Starmer accused of defence spend ‘cover-up’ in row over how £9bn Chagos deal is funded

The UK is expected to pay a fee to access a €150bn EU weapons fund as part of a broader defence and security pact set to be signed at a May 19 summit. This agreement necessitates a detailed bilateral deal for UK companies like BAE Systems to secure contracts under the Security Action For Europe (Safe) fund, which aims to bolster EU defence spending in light of security concerns. Negotiations are ongoing, with an emphasis...

Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the importance of the UK's trading relationship with the EU, stating it is “arguably even more important” than with the US, as she seeks to rebuild ties with European finance ministers during her visit to Washington. Meanwhile, there are indications of a potential youth mobility scheme gaining support among UK ministers, with proposals to limit numbers to avoid a return to free movement. Additionally, Keir Starmer and Ursula von der Leyen...

An analysis of the EU Transparency Register reveals that several small public affairs and law firms in Europe are actively lobbying for major oil and gas companies, contributing to pollution concerns. Despite fossil fuel clients accounting for only 1% of the industry’s revenue, many of the top spenders in influencing EU policymaking are linked to these companies. The findings, published by the Good Lobby nonprofit, highlight the extent of lobbying efforts within the fossil fuel...

SummaryUK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has dismissed key components of Donald Trump's economic policies ahead of her meeting with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, emphasizing the UK's commitment to an open global economy. While acknowledging the need to address global trade imbalances, Reeves stressed the importance of reducing trade barriers and supporting multilateral institutions, differing from Trump's approach. She aims to negotiate a UK-US trade deal to lower tariffs on British exports, while addressing regulatory challenges...

The European Commission will investigate Universal Music Group's $775 million acquisition of Downtown Music, amid concerns that it could increase Universal's dominance in the music industry. The probe follows a referral from the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets, with independent music representatives arguing that the deal threatens market access for independent artists and labels. Universal Music, which controls 37% of the U.S. market, expressed confidence in proceeding with the acquisition as planned, despite the...

SummaryBritain is moving towards establishing a post-Brexit youth visa scheme with the EU, amidst political sensitivities ahead of a key summit on May 19. EU officials emphasize the importance of a "youth experience scheme," allowing under-30s to live and work temporarily in each other's territories, while UK ministers aim to address domestic migration concerns prior to discussions. As negotiations progress, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to agree on a communique with EU...