The Tories are expecting a pounding at the local elections - but could that mean Labour have the harder job?

Tories call for ‘calm heads’ over Ukraine diplomacy

Shadow foreign minister Wendy Morton calls for “pragmatism” and “calm heads” over negotiations for a Ukraine peace deal following the clash between President Zelenskyy and Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Friday. Report by Blairm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Tories: Big questions to be answered over defence spending

Shadow Paymaster General Richard Holden says there are “still big questions” to be answered over the government’s defence spending commitments, citing the possibility of the extra money going to “Mauritius to lease back the Chagos Islands”. Report by Blairm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Tories: Govt need be transparent over defence spending

Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge says the government needs to be “transparent with the British people” over the amount of extra money being spent on defence. Earlier today Defence Secretary John Healey suggested the real-terms increase in defence spending year-on-year will be only around half the £13.4 billion figure cited by the prime minister yesterday. Report by Blairm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Tories blast Labour over energy price hike

The shadow environment secretary has blasted the Labour government for the "third" increase in energy bills since coming to power. Victoria Atkins also criticised the government's approach to energy, including "plonking pylons across the country". Report by Faragt. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Tories 'disappointed' US didn't back UN Ukraine motion

The Conservatives have voiced disappointment at the US decision not to support a UN resolution condemning Russia's war against Ukraine – even though it was co-sponsored by the UK. However, Shadow Environment Secretary Victoria Atkins says it is still important to support President Trump in his wish to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict, despite the US siding with Russia in last night’s vote. Report by Faragt. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn