Rachel Reeves bets the house on 60,000 new bricklayers to help jumpstart economy

This article discusses significant issues affecting Europe, including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's alleged €1bn in unlawful media subsidies, raising concerns about his authoritarian grip. It also highlights challenges faced by major EU gas importers due to new methane emissions rules that complicate contract negotiations, risking energy security while the EU seeks to reduce reliance on Russian fossil fuels. Furthermore, the European Court of Auditors critiques the EU's industrial policy, noting scattered funding and unclear...

Germany's new government is under pressure to restructure its electricity market, as neighboring countries like Sweden and Belgium argue that splitting the large market into zones could lower prices. Despite a report from EU grid operators recommending a division to enhance efficiency, German industry opposes changes, fearing increased costs in the industrial south. While early coalition drafts showed openness to reconfiguration, the final agreement maintained the current market structure, reflecting the complex balance of interests...

SummaryForeign manufacturers in China face severe tariffs of 125% on component imports and 145% on exports to the US, significantly impacting operations amid the trade war initiated by Donald Trump. These companies, which account for nearly one-third of China’s trade, are squeezed by both Chinese and US tariffs, with implications for their profitability and competitiveness. While some larger firms may receive temporary exemptions, smaller producers struggle under the weight of double tariffs, prompting concerns about...

The trade war initiated by Donald Trump has created divisions within Europe's far-right parties, particularly the AfD in Germany. While Alice Weidel criticized Trump's tariffs as harmful to free trade, her co-chair Tino Chrupalla defended them as necessary for protecting the economy. This divergence reflects a broader tension among populist movements in Europe regarding how to reconcile protectionist policies with their national interests, as seen in responses from leaders like Italy's Giorgia Meloni and Hungary's...

European airline emissions are projected to reach 195.2 million tonnes in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 4%, indicating challenges in decarbonisation as the industry seeks leniency from EU green regulations. Airlines, including Ryanair and Lufthansa, argue that the required increase in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production is unfeasible and have called for easing carbon pricing schemes. The EU acknowledges the need for action to meet climate commitments, emphasizing that the aviation sector must contribute more...

Russian businessman Albert Avdolyan, sanctioned by the EU for Russia's war in Ukraine, circumvents travel bans with a Maltese passport obtained through a controversial golden visa scheme. Malta remains the last EU country offering citizenship for sale, facing legal challenges from the European Commission, which argues the scheme undermines EU citizenship integrity. Despite scrutiny, individuals including politically exposed figures have acquired Maltese citizenship, raising concerns over corruption, as such schemes are criticized for their potential...