M&S chief accuses government of raiding retail sector ‘like a piggy bank’

In Germany's election, opposition leader Friedrich Merz vows to revive the economy and defend Europe's interests, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes for a comeback. The campaign focuses on the economy and migration, with polls showing Merz's Union bloc leading over the far-right Alternative for Germany. Merz promises a strong voice for Germany in the EU, aiming to end the country's three years in opposition and make a comeback. Full Article

Britain will impose new sanctions on Russia to mark the third anniversary of Putin's invasion of Ukraine, with Sir Keir Starmer planning a "triple whammy" of measures including military aid and crackdown on Russian dirty money. The sanctions aim to target Russia's revenues and military capabilities, with the UK working with US and European partners to achieve a "sustainable, just peace" in Ukraine amid growing rift between the US and Europe over support for Zelensky,...

An illegal party with 350-500 people occurred in an old warehouse near Menen, ending at 6:30 a.m. after negotiations led by Police Chief Didier Vandecasteele to ensure safety and order. The police monitored the event, opting for a gradual approach to prevent panic or accidents, ultimately allowing the party to end peacefully. Concerns about safety were raised due to the lack of approval and proper security measures in the unsafe warehouse, with officials closely watching...

German voters are choosing a new government in an election dominated by concerns over the economy, migration, and the future of Ukraine and Europe's alliance with the US. The center-right opposition is favored to win, with polls showing a strong result for a far-right party. Germany's electoral system is likely to result in a coalition government, with negotiations expected to take weeks or even months before the next chancellor is elected. Full Article

Sir Keir Starmer will condemn the "dangerous right-wing politics" of Reform UK, asserting that Nigel Farage's party is "not the answer for Britain". The prime minister will directly challenge Reform's surge in popularity, labeling their policies as "alien" to the needs of working people. Sir Keir will urge Labour to provide a clear path to the future and be prepared to counter Reform's misleading promises, emphasizing that their alternative is not in the interests of...

Police in Manchester are searching for the driver of a van that crashed with a tram, resulting in the death of a three-year-old girl in the city centre. The collision occurred on Mosley Street, with the van driver fleeing the scene after the incident. Greater Manchester Police are appealing for witnesses as they continue to investigate the tragic incident. Full Article