There is a thriving shadow economy in Britain – but migrants are not to blame | Emily Kenway

Top lawyers in the UK are raising alarms over a concerning trend in political rhetoric that targets migrants, particularly after a Conservative MP hinted at deporting legally settled families. This 'race to the bottom' in political discourse is creating fear among minority ethnic Britons, highlighting the urgent need for a change in how politicians discuss immigration. The implications of such threats could lead to increased division and anxiety within communities, making it crucial for leaders to foster a more inclusive dialogue.

Spain has taken a significant step by granting citizenship to 170 descendants of those who fought in the International Brigades against the Franco dictatorship during the civil war. This decision honors the legacy of approximately 32,000 volunteers, including many from Britain and Ireland, who stood up against fascism. It highlights Spain's commitment to recognizing the contributions of these individuals and their families, fostering a sense of historical justice and connection to those who fought for democracy.

Rachel Reeves is gearing up to prepare voters and markets for potential tax increases as the autumn budget approaches. In her recent speech, she highlighted the challenges posed by years of economic mismanagement, Brexit, and tariffs. This matters because it signals the government's acknowledgment of fiscal pressures and the need for transparency with the public and businesses about possible financial changes ahead.

For the first time in Britain, the number of adults using vapes has surpassed those smoking cigarettes, with 5.4 million vapers compared to 4.9 million smokers. This shift is significant as it highlights a growing trend towards vaping as a potentially less harmful alternative to smoking, reflecting changing attitudes towards tobacco use and public health.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to deliver a significant speech outlining the upcoming budget, where she will candidly address the tough choices regarding potential tax increases. While promising fairness and opportunity, she will not reaffirm Labour's previous commitment to not raise income tax, hinting at a possible shift in policy. This speech is crucial as it sets the tone for the government's financial strategy and could impact public perception and market reactions.

In a heated debate following a train attack in Cambridgeshire, UK politicians are clashing over the appropriate response. The Liberal Democrats accused the Reform party of exploiting the tragedy for political gain, while the shadow home secretary faced criticism for their remarks. Nigel Farage also weighed in, expressing concerns about an upcoming budget that he believes lacks the courage to address public spending cuts. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in UK politics and the challenges of addressing public safety while navigating political agendas.

Nigel Farage has recently retracted his party's ambitious pledge to cut £90 billion in taxes, labeling it merely an 'aspiration.' He criticized both the Labour Party and the Conservatives for their roles in damaging public finances. This shift raises concerns about the credibility of Reform UK's fiscal promises and highlights the ongoing challenges in UK politics regarding economic management.

A significant number of Labour MPs are advocating for an increase in gambling taxes as a means to address child poverty by potentially lifting the two-child benefit cap. This proposal highlights the party's commitment to tackling social issues and could provide much-needed financial support to families in need. By focusing on this tax strategy, Labour aims to create a more equitable society where children have better opportunities.

The Champions League match between Slavia Prague and Arsenal is underway, with updates being provided live. Early moments of the game saw Mbodji attempt a long-range shot that missed the target. This match is significant as it showcases two competitive teams in a prestigious tournament, drawing attention from football fans eager to see how they perform on this international stage.

In an exciting update from the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Coco Gauff showcased her skills by defeating a struggling Jasmine Paolini in straight sets. This victory highlights Gauff's impressive performance and strategic play, particularly her effective second serve. As the tournament progresses, fans are eager to see how Gauff will fare against top competitors like Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula, making this event a must-watch for tennis enthusiasts.

A devastating typhoon has struck the Philippines, resulting in at least 40 fatalities and widespread flooding, particularly on the island of Cebu. This disaster highlights the increasing vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events, raising concerns about disaster preparedness and response in the region.

Donna Jean Godchaux, the iconic singer known for her contributions to the Grateful Dead, has passed away at the age of 78. While she had a successful solo career and collaborated with legends like Elvis and Otis Redding, her legacy will forever be tied to the Dead's classic lineup in the 1970s, where she was the band's only female member. Her unique voice and presence added a distinct flavor to the band's music, making her an unforgettable part of rock history. This loss resonates deeply with fans and musicians alike, as it marks the end of an era for a band that shaped the sound of a generation.

In a troubling revelation during the Southport inquiry, Dion Rudakubana expressed his fears about his brother Axel, stating he believed Axel would commit murder two years prior to the tragic attack. This chilling insight, where he compared Axel to the sociopathic character from the film 'No Country For Old Men', raises significant questions about the warning signs that were overlooked and the broader implications for community safety and mental health awareness.

In a heated exchange during the 2025 US elections, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani stood firm against President Trump's derogatory comments, asserting that he won't be intimidated. Trump's remarks, labeling Jewish voters supporting Mamdani as 'stupid,' have sparked outrage and highlighted the divisive nature of the current political climate. This incident matters as it underscores the challenges candidates face in navigating personal attacks while trying to connect with voters, especially in key states like New York, New Jersey, Virginia, and California.