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Associated Press
03-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
RBA Launches Chemical Platform To Support Risk-Based Due Diligence in Global Supply Chains
ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 3, 2025 /3BL/ - The Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) today announced the launch of its Chemical Platform, which helps companies identify, assess, and manage chemical management risks within their global supply chains. The RBA Chemical Platform is a chemical data collection, assessment, and reporting platform to identify chemicals of concern within supply chains, evaluate compliance with restricted substance requirements, analyze chemical management risks at facilities, and enable risk-based chemical management due diligence. The platform will enable RBA members and their suppliers to prioritize chemical management risks, mitigate worker exposures to toxic substances, strengthen environmental sustainability, and drive continuous improvement over time. 'Companies face growing expectations to proactively manage and address chemical management risks throughout their supply chains,' said Holly Evans, Senior Vice President, Environmental Policy and Legal Affairs, Responsible Business Alliance. 'The RBA Chemical Platform, which is the result of collaborative engagement with members and external stakeholders, will help companies conduct chemical management due diligence on significant risks.' Key benefits of the RBA Chemical Platform include chemical data collection and reporting, risk scorecards, and chemical screening. Chemical Data Collection and Reporting: The platform provides a standardized approach for rapid and controlled collection of chemical consumption data, including chemicals in products, manufacturing process chemicals, and more. Facilities can populate their chemical inventories, define their product lines, add chemical product consumption information, assess occupational health risks, and report data to customers and stakeholders. Risk Scorecards: The platform assigns overall risk scores to each facility based on chemical product usage and control data. Companies can develop customized facility-, company- and supply chain-level risk scorecards to summarize chemical consumption data and qualitative worker exposure risks into overall risk scores. This enables ranking and prioritization of chemical management risks among supply chain facilities for conducting risk-based due diligence. Chemical Screening: The platform enables companies to screen their facilities' chemical inventories against numerous chemicals of concern lists to identify and assess conformance with various regulatory requirements, voluntary initiatives, ecolabel criteria, and material restrictions. Users can add their own unique restricted substances lists (RSLs) and manufacturing RSLs (MRSLs) for supply chain facilities to provide assurance against various material restrictions. The platform enables standardized collection of chemical usage and control data with a centralized chemical product database, an automated Safety Data Sheet (SDS) parsing feature, customizable facility product line configurations, and roundtrip API integration with RBA-Online, the RBA's online data management system designed to help companies manage and share sustainability data. Learn more about the Chemical Platform on the RBA website and contact [email protected] for additional information. About the Responsible Business AllianceThe Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) is a mission-driven organization comprised of leading companies dedicated to responsible business conduct in their global supply chains. The RBA has a Code of Conduct and a range of programs, training and assessment tools to support continuous improvement. The organization has a global footprint, with offices in North America, Europe and Asia. The RBA and its Responsible Minerals, Labor and Factory Initiatives have more than 600 members with combined annual revenues of greater than $8 trillion, directly employing over 21.5 million people, with products manufactured in more than 120 countries. For more information, visit Media ContactJarrett Bens, Senior Director of CommunicationsResponsible Business AlliancePhone: +1 571.858.5721 [email protected]
The Independent
20-03-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Bank of England holds interest rates amid global economic uncertainty
The dour Scotsman holding the title of chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Cabinet Office minister, Pat McFadden, doesn't seem much of a space cowboy but he has in common with Elon Musk an apparent zeal to eliminate waste. Being more sensible and considerably less excitable than his (rough) US counterpart, McFadden has not yet egregiously breached the British constitution but he has summarily abolished almost all of the civil service 'credit cards', a distinctly Doge-like action. It's more than just a symbolic move… Read the full article here: Pat McFadden's move to curb excessive civil service spending highlights a focus on tackling waste and inefficiency in government, writes Sean O'Grady, but does it go far enough to rebuild public trust? Holly Evans 20 March 2025 13:30 David Lammy has confirmed that a British national was wounded in an Israeli attack on a UN compound in Gaza on Wednesday, as he said recent attacks had been an 'appalling loss of life'. The Foreign Secretary told MPs: 'Yesterday morning a UN compound in Gaza was hit, I can confirm to the House that a British national was amongst the wounded. 'Our priority is supporting them and their family at this time.' Mr Lammy added that the attacks on Gaza on Tuesday night had caused the largest Palestinian death toll on a single day since the war began. He said: 'A number of Hamas figures were reportedly killed, but it's been reported that over 400 Palestinians were killed in missile strikes and artillery barrages. The majority of them were women and children. 'This appears to have been the deadliest single day for Palestinians since the war began. This is an appalling loss of life, and we mourn the loss of every civilian.' Holly Evans 20 March 2025 13:15 Holly Evans 20 March 2025 13:03 Responding to today's interest rate decision by the Bank of England, Suren Thiru, Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Economics Director, said: 'The decision to keep interest rates on hold will be a palpable letdown to those households looking for relief from high mortgage bills and businesses preparing for April's major jump in business costs, including the national insurance hike. 'While the vote to 'hold' was emphatic, there was enough in the meeting minutes to suggest that rate setters remain concerned over the health of the economy, keeping the door wide open for a May interest rate cut. 'With inflation set to rise further and international headwinds growing, the path to materially lower interest rates remains filled with uncertainty. As such, rate setters will probably continue to maintain their slow and steady approach to loosening policy.' Interest rates are a double-edged sword for households (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Wire) Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:50 The Chancellor must use the coming spring statement to 'take responsible steps' that will pave the way for an interest rates cut, the Tories said. Mel Stride, the shadow chancellor, said: 'Interest rates staying higher for longer will mean higher mortgages for millions of people across the country. 'Because of Rachel Reeves' Budget, inflation is above the Bank of England's target, making it harder to bring interest rates down. 'Next week, during her emergency budget, the Chancellor must take responsible steps on spending, borrowing and debt to allow the Bank of England to cut interest rates.' Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:37 In response to the Bank of England holding interest rates, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: 'We've had three rate cuts since the summer, but there's still work to do to ease the cost of living. 'That's why I'm fighting every day to put more money in the pockets of working people to deliver our plan for change, and why we protected workers' payslips with no rise in national insurance, income tax or VAT, boosted the national living wage and froze fuel duty. 'In a changing world, I'm determined to go further and faster to kickstart growth, and bring in a new era of stability, security and renewal that protects working people and keeps our country safe.' Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:34 The base rate has been held after February's cut - so what's the day-to-day impact on people? Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:24 When the BoE made the Bank Rate cut last month, inflation had been on the decline. However, a mid-February report showed Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rose to 3 per cent in January, from 2.5 per cent in December. With inflation therefore rising again - and, importantly, rising by more than expected - interest rates were always unlikely to be cut this time around. Lower interest rates can be used to encourage businesses to resume investing as the cost of borrowing is lower, which can give the wider economy a boost. However, it can also lead to rising prices as investment in more jobs or salaries mean people have, and spend, more money; therefore the reverse is also seen as true in that if demand is lower, it can help reduce these potential price rises - or in other words, it can help stem inflation. Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:20 Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, said: 'There's a lot of economic uncertainty at the moment. 'We still think that interest rates are on a gradually declining path, but we've held them at 4.5% today. 'We'll be looking very closely at how the global and domestic economies are evolving at each of our six-weekly rate-setting meetings. 'Whatever happens, it's our job to make sure that inflation stays low and stable.' Bank of England's governor Andrew Bailey said interest rates are on a 'gradually declining path' (via REUTERS) Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:12 The Bank of England has held interest rates after eight members of the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to maintain the base rate at 4.5 per cent. One member of the committee, Swati Dhingra, voted for a sharper reduction to 4.25 per cent. Holly Evans 20 March 2025 12:09
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Benefits cuts - live: Minister insists cabinet is ‘united' as Labour set to slash billions from welfare bill
Sir Keir Starmer's Cabinet is 'united' regarding plans to slash billions of pounds from the UK's benefit bill amid a growing backlash among the party's backbenchers. Work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall is expected to set out plans for welfare reform to get more people back to work and cut the cost of the benefits bill by as much as £5 billion. The proposals have been met with fierce criticism from Labour backbenchers, with veteran left-winger Diane Abbott branding the overhaul 'not a Labour thing to do'. However, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden said that the Cabinet is 'united' behind the move, and that people on long-term sickness benefits should not 'languish there forever'. There has been mounting unease over potential changes to the personal independence payment (PIP), the main disability benefit, with backlash prompting a rethink of rumoured plans to freeze the payments rather than increase it in line with inflation. There are fears as many as 1 million people could see their benefits reduced, while charities have warned thousands of disabled people could be forced into poverty. Labour faces growing backlash within its own ranks over welfare reforms Cabinet is 'united' over plans to reform welfare system UK cannot 'tax and borrow' its way into reforming the state Fresh blow to Rachel Reeves as UK's economic forecast slashed 10:30 , Holly Evans A total of 3.66 million claimants in England and Wales were entitled to personal independence payments (PIP) as of 31 January 2025, according to new figures published by the Department for Work & Pensions. This is up 12 per cent from 3.27 million-a-year earlier in January 2024. At the end of January 2020, before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the figure stood at 2.14 million. It then rose to 2.36 million by the end of January 2021, 2.57 million by January 2022 and and 2.93 million by January 2023. The current total of 3.66 million is 71 per cent higher than the equivalent figure five years ago. 10:26 , Holly Evans Changes to the work capability assessment are likely to form part of Labour's plans to cut welfare spending today, with a promise to 'reform' the measure confirmed in the party's manifesto. Ministers are understood to be looking to save £1.3 billion a year from changes to the WCA after pledging to match spending commitments made by the previous government – but not necessarily the policy detail. The party has said it will re-consult on the changes after the Conservatives' consultation on the plans was found unlawful by a High Court judge for being 'unfair' and 'misleading.' This work capability assessment is used to determine a person's ability to participate in the workforce. It decides what work-related activities they must carry out, if any, and if they are entitled to extra support through the health element of Universal Credit. It has attracted controversy since its introduction in 2008, with reports in 2018 and 2023 both finding that too many incorrect assessment decisions continue to fuel mistrust of the process. The previous Conservative government announced in 2023 that the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) would be reformed, with the qualifying criteria being significantly overhauled. According to research from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), the changes would have meant that around 450,000 fewer people were considered to have limited capability for work. 10:09 , Holly Evans We all know that there used to be no such thing as 'society' because there was an individualistic 'thing' called Thatcherism: a body of values, attitudes and policies personified by Margaret Thatcher. Should we, I wonder, now be speaking of 'Starmerism'? The answer to that, after a mere eight months of Labour government, is obviously 'not yet' – it's far too early. But what is emerging is a remarkable infusion of populism into Starmer's very traditional and conventional brand of social democracy. Read the full analysis from Sean O'Grady here: After Thatcherism, is it now time for 'Starmerism'? 09:59 , Albert Toth Around £5 billion of the £6 billion in rumoured welfare cuts set to be announced today are understood to be targeted at the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a health-related benefit claimed by 3.6 million people. The payment is designed to help people with extra costs incurred by their disability. Their eligibility is not affected by whether they are working or how much money they have. At the moment, PIP is paid based on two parts – daily living and mobility – at a higher or lower rate dependent on severity. This means there are four possible weekly payment levels ranging from £28.70 to £184.30. Today's announcement may see the criteria to qualify for these payments tightened. Assessors currently ask applicants to carry out a range of activities to and measure these against a set list of 'descriptors' of what they can and can't do. The most likely way for Labour to reform the benefit would be to change these descriptors to make it harder to qualify for support, especially for those with issues related to mental health. This would be similar to proposals previously announced by Rishi Sunak's Conservative government which were shelved due to the general election. 09:51 , Holly Evans Labour's welfare reforms, set to be announced on Tuesday, are already sparking debate — hailed by some as essential to fixing a "broken system" but feared by others as a threat to vulnerable people. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has outlined plans to overhaul sickness benefits, aiming to reduce the number of people classed as unable to work. This includes revising eligibility for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), potentially limiting access for some claimants. Now it is time to have your say. Are Labour's reforms responsible, or do they risk harming those who need support most? And if not this, what else could the government do to balance the books?Have your say: Is Labour's welfare reform going too far? 09:50 , Holly Evans The Government hopes to save up to £6 billion from the bill as Chancellor Rachel Reeves struggles to balance the books in the face of weak economic growth and mounting debt interest costs. Ms Kendall is set to abolish the 'work capability assessment' for universal credit, which is used to determine eligibility for incapacity benefit payments for those with illnesses or disability who have limited ability to find a job. She is also expected to cut the top rate of universal credit incapacity benefit, which The Times said would be partially offset by an increase to the basic rate and £1 billion pumped into support schemes to help claimants get into work. The most controversial element of the package could be changes to the personal independence payment (PIP) – a benefit aimed at helping the disabled with the increased cost of living associated with their conditions. PIP is not means-tested and is available to people even if they are working. 09:32 , Holly Evans A series of Labour MPs have already hit out at the plans despite intensive efforts by No 10 to persuade them of the need for change. Ministers including Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband are said to have voiced concerns in private. Nadia Whittome said she was 'gravely concerned by the reforms' reportedly being considered and 'frankly horrified' by comments from some ministers, while veteran MP Diane Abbott said there was a 'chasm' between 'a tiny number of people at the top' and the overwhelming majority of MPs and party members. Labour Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham warned that changes to eligibility and support while leaving the system as it is would 'trap too many people in poverty'. Unite's general secretary Sharon Graham wrote in the Mirror 'we are putting the poorest against the poorest', while Unison's Christina McAnea said: 'Hitting those least able to speak up for themselves is never acceptable.' 09:13 , Holly Evans 09:05 , Holly Evans More details on the rumoured billions in welfare cuts Labour plans to announce this week have been revealed as reports indicate ministers are looking to shave £6 billion from disability benefits claimed by millions of people. Reforms to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) are now widely expected, with Labour MPs understood to be divided on the cost-cutting policy package. The payment is designed to help people with extra costs incurred by their disability, whether they are working or not. The changes will include making it harder to qualify for PIP, as around £5 billion of the floated £6 billion in cuts focuses on the disability benefit claimed by 3.6 million people. Read the full article here: The welfare cuts could Labour announce today – from PIP to Universal Credit 08:54 , Holly Evans Labour MPs have a 'duty' to support change to the system as it was 'the word on our manifesto', Pat McFadden has suggested. Asked what his message was to backbenchers who could vote against the Government's welfare reforms, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Look, I'm not going to deny that in the history of the Labour Party, these issues about welfare and support have sometimes been difficult. 'But when you get elected on a platform of change, and when you tell the public, the electorate, that you believe you have inherited a situation which needs change, then my message to any colleague in that position is, we have a duty to make those changes. It was the word on our manifesto. 'And part of the change that we need is a welfare state that is better suited to the 21st century, that is sustainable for the future, that is there for people who need it, and that puts work at the heart of it. 'And that is fully in line with the values of the Labour Party.' 08:43 , Holly Evans Ahead of Labour's crunch Spring Statement, details of the rumoured cuts to welfare have grown rife. Estimates of what the government is hoping to save have continued to grow – now sitting at around £6 billion – with health and disability related benefits understood to be at the heart of the changes. Reforms to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) have now been widely reported, although Labour MPs are understood to be divided on the cost-cutting package. Claimed by 3.6 million people, the payment is designed to help people with extra costs incurred by their disability, whether they are working or not. Read the full article here: Inside PIP: The 'broken' health benefit Labour could cut even further 08:39 , Holly Evans The Government cannot 'tax and borrow' alone to reform the state, Pat McFadden said. Asked whether money from expected cuts to the benefits bill could be found elsewhere, as has been suggested by Unite general secretary Sharon Graham, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'There are always going to be people who say 'elsewhere'. We have a progressive tax system. The top one per cent pay about a third of tax. 'I don't think you can, in the end, tax and borrow your way out of the need to reform the state. The Prime Minister spoke about reform of the state in a major speech last week. 'We are reforming the state in more ways than one, and part of an essential reform of the state is to make sure that the welfare state that we believe in as a party is fit for the 21st century, and we cannot sit back and relax as millions, literally millions of people go on to these benefits with little or no hope of work in the future, and we have a duty to face up to that. 'It goes with the territory of governing.' 08:29 , Holly Evans People with conditions like secondary degenerative multiple sclerosis will not be treated the same as those with conditions that may be temporary, Pat McFadden said. Asked whether people severely disabled with such conditions would need to be assessed again and again for support, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told BBC Breakfast: 'I don't want to pre-empt what the announcement will be but I think for people in circumstances where it's clear they can never work and are not going to get better, and in fact it might be a degenerative condition that gets progressively worse, then people should look out for how that's treated in today's announcement, because I think those kind of conditions will feature today. 'And obviously you're not going to treat somebody in those circumstances the same way as someone whose condition might be temporary and with a bit of support they could go into work.' 08:18 , Holly Evans Pat McFadden has said Labour can be held together in the coming days amid backbench anger over expected welfare cuts. Asked whether he could hold the party together in the days and hours ahead after Diane Abbott criticised the decision to invest in defence while cutting the benefits bill, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told BBC Breakfast: 'Yes I can, and let me say two things. First of all, we've got a duty to defend the country, and the Cabinet, the Government has completely agreed on the need to increase defence expenditure. 'Secondly, we are spending tens of billions on supporting people, and we'll continue to do that in the future, but if there's a proportion of the increasing number of people going on to these benefits who we think with a bit of extra support we could get into work, that is entirely in line with the values of the Labour Party and entirely in line with the duties of any Government, which is to face up to the big challenges facing the country. 'And it's in that spirit that the Government will bring forward its reform package later today.' 08:10 , Barney Davis People on long-term sickness benefits should not 'languish there forever,' Pat McFadden said as he confirmed reassessment reforms would be among welfare changes set out by the Government on Tuesday. Asked whether support for people with mental health conditions should be 'time-limited,' the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told Times Radio: 'We do think it requires support, but we don't think it renders people permanently… reassessments will be part of the package announced today. 'We want people, if they're on long-term sickness benefits, not to languish there forever, but to be reassessed. 'There have been too few reassessments in recent years.' 08:08 , Holly Evans Turning to the topic of Israel, Pat McFadden said Britain will use 'whatever diplomatic influence we have' to try to get a ceasefire in the Middle East restored, Pat McFadden said. Asked about Israeli strikes on Gaza overnight, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told Sky News: 'We will use whatever diplomatic influence we have to try and get that ceasefire restored as soon as possible.' Asked whether Israel had been emboldened by US support so that the UK is irrelevant in the dispute, Mr McFadden said: 'I don't believe that's the case. 'I think the UK has diplomatic influence. Obviously we work with allies to try and exercise that influence, but… I still think the UK's diplomatic voice is counting in a stronger way in the world now than was perhaps the case a year or two ago.' 07:47 , Barney Davis The Cabinet is united behind Government plans to take on the growing benefits bill, Pat McFadden has insisted. Asked whether the whole Cabinet supported the move, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told Times Radio: 'Yes, I believe the Cabinet is united behind taking on the issue of the growing benefits bill.' He said the current system 'leaves too many people in a permanent state of dependence on benefits without the opportunity of work.' 07:30 , Barney Davis Thousands of Government credit cards will be axed in an attempt to slash 'wasteful' spending, according to reports. The taxpayer-funded procurement cards were created to make low-value, one-off purchases but spending on them has rocketed in the past four years. The Cabinet Office has told ministries to freeze almost all of the 20,000 cards right away and aims to slash half of the cards in circulation by enforcing a strict new application process. Holders will have to outline why they need them or see them cancelled by the end of the month, the BBC reported. 07:14 , Barney Davis More details on the rumoured billions in welfare cuts Labour plans to announce this week have been revealed as reports indicate ministers are looking to shave £6 billion from disability benefits claimed by millions of people. My colleague Albert Toth reports: The welfare cuts could Labour announce today – from PIP to Universal Credit 07:00 , Andy Gregory Nigel Farage's unveiling of 29 new Reform UK councillors fell apart within less than an hour as it emerged just nine are new, with only three of those standing for election. The Reform leader used a press conference at a swanky London hotel on Monday to unveil the slew of new councillors, claiming their defections proved 'this party is very much on the up'. But the lack of high-profile names among new defectors fed speculation that a steady stream of turncoats has largely dried up as a result of a bitter spat between Mr Farage and Rupert Lowe, the ousted ex-Reform MP. The Conservatives said Mr Farage was seeking to distract from the open warfare engulfing Reform and hoodwink journalists. Tory officials pointed out that while Mr Farage claimed all the councillors had defected in the past two weeks, four had joined Reform a month or more before the press conference. and have the full report: Just nine of 29 Reform defectors unveiled in Farage's 'special announcement' are new 06:00 , Andy Gregory The Conservatives are going to 'confront the real problems' starting with energy and net zero, Kemi Badenoch will insist as she launches a self-described 'policy renewal' process. The Tory leader will say she is not making a 'moral judgment' on net zero or debating whether climate change exists, but that the target to reach net zero emissions by 2050 cannot be achieved without a drop in living standards. The policy renewal pledge will see shadow cabinet members set core priority questions as a move towards formulating new policy for the party. The party may commission external reports on certain questions. In a speech on Tuesday, Mrs Badenoch is expected to say that cutting energy costs and reducing the impact on the environment are 'noble aims' but that the current policies are 'largely failing' to improve nature and 'driving up the cost of energy'. 'We're falling between two stools – too high costs and too little progress,' she will say, adding: 'Net zero by 2050 is impossible. I don't say that with pleasure. Or because I have some ideological desire to dismantle it – in fact, we must do what we can to improve our natural world. 'I say it because anyone who has done any serious analysis knows it can't be achieved without a serious drop in our living standards or by bankrupting us. And responsible leaders don't indulge in fictions which are going to make families poorer.' 05:00 , Andy Gregory 04:00 , Andy Gregory David Lammy met US vice president JD Vance in Washington over the weekend, he has told MPs. The foreign secretary said that he discussed the US's now-ended pause on military intelligence sharing and the prospect of a ceasefire with Mr Vance and secretary of state Marco Rubio in recent days. Following last week's meeting of G7 foreign ministers, Tory shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel had asked Mr Lammy in the Commons to set out his discussions with US counterparts on the suspension and 'his assessments of the consequences caused'. Mr Lammy said in his response: 'I'm pleased to say that our assessment is that that pause, as she will know, was for a short period, not an extended period, and therefore it has not had a material effect. 'But we were pleased to see that resume, and we were pleased to see what flowed from Jeddah which was the United States, European allies and President Zelensky of Ukraine absolutely square with the need for that ceasefire, and it is for Putin to unconditionally now accept that ceasefire – the ball is in his court. 'And I was pleased to be able to discuss these matters with Secretary Rubio over the course of the three days at the G7 but also with Vice President Vance yesterday morning at his residence in Washington.' 03:00 , Andy Gregory Nigel Farage has said he used a dinner with Dominic Cummings to ask the chief aide-turned-nemesis of Boris Johnson about 'not being able to do what you want to do' when entering government. Challenged 'why on Earth' he met Mr Cummings, Mr Farage told the broadcaster: 'Well, I met him to talk about the blob. And what were the practical problems of coming into government and not being able to do what you want to do.' The Reform UK chief added: 'He and I have never got on. So it's never a bad thing to sit and talk to someone you've not got on with and try and find some sort of peace. But I was interested in what he had to say.' He added: 'He's not joining the team, or anything like that ... We had a dinner, and we agreed on one thing, which is the Conservative Party's dead – it's done, it's over, and it needs to be replaced.' 02:01 , Andy Gregory The business secretary is expected to raise the interests of Britain's steel industry in talks on a potential UK-US economic deal as he visits Washington after Donald Trump said there would be no exemptions to his metal tariffs. Jonathan Reynolds will seek to advance 'pragmatic and positive' discussions on transatlantic trade as he meets his White House counterpart on Tuesday, the government said. Mr Reynolds will hold the first in-person talks with US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick and US trade representative Jamieson Greer to take place under the new Trump administration. It comes after the US president told reporters aboard Air Force One there would be no exemptions from a 25 per cent tax on global steel and aluminium imports. The Department for Business and Trade said Mr Reynolds would 'represent the interests of key industries including the UK steel sector and will kick off talks on securing a wider economic deal' on the visit. 01:00 , Andy Gregory Civil Service credit cards will be frozen this week under plans to reduce their numbers by 50 per cent and slash government spending. Days after Sir Keir Starmer vowed to reshape the 'flabby' state and slash the cost of bureaucracy, the Cabinet Office will order almost all of the 20,000 procurement cards used by civil servants to be frozen. The spend on the credit cards jumped from £155m in 2020-21 to £675m in 2024-25. To regain access to the cards, civil servants will need to reapply and justify why they need them – or they will be cancelled at the end of the month. Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden said the so-called government procurement cards should only be provided to officials when it is 'absolutely essential'. Those used by diplomatic staff in unstable environments will be among a small number exempt from the freeze. 00:01 , Andy Gregory The King welcomed Canadian prime minister Mark Carney to Buckingham Palace on Monday afternoon, in an audience which comes amid Canada's trade war with the US and Donald Trump's vow to make the country America's 51st state. Charles, who is King of Canada, met with Mr Carney, former governor of the Bank of England, in the 1844 Room of the royal residence in London. The King was pictured grinning as he shook Mr Carney's hand. They have encountered one another several times before, but this is first time since Mr Carney became leader of the Liberal Party and Canada's prime minister, in place of Justin Trudeau. Monday 17 March 2025 22:59 , Andy Gregory Foreign secretary David Lammy has said a London meeting this week will be used to discuss the 'operational detail' of British troops in Ukraine. Conservative shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel asked about a 'peacekeeping initiative' in eastern Europe and said: 'What will our contribution to peacekeeping consist of? Over what timeframe would deployment be launched and how will our armed forces be supported?' Mr Lammy said in his response: 'The UK is prepared of course to consider British committing troops on the ground but there must be a US backstop. 'There is a further meeting in London this week to continue to get into the operational detail.' Monday 17 March 2025 21:58 , Andy Gregory Monday 17 March 2025 21:00 , Jabed Ahmed Mike Amesbury has triggered the process that will lead to a parliamentary by-election in Runcorn &, Helsby, a seat he won for Labour at the 2024 general election with a majority of 14,696. It was one of the 50 largest majorities achieved by Sir Keir Starmer's party on polling day. Mr Amesbury took 53% of the vote, with Reform in a distant second place on 18%, followed by the Conservatives (16%), the Greens (6%) and the Liberal Democrats (5%). Runcorn & Helsby is a new constituency that was fought for the first time at the 2024 election. Had the seat existed at the previous general election in 2019, notional data suggests Labour would have won but on a slightly lower share of the vote (49%) than Mr Amesbury achieved in 2024, with the Tories in second place. Based on the 2024 result, Reform would need a swing in the share of the vote of 17.4 percentage points to gain Runcorn & Helsby. This is the equivalent of a net change of 18 in every 100 people who voted Labour in 2024 switching to Reform. A date has yet to be announced for the by-election in Runcorn & Helsby, which will be the first such contest since the 2024 general election. Monday 17 March 2025 20:00 , Jabed Ahmed It is time to have your say. Are Labour's reforms responsible, or do they risk harming those who need support most? And if not this, what else could the government do to balance the books? Vote in our poll or share your thoughts in the comments on the article below – we'll feature the most compelling responses and share the results in the coming days. All you have to do is sign up and register your details – then you can take part in the discussion. You can also sign up by clicking 'log in' on the top right-hand corner of the screen. Have your say: Is Labour's welfare reform going too far? Monday 17 March 2025 18:59 , Jabed Ahmed The UK is having 'pragmatic' discussions with the US on trade, Number 10 has said, after Donald Trump said that there would be no exemptions to metal tariffs. Downing Street said on Monday it would continue to keep 'all options on the table' after the US president was reported to have told journalists on Air Force One that he has no intention of creating exemptions. Mr Trump has implemented a 25 per cent tariff on global steel and aluminium imports. Asked about the comments, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said on Monday: 'We're engaged in pragmatic discussions with the US on securing a wider economic deal, when it comes to the global tariffs we're assessing all options. 'As the Prime Minister said last week we're keeping all options on the table but we're going to take a pragmatic approach to this and we'll be continuing to have these discussions.' Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is expected to fly to the US later this week for talks with representatives in Mr Trump's government. Monday 17 March 2025 18:06 , Andy Gregory Two protesters have been kicked out during a speech by Kemi Badenoch at London's Guildhall. The Conservative leader began to speak when a woman holding a banner that said "Abolish Billionaires" held up a banner and began to shout. She was soon ejected from the Central London hall by members of the audience. A second protester was also kicked out, and appeared to shout about the cost-of-living crisis as she was ejected from the room. At the event, which marked 50 years since Margaret Thatcher helped to set up the think tank, Ms Badenoch could be heard to say: 'I hardly think Mrs Thatcher can be blamed for the cost-of-living crisis.' Monday 17 March 2025 17:59 , Jabed Ahmed The former head of Ofsted has lashed out at the education secretary, accusing her of caring more about the interests of unions than schoolchildren. In a scathing broadside at Bridget Phillipson's education reforms, Amanda Spielman accused her of bowing to the 'demands of unions'. And Ms Spielman, who stood down as the head of the schools watchdog in 2023, called for her to abandon the plans 'before the damage is done'. Writing in The Daily Telegraph, Ms Spielman said: 'It is hard to understand the motivation, beyond being seen to be different, though the new minister is clearly giving a great deal of time and attention to the desires and demands of unions. 'And alas, unions will always defend the interests of the adults in schools over those of children... I do hope she will think again, before the damage is done.' She said she was 'astonished… by the speed and thoroughness with which Bridget Phillipson has moved to dismantle every main pillar of the system'. The government source added: 'This government is doing the hard yards of fixing the hundreds of stuck schools that were failed by Spielman and her allies in the Tory party. The government is focused relentlessly on reforming our schools to deliver better life chances for every child.' Monday 17 March 2025 17:31 , Jabed Ahmed As Labour's crunch Spring Statement draws near, details of the rumoured cuts to welfare have grown rife. Reforms to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) have now been widely reported, although Labour MPs are divided on the cost-cutting package. My colleague Albert Toth reports: Inside PIP: The 'broken' health benefit Labour could cut even further Monday 17 March 2025 16:59 , Jabed Ahmed Monday 17 March 2025 16:17 , Jabed Ahmed Justice minister Sir Nic Dakin said talks with the Sentencing Council's chairman were 'constructive' amid concerns over 'two-tier' sentencing rules. He insisted the Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood, was 'clear about her discontent' and would set out her position before the guidelines take effect in April. Conservative shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick condemned the rules, warning they 'infect our ancient justice system with the virus of identity politics.' He accused Ms Mahmood of supporting the guidelines and failing to block them, suggesting she should have 'used her powers of appointment to sack the individuals who drafted the rules.' In response, Sir Nic said Labour was 'clearing up the mess left by Conservative governments' and stressed that the process 'needs to be allowed to play out.' Monday 17 March 2025 16:05 , Jabed Ahmed We all know that there used to be no such thing as 'society' because there was an individualistic 'thing' called Thatcherism, Sean O'Grady writes. Should we, he wonders, now be speaking of 'Starmerism'? Read the full Voices article below: After Thatcherism, is it now time for 'Starmerism'? Monday 17 March 2025 15:59 , Jabed Ahmed Work and pensions minister Stephen Timms said he was 'sad' about the 'level of anxiety there has been' over potential changes to sickness benefits, but insisted: 'The current welfare system is failing the very people it is supposed to help.' Liberal Democrat MP Liz Jarvis said her constituents were 'desperately concerned about any potential cuts to benefits, including personal independence payments (PIP),' and asked the Government to confirm that 'disability benefits for people who are unable to work will not be cut.' Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: 'Treating people with dignity and respect is at the heart of this Government's plans,' adding that 'disabled people who can work have the same rights and chances to work as everybody else.' Labour MP David Williams raised concerns about a constituent 'badly let down by a flawed PIP assessment' and 'deeply worried about what the future holds.' Ms Kendall responded: 'I absolutely want to say… that treating people with dignity and respect is at the heart of this Government's plans.' Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan called for investment in disabled people rather than benefit cuts, saying: 'Does the minister acknowledge that we will need to invest in those people, to help them, and sustain them, back into work?' Work and pensions minister Alison McGovern agreed: 'We see potential in every single person in this country.' Ms McGovern also addressed delays in processing access to work applications, stating: 'We've put more staff in place to deal with that, but we've got more to do.' Monday 17 March 2025 15:41 , Jabed Ahmed Mike Amesbury has written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves formally resigning as the MP for Runcorn & Helsby, after he was handed a suspended prison sentence for punching a man in the street. Earlier today, Mr Amesbury said he apologised to the constituent he punched, telling GB News: 'I'm so sincerely sorry to Mr Fellows, his family, my own family.' He described reliving the moment as 'like a living nightmare' and added: 'I'm the one that got things wrong, so I own it.' Monday 17 March 2025 15:36 , Jabed Ahmed Nigel Farage's unveiling of 29 new Reform UK councillors fell apart within less than an hour as it emerged just nine are new, with only three of those standing for election. The Reform leader used a press conference at a swanky London hotel on Monday to unveil the slew of new councillors, claiming their defections proved 'this party is very much on the up'. But the lack of high-profile names and a slew of new defectors fed speculation that a steady stream of turncoats has largely dried up as a result of a bitter spat between Mr Farage and Rupert Lowe, the ousted ex-Reform MP. The Conservatives said Mr Farage was seeking to distract from the open warfare engulfing Reform and hoodwink journalists. Tory officials pointed out that, while Mr Farage claimed all of the councillors had defected in the past two weeks, four had joined Reform a month or more before the press conference. Read the full report from my colleagues Archie Mitchell and David Maddox here. Monday 17 March 2025 15:13 , Jabed Ahmed Work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall has told MPs that the government's benefits reform proposals will be published 'imminently' to ensure 'trust and fairness in the social security system.' Labour MP Chris Curtis raised concerns about the rising number of young people out of work due to mental health issues, saying: 'I think this is a key factor behind the nearly 12 per cent increase in young people claiming unemployment benefits in Milton Keynes since 2024.' Ms Kendall responded: 'I really share (his) concern about the number of young people not in work due to mental health conditions,' highlighting a 'more than 25%' rise in the last year and stressing the need for 'early intervention' and a 'youth guarantee.' DUP MP Jim Shannon said he was 'really really worried sick' about the impact of reforms on his constituents, adding: 'There must be a system that protects those people, protects my constituents, protects the people that I represent in this house and the people that we all represent.' Work and pensions minister Stephen Timms acknowledged concerns, saying: 'We do want to see improvements in assessments,' and confirmed that a green paper on health and disability benefits reform would be published 'shortly.' Jonathan Brash, the MP for Hartlepool, added it is 'imperative that those who are sick, vulnerable or disabled are always protected. Mr Timms replied: 'There will of course always be people unable to work through disability or ill health, and we are absolutely committed to fully supporting them, too.' Monday 17 March 2025 14:59 , Jabed Ahmed My colleague Archie Mitchell reports: Minister defends planned benefit cuts amid growing Labour backlash Monday 17 March 2025 14:32 , Jabed Ahmed The UK's welfare budget is forecast to rise sharply in the next few years, driven by higher spending on pensioners and an increase in the number of people receiving health and disability benefits. But tomorrow, work and pension secretary Liz Kendall is expected to set out plans for welfare reform in an effort to get more people back to work and cut the cost of a benefits bill. How much does the UK spend in total? The government spent £296.3 billion on welfare in 2023/24, according to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). This is the equivalent of 10.9% of UK GDP. The OBR forecasts total spending on welfare to reach £377.7 billion in 2029/30, or 11.1% of GDP. Spending on disability benefits, which includes disability living allowance and personal independent payments, is forecast to rise from £36.3 billion in 2023/24 (accounting for 12% of the total welfare budget) to £59.4 billion in 2029/30 (16%). Government expenditure on all health and disability benefits across all age groups, including pensioners, is forecast to rise from £67.4 billion in 2023/24 to £100.7 billion by 2029/30, a jump of 56%. Monday 17 March 2025 14:05 , Andy Gregory Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has touted the announcement of what she claimed would be 'the biggest programme of policy renewal in a generation'. Since being elected Tory leader in November, Ms Badenoch has faced criticism over a lack of clear policy, as her party faces a challenge on the right from Nigel Farage's Reform UK following a bruising general election defeat in July. Monday 17 March 2025 13:55 , Andy Gregory Mike Amesbury has said that he is 'devastated' to stand down as an MP today, telling GB News that 'as from today I will no longer be the Member ofParliament for Runcorn and Helsby after nearly eight years as being an MP'. The former Labour MP said last week he would quit the Commons after he was given a 10-week prison term for punching a constituent which was reduced to a suspended sentence following an appeal. He said he was 'sad' and 'devastated', adding: 'Not only for me, but ... my staff as well, because, course, it goes beyond me, for my family. This is a result of something that I did on October 26.' Asked about the incident, Amesbury said 'I should have walked away' and 'I don't recognise myself', adding: 'But it is me, and it's very important that I've owned that through the legal process ... a plea of guilty' He continued: 'I've paid a price, I've been punished and rightfully so, and I hope that I learn from this.' Apologising to the constituent he punched, he said: 'I'm so sincerely sorry to Mr Fellows, his family, my own family', and described reliving the moment as 'like a living nightmare'. Monday 17 March 2025 13:45 , Archie Mitchell, Political Correspondent It is an unlikely transition, from Sir Ed Davey's Liberal Democrats to Nigel Farage's Reform UK, but Reg Kain made the jump last week and was given a hero's welcome at the party's press conference on Monday. At the time of his defection, he told the BBC that Reform was 'the only mainstream party at this time that is genuinely listening to the concerns and needs of the British people'. 'I intend to be a moderate and constructive voice within Reform, helping to shape a party that truly represents the interests of ordinary people,' he added. He was elected to Cheshire East Council in May 2023 and became the council's first Reform UK member when he defected. Monday 17 March 2025 13:34 , Andy Gregory Nigel Farage has denied having 'politically assassinated his enemies', after MP Rupert Lowe was suspended over bullying allegations just days after he described the Reform UK leader as 'messianic'. Asked whether he was somebody who did this, Mr Farage said: 'No. They normally do it to themselves.' Mr Farage added that he had been 'appalled' by some of the comments made about party chair Zia Yusuf. He said 'racism' and 'abuse' had been taking place online and claimed that, if it had been directed towards any senior member of the Tories or Labour, then it would be a 'major national story'. Mr Farage was also asked about suggestions that billionaire X owner Elon Musk could be open to donating to another political party. He replied: 'Great, thank you.' Monday 17 March 2025 13:23 , Archie Mitchell, Political Correspondent Nigel Farage has for decades been one of the UK's best politicians when it comes to dealing with the media. But a different side of the Reform UK leader was on show when he was asked about Rupert Lowe after his press conference on Monday. Mr Farage was tetchy, snappy and at one point attempted to scarper off amid questions about his former MP. He insisted discontent among Reform members was contained to the fringes of the party, and refused to mention Mr Lowe by name. He even repeatedly said 'I'm bored' of being asked about the bitter spat which rocked the party this month. Elsewhere in his post-conference huddle with journalists, he gave snappy one-word answers and even challenged a journalist to prove they had written an article they claimed to have. It was a far cry from the charming Brexiteer who has long known how to put his best foot forwards when the cameras are rolling. Monday 17 March 2025 13:17 , Andy Gregory Andy Burnham has urged 'caution on how changes are made' to the benefits system, after an outcry from some Labour MPs over the planned reforms. Writing in The Times, the Greater Manchester mayor said that Sir Keir Starmer is 'right' and 'the British state is not sustainable in its current form' but said the government should focus on helping people into work rather than simply cutting benefits. He said: 'I would share concerns about changing support and eligibility to benefits while leaving the top-down system broadly in place. It would trap too many people in poverty. 'And to be clear: there is no case in any scenario for cutting the support available to disabled people who are unable to work.' Monday 17 March 2025 12:55 , Jabed Ahmed There is a moral and economic case to overhaul the benefits system, Downing Street said, denying the plans were purely because of the UK Government's difficult fiscal situation. The Prime Minister's official spokesman told reporters: 'I think the Prime Minister has been clear there is both a moral and an economic case for fixing our broken social security system that's holding our people back, and our country back. 'Three million people are out of work for health reasons, and one in eight young people not currently in work, education or training. 'So we've got a duty to fix the system, to ensure that that safety net is always there for the most vulnerable and severely disabled, but also supports back into work, rather than leaving people written off.' Asked if the reforms were being carried out because of the UK's fiscal backdrop, the spokesman replied: 'No, I think when you look at the fact that we have the highest level of working-age inactivity due to ill health in western Europe, we're the only major economy whose employment rate hasn't recovered since the pandemic, there is a duty to fix the broken system that is letting millions of people in this country and pensions secretary Liz Kendall is expected to set out plans for welfare reform on Tuesday in an effort to get more people back to work and cut the cost of a benefits bill. However, there has been an outcry from some Labour MPs over the reforms. Monday 17 March 2025 12:50 , Jabed Ahmed Monday 17 March 2025 12:49 , Jabed Ahmed Strong Conservative shift Nearly half of the defections (13 out of 29) were former Conservative councillors. 10 were previously independent, and perhaps most surprisingly, one Liberal Democrat. It is well known that Reform UK's strategy centres around appealing to disillusioned Tory voters. Geographical spread There are notably multiple councillors from Kent, Powys, and South Holland, suggesting potential strongholds or areas where dissatisfaction with mainstream parties is high. Monday 17 March 2025 12:30 , Jabed Ahmed Nigel Farage has unveiled 29 councillors who have defected from parties including the Conservatives, independents and even a Liberal Democrat to Reform UK. After the announcement, Mr Farage said: 'We are growing, we are building we are deepening we are broadening we are strengthening, we are getting ready for the first of May.' Monday 17 March 2025 12:22 , Archie Mitchell Nigel Farage is never one to beat around the bush, but he just explained his way around the Rupert Lowe row with a heavy dose of spin. The Reform leader said there had been 'turbulence' in the party, but that any discontent was around the edges. It comes despite polling showing a drop in support for Mr Farage as leader in recent weeks amid the row. He said: 'But I can promise you that in terms of our progress and our planning, that upset is very much at the edges.' Monday 17 March 2025 12:19 , Jabed Ahmed Nigel Farage is pitching for Runcorn and Helsby voters to back Reform UK in a bid to oust Labour in the by-election to replace Mike Amesbury. The party leader said a vote for the Conservatives would be a total waste, urging voters to rebel against Sir Keir's party. Monday 17 March 2025 12:17 , Archie Mitchell Nigel Farage has said Sir Keir Starmer is using 'Brexit freedoms' to stand tall on the world stage. The Reform UK leader said the prime minister has been able to succeed as a statesman because of the UK's role outside the European Union - as a bridge between Europe and America. But despite the praise for his diplomacy, Mr Farage said the next election will be decided on domestic issues such as immigration and the cost of living, with Sir Keir having 'not got off to a very good start'. Monday 17 March 2025 12:13 , Archie Mitchell Zia Yusuf said today's announcement will underscore the 'stunning momentum' behind Reform UK. The party chairman said that, 'in the last eight months, reform has delivered the most historic acceleration politically in British history'. 'We are now looking ahead to 1 May (local elections),' Mr Yusuf said. He has now handed over to Reform leader Nigel Farage, describing him as 'the next prime minister of the United Kingdom'. Monday 17 March 2025 12:10 , Jabed Ahmed Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is set to announce that 29 local councillors have defected to the party ahead of local elections in May. Our Political Correspondent Archie Mitchell is attending the press conference at the Royal Horseguards Hotel in London. We will be bringing you the latest lines from the conference. Monday 17 March 2025 11:57 , Jabed Ahmed More details on the rumoured billions in welfare cuts Labour plans to announce this week have been revealed as reports indicate ministers are looking to shave £6 billion from disability benefits claimed by millions of people. My colleague Albert Toth explains: The welfare cuts could Labour announce tomorrow – from PIP to Universal Credit
Yahoo
15-02-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
UK weather live: Snow and ice to hit Britain as Met Office warns of rare freezing rain
Snow and ice are set to hit the UK this weekend, with the Met Office also issuing a rare forecast for the hazardous phenomenon of freezing rain. Following a lengthy spell of wintry temperatures across the UK, the Met Office has now put yellow weather warnings in force for snow and ice across swathes of northeastern England. Those warnings – stretching from Newcastle to Bradford – are in place from 6am until 2pm on Saturday, while the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued a cold weather alert covering parts of North East England, Yorkshire and the Humber. Cold temperatures are set to persist across the UK this weekend, with some heavier rain also forecast in southern Wales and southwestern England. The icy conditions are expected to have minor impacts on health and social care services, and will pose a greater risk to the lives of vulnerable people, the UKHSA warns. Met Office chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said that 2 to 5cm of snow is possible over the Cheviots and North Yorks Moors, with localised accumulations also possible at lower levels. Met Office issues weather warning for snow and ice What is the rare phenomenon of 'freezing rain'? Health authorities issue cold weather alert and warn of potentially fatal risk Mapped: Where are Met Office alerts in force? 11:39 , Holly Evans The Met Office has warned of a wet morning for many across the UK, with ice and snow in high parts of the country. A wet morning for many with some hill snow in placesCloudy and still feeling cold 🥶 — Met Office (@metoffice) February 15, 2025 10:54 , Holly Evans Met Office meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: 'Through Saturday the rain will move further east and as it does it'll bump into the colder air, meaning some snow is likely, mainly for parts of northern England, covered by the snow and ice warning. 'Two to five centimetres is possible over the Cheviots and North Yorks Moors, and it's possible we could see some localised accumulations to lower levels. 'Some freezing rain could affect higher parts of the Pennines for a time too, leading to icy conditions. Some snow is possible outside the warning area, although amounts are likely to be small.' 10:20 , Holly Evans Temperatures plummeted to nearly -10C yesterday, according to Met Office data. Sharing the weather extremes from the past day, the forecaster said temperatures Aviemore, in Scotland's Cairngorms national park, dropped as low as -9.6C Kinloss, just 35 miles north, saw the most sunshine. Love was in the air on Friday ❤️So too was rain (and a little snow) for some of us 🌧️Here are the Valentine's Day weather extremes 👇 — Met Office (@metoffice) February 15, 2025 09:58 , Holly Evans As the UK's cold snap and gloomy weather are expected to persist through the weekend, focusing on our health has never been more crucial. The Met Office has warned that parts of the country may experience snow this weekend, with the chilly, overcast conditions continuing into the beginning of next week. Despite the cold, there are many effective ways to enhance your health and wellbeing during these winter months. Read the full article here: How to boost your health in cold weather 07:01 , Andy Gregory Here is the Met Office's UK forecast for Saturday: Largely cloudy, cold and fairly breezy with outbreaks of rain. Some snow or freezing rain, chiefly over hills in the north. The far north and southeast seeing the best brightness. Looking further ahead, the forecaster says: Mostly cold and cloudy on Sunday and Monday with rain at times, especially in the north and west. Some hill snow. Brightening up from the south on Tuesday. Often breezy. 06:01 , Andy Gregory The National Highways has this advice for driving in snowy or icy conditions: Stick to the main roads where you can and only travel if necessary. Slow down - it can take 10 times longer to stop in icy conditions. Use a high gear - this will help avoid wheel spin. Accelerate gently, using low revs. You may need to take off in second gear to avoid skidding. You may need up to 10 times the normal gap between your car and the car in front. Try not to brake suddenly – it may lock up your wheels and you could skid further. Be extra cautious at road junctions where road markings may not be visible. 05:00 , Andy Gregory The weight of the ice that encases surfaces as a result of the phenomenon of freezing rain can sometimes be heavy enough to bring down trees and power lines – and the glaze of ice on the ground effectively turns roads and pathways into an ice rink, according to the Met Office. It can also prove extremely hazardous for aircraft, with the chance of icicles forming across the wings of an airplane. The ice is very clear, often referred to as black ice, because it is so difficult to see, making it treacherous for pedestrians and drivers. As the super-cooled rain droplets hit the surface they instantly freeze, covering everything in a layer of ice, making it extremely dangerous. 04:02 , Andy Gregory The phenomenon of freezing rain - commonly known as ice storms in North America - is not often seen in the UK because the conditions needed for it are quite specific, according to the Met Office. Freezing rain is rainfall that has become 'supercooled' as it falls from the sky, travelling through various temperatures in the atmosphere. It starts as snow, ice, sleet or hail high up in the atmosphere, but as it travels down it melts through a layer of warmer air, then refreezes again through a layer of colder air near the surface. It can produce striking effects, as the rain drop spreads out momentarily across the surface before it freezes, encasing the surface in a layer of clear ice. reports: What is freezing rain and why is it dangerous? 03:00 , Andy Gregory In its weather warning, which is in force from 6am until 2pm on Saturday in northeastern parts of England, the Met Office states: Outbreaks of rain, sleet and snow are likely to develop early Saturday before easing from the west during the afternoon. Snow is more likely to the east of the Pennines, particularly above 150 metres, where 2-5 cm may accumulate over the North York Moors and Northumberland. To lower levels, any falling snow may struggle to accumulate though some places may see up to 2 cm before gradually easing during the afternoon. There is also a risk of ice over the Pennines, particularly above 200 metres where freezing rain is possible. 02:02 , Andy Gregory A wet morning for many with hill snow and the risk of freezing rain in the north ⚠️Cloudier elsewhere and still feeling cold 🥶 — Met Office (@metoffice) February 14, 2025 01:02 , Andy Gregory With the Met Office warning of travel disruption as a result of the forecast snow and ice this weekend, our veteran travel correspondent also has the following warning for anyone seeking a half-term getaway to warmer climes. 00:01 , Andy Gregory As the UK's cold snap and gloomy weather are expected to persist through the weekend, focusing on our health has never been more crucial. Despite the cold, there are many effective ways to enhance your health and wellbeing during these winter months. By boosting your immune system, staying active, and fuelling your body with seasonal foods, you can maintain vitality even when the temperatures drop. has more details: How to boost your health in cold weather Friday 14 February 2025 22:59 , Andy Gregory The picture across the UK remains chilly even at the height of the day tomorrow, with only parts of South West England in which the mercury is approaching double-digits. Friday 14 February 2025 21:56 , Andy Gregory With a band of rain hitting the UK in addition to chilly temperatures, the Environment Agency is warning of flooding in southern England. The agency has issued three flood warnings – where flooding is expected – and a further 28 lesser alerts in areas where flooding is possible. No flood warnings have been issued by the relevant agencies in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Friday 14 February 2025 20:54 , Andy Gregory According to the Met Office: The cold air will still be close by through Sunday and Monday. Southern parts of the UK will be mostly dry but cloudy, but further north rain, drizzle and some hill snow will continue in places. Brighter conditions with spells of sunshine are likely to develop for many areas on Tuesday before milder and more unsettled conditions begin to move in from the Atlantic during the second half of next week. Friday 14 February 2025 19:55 , Andy Gregory The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather alert covering parts of North East England, Yorkshire and the Humber. Cold temperatures are set to persist across the UK this weekend, with some heavier rain also forecast in southern Wales and southwestern England. The icy conditions are expected to have minor impacts on health and social care services, and will pose a greater risk to the lives of vulnerable people, the UKHSA warns. According to the UKHSA, the icy conditions are expected to have minor impacts on health and social care services, including: increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people greater risk to life of vulnerable people Friday 14 February 2025 18:56 , Andy Gregory Britain is braced for snow, ice and freezing rain this weekend - a rare phenomenon which can bring down trees and ground planes, the Met Office warned. reports: Mapped: Where freezing rain, snow and ice will hit this weekend as temperatures drop Friday 14 February 2025 17:58 , Andy Gregory Out and about this Valentine's evening? You might want to grab your umbrella! ☔Check out the latest radar for your area before you head out 👇 — Met Office (@metoffice) February 14, 2025 Friday 14 February 2025 17:12 , Andy Gregory Met Office chief meteorologist, Matthew Lehnert, said: 'Through Saturday the rain will move further east and as it does, it'll bump into the colder air meaning some snow is likely, mainly for parts of Northern England, covered by the snow and ice warning. '2 to 5cm is possible over the Cheviots and North Yorks Moors, and it's possible we could see some localised accumulations to lower levels. 'Some freezing rain could affect higher parts of the Pennines for a time too leading to icy conditions. Some snow is possible outside the warning area, although amounts are likely to be small.' Friday 14 February 2025 16:56 , Andy Gregory Here is the Met Office forecast for Friday: Today Rather cloudy and windy across Northern Ireland, south and west Wales as well as southwest England, with some outbreaks of rain. A few showers in the far northeast. Elsewhere, early frost clearing then dry with bright spells. Another cold day. Tonight Patchy rain moving northeast across the UK, giving some snow and perhaps freezing rain over some of the hills. Clear spells across the far north and southeast, with some frost. Friday 14 February 2025 15:56 , Andy Gregory The Met Office has issued a weather warning for snow and ice, which it says could lead to some disruption on Saturday. Forecasters say to expect: Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths Some injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces Friday 14 February 2025 15:49 , Andy Gregory The Met Office has warned that freezing rain could be possible in areas above 200m over the Pennines. Freezing rain – commonly known as ice storms in North America – is not often seen in the UK because the conditions needed for it are quite specific. It is rainfall that has become 'supercooled' as it falls from the sky, travelling through various temperatures in the atmosphere. It starts as sleet or hail high up in the atmosphere, but as it travels down it melts through a layer of warmer air, then refreezes again through a layer of colder air near the surface. The effects can be visually striking, but also very hazardous if taking place on roads or pavements. Friday 14 February 2025 15:41 , Andy Gregory A yellow weather warning for ice and snow has been issued across parts of the UK this weekend. has more details in this report: Weather warning issued for snow and ice in parts of UK over weekend Friday 14 February 2025 15:36 , Andy Gregory The Met Office has issued a weather warning for snow and ice, stretching from above Newcastle in the north, to Bradford further south. Friday 14 February 2025 15:33 , Andy Gregory A weather warning for snow and ice has been issued in northeastern England, and will be in force from 6am to 2pm on Saturday. The Met Office has warned of up to 5cm of snow the North York Moors and Northumberland, with the potential for lesser accumulations in lower areas. There is also a risk of ice over the Pennines, particularly above 200 metres where freezing rain is possible, forecasters said. Friday 14 February 2025 15:30 , Andy Gregory Good afternoon, we'll be using this blog to bring you the latest UK weather updates as the Met Office issues weather warnings for snow and ice.
Yahoo
10-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Farmers protest live: Tractors set to flood London in second rally against Reeves's Budget proposals
British farmers are set to descend on Whitehall for the third time in four months as they demand the government rethinks its inheritance tax plan. Protesters are due to arrive in central London in their tractors at 1pm for the demonstration, organised by Save British Farming (SBF). The march is called 'Change Your Tune, Starmer'. Previous protests have seen thousands of tractors and tens of thousands of demonstrators moving through the capital. They are marching against chancellor Rachel Reeves's decision in her Budget to extend inheritance tax to agricultural land. Liz Webster, the founder of SBF, accused Ms Reeves of ensuring that the UK is 'marching into a food crisis'. Industry leaders will address the crowds in Whitehall at 3.15pm. The speakers include National Farmers Union Tom Bradshaw and celebrity farmer Gareth Wyn Jones. Country Land and Business Association deputy president Gavin Lane, who will be among the speakers taking to the stage, said: 'The government is hoping we'd move on, but these are our livelihoods we are defending. 'This issue will haunt them until they see sense. The case against these tax reforms is only growing stronger, and we are working to bring the whole of British industry together for the common good.' Farmers vow to 'haunt' government until change enacted Pictured: Farmers and their tractors in north London What are the changes to farm tax? 09:36 , Holly Evans The National Farmers Union, which has organised previous protests, said it supported any of its members taking part. NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: 'The strength of feeling around the proposed family farm tax is still incredibly high. 'We support any members who want to take part in other respectful and lawful demonstrations which work towards our aim to stop the family farm tax.' 09:17 , Holly Evans Speaking at Belmont Farm in North West London, Nigel Farage has called for the end of 'death taxes'. The Reform UK leader has been a vocal opponent to the inheritance tax rate on farms since it was announced in the October Budget. On stage at a gathering of the group Farmers to Action, he said: 'No to death taxes full stop. End death taxes. They are wrong. They are immoral at every level.' 09:00 , Tom Watling According to the National Farmers Union, while farms may have a high nominal asset value – the value of their land and business assets – the returns from farming are often very low, so farming families may not have the reserves to pay for inheritance tax liabilities without selling off assets. The NFU's president Tom Bradshaw said the change had left elderly farmers in the 'cruellest predicament', as they may not live for another seven years to take advantage of exemptions for gifting assets, or to hand over assets in a way that qualifies for the gifting exemption. He has also warned the changes could undermine investment as farmers will be wary of increasing the balance sheet as they will be liable to pay inheritance tax on it. There are also concerns that it could affect tenant farmers if landowners no longer benefit from having a tax exemption for farmed land. Mr Bradshaw said there was a feeling among farmers that the Government did not understand food production. 08:44 , Holly Evans Reform UK leader Nigel Farage joins farmers and their tractors at Belmont Farm in north London. The rally in Westminster over the changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules in the budget is set to take place later today. 08:29 , Holly Evans Every major British supermarket has turned on Sir Keir Starmer over his tax-hiking Budget, warning the raid on family farmers will put food supply chains at risk. Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and Asda are among the supermarket giants signed up to a damning letter warning over 'the long-term stability of the nation's food resilience'. Lidl, Aldi, Co-op and Marks & Spencer have also signed the letter calling for the 'abhorrent' tax raid, to be dropped. Read the full article here: Every major supermarket turns on Starmer over tractor tax 08:14 , Tom Watling Previously, farming businesses qualified for 100 per cent relief on inheritance tax on agricultural property and business property. But now the tax is being imposed on farms worth more than £1 million, with an effective tax rate of 20 per cent on assets above the threshold, rather than the normal 40 per cent rate for inheritance tax. The Government says that the actual threshold before paying inheritance tax could be as much as £3 million, once exemptions for each partner in a couple and for the farm property are taken into account. 08:05 , Holly Evans Farmers and their tractors at Belmont Farm in north London, ahead of a rally in Westminster over the changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules in the budget which introduced new taxes on farms worth more than £1 million. 07:45 , Tom Watling Farming groups have vowed to 'haunt' the Labour government until they reverse plans to extend inheritance tax to agricultural property. Country Land and Business Association (CLA) deputy president Gavin Lane, who will be among the speakers taking to the stage on Whitehall for today's protests, said: 'The government is hoping we'd move on, but these are our livelihoods we are defending. 'This issue will haunt them until they see sense. The case against these tax reforms is only growing stronger, and we are working to bring the whole of British industry together for the common good. 'We are delighted to be supporting the rally on Monday and thank everyone involved, and the public, for their backing.'
