Blair’s former policy chief Matthew Taylor to lead Fair Work Agency

A group of 13 Labour MPs is urging Rachel Reeves to abolish council tax, advocating for a new system that reflects the rising house prices in the south-east. This push comes as the Chancellor prepares for next month's budget, highlighting the growing concern over property taxes in Great Britain. The MPs, primarily from northern constituencies, believe that reforming the tax system could lead to a fairer approach for homeowners, making this a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about economic equity.

A group of 13 Labour MPs is urging Rachel Reeves to abolish council tax, advocating for a new system that reflects the rising house prices in the south-east. This push comes as the Chancellor prepares for next month's budget, highlighting the growing concern over property taxes in Great Britain. The MPs, primarily from northern constituencies, believe that reforming the tax system could lead to a fairer approach for homeowners, making this a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about economic equity.

In a significant development, all living Israeli hostages have been freed, and hundreds of Palestinian detainees and prisoners have been released during a summit led by Donald Trump in Egypt. This momentous event marks a potential turning point in the long-standing conflict, as both Israelis and Palestinians celebrate a truce and look forward to a new era of peace. The involvement of international leaders like Trump and the proposed 'board of peace' raises hopes for a more stable future in the region.

In a significant development, all living Israeli hostages have been freed, and hundreds of Palestinian detainees and prisoners have been released during a summit led by Donald Trump in Egypt. This momentous event marks a potential turning point in the long-standing conflict, as both Israelis and Palestinians celebrate a truce and look forward to a new era of peace. The involvement of international leaders like Trump and the proposed 'board of peace' raises hopes for a more stable future in the region.

In a heated exchange, Minister Badenoch has accused the Labour Party of prioritizing economic ties with China over the UK's national security. This accusation comes amidst claims that the government may have influenced the collapse of a Chinese spy trial due to fears of losing Chinese investment. The Prime Minister's spokesperson has firmly denied these allegations, calling them entirely false. This matter is significant as it raises questions about the balance between economic interests and national security, a topic that resonates deeply in current political discourse.

In a heated exchange, Minister Badenoch has accused the Labour Party of prioritizing economic ties with China over the UK's national security. This accusation comes amidst claims that the government may have influenced the collapse of a Chinese spy trial due to fears of losing Chinese investment. The Prime Minister's spokesperson has firmly denied these allegations, calling them entirely false. This matter is significant as it raises questions about the balance between economic interests and national security, a topic that resonates deeply in current political discourse.

The recent ceasefire in Gaza has drawn significant attention, especially as hostages are released and many Palestinians return to their homes. In a podcast discussion, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey explore the UK's involvement in this critical moment, highlighting the roles of global leaders like Donald Trump and Keir Starmer at a peace summit. They also delve into Tony Blair's contributions to the ceasefire efforts. Understanding the UK's position is crucial as it may influence the next steps in the peace process.

The recent ceasefire in Gaza has drawn significant attention, especially as hostages are released and many Palestinians return to their homes. In a podcast discussion, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey explore the UK's involvement in this critical moment, highlighting the roles of global leaders like Donald Trump and Keir Starmer at a peace summit. They also delve into Tony Blair's contributions to the ceasefire efforts. Understanding the UK's position is crucial as it may influence the next steps in the peace process.

The upcoming by-election in Caerphilly is poised to challenge Labour's long-standing dominance in the region. This election is significant not just for selecting a representative but also for testing the party's influence and relevance in contemporary politics. As voters head to the polls, the outcome could signal shifts in public sentiment and party loyalty, making it a crucial event to watch.

The upcoming by-election in Caerphilly is poised to challenge Labour's long-standing dominance in the region. This election is significant not just for selecting a representative but also for testing the party's influence and relevance in contemporary politics. As voters head to the polls, the outcome could signal shifts in public sentiment and party loyalty, making it a crucial event to watch.

Tony Blair has received a positive nod from the Palestinian Authority to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza following a recent ceasefire. This endorsement came after a meeting with Hussein al-Sheikh in Jordan, marking a significant step towards rebuilding efforts in the region. Blair's involvement could bring valuable experience and resources to the recovery process, which is crucial for the stability and future of Gaza.

Tony Blair has received a positive nod from the Palestinian Authority to assist in the reconstruction of Gaza following a recent ceasefire. This endorsement came after a meeting with Hussein al-Sheikh in Jordan, marking a significant step towards rebuilding efforts in the region. Blair's involvement could bring valuable experience and resources to the recovery process, which is crucial for the stability and future of Gaza.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with former President Donald Trump this week in the U.S., expressing optimism about potential progress, especially in light of Trump's recent Gaza deal. Zelenskyy believes this deal could foster peace in various regions, highlighting the importance of international diplomacy in addressing global conflicts. This meeting could signify a pivotal moment for Ukraine as it seeks support and stability amidst ongoing challenges.

In a tense session in Parliament, Prime Minister Starmer is expected to address the ongoing fallout from the collapse of a significant China spying trial. Opposition MPs are pressing for answers regarding alleged government interference in the prosecution, which has raised serious questions about transparency and accountability. The situation is critical as it not only impacts UK-China relations but also the public's trust in the government’s handling of national security issues.

Madagascar's president, Andry Rajoelina, has fled the country amid fears for his safety following a military rebellion and ongoing protests led by Gen Z activists. While he did not announce his resignation in a recent social media address, the situation highlights the growing unrest and dissatisfaction with his government. This development is significant as it raises concerns about political stability in Madagascar and the potential for further unrest.

In a significant development, Israelis and Palestinians are celebrating the release of hostages and detainees amid a fragile truce. While the atmosphere is hopeful, key issues like Hamas's disarmament and the future governance of Gaza remain unresolved, emphasizing the delicate nature of the ceasefire. This moment is crucial as it not only brings immediate relief but also sparks discussions about a potential new era of peace in the region.

In a moment of fragile peace following two years of conflict, two women in Gaza share their reflections on grief, survival, and the hope they hold for the future. Their stories highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of this ceasefire, as it offers a chance for healing and rebuilding in a region long affected by violence.

Ukraine has raised concerns that Russia is utilizing a covert fleet of oil tankers to facilitate drone attacks amid the ongoing conflict. This revelation, discussed by Johns Hopkins professor Sergey Radchenko, highlights the lengths to which Russia is going to sustain its military operations. Understanding this 'shadow fleet' is crucial as it sheds light on the evolving tactics in the war and the implications for international security and energy markets.