Jonathan Bunn
Politics
Charities and councils warn of children’s social care ‘breaking point’
Organisations providing support for children said they are working in ‘progressively challenging circumstances’.
17 Apr 2025
Politics
Councils warn Chancellor of widespread bankruptcies without funding boost
Analysis of councils serving nearly half the population of England found communities could lose ‘essential services’ because of budget pressures.
3 Oct 2024
Politics
Councils warn ‘weakened democracy’ amid planning reform could empower developers
Authorities in largely rural areas have voiced concerns that housing targets outside metropolitan areas are too high and may be undeliverable.
27 Sept 2024
Politics
Urban councils outside London warn Angela Rayner of financial failure
In a letter to the Deputy Prime Minister ahead of Labour’s autumn conference, cities including Liverpool, Manchester and Nottingham call for clarity.
19 Sept 2024
Politics13 Sept 2024
Sharp dip in public backing for Starmer and Reeves, poll shows
Research found 32% of people viewed the PM favourably, a six-percentage point drop since August
London12 Sept 2024
One in 50 Londoners live in temporary housing costing £90m a month
Housing crisis ‘wreaking havoc’ in capital as London Councils demand funding in Autumn Budget
Politics
Bill creating ‘level playing field for powerless tenants’ to be introduced
The Renters’ Rights Bill will ban no-fault evictions and go further than the previous government’s plan, Labour said.
11 Sept 2024
Politics
Budget looms large after recess as Labour bids for renewed momentum
A look ahead at what are set to be the main themes during the new session of Parliament.
3 Sept 2024
Politics
Councils call for ‘urgent’ £644m injection to stabilise housing accounts
Local authorities said the accounting system for council housing is ‘in a perilous state’ and a new rent settlement alone cannot fix it.
3 Sept 2024
Politics
Cleverly accuses Starmer of defence spending ‘vandalism’ in leadership pitch
The former home secretary vowed to reduce migration and restore ‘confidence in capitalism’ as he calls for party unity.
2 Sept 2024
Politics
Poll reveals public divided on the Government’s approach to unions
The Government’s approach to pay claims aimed at ending disruption to public services has been criticised by the Conservatives.
29 Aug 2024
Business News
One in four fear having to turn off heating and hot water this winter – survey
Citizens Advice called for urgent Government action as research showed widespread concern over an expected rise in energy costs.
21 Aug 2024
Politics
Councils sound the alarm as ‘vital’ household support set to end
The Household Support Grant is given to struggling households but is set to expire ahead of an increasing demand over the winter.
15 Aug 2024
Politics
Communities with high flood risk ‘face service cuts’ as defence costs rise
Higher energy costs and more frequent extreme weather incidents are said to be driving a rise in the cost of drainage and pushing up council tax.
14 Aug 2024
Politics
Social care workforce fund scrapped but Government ‘intends’ future support
Care minister Stephen Kinnock said a fund proposed by the previous government would not go ahead due to ‘fiscal pressures’.
30 Jul 2024
Politics29 Jul 2024
What was behind Reeves’ statement and are tax rises more likely?
Rachel Reeves warned of more difficult decisions to come as she confirmed the date of the Autumn Budget
Politics
What legislation is expected to feature in the King’s Speech?
The new Government will set out the priorities which it hopes will define its first 100 days in office.
15 Jul 2024
Money
The Government’s confirmed key policy positions at a glance
Labour has hit the ground running after a landslide General Election victory provided scope for major changes.
12 Jul 2024
Politics10 Jul 2024
What was Rishi Sunak's smoking ban bill, and what happens next?
Health experts write to Sir Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, urging them to reinstate the ‘once-in-a-generation’ Tobacco and Vapes Bill
Politics
Civil Service union welcomes Labour message but warns of ‘tough choices’ on pay
The general secretary of the FDA trade union said decisions on pay across the public sector should be made as a matter of urgency.
9 Jul 2024
Politics
Landlords call for return of Bill banning no-fault evictions
Organisations collectively representing more than 100,000 landlords have called on the next government to end uncertainty in rented housing sector.
2 Jul 2024