The news that former Home Secretary Sir Grant Shapps has failed to make the new Tory candidate list has put fear into dozens of former Conservative MPs. Whether the party should be humiliating former senior Cabinet ministers of the party is a Westminster talking point, says William Cash.
New ‘global investor visa’ proposed by lobby group as UK struggles to attract the super-rich
Latest polling from YouGov suggests major gains for Greens and Reform UK in the capital.
The Green’s victory reflects a changing mindset in British politics
Polanski’s new communications advisor shows that the Green Party leader is serious about his public image.
With only 1 in 70 new HGV’s being electric, the government must assist with infrastructure investment says industry leader
Blakeney has welcomed former drinks company Oatly managing
director Tim Knight and pro-Brexit MEP Lucy Harris, in an effort to strengthen their position, the public affairs and strategic
consultancy announced on Thursday.
Hanbury’s decision to erect offices in Washington and Sydney showcases the firms’ strong public image.
Benjamin Wegg-Prosser, who co-founded the lobbying firm Global Counsel alongside Peter Mandelson has today resigned following significant backlash regarding the firm’s link to Jeffrey Epstein.
The Russell Group has picked Professor Libby Hackett, an Australia based public policy specialist, as its next chief executive, handing the UK’s most influential research university lobby to a leader with deep experience in government facing policy work and sector politics.
The European Commission launches a public consultation to update EU Arctic policy amid climate pressures and rising geopolitical stakes.
Beijing imposes provisional anti subsidy duties on EU dairy products, deepening trade tensions and hitting exporters across the bloc
Berlin urges a full rethink of EU foreign subsidy controls, warning current rules impose heavy burdens and risk harming investment.
EU governments approve targeted revisions delaying the deforestation regulation, easing compliance demands while keeping core environmental safeguards in place
Brussels plans to widen its carbon border levy, targeting downstream goods and loopholes to prevent carbon leakage and protect EU industry
Thailand’s baht hits multi year peak, squeezing exporters and forcing policy makers to juggle currency stability, trade competitiveness and fragile economic recovery
Italy aligns with Belgium to oppose Brussels’ plan to deploy frozen Russian assets for Ukraine, complicating efforts ahead of key EU summit.
Twenty US states challenge Trump’s $100,000 H-1B visa fee, arguing it exceeds presidential authority and threatens labour markets.
Deep splits among EU capitals force Brussels to delay its Buy European procurement push amid fears of protectionism and higher costs.
Brussels approves annual EU UK fisheries agreement for 2026, setting shared quotas and access rules under the post Brexit framework.
Meta agrees to overhaul its EU ad model, offering clearer data-sharing choices for users after regulators ruled its previous system breached competition rules.
EU states back new asylum and return measures, including safe-country rules and a solidarity pool, ahead
MACE marked its 5th anniversary with a high-profile Commons reception of politicians, diplomats, media figures and lobbyists, launching its influencers report
From self-lacerating memoir to by-election madness and a Labour Together takedown, The Mace’s literary editor Christopher Silvester rounds up the latest political books.
From self-lacerating memoir to by-election madness and a Labour Together takedown,
The Mace’s literary editor Christopher Silvester rounds up the latest political books.
Three former Conservative MPs, including ex-deputy chair Jonathan Gullis, defect to Reform UK as the party capitalises on Tory unrest and declining support.
Talks between London and Brussels collapsed after the EU demanded a high entry fee for SAFE, leaving the UK limited to third-country participation.
The government plans to end most taxi travel for asylum seekers attending medical appointments, replacing it with public transport and tightening Home Office oversight.
The resignation of Andriy Yermak after anti-corruption raids disrupts Ukraine’s leadership and triggers uncertainty across Europe during a critical phase of the war.
After weeks of tax rumour and expectation-setting, the 26 November Budget landed as a welfare-first package that lifts the benefits cap but tightens the screw on household incomes, property and education.
The European Parliament on 13 November 2025 approved amendments that sharply reduce the scope of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and the associated reporting regime
The FTSE 100 hit a record 9,787 points as investors cheered progress in Washington towards ending the US government shutdown. Strong gains in Diageo, miners and financial stocks lifted the index to its highest ever close, mirroring a global rally across European and Asian markets.
Reappointed French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu unveiled his second cabinet and must deliver the 2026 budget within days. With opposition parties preparing a no-confidence motion and markets showing unease, his government faces a test of survival that could decide the fate of Macron’s presidency and France’s fiscal stability.
As Ukraine rebuilds from war, music is emerging as a vital force for healing, unity and national renewal.
Optimism, strategy and late-night gossip: Beverley Nielsen shares her experience of Labour’s four-day conference in Liverpool.
The UK government is reportedly prepared to allow higher NHS medicine prices to defuse U.S. threats of 100 percent tariffs on branded drugs. The shift comes as pharmaceutical firms balk at rebate regimes and paused investment. Ministers are in talks with Washington and mulling reforms to cost‑effectiveness metrics.
The European Commission is preparing to accelerate the exit from Russian oil, gas, and fossil fuel imports ahead of its prior 2028 deadline. Pressure from the United States has intensified. Resistance from Hungary and Slovakia remains. Legal changes and bans on new contracts are key components of the revised plan.
Nadine Dorries, former Conservative culture secretary, has defected to Reform UK just ahead of its Birmingham conference. Seen as the most high-profile Tory defection yet, her join strengthens Nigel Farage’s rising populist party amid growing donor support and public momentum.
Donald Trump will meet Vladimir Putin in Alaska on 15 August to discuss ending the Ukraine war, including potential territorial swaps. Ukraine and European leaders reject any agreement involving land concessions and insist Kyiv must be part of negotiations. Preparations are under way amid increased diplomatic activity and heightened military vigilance.
Scotland’s ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 entails an estimated annual investment of £750 million over the next 20 years. The Climate Change Committee warns that without immediate, large-scale action, including rapid adoption of electric vehicles and heat pumps, the nation risks missing its legally binding climate targets.
Donald Trump’s Middle East visit yielded a $96 billion Boeing deal and over $1 trillion in wider economic commitments. But questions over a private jet gift and simultaneous Trump Organization ventures have reignited concerns about conflicts of interest, as diplomacy and personal business appear increasingly entangled in the former president’s foreign agenda.
Luxury retailer Mytheresa posted 3.8% revenue growth in Q3 2025, driven by strong demand in Europe and the Middle East. U.S. sales lagged due to tariffs and cautious consumers. Despite lower margins, the company raised its full-year outlook, citing resilient high-end demand and international expansion.
The Trump administration is set to accept a luxury Boeing 747-8 jet from Qatar for use as Air Force One, prompting legal and ethical scrutiny. The aircraft will later be transferred to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation, raising questions over foreign influence and constitutional compliance.
The Kremlin has confirmed that Vladimir Putin will visit India later this year at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trip revives the annual India–Russia summit format, last held in 2021, and underscores India’s continued engagement with Moscow despite Western pressure over Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The UK and India have signed a landmark free trade agreement, reducing tariffs on goods like whisky, cars, and textiles, while expanding market access for services. The deal strengthens post-Brexit UK trade strategy and enhances India’s global economic position, boosting bilateral trade by £25 billion by 2040.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington to address trade tensions, defense cooperation, and Arctic sovereignty. The high-stakes talks reflect contrasting leadership styles but mutual pressure to stabilize North American relations amid geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainty, and growing scrutiny of the USMCA trade agreement.
Friedrich Merz has failed to secure enough votes in the Bundestag to become Germany’s next chancellor, despite a nominal majority. The shock defeat reveals deep divisions within his coalition and casts doubt on his leadership prospects. Markets dipped and political uncertainty looms as a second vote is expected later this week.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance admitted the Ukraine war is unlikely to end soon, contradicting Donald Trump’s earlier pledge to settle it in 24 hours. Trump has since called that claim an exaggeration. Meanwhile, negotiations have stalled, allies are frustrated, and Russia continues its offensive amid uncertainty over Western support.
Reform UK secured victory in the Runcorn and Helsby by-election, overturning a large Labour majority. The party also won the Greater Lincolnshire mayoralty and made local council gains. With rising national polling figures, Reform is emerging as a serious electoral force ahead of the next general election.
Kamala Harris returned to the spotlight with a fierce speech condemning Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office, slamming his tariffs, immigration policies, and governance as reckless and dangerous. She called on Americans to resist fear, defend democracy, and reclaim power: “It belongs to us. It belongs to we the people.”
Voters across England headed to the polls in a major electoral test for all parties. Labour aims to defend recent gains, while Reform UK eyes breakthroughs in Runcorn, Doncaster, and mayoral races. The Conservatives brace for losses, and minor parties seek regional wins. Results are expected from Thursday night into Friday.
President Trump marked 100 days of his second term with sweeping policy changes, including a record number of executive orders, mass deportations, major education reforms, and a 145% effective tariff on Chinese imports.
The European People’s Party (EPP) Congress in Valencia opened today amid political tension and disruption following major power outages across Spain and Portugal. Originally intended to celebrate the EPP’s 2024 European Parliament election victory, where it secured 188 seats, the event has been overshadowed by criticism of the Spanish People’s Party’s handling of last year’s deadly floods. Despite protests, Manfred Weber is expected to be re-elected as EPP president, with Dolors Montserrat nominated as Secretary-General.
Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England, has led Canada’s Liberal Party to a minority government following the 28 April 2025 federal election. The Liberals won 142 seats, short of a majority, with the Conservatives securing 129. Carney succeeded Justin Trudeau as party leader earlier this year. Negotiations with smaller parties are expected. Voter turnout was approximately 68 percent. The new Parliament will convene in early May, when Carney will present his agenda.
A massive power outage hit Spain, Portugal, and parts of France, disrupting transport, hospitals, and daily life. Authorities suspect grid failures linked to interconnections and rare atmospheric conditions. Renewable energy’s challenges and cyber-attack concerns remain under review as power restoration nears completion.
The European Commission has launched formal proceedings against Apple over suspected breaches of the Digital Markets Act, focusing on restrictive App Store policies. Developers claim Apple’s compliance measures deter competition, despite regulatory obligations. This marks the first major enforcement action under the DMA, signalling a tougher EU stance on Big Tech. Apple faces potential fines of up to 10 percent of global turnover while also contending with parallel antitrust action in the United States.
Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche plans a $50 billion U.S. investment over five years, creating 12,000 jobs and building new facilities. Driven by Trump-era tariffs, it aims to protect market access, bolster U.S. exports, and adapt to supply chain challenges. The move reflects shifting pharmaceutical strategies amidst global trade tensions.
Pope Francis, the first Pope from the Americas, passed away on Easter Monday, aged 88, at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. Despite enduring lifelong health challenges, including a lung removal in his youth, he led with resilience, advocating for the poor and addressing global issues like climate change. Known for his humility and reformist vision, his papacy modernised Church dialogue but faced resistance. His legacy of compassion and courage leaves an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and beyond.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced plans to finalise a U.S. business deal within six months to counter tariffs on steel, aluminium, and cars threatening Hungary’s car-reliant economy. Amid trade tensions, Orban seeks stronger U.S. ties, bolstering his nationalist credentials ahead of 2026 elections, while navigating EU relations and economic vulnerabilities.
The European Central Bank (ECB) cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points to 2.25%, citing deteriorating growth due to trade tensions and global uncertainty. This marks the third rate reduction this year as policymakers aim to stabilize the eurozone economy. ECB President Christine Lagarde highlighted a “negative demand shock” and signaled openness to further rate cuts if conditions worsen. Economists expect ongoing monetary easing as the ECB seeks to counteract external pressures and sustain economic resilience.
President Trump has suggested a potential pause on auto tariffs, sparking optimism in the auto industry and financial markets. While the proposal remains unconfirmed, it could ease industry pressures and improve global trade relations. Key stakeholders now await clarity on the decision’s impact on commerce, supply chains, and international partnerships.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressed the EU’s planned 25% tariffs on €21 billion of U.S. goods with a mix of defiance and diplomacy. She clarified that the tariffs, unanimously supported by EU members, are temporarily on hold for 90 days as negotiations with the U.S. unfold. This comes after President Trump announced a 20% tariff on EU imports, which was later reduced under market pressure to a 10% baseline for all countries, except China, which faces a staggering 145% rate.
Marine Le Pen’s shock conviction for embezzling EU funds, with a five-year ban from public office, shook France’s political landscape. While Le Pen vows to appeal, her legal woes boost Jordan Bardella, the 29-year-old rising star of the National Rally. From humble beginnings to RN president, Bardella’s leadership and modern charisma position him as a strong contender to step out of Le Pen’s shadow and potentially claim the Élysée Palace.
Australia has rejected China’s call to unite against Trump’s escalating tariffs, with Defence Minister Richard Marles stating, “We’re not about to make common cause with China.” Beijing sought Canberra’s support to counter U.S. trade barriers, but Australia remains focused on diversifying its trade. While Trump’s tariffs rattle global markets, Australia aims to shield its economy through strong fundamentals and new partnerships, signalling its intent to stay independent amidst the U.S.-China trade war.
The U.S. had launched a tariff blitz with 104% levies on Chinese goods, rattling global markets as China hit back with steep retaliatory measures. Allies from the EU to Japan bristled, warning of economic fallout and a deepening trade war.
Conservative peer Olivia Bloomfield faces scrutiny over her ties to Terrestrial Energy, raising questions about lobbying, conflicts of interest, and the revolving door between politics and industry. Her case highlights broader concerns about transparency in the UK’s nuclear energy strategy.
President Trump likens the U.S. economy to a patient recovering from surgery as tariffs bite.
Critics warn the treatment may kill the patient before healing begins.
Top U.S. law firms are striking multimillion-dollar deals with the Trump administration, curbing DEI policies and offering pro bono work to avoid punitive executive orders. The moves have triggered fierce debate over legal independence and political pressure.
Global stock markets plunged after President Trump imposed sweeping tariffs under emergency powers, including a baseline 10% levy and up to 54% on Chinese imports. China retaliated with a 34% tariff on U.S. goods, fuelling fears of a prolonged trade war and triggering sharp declines across major indices worldwide .
Huawei representatives faced a Brussels court this week, accused of corruption and money laundering linked to their lobbying efforts in the EU. As the investigation unfolds, it could reshape how foreign entities operate within European institutions.
Trump’s sweeping new tariffs are shaking up global trade, hitting economies on every continent. As nations scramble to respond, a protracted trade war looms on the horizon.
Patriots for Europe has launched an unprecedented transparency offensive, submitting 86 freedom of information requests to the European Commission demanding access to thousands of EU contracts with NGOs. With the Commission rejecting these requests, Brussels now braces for a political clash as PfE prepares appeals and possible legal action.
Consumer confidence in the US has plunged to its lowest level in over two years, as inflation and trade tensions grip the economy. New tariffs and regulatory upheaval are fuelling uncertainty across markets and households alike.
Labor’s 2025 federal budget delivers tax cuts, energy rebates and health spending aimed at easing cost-of-living pressure. With an election looming, the government is banking on short-term relief to shore up voter support.
San Francisco’s new mayor is turning to tech titans to rescue a city in crisis.
Qantas Chairman John Mullen has warned that Australia’s heavy reliance on imported fuel puts the nation at serious risk of supply disruptions. With domestic refining capacity dwindling, he urges urgent action to strengthen energy security.
Meta faces growing backlash after a whistleblower accused it of making concessions to China, including censorship tools and restricting dissidents, to regain market access. Lawmakers are pushing for an investigation, while Meta denies the allegations.
Bank of America’s CEO Brian Moynihan faces intensifying criticism amid accusations of political friction and internal stagnation.
CK Hutchison’s $22.8bn ports sale to a U.S.-led consortium ignites geopolitical backlash from Beijing.
Greenland’s election has dealt a blow to U.S. Arctic ambitions, with voters backing the pro-business Demokraatit Party over pro-independence rivals. The result signals a preference for economic stability and strong ties with Denmark, complicating Washington’s efforts to expand influence in the resource-rich region.
UK financial regulators scrap mandatory diversity rules, sparking debate over growth, governance, and workplace inclusion.
Kenya in Turmoil: Protests, Cuts, and a Struggling Economy
Europe’s surge in defence spending is fuelling a boom for industry giants like Rolls-Royce and reshaping investment strategies across the continent.
Romania bars far-right candidate Călin Georgescu from the presidential race, sparking protests and international scrutiny.
Mark Carney seizes Canada’s Liberal leadership, stepping into a trade war with Trump and a fight for Canada’s economic future.
Anneliese Dodds resigns as International Development Minister in protest against Labour’s foreign aid cuts, exposing tensions within Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Sadiq Khan’s ambitious London Growth Plan aims to supercharge the capital’s economy with a £107bn boost, 150,000 new jobs, and major infrastructure upgrades—but critics warn of political and financial roadblocks.
EU eyes €200 billion in frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine—risking legal battles and global financial shockwaves.
Keir Starmer sparks fierce debate by cutting UK aid to ramp up defence spending, redefining Britain’s global role amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Merz’s CDU/CSU secures a pivotal win as Germany braces for complex coalition talks and a new political era.
Pope Francis’s severe health crisis fuels succession speculation, intensifying internal Church divisions.
World leaders gather in Munich to tackle escalating global security threats, from Ukraine to NATO burden-sharing.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. narrowly confirmed as HHS Secretary after fierce Senate showdown over his vaccine stance.
Vice President JD Vance arrives in Paris this week for the AI Action Summit, marking his first major foray into international diplomacy.
Belgium’s new PM Bart De Wever pushes back against EU overregulation, calling for a pro-business shift to boost Europe’s competitiveness.
Far-right leaders unite in Madrid, vowing to reshape Europe with nationalist policies and Trump-inspired rhetoric.
President Donald Trump hosted Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House to discuss trade and security, including the U.S.-Japan trade deficit, Nippon Steel’s investment in U.S. Steel, and diplomatic relations with North Korea.
With the Munich Security Conference (MSC) set to commence on February 14, 2025, global leaders and policymakers are preparing to address pressing international security challenges. The conference, held annually at Munich’s Hotel Bayerischer Hof, serves as a premier platform for discussions on global security issues.
Allegations that Politico received significant financial support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have gained momentum in recent days, drawing strong reactions from President Donald Trump and conservative media figures.
A cross-party motion signed by more than 30 MPs has been tabled in Parliament, urging the Labour government to take a firm stance against U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks on Gaza