'It's not easy': Reform council strives to identify promised savings

The far right is increasingly using the issue of violence against women and girls to fuel anti-migrant sentiments, as seen in recent rallies led by figures like Tommy Robinson. At a recent event, Robinson claimed that women's safety is compromised due to uncontrolled immigration, a narrative that resonates with many supporters. This exploitation of women's safety not only distorts the reality of the situation but also diverts attention from the real issues at hand, making it crucial to address how such rhetoric can harm communities and perpetuate fear.

Reform UK has suspended councillor John Allen amid an investigation into his alleged online comments suggesting violence against Labour leader Keir Starmer. This serious action highlights the party's stance against threats and the importance of maintaining political decorum. Such incidents can undermine public trust in political figures and raise concerns about the safety of elected officials.

In August, the UK government experienced its highest borrowing levels in five years, which is raising concerns about fiscal management. This unexpected increase puts additional pressure on the chancellor as he prepares for the upcoming Budget, highlighting the challenges the government faces in balancing economic growth with financial stability.

Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has secured a significant £100,000 donation from Interior Design Landscape, a firm that recently faced a winding-up petition from HMRC. This donation is part of the party's broader strategy to diversify its funding sources as it gains traction in the polls. The support from a firm that has navigated its own financial challenges highlights the evolving landscape of political funding and the potential for unconventional partnerships.

The Conservative Party in Britain is facing a significant decline as it struggles to connect with its voters, leading to a loss of support. This shift is notable as Nigel Farage's Reform UK party is gaining traction, indicating a potential realignment in British politics. This situation matters because it reflects broader trends in voter sentiment and could reshape the political landscape in the UK.

The recent editorial from The Guardian highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the Liberal Democrats as they prepare for the upcoming conference season. With Labour and the Conservatives grappling with declining voter support and the emergence of Reform UK, the Lib Dems have a chance to position themselves as a viable alternative. This matters because it reflects the shifting political landscape in England, where voter sentiment is increasingly fragmented, and smaller parties may play a crucial role in shaping future elections.

Calgary is facing a proposed 5.4% increase in residential property taxes as part of its 2026 budget adjustment, which is higher than the overall property tax increase of 3.6%. This matters because it directly impacts homeowners' finances, potentially making housing less affordable in the city.

In a surprising political shift, Labour councillor Mason Humberstone has decided to defect to Reform UK. Local senior Labour figures are now suggesting that Humberstone should pursue re-election under the Reform banner. This move highlights the ongoing changes in the political landscape and raises questions about party loyalty and voter sentiment.

Estonia has called for consultations with NATO following reports of Russian jets allegedly violating its airspace. This incident comes amid heightened tensions, as Russia also faced accusations of drone incursions into the airspace of two other NATO member countries. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges in regional security and the importance of NATO's collective defense commitments.

Tony Abbott is calling on conservative voters to rally behind the Liberals, urging them to give the party 'one last chance' amidst internal conflicts. This appeal comes as key figures like Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Warren Mundine emphasize the importance of unity within the conservative movement. Abbott's message is significant as it highlights the challenges the Liberals face and the need for a cohesive front to regain support, especially in light of factional disputes that threaten their stability.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson has pointed out that while the Northern Ireland Assembly has its flaws, the idea that people would be better off under Keir Starmer's leadership is misguided. This statement highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of unionism in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by political leaders in addressing public concerns.

Poland has taken proactive measures to secure its airspace by deploying aircraft in response to recent Russian strikes on western Ukraine. This move highlights Poland's commitment to national security and its readiness to protect its borders, especially given the escalating tensions in the region. The Polish military's swift action demonstrates a strong defense posture, reassuring citizens and allies alike.

The recent Optus network outage has raised serious concerns after it was revealed that the disruption lasted eight hours longer than initially reported, impacting 600 customers' ability to call emergency services. Tragically, this outage is linked to three incidents involving fatalities, highlighting the critical importance of reliable communication networks. This situation not only affects those directly involved but also raises questions about the accountability and preparedness of telecommunications providers in emergencies.

This week, Cillian Murphy delivers a standout performance in a gripping high school drama that balances brutality with hope, while Joy Crookes, the talented singer-songwriter from south London, makes a vibrant return with her unique style. These highlights from the Guardian's top reviews showcase the exciting developments in culture, reflecting the dynamic creativity in the arts that resonates with audiences.