Stories from United Kingdom

Durham County Council experienced a 550% increase in complaints against councillors between May and December 2025, with 52 complaints filed compared to eight in the entirety of 2024. The council is run by the Reform party.

The Welsh government is considering a one pence increase in income tax for a short period to address a crisis in social care. This measure is being evaluated if the current budget for social care proves insufficient.

The cost of UK staycations is expected to rise due to increased demand. Many people may opt for domestic holidays to avoid the administrative hassle and potential issues associated with international travel. Camping is noted as a low-cost option for holidays.

Jane Dodds, the leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats and the sole Lib Dem in the Welsh Parliament, has been speaking about the upcoming Thursday vote. The election utilizes a proportional system. The Welsh Liberal Democrats have stated they will not support any government that spends public money preparing for independence. This policy appears to preclude deals with Plaid Cymru or the Greens. The party plans to inject 300 million pounds into social care and implement a universal program. Rina Pugher, leader of the Welsh independence party and former BBC journalist, is leading in recent polls north of Cardiff. Pugher is currently in a close race with the Reform UK party. The competition is particularly noted in rural communities that have historically voted for the Labour Party.

Iran International reports that the UK government is increasing sanctions against the IRGC. The station criticizes the UK, stating it will be the last Western country to ban the IRGC, implying a delayed response.

A former Financial Secretary of the Treasury left a note for his successor stating that all the money was gone. The current Labour government's caliber is being compared unfavorably to previous administrations.

Iran International reported that new sanctions have been imposed on organizations linked to the IRGC. These organizations are accused of conducting terrorist activities. The sanctions were announced from London.

Allegations have been made regarding the monarchy's cost, with claims of half a billion pounds annually. This figure is contrasted with the Irish president's cost of four million euros per year. The report also mentions Prince William is waiting in the wings.

The role of permanent secretary in the UK government has become transient, with recent appointees lasting only a few months. Olly Robbins, who was spearheading a reform of the foreign office, has left, leaving the initiative without leadership.

The UK's governance is in a difficult place due to a fraught relationship with regulations. This situation has been exacerbated by regulatory approaches during the administrations of Boris Johnson and Liz Truss, with a slightly diminished impact under Rishi Sunak.