Politics
Makerfield by-election candidates announced
Fourteen candidates, including Andy Burnham and Count Binface, are confirmed for the Makerfield by-election on June 18. The diverse lineup features major parties, independents, and niche groups.
Track UK's latest migration numbers - net migration, visas, asylum and small boats
UK net migration hits its lowest level since 2012, excluding the pandemic. The article analyzes this trend alongside visa, asylum, and small boat data.
How would a Labour leadership contest work?
Facing resignations and electoral losses, Keir Starmer’s leadership is challenged by MPs. A contest requires 20% support, with Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham potentially running.
The questions raised by the Peter Murrell embezzlement controversy
The Peter Murrell embezzlement case damaged SNP trust and popularity. Its timing near Sturgeon’s resignation raises questions about police motives and her involvement.
Chris Mason: VAT cut on summer fun - the announcement that didn't leak
The UK government surprised with a surprise VAT cut on summer attractions, while avoiding broad energy bill support. Winter aid remains targeted but undefined, prioritizing fiscal responsibility over universal subsidies.
Allegations about Reform candidate's posts are troubling, Labour says
Labour condemns Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon’s alleged fascist ties, while Nigel Farage defends him, dismissing the connection as incidental.
Chris Mason: Inside the shadow contest to be our next prime minister
Speculation mounts over a likely UK leadership change, with Andy Burnham focusing on his by-election and Wes Streeting courting Labour MPs. This informal contest features distinct strategies as both men position themselves for a potential succession to Keir Starmer.
Who is Andy Burnham? Manchester mayor who wants to be prime minister
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham aims to become Labour leader and PM by winning the Makerfield by-election, leveraging his mayoral record to challenge Keir Starmer.
Richmond-upon-Thames: The borough with no opposition
Liberal Democrats swept all Richmond-upon-Thames council seats, eliminating formal opposition. While leaders cite strong service delivery, critics warn this one-party rule risks democratic accountability.
Is it harder than ever to be prime minister?
Rapid UK leadership turnover highlights political instability, yet leaders deny the country is ungovernable. They face complex systemic hurdles, internal party conflicts, and an impatient electorate.
The race to replace Starmer is on - but he still faces a momentous choice
Wes Streeting’s resignation and Andy Burnham’s candidacy launch Labour’s leadership contest. Starmer remains PM but faces critical decisions before potentially stepping down by September.
How Rayner, Streeting and Burnham weakened PM in 12 hours of political drama
Rayner, Streeting, and Burnham undermined Starmer through internal plotting and strategic moves, weakening his position amid political turmoil.
Analysis: Andy Burnham's route back to Commons is clearer - but can he win in Makerfield?
Andy Burnham can now run for Makerfield after Labour blocked him previously, but faces a tough battle against a surge in Reform UK support.
The potential challengers to Keir Starmer
Keir Starmer faces a precarious leadership challenge after Wes Streeting’s resignation, with Streeting and Andy Burnham emerging as potential contenders amidst divided Labour MPs.
Wes Streeting: Ambitious Labour heavyweight taking a swing at Starmer
Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary, demanding a leadership contest to replace Starmer. Though not yet formally running, his move signals an ambitious bid for Labour’s top job.
From tourist tax to digital ID: BBC correspondents on the key bills in the King's Speech
The King’s Speech outlines Northern Rail’s £45bn upgrade and a voluntary Digital ID scheme. BBC correspondents analyze these key legislative priorities from the new government.
The key measures in the King's Speech
King Charles outlined 37 bills, including steel nationalisation, leasehold bans, and AI pilot schemes. The agenda was overshadowed by speculation over Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Watch: Wes Streeting leaves No 10 - minutes after arrival
Wes Streeting was appointed by Keir Starmer, leaving Downing Street just minutes after his arrival on May 13, 2026.
Read all the ministers' resignation letters in full
Jess Phillips resigns as safeguarding minister, citing Keir Starmer’s reluctance to engage in conflict and her frustration that progress only occurred after she issued threats.
Relish and dread as Starmer 'shambles' hangs over Scotland and Wales elections
Keir Starmer’s political turmoil overshadows Wales and Scotland elections, where voters express disillusionment with devolution and public services.