A confidential report commissioned by Thames Water has revealed that over 580,000 people in London - one in twelve residents - may be illegal immigrants. Researchers used national data to calculate these figures, showing that London accounts for 60% of the UK’s estimated one million illegal immigrants. Most arrived legally on work, study, or visitor visas, but overstayed. Illegal migration is straining public infrastructure, prompting crackdowns on illegal employment in industries like car washes, nail bars, and construction. Nearly a thousand enforcement visits between July and November led to 770 arrests and significant fines for employers hiring illegal workers. Critics argue that the Government has lost control of UK borders, while others emphasise the need for stricter laws to prevent abuse of asylum and human rights claims. Despite enforcement efforts, illegal Channel crossings have surged, with over a thousand migrants reaching the UK in 2025’s first 21 days. Both the Government and public debate remain divided on solutions to this growing crisis.
UK high street businesses face a dire challenge as business rates are set to increase by over 140% in April. The temporary 75% relief introduced during the pandemic will drop to 40%, causing substantial cost hikes for retailers, pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs; for example, the average pub’s annual rates will rise from £4,017 to £9,642. These rising costs come amid other pressures, including inflation, increased national insurance contributions, and higher minimum wages. Brick-and-mortar businesses already struggle to compete with online retailers, which pay reduced rates for warehouses. Critics warn that this 'final blow' could force many high street businesses to close. Reforms to business rates are planned but will not take effect until April 2026. Experts suggest reimagining high streets as community hubs rather than purely shopping destinations. Despite government assurances of relief measures, over 200,000 retail jobs and 17,000 stores are predicted to vanish in the coming year: see
Royal Navy warns off Russian spy ship
23 Jan 2025
In November the Royal Navy's attack submarine, HMS Astute, surfaced near the Russian spy ship Yantar off the UK coast, issuing a stark warning against espionage activities targeting Britain's undersea cables. Defence secretary John Healey disclosed this rare manoeuvre, emphasising the UK's commitment to safeguarding its critical infrastructure. Yantar, officially classified by Russia as an oceanographic research vessel, is suspected of mapping undersea cables, raising concerns about potential sabotage. In response to its presence, the UK adjusted naval engagement protocols to allow warships and submarines to closely monitor such vessels. This week, Yantar re-entered UK waters, prompting the deployment of two warships and a patrol aircraft to track its movements continuously. NATO allies share apprehensions regarding Russia's activities near vital undersea infrastructure, especially following incidents like the Nordstream pipeline explosions. The alliance has deployed elite divers, submersible drones, and an array of ships to patrol and protect critical underwater assets in the Baltic Sea.
A rift within the Labour Party has surfaced over reported plans by Rachel Reeves to approve a third runway at Heathrow and expand operations at Gatwick and Luton airports. While she emphasises economic growth as the Government’s priority, several high-profile Labour figures, including Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and London mayor Sadiq Khan, have voiced strong opposition. Burnham argues that prioritising airport expansion in the South could hinder infrastructure investment in northern England and concentrate growth in London. Khan cites concerns about worsening air quality, increased noise, and the impact on London’s net-zero emissions target by 2030. Key Labour figures, including Keir Starmer and Ed Miliband, spoke against Heathrow’s expansion while they were in opposition. Reeves has countered criticism by stating that Britain’s reluctance to approve major projects has stalled economic growth. The debate highlights tensions between economic ambitions and environmental sustainability within Labour’s leadership.
Treat eating disorders as an emergency, say MPs
23 Jan 2025
The parliamentary group on eating disorders has declared an emergency, citing 'woefully inadequate care' for those affected. Conditions like anorexia and bulimia have surged in recent years, with 12% of 17- to 19-year-olds and nearly 21% of young women now affected, according to a 2023 survey. The report highlights widespread barriers to treatment, underfunded services, and misconceptions about eating disorders, which affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. It calls for a national strategy to support patients and families, mandatory training for frontline workers, and significant investment in care. Testimonies from sufferers reveal how delays in diagnosis and treatment caused prolonged suffering. Campaigners warn some patients are discharged too early, while families feel abandoned by the system. The NHS has pledged funding and expanded services, yet MPs like Richard Quigley argue that the system is 'beyond broken’. Immediate reforms, including earlier interventions and increased resources, are critical to saving lives and easing pressure on families.
Christian families and schools have launched a High Court challenge against the Government’s decision to add VAT to private and independent school fees, including Christian institutions. Supported by the Christian Legal Centre (CLC), 13 claimants - including parents, pupils, and four schools - argue that the policy, enacted on 1 January, is unlawful, discriminatory, and infringes on human rights. The removal of the VAT exemption has forced schools to raise fees, threatening access to faith-based education. Stephen White, a claimant, described the sacrifices his family makes to afford Christian schooling for their children, emphasising the vital role faith-based education plays in shaping the next generation. Headteachers warn of severe repercussions, including pupil withdrawals and potential closures. Carol Santer of The King’s School in Hampshire noted that many pupils come from non-affluent backgrounds, and some rely on specialised support unavailable in state schools. Claimants are urging the Government to reconsider its decision.
Trade: EU’s desire to negotiate with Trump
23 Jan 2025
The EU has signalled its readiness to negotiate with Donald Trump, hoping to avoid a damaging trade conflict. Ursula von der Leyen highlighted growing global competition and warned against trade policies that disrupt economic bonds. Trump’s administration has begun investigating US trade deficits and unfair practices: Germany is a potential target, but chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed cautious optimism after his first contacts with Trump's administration. Von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to collaboration with global partners, including India and China; she also voiced support for the Paris climate agreement, which Trump has exited. Noting that trade between the USA and the EU is worth 1.5 trillion euros, she said, ‘No other economies in the world are as integrated as we are. So our first priority will be to engage early, discuss common interests, and be ready to negotiate.’ EU officials see Trump’s policies as a wake-up call to fix their economies and become more competitive.
A Dutch court has ruled that prime minister Dick Schoof’s government must intensify efforts to reduce nitrogen pollution in protected areas, marking a legal victory for Greenpeace. Half of the country’s vulnerable habitats must meet nitrogen thresholds by 2030, with noncompliance incurring a €10 million penalty. Schoof’s administration, elected in 2024, shifted away from its predecessor’s €24.3 billion sustainability fund, favouring technological and voluntary measures instead. However, the court called for tangible financial and regulatory actions to address emissions from agriculture, industry, and transport. Greenpeace celebrated the verdict but emphasised the need for immediate action. The verdict reverberates with other countries facing similar legal challenges - seen now as a key tool to compel governments to environmental action - for the same reasons; it will also risk further protests from Dutch farmers who are concerned about anticipated herd reductions and new farm standards. The Schoof administration may appeal the decision, balancing stricter measures with potential rural unrest and EU compliance demands.