Average monthly rent outside London has hit a record high of £1,316, up 7% from a year ago. The study by Rightmove reveals a growing rental crisis, with demand outpacing supply and pushing prices significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. The report comes just days before the General Election, with experts calling for government intervention to address the housing shortage and stabilize rents.
Britain’s Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, has withdrawn support from three candidates over allegations of offensive comments, adding to the party’s recent racism controversies. This comes as the party faces growing scrutiny over its handling of racist remarks made by its candidates and supporters, raising concerns about its potential impact on the upcoming general election.
With Britain facing a stagnant economy and a Conservative party plagued by scandal and ideological shifts, Labour, under Keir Starmer, presents a compelling alternative. The Economist argues that while Labour’s policies may not always align with their own, the party’s focus on economic growth, its commitment to a more pragmatic approach, and its ability to offer a fresh perspective make it the best option for Britain’s future.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused the opposition National Congress Party of planning to implement an inheritance tax similar to the one in the United States, leading to a heated political debate.
Angela Rayner, standing in for Keir Starmer at PMQs, has sharply criticized the Tories’ handling of housing and accused Deputy PM Oliver Dowden of disloyalty to Boris Johnson. Rayner, the Shadow Housing Secretary, referred to Dowden’s support for Rishi Sunak’s leadership bid and accused the Tories of being ‘obsessed’ with her personal life. She also attacked the government for failing renters and for abandoning the promise to ban no-fault evictions before the general election.
Housing Secretary Michael Gove has reversed his promise to ban no-fault evictions before the next general election. The Conservative government had initially pledged to end the practice, which allows landlords to evict tenants without reason, five years ago. However, Gove now says that he only “hopes” the ban will be enacted before the election. Charities blame no-fault evictions for rising homelessness, and the delayed ban has drawn criticism from campaigners and opposition parties.
Ofcom has issued a warning to broadcasters ahead of the upcoming general election, stating that any breaches of impartiality rules will be met with serious consequences, including potential fines or license suspension. This warning comes after several instances of breaches by GB News, which has been under investigation for allowing politicians to host news programs. Ofcom’s rules prohibit candidates in UK elections from presenting news or interviewing during the election period. Broadcasters have been reminded of Rule 6.6 of the Code, which upholds due impartiality and prohibits politicians from acting as news presenters. Ofcom’s research has also found that audience feedback supports the existing impartiality rules in the Broadcasting Code.
Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, faces a potential landslide loss in the next General Election, leading to speculation that he may call an early election to avoid a post-local election challenge to his leadership. According to insiders, Sunak might opt for a ballot in April, with the election held in June, to keep Tory MPs occupied and prevent any potential leadership bids. This move comes amid projected losses for the Conservative Party in the upcoming local elections, which could trigger an “armageddon” situation for Sunak, potentially leading to a leadership challenge.
Pennsylvania voters will cast their ballots in primary elections on Tuesday, making their choices for candidates who will represent them in the general election. Races include those for legislative seats, Congressional positions, and statewide offices.
Nigel Farage now believes a summer general election is more likely after Rishi Sunak’s Rwanda Bill passed Parliament. Sunak had previously stated that deportation flights to Rwanda would begin within 12 weeks, but Farage contends this is unlikely due to legal challenges from the Human Rights Act. The former Brexit Party leader argues that the Prime Minister’s bold statement about ignoring international courts signals a shift towards an earlier election, as he cannot deliver on his flagship policy while the Human Rights Act remains in place. Sunak, however, maintains that the legislation will enable the government to deter illegal immigration and save lives.
