Why one small town with very little immigration turned to Reform UK

Former Prime Minister John Major has strongly warned the Conservative Party against forming an alliance with Reform UK, labeling such a move as 'beyond stupid.' He argues that this partnership would irreparably damage the Conservatives, which he believes have already alienated their traditional supporters by shifting too far to the right. Major's comments highlight the ongoing internal struggles within the party and the potential consequences of straying from the centre ground, making it a crucial moment for Conservative leadership.

In a recent statement, former Conservative MP Danny Kruger, who recently joined Reform UK, outlined a controversial plan to reshape the government's relationship with civil servants. He suggested that the party would allow ministers to bypass international law, drawing parallels to former President Trump's approach in the U.S. This proposal raises significant concerns about the rule of law and accountability in governance, highlighting a potential shift towards more authoritarian practices in the UK.

Reform UK is proposing a controversial policy that would enable ministers to disregard international law, a move that raises significant concerns about governance and accountability. The party's leader, Kruger, also plans to reduce the civil service and close several government offices, which many argue could undermine public services. This proposal is particularly alarming as it could set a precedent for arbitrary decision-making by the government, impacting the rule of law and the UK's international standing.

In a significant political shake-up, five councillors from Reform UK have been expelled from the party following a damaging video leak. The footage features the leader of Kent County Council using inappropriate language, which has raised serious concerns about conduct within the party. This incident not only highlights issues of accountability in political leadership but also reflects the ongoing challenges faced by Reform UK in maintaining its image and integrity.

Nigel Farage has come to the defense of Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin after she made controversial remarks about seeing adverts featuring black and Asian individuals, stating it 'drives her mad.' Farage argued that her comments were not intended to be racist, emphasizing that if he believed they were genuinely so, he would have acted against her. This incident highlights ongoing tensions around race and representation in media, raising questions about the impact of such statements on public discourse.

Reform UK has expelled two councillors from Kent, Robert Ford and Bill Barrett, amid allegations of misconduct and internal strife. This decision follows a leaked video that highlighted significant tensions within the party's county council. The expulsions reflect ongoing challenges within Reform UK as it grapples with maintaining unity and addressing internal conflicts, which could impact its political standing and effectiveness moving forward.

The new Steel Cotton Rail Trail connecting Sheffield and Manchester offers a unique walking experience through the picturesque Peak District. With 14 sections catering to both urban explorers and seasoned hikers, this trail invites everyone to enjoy the beauty of nature and the nostalgia of the industrial past. It's a great opportunity for locals and tourists alike to reconnect with the outdoors and appreciate the stunning landscapes of northern England, especially during the enchanting autumn season.

Wes Streeting, the health secretary, has condemned Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin's recent comments about television advertisements as 'racist.' Pochin expressed frustration over seeing ads featuring black and Asian individuals, claiming they don't represent the 'average white family.' Streeting criticized her remarks, suggesting they reflect a troubling return to outdated racist attitudes reminiscent of the 1970s and 1980s. This incident highlights ongoing discussions about representation in media and the importance of inclusivity in advertising, making it a significant moment in the current political climate.

The Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final between England and South Africa is underway, with live updates starting at 9:30 AM GMT. This match is significant as it showcases the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's cricket, drawing attention to the sport and its athletes. As teams battle for a place in the final, fans are eager to see how this tournament continues to elevate women's sports on a global stage.

The first men's T20 international between Australia and India at Manuka Oval in Canberra has been an exciting match, highlighted by Abhishek Sharma's aggressive batting. However, his innings came to an end after a clever delivery from Nathan Ellis led to a simple catch. This match is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit between two cricketing giants and sets the stage for future encounters.

Chancellor Reeves is taking a bold stance against pessimistic economic forecasts, emphasizing that investment is key to enhancing the UK's productivity. This approach is significant as it aims to inspire confidence in the economy and encourage growth, which could lead to improved job opportunities and overall prosperity for the nation.

Hurricane Melissa has caused significant destruction as it hits Cuba with winds reaching 120 mph, leading to life-threatening flooding and the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. Jamaica has also declared a disaster area due to the storm's devastating impact. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing severity of natural disasters and the urgent need for preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable regions.

Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, has acknowledged that the Home Office is struggling to effectively address the numerous challenges it faces. This admission highlights ongoing issues within the department, which is crucial for managing immigration and public safety in the UK. The government's recent release of witness statements from the DNSA underscores the urgency of these problems, as they reveal a timeline of mismanagement and the need for reform. This situation matters because it affects the lives of many individuals relying on the Home Office's services and raises questions about the government's ability to handle critical issues.

In a move that could reshape trade relations, Trump announced plans to cut the fentanyl tariff on Chinese goods, expressing optimism for a 'great deal' with Xi. This news comes as Asian stock markets rally on the anticipation of a trade deal and a potential US interest rate cut. Additionally, GSK's CEO Emma Walmsley is stepping down after eight years, but not before the company raised its 2025 sales and profit forecasts, showcasing strong growth in key areas. This combination of trade optimism and corporate success highlights a potentially positive shift in the economic landscape.