John Major tells Tories alliance with Reform would be ‘beyond stupid’

A new push from conservatives for a private member's bill aims to tackle the rising issue of intimate partner violence, highlighted by a recent report showing its growth in recent years. This initiative is significant as it seeks to enhance penalties for such crimes, potentially leading to greater protection for victims and a societal shift towards zero tolerance for violence in relationships.

Reform UK has appointed Danny Kruger, described as the 'brains' behind Nigel Farage's operations, to prepare the party for governance despite his lack of government experience. This move raises eyebrows as critics question the party's ability to lead effectively, given the controversial figures associated with it. The appointment reflects ongoing challenges within the party and highlights the skepticism surrounding its future direction, making it a significant development in the current political landscape.

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 recent commentary, John Crace highlights the troubling atmosphere within Nigel Farage's party, where racism seems to be a recurring issue. The competition for the title of 'Racist of the Week' has become a disturbing trend in Westminster, with Tory whip Katie Lam recently winning the dubious honor. This situation underscores the need for accountability and reform within political parties, as they grapple with their own internal challenges and the implications of their members' actions.

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.

A recent report from Food Banks Canada reveals that food bank visits reached nearly 2.2 million in March 2025, almost double the numbers from 2019. This alarming increase highlights the growing cost of living crisis affecting many Canadians, prompting concerns from Conservative leaders about the government's handling of the situation. The surge in food bank usage underscores the urgent need for effective policies to address food insecurity and support vulnerable populations.

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East escalated as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered strikes on Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating the ceasefire. This situation is critical as it highlights the fragile peace in the region and the potential for further violence, impacting countless lives. The accusations come in the wake of a controversial return of remains that Netanyahu claims do not belong to hostages, raising tensions even higher.

The Carabao Cup match between Wrexham and Cardiff City is underway, with updates coming in from the 8pm GMT kick-off. Early in the evening, a surprising turn of events occurred as Cauley Woodrow scored for Wycombe, taking an unexpected lead against Premier League's Fulham. This match is significant as it showcases the excitement of cup competitions where lower league teams can challenge higher-tier clubs, making for thrilling football moments.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza raises significant concerns about the implications of Hamas's actions on international diplomacy, particularly regarding Trump's proposed deal. Restraining Israel has seemingly emboldened Hamas, complicating relations with Arab states that might otherwise support peace efforts. This situation matters because it highlights the delicate balance of power in the region and the potential for escalating tensions that could affect global stability.

In a recent update on Australian politics, shadow housing minister Bragg expressed optimism about the Coalition's commitment to maintaining the net zero target. This statement comes amidst ongoing discussions about climate action, highlighting the importance of political will in addressing environmental issues. Additionally, Queensland has initiated an urgent investigation into a history test blunder, showcasing the government's responsiveness to educational concerns. These developments are significant as they reflect the evolving landscape of Australian politics and the emphasis on accountability and sustainability.

A troubling incident unfolded in Mississippi when a truck carrying rhesus monkeys crashed on Interstate 59, leading to the escape of several potentially diseased lab monkeys. While most of the monkeys were reportedly destroyed by late Tuesday, one remains unaccounted for, raising concerns about public safety and the potential spread of disease. This event highlights the risks associated with transporting lab animals and the implications for both human and animal health.

Canada is facing the possibility of losing its measles elimination status due to a persistent outbreak that has been ongoing for a year. This situation is concerning not just for Canada but also for the U.S., which could be next in line if vaccination rates do not improve. The implications of losing this status could lead to increased health risks and a resurgence of measles, a disease that was previously under control.