Angela Rayner will announce plans for new mega-councils in a white paper on English devolution, asking councils to merge to facilitate Labour’s goal of building 1.5 million homes in five years. These “strategic authorities” aim to streamline decision-making and give regions a stronger voice, but may face backlash from critics concerned about loss of local control over planning. Around 20 to 30 new authorities are expected to be created, resulting in the consolidation of approximately 150 councils in England.
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Britain is failing to prepare itself for war with Russia, top general warns
Retired senior general Sir Richard Shirreff warned that Britain is not adequately prepared for a war with Russia and cannot rely on the US or Nato, stressing the need for a strong deterrent in Europe. Concerns were raised by former defence secretary Ben Wallace, Labour peer Admiral Lord West, and Nato general secretary Mark Rutte about the West's readiness for potential conflict with Russia. Sir Richard emphasized the importance of Europe stepping up its defense...
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