Nigel Farage has claimed Reform UK is now the main challenger to Labour in the Midlands, North, Wales and Scotland, pushing the Conservatives into third place. In a campaign speech, he said voters felt betrayed by the Tories over Brexit and immigration, adding that backing the Conservatives in red wall areas would be a “wasted vote.” Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
First Minister of Scotland John Swinney said he will publish his Government’s legislative programme earlier than usual to help tackle tariff challenges. Speaking at a press conference at Bute House in Edinburgh on Monday, Mr Swinney said the programme for government would be published on the 6th of May to "enable a full year of delivery between now and the Scottish election”. Report by Kennedyl. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey says he accepts the Supreme Court’s ruling that sex in the Equality Act refers to biological sex. He said the judgment brings clarity to a long-confused area of law but urged the government and Equality and Human Rights Commission to issue clear guidance to help businesses and individuals understand the implications. Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
Former Bank of England policymaker Michael Saunders welcomed March’s lower inflation but warned it may be short-lived. He said rising energy bills, tax hikes, and fallout from US trade tensions could push UK inflation above 3% next month, while also slowing growth, investment and potentially increasing unemployment later this year. Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
Suzi Finlayson says her life was turned upside down after swimming in polluted sea water left her with a serious infection requiring open heart surgery. She now lives with a mechanical valve and ongoing health issues. Her story comes as Surfers Against Sewage report a 30% rise in water pollution incidents over five years. Finlayson called the lack of accountability “disgraceful.” Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
Kemi Badenoch has welcomed the Supreme Court ruling that sex in the Equality Act refers to biological sex, calling it a victory for women defending their rights. Badenoch said single-sex spaces should be protected, with alternative provisions made for transgender people where needed. Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
Former SNP MP Joanna Cherry has welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on the legal definition of a woman, describing it as a key moment in the debate over sex-based rights. She said the judgment vindicates long-standing concerns but warned that it must now be properly implemented. Cherry urged political leaders to ensure the ruling is respected and reflected in everyday policy. Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn