Wednesday briefing: How Labour is handling the fallout from the equality act ruling

If you're planning to travel in the UK this bank holiday weekend, brace yourself for some headaches. Roads are expected to be jam-packed, especially on Friday, with motoring groups warning of heavy traffic. Rail travelers aren’t off the hook either—two major routes out of London will face delays and cancellations due to engineering work. Airports are also gearing up for their busiest day of the year so far. Basically, it’s the perfect storm for travel chaos.

Editor’s Note: Bank holidays are supposed to be a time for relaxation, but this one might start with a lot of frustration. With millions hitting the roads, rails, and skies, delays are almost inevitable. For anyone planning a trip, it’s a reminder to leave extra time, check schedules, and maybe pack some patience. This story matters because it affects so many people trying to make the most of their long weekend—nobody wants to spend it stuck in traffic or waiting for a delayed train.

The EU is rolling out a massive €150 billion loan program to help member states boost their military capabilities, with defense commissioner Andrius Kubilius calling it a potential "game-changer" for supporting Ukraine. He anticipates strong demand from countries looking to modernize their defenses while backing Kyiv.

Editor’s Note: With Russia's war grinding on, Europe’s scrambling to arm itself—and keep weapons flowing to Ukraine. This loan scheme isn’t just about cash; it’s a signal that the EU’s finally getting serious about collective defense. If it works, it could mean faster, bigger support for Kyiv while shoring up Europe’s own shaky militaries. But the real test? Whether governments actually step up to borrow and spend.

The roof of China’s historic Fengyang Drum Tower—a Ming dynasty landmark—collapsed just months after a major renovation, sparking fresh worries about shoddy construction practices and preservation efforts. Locals and experts are questioning whether corners were cut during the restoration.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a fallen roof—it’s a red flag for how cultural treasures are being maintained. If a high-profile site like this can’t survive its own renovation, it raises doubts about the oversight of other heritage projects in China and beyond. People want answers, not just repairs.

Heavy rain continues to batter New South Wales, with some areas expecting up to 160mm today, worsening already severe flooding. Meanwhile, new analysis directly ties these extreme weather events to climate change, adding fuel to the debate over Australia's environmental policies. In politics, the race in Bradfield is razor-thin, with the teal independent's lead over the Liberal candidate shrinking to just a handful of votes—a potential bellwether for shifting voter priorities.

Editor’s Note: The floods aren't just another disaster—they're part of a bigger pattern linked to climate change, which could push adaptation and emissions back into the political spotlight. And that tight Bradfield race? It’s a microcosm of how environmental concerns might reshape elections, especially in traditionally conservative seats. This isn’t just about weather or politics; it’s about how both are colliding in real time.

Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull isn’t mincing words—he’s slammed the Nationals, calling them "stupid" for threatening to split from the Liberal Party, which he says is like "holding a gun" to their coalition partners’ heads. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, some MPs are scrambling to patch things up, but it’s been a chaotic week, especially as regional communities grapple with floods and drought.

Editor’s Note: Political infighting is nothing new, but this public spat comes at a terrible time—Australians in flood and drought-hit areas need stable leadership, not a messy coalition breakup. If the Liberals and Nationals can’t sort this out, it could weaken their ability to govern effectively, leaving voters frustrated and policy responses in limbo.