entirely achievable and would provide the party with a substantial foothold.

Additionally, by the time of the next Senedd elections, a reformed voting system will be implemented, increasing the number of elected officials by one-third and enhancing proportionality.

This will benefit Reform while putting Labour and the Conservatives at a disadvantage – the latter having recently lost all their Welsh MPs, appear poised to drop from being the opposition to fourth position in the Senedd.

A significant hurdle for the Reform party is to gain the support of voters with economically progressive views, especially concerning healthcare policies. Previously, the party committed to revamping NHS financing by considering examples from nations that utilize insurance-based healthcare systems.

Plaid Cymru, a minor party that deserves recognition, is poised to see significant gains.

Rhun Ap Lorwerth, the leader of the party, expressed to me, "This situation isn't set in stone; it's not a given that the Labour party should govern Wales."

His political group might indeed control the government soon.

When inquiring if Labour Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan would consider forming a coalition with Plaid, she responds, "If needs must."

Regarding changes to the system? "I believe that's a definite boundary," she remarks.

The premier states: "I reject the notion that change is imminent. Currently, there is a global transition underway, and we have several months to clarify to the public the critical issues at hand."

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However, it seems her political party is on the verge of losing its ability to consistently win elections.

Disenchanted with traditional options, voters are turning to emerging parties, signaling potential shifts in political landscapes not just in Wales, but possibly further afield.

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Prime Minister praises the 'iconic' John Prescott before his Hull service

John Prescott passed away in November, and his memorial service is being held at Hull Minster today. Often referred to as a "giant" in UK politics, he played a significant role in the New Labour era, representing the classic Labour ideals that Sir Tony Blair was beginning to shift from.

Senior political reporter @joncraig

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 9:

Sir Keir Starmer has praised John Prescott for his "tenacious spirit" as the former deputy prime minister's funeral approaches.

Today, key figures from the Labour Party including esteemed veterans, government officials, members of parliament, influential party backers, and union leaders are convening at Hull Minister for a special service.

Lord Prescott, who passed away on November 20 at the age of 86, served as the Member of Parliament for Hull East for four decades, held the position of deputy leader of the Labour Party for 13 years, and was the Deputy Prime Minister during Sir Tony Blair's 10-year tenure as Prime Minister from 1997

Sir Keir Starmer hailed Lord Prescott as a "genuine colossus" within the Labour party, Sir Tony noted that he was "uniquely unparalleled in British politics," and Gordon Brown referred to him as a "giant" of Labour.

On Wednesday evening, prior to the funeral, Sir Keir expressed that Lord Prescott will be memorialized as a "champion for the working class" and someone who "vigorously defended his convictions."

The Prime Minister added, "John Prescott's memorial service provides an opportunity to consider his contributions and remember him with those who cherished him deeply."

Following his passing, it has been truly touching to listen to numerous individuals share their personal anecdotes about John, recounting instances of his typical kindness, wit, and charm.

"It was evident that he held an iconic position among the general populace."

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He continued, "He was deeply cherished by individuals nationwide who respected his genuine sincerity and felt confident that he would always support them.

"His legacy in our historical narrative is cemented – not merely for the iconic incident he anticipated, but for his relentless determination throughout a lifelong commitment to service.

He will be memorialized as someone who advocated for the workforce, passionately defended his convictions, and positively transformed our country.

"His determination and foresight are the reasons we took early measures to address climate change, regional disparities, the minimum wage, and public transportation."

"Today we express gratitude for an extraordinary life that was beautifully lived."

"Today, numerous individuals will undoubtedly toast to John."

The upcoming assembly of the Labour community is expected to be the most significant and prominent memorial the party has seen since their leader John Smith passed away at the age of 55 due to a double heart attack in 1994.

Following Mr. Smith's passing, Sir Tony secured the leadership position, surpassing Lord Prescott, who then assumed the role of his deputy. This marked the beginning of a lasting alliance between Blair, the reformer, and Prescott, the conventionalist.

Learn more: Labour's tenacious veteran who didn't hold back

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Hull City Council has announced that a funeral service to celebrate the life and legacy of Lord Prescott will be held at noon. The event is by invitation only.

The council stated that Lord Prescott's widow, Pauline, along with his sons David and Johnathan, extended invitations to over 300 family members, friends, and colleagues to honor his memory.

In a recent statement, the family expressed their gratitude, saying, "We are deeply thankful for the outpouring of love and support following the loss of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather."

"Listening to such heartfelt praises from those who were familiar with John has brought us much solace during our time of mourning."

"We anticipate that the ceremony will serve as a chance to honor his life and his affection for Hull and its residents."

The family has asked for donations to Alzheimer's Research UK in lieu of flowers. Lord Prescott, who suffered a stroke in 2019, was residing in a nursing facility due to Alzheimer's when he passed away.

Originating from the 14th century, Hull Minster is recognized as the biggest parish church in England. Originally named Holy Trinity Church, it was designated as a minster in 2017, coinciding with Hull's celebration as the City of Culture.

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William Wilberforce, a prominent parliamentary advocate for the abolition of the slave trade and another notable figure from Hull, was baptized in the church in 1759.

In the 1900s, the church was fortunate to avoid significant destruction despite the intense bombings that Hull experienced as a crucial maritime hub during both world wars.

The ceremony will be conducted by Reverend Canon Dominic Black, the vicar at the minster, and will feature performances by the Choral Hull children’s choir, which consists of students from various schools throughout Hull.

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Distinguished Labour Party members and the Prescott family gathered at Hull Minster for Lord Prescott's funeral, paying respects in the city where he served as an MP for four decades. Sir Tony Blair and Gordon Brown were among the prominent figures leading the tributes.

Political journalist @alixculbertson

Thursday, January 30, 2025 4:06

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Ex-Labour leaders Gordon Brown and Sir Tony Blair have paid homage to "working class hero" Lord Prescott during his memorial service.

Members and leaders of the Labour Party gathered to honor the memory of the UK's longest-tenured deputy prime minister, who passed away in November at the age of 86 following a struggle with Alzheimer's disease.

The funeral procession featured both a Jaguar hearse and limousine, referencing Lord Prescott's moniker "two Jags."

Sir Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner delivered readings while former and current members of Parliament paid their last respects to a distinguished figure within the Labour Party.

Politics update: 'John served as the moral compass for the party'

Sir Tony, under whom Lord Prescott served as deputy, along with Gordon Brown, delivered eulogies at Hull Minster. This took place in the city where Lord Prescott had been an MP for four decades before receiving a peerage in 2010.

Mr. Brown, serving as Prime Minister from 2007 to 2010, praised a life "richly lived," one that "impacted and transformed the lives of countless individuals who might never have encountered John, yet today are improved due to his influence."

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He described Lord Prescott as a "working-class hero" who "maintained stability through challenging periods."

"His kind is truly one of a kind. He was genuinely a man of the people, unparalleled and unique," Mr. Brown stated.

"Unique yet one of the group, in the most positive way imaginable."

He also recalled for the attendees his guest appearance on "Gavin & Stacey," where he played Nessa's spurned love interest, a role witnessed by millions.

Discussing the notorious event in which Lord Prescott struck a man who had thrown an egg at him, he commented, "John truly resonated with the public, not only with the individual in Rhyl who had the audacity to toss an egg his way."

Explore further: John Prescott: A tenacious Labour figure known for his straightforward approach, alongside an incident involving a pork pie and myself

He mentioned that Lord Prescott, who rose from humble beginnings, held a belief in the "inherent goodness of every person…including the individual who threw an egg at him in Wales."

Sir Tony recounted stories from the past, specifically describing the chaos that followed "the punch" during the 2001 general election campaign.

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He mentioned that he hesitantly reached out to his deputy to request an apology, but Lord Prescott responded firmly, saying, "The answer is no, I'm not bloody apologising and that's the end of it."

The ex-Prime Minister remarked, "Traditional."

He mentioned that he had recently viewed the video once more and found himself rooting for him.

Sir Tony addressed the assembly, stating that he had a significant role in government and also described him as "a good man, one who began as my political ally and evolved into my personal friend."

"I trust that he perceives in today's large assembly an acknowledgment of the young man from a humble Welsh community who climbed to the top echelons of society through his own merit, hard work, and remarkable bravery and integrity, feeling rightfully content."

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At the funeral, David, one of Lord Prescott's sons, remarked, "He dedicated his life to facing obstacles and assisting others."

He also mentioned, "Prescott was consistently ready to help."

He recounted the journey of the "defiant former waiter" rising to the position of Deputy Prime Minister and spoke of his father's last days in a nursing facility, expressing gratitude to all the caregivers and personnel who cared for him.

Instead of sending flowers, the Prescott family has asked for contributions to be made to Alzheimer's Research UK.

After the ceremony, attendees gathered at Lord Prescott's preferred Chinese dining spot in Hull.

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