Trump and Starmer’s ‘warm’ phone call didn’t cover Ukraine, Chagos, Mandelson, tariffs, defence or Greenland

Rachel Reeves' hopes to regain business confidence suffered a blow as AstraZeneca cancelled a £450 million investment in a vaccine plant in Merseyside, amid concerns over promised subsidies. This setback came after failed attempts to attract major investments and job losses at companies like Lloyds Bank and Tesco, with criticism focused on national insurance hikes and new employment rights. Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith criticized Labour's handling of the situation, highlighting the impact of tax...

Milder weather has given Britons relief from recent storm damage, but the UK is cautioned to prepare for more wet and windy conditions leading up to spring, with northwestern areas likely to experience heavy rain and strong winds from 4-13 February. Southern England will see fewer weather disruptions, with periods of dry weather expected, although some rain may occur. After 14 February, brief cold spells are anticipated between weather systems, with the south facing potential...

A new YouGov poll shows that fewer than half of Brexit voters can point to any positive outcome of the decision, with just 8% stating it has had a positive effect on them. The survey, conducted on the five-year anniversary of Brexit, revealed that while 31% believe leaving the EU has benefited the UK's control over its own laws, 67% feel it has been detrimental to the cost of living. Additionally, 65% think Brexit has...

Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán expressed opposition to EU sanctions against Russia, citing economic losses and threatening to veto their extension due to Ukraine's actions. Despite past threats, Orbán has not followed through, but now warns that Hungary could unilaterally lift sanctions if the European Commission fails to meet energy security guarantees. Orbán stated that Hungary could take drastic measures, such as ending sanctions abruptly, but believes it should only be a last resort. Full Article

Spanish labour inspectors have upset farmers by attempting to fine them for lacking portable toilets in their olive groves, a move farmers criticize as "nonsense" since using the outdoors as a restroom is considered "organic fertiliser." This clampdown on outdoor bathroom practices has sparked controversy and debate within the agricultural community in Spain. Full Article

Your support for The Independent enables in-depth coverage of stories ranging from reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, with a commitment to factual reporting and accessibility. The UK government's proposed land use framework aims to balance agricultural needs with environmental concerns, potentially impacting farmers facing inheritance tax reforms. Environment Secretary Steve Reed emphasizes the framework's goal of protecting food production while addressing climate goals, despite farmer protests and concerns about land use restrictions....