MAINSTREAM The Guardian Politics

Good and bad news for Zack Polanski: the Green conference was a joy, but now hopes are stratospheric | Adam Ramsay

The Green Party conference in Bournemouth showcased a surge of enthusiasm and unity under leader Zack Polanski, who has energized members with his clear articulation of party views and defiance of right-wing criticism. Polanski’s leadership has coincided with a significant rise in membership, now at 86,000, and improved polling above 10%, alongside increased representation with nearly 900 councillors and four MPs. The conference marked a shift away from previous caution on controversial policies like drug decriminalization and criticism of Israeli policies, with members embracing a bolder stance. Polanski’s focus on tackling economic issues, such as ending “rip-off Britain,” received broad support across the party. Deputy leaders Rachel Millward and Mothin Ali also played key roles, delivering emotionally resonant speeches that helped unify attendees. The party’s growth and renewed confidence reflect broader political shifts, including dissatisfaction with mainstream parties and heightened climate concerns, positioning the Greens as a rising force in UK politics.

7 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Politico Europe

Tory trade chief warns against ‘deeper entanglement’ with the EU

Andrew Griffith, the Conservative Party’s trade chief, cautioned against the UK pursuing closer economic ties with the European Union, warning that deeper integration could hinder the government’s ability to secure broader trade agreements globally. Speaking at the Conservative Party conference, Griffith emphasized that maintaining trade independence is crucial for the UK to capitalize on opportunities outside the EU. He argued that a Labour government’s potential move toward stronger EU alignment might limit Britain’s trade flexibility and damage its prospects for new deals with countries such as the United States and Australia. Griffith highlighted the importance of preserving the UK’s autonomy in setting trade rules and regulations to attract investment and foster economic growth. The remarks come amid ongoing debates about the UK’s post-Brexit trade strategy and its relationship with the EU. Griffith’s stance reflects concerns within the Conservative Party about balancing economic sovereignty with international cooperation in a changing global trade environment.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Politico Europe

Paris prosecutor opens investigation into Apple’s voice assistant Siri

The Paris public prosecutor has launched an investigation into Apple over its voice assistant Siri’s collection of user recordings. The probe is being conducted by France’s cybercrime agency OFAC in response to a complaint filed by the French NGO Ligue des droits de l’Homme. The complaint raised concerns about privacy violations and the handling of personal data by Apple’s Siri service. The investigation aims to determine whether Apple’s practices comply with French data protection laws, particularly regarding user consent and the security of recorded conversations. This scrutiny reflects growing global attention on how tech companies manage voice data and protect user privacy. The case highlights ongoing tensions between technology firms and regulators over data privacy standards, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in digital services. The outcome could influence regulatory approaches to voice assistants and data collection practices in France and potentially across Europe.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Politico Europe

Sébastien Lecornu and the world’s other shortest political careers

Sébastien Lecornu’s tenure in office lasted only 27 days, placing him among the shortest political careers globally. This brief period highlights the volatility and unpredictability often seen in political appointments. The article compares Lecornu’s short stint with other notable brief political careers, including those of Michel Barnier and Liz Truss, illustrating how swiftly political fortunes can change. Such rapid turnovers can impact government stability and policy continuity, raising questions about the pressures and challenges faced by politicians in high-profile roles. The phenomenon underscores the intense scrutiny and demands placed on public officials, which can lead to abrupt departures. Understanding these short-lived tenures offers insight into the dynamics of political leadership and the factors contributing to such fleeting appointments.

9 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Independent Politics

Tories to ditch business rates for pubs and shops if they win election

The Conservative Party has pledged to abolish business rates for high street shops and pubs if they win the next general election. Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride announced the plan at the party conference, describing current tax burdens as unsustainable for many businesses. The policy, estimated to cost £4 billion, aims to support around 250,000 businesses and protect jobs, particularly for young people. Stride also outlined broader fiscal measures, including plans to cut £47 billion from public spending by reducing the Civil Service to its 2016 size and slashing foreign aid to 0.1% of national income. The party intends to offer a £5,000 national insurance rebate for first-time full-time workers but ruled out widespread tax cuts due to rising national debt. The proposed aid cuts have drawn criticism from development groups, while Stride emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility, promising that any tax changes would be affordable and fully funded. The Conservatives aim to rebuild the economy through these measures if elected.

10 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Politico Europe

Americans remain wary of electing a female president, new poll reveals

A recent poll reveals that 40% of Americans know someone who would not vote for a female president, highlighting ongoing skepticism about electing women to the highest office. The survey reflects persistent gender biases in the U.S. electorate despite progress in women’s political representation. The findings suggest that concerns about a woman’s leadership abilities or traditional gender roles continue to influence voter attitudes. This hesitancy remains a significant barrier for female candidates seeking the presidency, affecting their chances in future elections. The poll underscores the challenges women face in gaining widespread acceptance as viable presidential contenders. It also signals the need for continued efforts to address gender stereotypes and promote gender equality in politics. Understanding these attitudes is crucial as the nation prepares for upcoming elections, where female candidates may increasingly seek the presidency. The results highlight the importance of shifting public perceptions to ensure a more inclusive political landscape.

10 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Independent Politics

Debunked: Did Starmer really call the far-left to ‘take up arms and go for’ Reform UK?

Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice accused Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer of encouraging the far left to “take up arms and go for the enemy,” specifically targeting Reform UK and Nigel Farage. Tice claimed Starmer’s rhetoric effectively gave license to groups like ANTIFA to confront political opponents aggressively. However, footage from Starmer’s speech at the Labour conference contradicts these allegations, showing that he did not use such language. Independent verification confirmed that Starmer did not call for violence or armed action against Reform UK or any political group. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between political parties in the UK, with accusations of inciting violence being a serious matter in the current polarized climate. Reform UK has been approached for further comment on Tice’s statements. The incident underscores the importance of verifying political claims and the potential impact of misinformation on public discourse.

10 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Politico Europe

ACTUALISÉ : “Les conditions n’étaient plus remplies”, déclare Sébastien Lecornu après sa démission

Less than 24 hours after announcing his new government lineup, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu resigned, a decision accepted by President Emmanuel Macron. Lecornu cited that the conditions necessary to fulfill his duties were no longer met. The resignation came shortly after the government’s formation, indicating underlying political challenges or disagreements. This unexpected development creates immediate uncertainty within the French executive branch, as the Prime Minister plays a crucial role in implementing the president’s agenda and managing governmental affairs. Macron now faces the task of appointing a new head of government amid a potentially unstable political climate. The swift resignation highlights possible tensions or difficulties in securing parliamentary support or internal cohesion within the administration. It underscores the fragile nature of political alliances and governance in France at this time, raising questions about the future direction of the government and its capacity to address pressing national issues.

13 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Independent Politics

Police to get new powers in crackdown on repeat protests after hundreds arrested at Palestine Action rally

The home secretary announced new police powers to limit repeated protests following hundreds of arrests at a Palestine Action demonstration in London. The protest occurred despite calls to halt such events after a recent Manchester synagogue terror attack that killed two people. Authorities cited concerns over the impact of frequent large-scale protests on the Jewish community, which has expressed fear and intimidation. The proposed changes will amend Sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act 1986, allowing police to consider the cumulative effects of repeated protests and potentially ban demonstrations outright. The home secretary emphasized balancing the right to protest with the need for public safety. Reactions were mixed: Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticized pro-Palestine demonstrators for intimidating Jews, while Liberal Democrat spokesperson Max Wilkinson warned the measures might undermine peaceful protest without addressing antisemitism. The Board of Deputies of British Jews welcomed the move but urged further action to protect their community.

1 days ago

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MAINSTREAM The Guardian Politics

Rachel Reeves’s second budget needs a narrative of fairness to justify tax rises | Heather Stewart

Rachel Reeves faces a significant challenge with her upcoming second budget, as it risks repeating the backlash from last year’s winter fuel cut due to a lack of a clear narrative beyond balancing the public finances. Despite her recent conference speech emphasizing investment over austerity and positioning Labour as the true party for workers, Reeves has yet to articulate a compelling story about fairness or who should bear the burden of necessary tax rises. The need for potentially over £20 billion in tax increases stems from the Office for Budget Responsibility’s reassessment of the UK’s productivity, highlighting the long-term economic impact of Conservative austerity. Labour’s communications challenge lies in explaining this complex economic context while also addressing systemic tax unfairness. Experts, including the Institute for Fiscal Studies, urge Reeves to frame tax changes within a broader vision of social justice and fairness, moving beyond isolated tax hikes to tackle distortions and inequalities in the current tax system.

1 days ago

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MAINSTREAM Sky News Politics

Police to get new powers to impose restrictions on repeat protests

New police powers will be introduced to address repeated disruptive protests by allowing authorities to consider the cumulative impact of demonstrations when imposing restrictions. This follows nearly 500 arrests during a protest in central London supporting Palestine Action, which took place shortly after a terror attack at a Manchester synagogue that killed two Jewish worshippers. The new measures, to be implemented through amendments to the Public Order Act, will enable police to limit protest locations and times, with breaches risking arrest and prosecution. Home Secretary Suella Braverman emphasized the need to balance the right to protest with protecting communities from disruption and fear, particularly religious groups affected by repeated demonstrations. She has informed chief constables in England and Wales about the expanded powers, aiming to provide greater flexibility in managing protests. Opposition parties, including the Greens and Liberal Democrats, criticized the changes as an infringement on the right to peaceful protest and ineffective in addressing issues like antisemitism.

1 days ago

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MAINSTREAM The Guardian Politics

How Reform ‘misinformation’ campaign sank town’s refugee sanctuary plan

Weston-super-Mare’s plan to become a council of sanctuary, aimed at improving support for refugees and asylum seekers, was abandoned following a divisive campaign led by the Reform party. The initiative, proposed by Liberal Democrat councillor Caroline Reynolds, initially passed but faced intense opposition fueled by misinformation. Reform, which holds no local council seats, claimed the designation would cause a surge in illegal immigration and divert taxpayer funds, assertions that were strongly denied by supporters and the charity City of Sanctuary UK. The campaign sparked heated protests and abusive messages toward councillors backing the scheme. Around 200 people protested outside the town hall, with some chants and comments accused of being prejudicial and Islamophobic. The council ultimately reversed its decision within six months, marking the first such withdrawal in England according to City of Sanctuary UK. The controversy highlighted the challenges faced by local authorities in addressing refugee support amid rising political tensions and misinformation.

1 days ago

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