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  • NEWS STORY : Gordon Brown Appointed to Advise Starmer on Global Finance and Cooperation

    NEWS STORY : Gordon Brown Appointed to Advise Starmer on Global Finance and Cooperation

    STORY

    Sir Keir Starmer has appointed Gordon Brown as the Prime Minister’s Special Reviewer on Global Finance and Cooperation, with a brief to advise on international finance partnerships and the UK’s security and resilience.

    The former Prime Minister will report directly to Starmer in an unpaid, part-time role. Downing Street said Brown would examine how global finance cooperation can help build a stronger Britain, including through investment connected to defence and security.

    The appointment comes ahead of the UK taking on the G20 presidency next year. Brown will be tasked with developing new international finance partnerships, including measures linked to the UK’s relationship with Europe.

    As part of the role, he will engage with international leaders, finance institutions and private finance partners to help establish multilateral finance mechanisms. The work is expected to focus on ways of bringing together public and private funding to support strategic investment.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of Gordon Brown as the Prime Minister’s Special Reviewer on Global Finance and Cooperation [May 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of Gordon Brown as the Prime Minister’s Special Reviewer on Global Finance and Cooperation [May 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 9 May 2026.

    Keir Starmer has appointed Gordon Brown as the Prime Minister’s Special Reviewer on Global Finance and Cooperation today.

    The former Prime Minister will advise on how global finance cooperation can build a stronger Britain, boosting the country’s security and resilience.

    His appointment comes as the UK prepares to hold the Presidency of the G20 next year.

    He will be tasked with developing new international finance partnerships that can support defence and security-related investment, including measures that underpin the UK’s relationship with Europe.

    As part of the role he will engage with international leaders and finance institutions as well as private finance partners to establish multilateral finance mechanisms.

    Gordon Brown was Britain’s longest-serving modern Chancellor of the Exchequer.

    As Prime Minister, he worked with international counterparts as they responded to the worldwide financial crisis.

    In April 2009, he hosted the G20 Summit in London where world leaders pledged to make an additional $1.1 trillion available to help the world economy through the crisis and restore credit, growth and jobs.

    Gordon Brown will report directly to the to the Prime Minister. This is an unpaid part-time role.

  • NEWS STORY : Harriet Harman Appointed as Prime Minister’s Adviser on Women and Girls

    NEWS STORY : Harriet Harman Appointed as Prime Minister’s Adviser on Women and Girls

    STORY

    Sir Keir Starmer has appointed Harriet Harman as the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Women and Girls, with a brief to push forward work across Government on violence, economic opportunity and representation. Baroness Harman will report directly to the Prime Minister in an unpaid, part-time role. Downing Street said she will work with ministers across Government to help deliver policies for women and girls, including efforts to tackle violence against women and girls, improve economic opportunities and strengthen representation in public life.

    The role will also involve working with women across Parliament to identify further action on misogyny and barriers to opportunity. Harman will work with the Cabinet Secretary on culture across the Civil Service and ministerial offices, with the aim of improving opportunities for women within Government and improving delivery for women more widely.

    Harman, a former Labour deputy leader and Solicitor General, has long been associated with campaigns on women’s political representation, maternity rights and domestic abuse. Downing Street said that, as Solicitor General, she helped make domestic violence a Government priority, contributing to the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act and the creation of specialist domestic violence courts.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of Harriet Harman as the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Women and Girls [May 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Appointment of Harriet Harman as the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Women and Girls [May 2026]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 9 May 2026.

    Keir Starmer has appointed Harriet Harman as the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Women and Girls today.

    Baroness Harman will advise the PM on how to galvanise Government to deliver for women and girls.

    She will work with ministers across Government to drive an impactful agenda focusing on tackling violence against women and girls, unlocking economic opportunity, and improving representation.

    The role will see her draw on work with women across Parliament to identify action needed to tackle misogyny and deliver greater opportunity for women in parliamentary and public life.

    As part of the appointment, she will also work with the Cabinet Secretary to drive a shift in culture across the Civil Service and Ministerial offices, enhancing opportunity for women and enhancing government delivery for women.

    Throughout her career, Baroness Harman has been a vocal advocate for women and girls, including on issues such as women’s political representation, maternity rights, and tackling violence against women and girls.

    In her previous role as Solicitor General, Harriet led a successful drive within government to make tackling domestic violence a priority.

    The campaign led to the introduction of a new law – the Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Act – to ensure more effective prosecutions for domestic violence and a new network of 60 specialist domestic violence courts.

    Her appointment underlines the Government’s commitment to empowering women and girls.

    For the first time, this government has declared the scale of violence and abuse suffered by women and girls in this country is a national emergency.

    The landmark Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy sets out how we will achieve our pledge to halve these vile crimes in a decade – stopping violence before it starts, relentlessly pursuing perpetrators and better supporting victims and survivors.

    Baroness Harman will report directly to the to the Prime Minister. This is an unpaid part-time role.

  • 2026 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS – Norwich City Council

    2026 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS – Norwich City Council

    2026 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS – Norwich City Council

    Council: Norwich City Council
    Election: Norwich City Council election 2026
    Date: 7 May 2026
    Status: Complete
    Overall result: Green gain reported nationally; Norwich City Council’s published results page lists the ward results but does not include a full post-election council composition table. The Green Party won 11 of the 14 seats contested, Reform UK won two and the Liberal Democrats won one. Norwich elects 39 councillors across 13 wards, with one third normally elected each year, though Wensum elected two councillors this time.

    Council summary:
    Green — 11 seats won
    Reform UK — 2 seats won
    Liberal Democrat — 1 seat won
    Labour — 0 seats won
    Conservative — 0 seats won
    British Democratic Party — 0 seats won
    Communist Party of Britain — 0 seats won

    Control change: Reported as a Green gain. Labour had previously been running Norwich under no overall control, but the scale of Green gains means the party is reported to have taken control of the council.

    Ward results:

    Bowthorpe
    Elected: Amber Smith (Green) — 980
    Majority: 82 over Nick Taylor (Reform UK)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Amber Smith (Green) — 980; Nick Taylor (Reform UK) — 898; Mike Sands (Labour) — 673; Rebeka Jones (Conservative) — 170; Neil Hardman (Liberal Democrat) — 110.

    Catton Grove
    Elected: Mike Conroy (Reform UK) — 969
    Majority: 59 over Tony Park (Green)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Mike Conroy (Reform UK) — 969; Tony Park (Green) — 910; George Heaney (Labour and Co-operative) — 857; Samuel Walker (Conservative) — 273; Nigel Lubbock (Liberal Democrat) — 168.

    Crome
    Elected: Tim Day (Reform UK) — 1,143
    Majority: 175 over Claire Kidman (Labour)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Tim Day (Reform UK) — 1,143; Claire Kidman (Labour) — 968; Richard Edwards (Green) — 735; Tod James (Conservative) — 285; Philip Jimenez (Liberal Democrat) — 159; Kai Stephens (British Democratic Party) — 77.

    Eaton
    Elected: Caroline Ackroyd (Liberal Democrat) — 2,169
    Majority: 1,273 over Jane Saunders (Green)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Caroline Ackroyd (Liberal Democrat) — 2,169; Jane Saunders (Green) — 896; Thomas Waterhouse (Reform UK) — 723; Bert Bremner (Labour) — 568; Iain Gwynn (Conservative) — 367.

    Lakenham
    Elected: Ashlee Jones (Green) — 1,304
    Majority: 464 over Richard Eminson (Reform UK)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Ashlee Jones (Green) — 1,304; Richard Eminson (Reform UK) — 840; Gurpreet Padda (Labour) — 826; Robert Hammond (Conservative) — 202; Carol Chilton (Liberal Democrat) — 158.

    Mancroft
    Elected: Ian Stutely (Green) — 1,784
    Majority: 1,209 over Mark Tucker (Reform UK)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Ian Stutely (Green) — 1,784; Mark Tucker (Reform UK) — 575; Cavan Stewart (Labour) — 377; Sing On Lee (Conservative) — 173; Clara Lynch (Liberal Democrat) — 150.

    Mile Cross
    Elected: Georgia Brumby (Green) — 1,503
    Majority: 625 over Craig Barker (Reform UK)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Georgia Brumby (Green) — 1,503; Craig Barker (Reform UK) — 878; Sevi Marshall (Labour) — 382; Georgi Dimitrov (Conservative) — 145; Sean Bennett (Liberal Democrat) — 90.

    Nelson
    Elected: Denise Carlo (Green) — 3,138
    Majority: 2,237 over Michael Howard (Labour)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Denise Carlo (Green) — 3,138; Michael Howard (Labour) — 901; Richard Edmunds (Reform UK) — 343; Marlowe North (Liberal Democrat) — 189; John Ward (Conservative) — 159; James Nutman (Communist Party of Britain) — 45.

    Sewell
    Elected: Sophia Della Corte (Green) — 2,405
    Majority: 1,848 over Alexander Stevens (Reform UK)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Sophia Della Corte (Green) — 2,405; Alexander Stevens (Reform UK) — 557; Michelle Gregory (Labour) — 542; Christine Mackie (Conservative) — 146; Helen Arundell (Liberal Democrat) — 146.

    Thorpe Hamlet
    Elected: Bliss Wylie (Green) — 1,622
    Majority: 510 over Jane Overhill (Labour)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Bliss Wylie (Green) — 1,622; Jane Overhill (Labour) — 1,112; Stephen Bailey (Reform UK) — 590; Simon Jones (Conservative) — 281; Jeremy Hooke (Liberal Democrat) — 154.

    Town Close
    Elected: Cate Oliver (Green) — 1,973
    Majority: 660 over Lisa Alston (Labour and Co-operative)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Cate Oliver (Green) — 1,973; Lisa Alston (Labour and Co-operative) — 1,313; Mark Broome (Reform UK) — 526; Mary Chacksfield (Conservative) — 309; David Fairbairn (Liberal Democrat) — 185.

    University
    Elected: Tammy Searle (Green) — 1,384
    Majority: 712 over Jenny Ashburn (Reform UK)
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Tammy Searle (Green) — 1,384; Jenny Ashburn (Reform UK) — 672; Matthew Ainsley (Labour and Co-operative) — 578; James Hawketts (Liberal Democrat) — 455; Patricia Menaul (Conservative) — 132.

    Wensum
    Elected: Tom Butterworth (Green) — 1,706
    Elected: Ben Price (Green) — 1,641
    Majority: 823 over Joe Skipper (Reform UK), based on the second Green candidate’s vote over the highest non-elected candidate
    Turnout: not provided
    Candidates: Tom Butterworth (Green) — 1,706; Ben Price (Green) — 1,641; Joe Skipper (Reform UK) — 818; Kevin Spilling (Reform UK) — 792; Maggie Wheeler (Labour) — 514; Kevin Maguire (Labour) — 534; John Fisher (Conservative) — 186; Gordon Dean (Liberal Democrat) — 161; Andrew Hadley (Conservative) — 151; Alan Wright (Liberal Democrat) — 121.

  • 2026 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS – Norfolk County Council

    2026 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS – Norfolk County Council

    2026 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS – Norfolk County Council

    Council: Norfolk County Council
    Election: Norfolk County Council election 2026
    Status: Complete
    Overall result: No overall control
    Largest party: Reform UK
    Majority required: 43 seats
    Control change: No overall control. Reform UK finished as the largest party but three seats short of an overall majority.

    Council summary:
    Reform UK — 40 seats
    Liberal Democrat — 13 seats
    Green — 12 seats
    Great Yarmouth First Party — 9 seats
    Conservative — 8 seats
    Independent — 1 seat
    Labour — 1 seat

    Division results:

    Acle
    Elected: Justine Thomas (Reform UK) — 1,652
    Majority: 459 over Jess Royal (Green)
    Turnout: 4,204 — 50.21%
    Candidates: Justine Thomas (Reform UK) — 1,652; Jess Royal (Green) — 1,193; Lana Hempsall (Conservative) — 668; John Chapman (Labour) — 307; Victor Morgan (Liberal Democrat) — 215; Grant Nurden (Independent) — 169.

    Attleborough
    Elected: Daniel Burcham (Reform UK) — 1,433
    Majority: 886 over Jayne Booth (Green)
    Turnout: 2,926 — 37.47%
    Candidates: Daniel Burcham (Reform UK) — 1,433; Jayne Booth (Green) — 547; Taila Taylor (Conservative) — 542; Marcia Solloway-Brown (Labour) — 404.

    Aylsham
    Elected: Sue Catchpole (Liberal Democrat) — 1,935
    Majority: 722 over Paul Freeman (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,300 — 50.20%
    Candidates: Sue Catchpole (Liberal Democrat) — 1,935; Paul Freeman (Reform UK) — 1,213; Peter Darling (Conservative) — 628; Thomas Williamson (Green) — 338; Kay Montandon (Labour) — 186.

    Blofield and Brundall
    Elected: Jan Davis (Green) — 1,780
    Majority: 331 over Peter Freeman (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,927 — 52.92%
    Candidates: Jan Davis (Green) — 1,780; Peter Freeman (Reform UK) — 1,449; David Disney (Conservative) — 1,097; Eleanor Mason (Liberal Democrat) — 304; Emma Covington (Labour) — 297.

    Bowthorpe
    Elected: Amber Smith (Green) — 1,089
    Majority: 86 over Joe Skipper (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,132 — 38.17%
    Candidates: Amber Smith (Green) — 1,089; Joe Skipper (Reform UK) — 1,003; Mike Sands (Labour) — 711; Rebeka Jones (Conservative) — 195; Neil Hardman (Liberal Democrat) — 134.

    Breydon
    Elected: Michael French (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,824
    Majority: 1,000 over John Cole (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,961 — 49.46%
    Candidates: Michael French (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,824; John Cole (Reform UK) — 824; Carl Smith (Conservative) — 584; Michael Jeal (Labour) — 318; Jessica Coleman (Green) — 308; Gerald Rouse (Liberal Democrat) — 103.

    Catton Grove
    Elected: Mike Conroy (Reform UK) — 988
    Majority: 69 over Tony Park (Green)
    Turnout: 3,224 — 40.18%
    Candidates: Mike Conroy (Reform UK) — 988; Tony Park (Green) — 919; George Heaney (Labour) — 857; Samuel Walker (Conservative) — 286; Nigel Lubbock (Liberal Democrat) — 174.

    Clenchwarton and Kings Lynn South
    Elected: Alexandra Kemp (Independent) — 1,076
    Majority: 12 over Gary Archdale (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 2,752 — 35.78%
    Candidates: Alexandra Kemp (Independent) — 1,076; Gary Archdale (Reform UK) — 1,064; Sheila Young (Conservative) — 240; Steve Rumbelow (Green) — 177; Ben Jones (Labour) — 113; Ian Swinton (Liberal Democrat) — 82.

    Coltishall and Spixworth
    Elected: Dan Roper (Liberal Democrat) — 1,805
    Majority: 517 over Jason Squire (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,063 — 49.68%
    Candidates: Dan Roper (Liberal Democrat) — 1,805; Jason Squire (Reform UK) — 1,288; Martin Murrell (Conservative) — 561; Phoebe Connell (Green) — 288; Jack Chapman (Labour) — 121.

    Costessey
    Elected: David Henson (Reform UK) — 1,384
    Majority: 397 over Gary Blundell (Independent)
    Turnout: 4,246 — 44.11%
    Candidates: David Henson (Reform UK) — 1,384; Gary Blundell (Independent) — 987; Terry Laidlaw (Liberal Democrat) — 628; James Edwards-Scott (Green) — 473; Joshua Woolliscroft (Conservative) — 408; Jenny McCloskey (Labour) — 366.

    Crome
    Elected: Tim Day (Reform UK) — 1,175
    Majority: 242 over Paul Guille (Labour)
    Turnout: 3,356 — 40.30%
    Candidates: Tim Day (Reform UK) — 1,175; Paul Guille (Labour) — 933; Richard Edwards (Green) — 763; Tod James (Conservative) — 310; Philip Jimenez (Liberal Democrat) — 175.

    Cromer
    Elected: Tim Adams (Liberal Democrat) — 2,506
    Majority: 1,368 over Benjamin Miles (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,261 — 51.36%
    Candidates: Tim Adams (Liberal Democrat) — 2,506; Benjamin Miles (Reform UK) — 1,138; Angela Fitch-Tillett (Conservative) — 365; Rupert Eris (Green) — 172; David Batley (Labour) — 80.

    Dereham North and Scarning
    Elected: Alison Webb (Conservative) — 1,205
    Majority: 99 over Andy Keats (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,237 — 40.00%
    Candidates: Alison Webb (Conservative) — 1,205; Andy Keats (Reform UK) — 1,106; Aidan Webster (Green) — 384; Linda Goreham (Labour) — 323; Charlotte Foley (Liberal Democrat) — 219.

    Dereham South
    Elected: Robin Hunter-Clarke (Reform UK) — 1,393
    Majority: 686 over Phillip Duigan (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,305 — 35.79%
    Candidates: Robin Hunter-Clarke (Reform UK) — 1,393; Phillip Duigan (Conservative) — 707; Harry Clarke (Labour) — 514; Benjamin Gibbons (Green) — 505; Karn Purvis (Liberal Democrat) — 186.

    Dersingham
    Elected: Lee Jarvis (Reform UK) — 1,451
    Majority: 507 over Angie Dickinson (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,033 — 47.16%
    Candidates: Lee Jarvis (Reform UK) — 1,451; Angie Dickinson (Conservative) — 944; Alistair Beales (Independent) — 584; Naomi Howard (Green) — 438; Keith Ives (Liberal Democrat) — 349; Christopher Heneghan (Labour) — 267.

    Diss and Roydon
    Elected: Will Porteous (Green) — 1,244
    Majority: 78 over Colin Sutton (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,624 — 42.93%
    Candidates: Will Porteous (Green) — 1,244; Colin Sutton (Reform UK) — 1,166; Graham Minshull (Conservative) — 935; Pam Reekie (Labour) — 142; Trevor Wenman (Liberal Democrat) — 137.

    Docking
    Elected: Julie Costley (Reform UK) — 1,508
    Majority: 523 over Terry Parish (Independent)
    Turnout: 3,998 — 46.40%
    Candidates: Julie Costley (Reform UK) — 1,508; Terry Parish (Independent) — 985; Michael Chenery Of Horsbrugh (Conservative) — 811; Rachael Windsor (Liberal Democrat) — 439; Michelle Carter (Labour) — 255.

    Downham Market
    Elected: Pat Gould (Reform UK) — 1,418
    Majority: 732 over Tony White (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,598 — 42.10%
    Candidates: Pat Gould (Reform UK) — 1,418; Tony White (Conservative) — 686; Doug Dew (Liberal Democrat) — 594; Joshua Osborne (Labour) — 570; Pallavi Devulapalli (Independent) — 330.

    Drayton and Horsford
    Elected: Jason Butler (Reform UK) — 1,512
    Majority: 436 over Lisa Starling (Liberal Democrat)
    Turnout: 4,140 — 45.44%
    Candidates: Jason Butler (Reform UK) — 1,512; Lisa Starling (Liberal Democrat) — 1,076; Simon Woodbridge (Conservative) — 801; Richard Wink (Green) — 475; Glenn Springett-Lees (Labour) — 276.

    East Depwade
    Elected: Joseph Kerrison (Reform UK) — 1,300
    Majority: 122 over Ed Gillespie (Green)
    Turnout: 4,505 — 48.57%
    Candidates: Joseph Kerrison (Reform UK) — 1,300; Ed Gillespie (Green) — 1,178; Clayton Hudson (Independent) — 925; Trevor Graham (Conservative) — 762; James Eddy (Labour) — 222; Murray Gray (Liberal Democrat) — 118.

    Eaton
    Elected: Brian Watkins (Liberal Democrat) — 1,967
    Majority: 1,035 over Jane Saunders (Green)
    Turnout: 4,700 — 58.79%
    Candidates: Brian Watkins (Liberal Democrat) — 1,967; Jane Saunders (Green) — 932; Thomas Waterhouse (Reform UK) — 729; Bert Bremner (Labour) — 619; Iain Gwynn (Conservative) — 453.

    Elmham and Mattishall
    Elected: Paul Carr (Reform UK) — 1,418
    Majority: 53 over Bill Borrett (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,043 — 47.06%
    Candidates: Paul Carr (Reform UK) — 1,418; Bill Borrett (Conservative) — 1,365; Mark Foley (Liberal Democrat) — 516; Matthew Carding-Woods (Green) — 479; Kendra Cogman (Labour) — 265.

    Erpingham
    Elected: Callum Ringer (Liberal Democrat) — 2,048
    Majority: 783 over DeeDee Lomax (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,277 — 53.40%
    Candidates: Callum Ringer (Liberal Democrat) — 2,048; DeeDee Lomax (Reform UK) — 1,265; Nicholas Coppack (Conservative) — 602; Stephen Green (Green) — 295; Sarah Freestone (Labour) — 67.

    Fakenham and The Raynhams
    Elected: Robert Jamieson (Reform UK) — 1,317
    Majority: 268 over Tom FitzPatrick (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,496 — 40.65%
    Candidates: Robert Jamieson (Reform UK) — 1,317; Tom FitzPatrick (Conservative) — 1,049; Joe Leverett (Green) — 490; Mollie Stephens (Liberal Democrat) — 378; Abbie Elton (Labour) — 221; Eric Masters (Independent) — 41.

    Feltwell
    Elected: Sue Prigg (Reform UK) — 1,669
    Majority: 694 over Martin Storey (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,632 — 43.52%
    Candidates: Sue Prigg (Reform UK) — 1,669; Martin Storey (Conservative) — 975; Alan Holmes (Liberal Democrat) — 612; Eamonn McCusker (Labour) — 299; Gary Conway (Heritage Party) — 77.

    Forehoe
    Elected: Daniel Elmer (Conservative) — 1,184
    Majority: 265 over Deborah Barker (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,183 — 49.40%
    Candidates: Daniel Elmer (Conservative) — 1,184; Deborah Barker (Reform UK) — 919; Deborah Sacks (Labour) — 769; Carol Sharp (Green) — 682; Ian Spratt (Liberal Democrat) — 629.

    Freebridge Lynn
    Elected: Jacqueline Fry (Reform UK) — 1,285
    Majority: 216 over Simon Ring (Independent)
    Turnout: 3,942 — 46.76%
    Candidates: Jacqueline Fry (Reform UK) — 1,285; Simon Ring (Independent) — 1,069; Remi Clark (Conservative) — 793; David Irving (Liberal Democrat) — 296; Fran Rumbelow (Green) — 256; Joshua Lowe (Labour) — 243.

    Gaywood North and Central
    Elected: Rob Colwell (Liberal Democrat) — 1,597
    Majority: 541 over Paul Powers (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,491 — 38.97%
    Candidates: Rob Colwell (Liberal Democrat) — 1,597; Paul Powers (Reform UK) — 1,056; Lea McGurk (Conservative) — 406; Wilf Lambert (Labour) — 237; Ian Milburn (Green) — 195.

    Gaywood South
    Elected: Rob Williams (Reform UK) — 791
    Majority: 381 over Stefan Dicianu (Liberal Democrat)
    Turnout: 2,223 — 28.62%
    Candidates: Rob Williams (Reform UK) — 791; Stefan Dicianu (Liberal Democrat) — 410; Ade Adeyemo (Conservative) — 322; Jo Rust (Independent) — 272; Theresa Sarjeant (Green) — 250; Tim Daniel (Labour) — 178.

    Gorleston
    Elected: Barry Gravenell (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,581
    Majority: 963 over Faye Morse (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,822 — 47.03%
    Candidates: Barry Gravenell (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,581; Faye Morse (Reform UK) — 618; John Gethin (Green) — 582; Graham Plant (Conservative) — 572; Jeanette McMullen (Labour) — 469.

    Guiltcross
    Elected: Jacob Allen (Reform UK) — 1,797
    Majority: 358 over William Nunn (Conservative)
    Turnout: 5,011 — 44.99%
    Candidates: Jacob Allen (Reform UK) — 1,797; William Nunn (Conservative) — 1,439; Rachael Carding-Woods (Green) — 734; Nathan Flatman (Liberal Democrat) — 552; Terry Land (Labour) — 489.

    Hellesdon
    Elected: Nick Taylor (Reform UK) — 1,442
    Majority: 82 over Shelagh Gurney (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,148 — 45.18%
    Candidates: Nick Taylor (Reform UK) — 1,442; Shelagh Gurney (Conservative) — 1,360; Lee Marsden (Green) — 564; Andrew Lock (Labour) — 426; David Britcher (Liberal Democrat) — 356.

    Henstead
    Elected: Jim Webber (Liberal Democrat) — 1,352
    Majority: 70 over John Wilkinson (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,560 — 52.14%
    Candidates: Jim Webber (Liberal Democrat) — 1,352; John Wilkinson (Reform UK) — 1,282; Vic Thomson (Conservative) — 904; Martin Beckett (Green) — 621; Joshua Horsfall (Labour) — 401.

    Hethersett
    Elected: Ben Weston (Labour) — 1,158
    Majority: 3 over Peter Barker (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,395 — 50.19%
    Candidates: Ben Weston (Labour) — 1,158; Peter Barker (Reform UK) — 1,155; Kathryn Cross (Conservative) — 1,133; Rachel Barrett (Green) — 551; Steve Witt (Liberal Democrat) — 398.

    Hingham
    Elected: Gary Douglas-Beet (Reform UK) — 1,182
    Majority: 174 over Suzanne Nuri-Nixon (Liberal Democrat)
    Turnout: 3,885 — 47.11%
    Candidates: Gary Douglas-Beet (Reform UK) — 1,182; Suzanne Nuri-Nixon (Liberal Democrat) — 1,008; Margaret Dewsbury (Conservative) — 851; Victoria Walters (Green) — 525; Debbie Rowden (Labour) — 319.

    Holt
    Elected: Andrew Brown (Liberal Democrat) — 1,783
    Majority: 447 over Steven Ribbons (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,286 — 50.46%
    Candidates: Andrew Brown (Liberal Democrat) — 1,783; Steven Ribbons (Reform UK) — 1,336; Clive Hallam (Conservative) — 817; Mike Bossingham (Green) — 258; Martyn Sloman (Labour) — 92.

    Hoveton
    Elected: Adam Varley (Liberal Democrat) — 1,833
    Majority: 147 over Jason Patchett (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,624 — 53.91%
    Candidates: Adam Varley (Liberal Democrat) — 1,833; Jason Patchett (Reform UK) — 1,686; Kevin Bayes (Conservative) — 778; Diane Wiles (Green) — 234; Frances Kemp (Labour) — 93.

    King’s Lynn North and Central
    Elected: Ben Griffin (Reform UK) — 740
    Majority: 421 over Deborah Heneghan (Labour)
    Turnout: 1,969 — 24.78%
    Candidates: Ben Griffin (Reform UK) — 740; Deborah Heneghan (Labour) — 319; Joel Blackmur (Green) — 308; Lesley Bambridge (Conservative) — 284; David Mills (Liberal Democrat) — 143; Michael De Whalley (Independent) — 136; Lorraine Douglas (Communist Party of Britain) — 39.

    Lakenham
    Elected: Tom Ludson (Green) — 1,272
    Majority: 424 over Rosemary Duff (Labour)
    Turnout: 3,330 — 42.31%
    Candidates: Tom Ludson (Green) — 1,272; Rosemary Duff (Labour) — 848; Richard Eminson (Reform UK) — 831; Robert Hammond (Conservative) — 222; Carol Chilton (Liberal Democrat) — 157.

    Launditch
    Elected: Tom Dickerson (Reform UK) — 1,798
    Majority: 640 over Mark Kiddle-Morris (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,535 — 49.75%
    Candidates: Tom Dickerson (Reform UK) — 1,798; Mark Kiddle-Morris (Conservative) — 1,158; Matt Weatherill (Liberal Democrat) — 782; Jane Keidan-Cooper (Green) — 500; Howard Hawkes (Labour) — 297.

    Loddon
    Elected: Kay Mason Billig (Conservative) — 1,483
    Majority: 102 over Alexander Ashman (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 5,130 — 52.57%
    Candidates: Kay Mason Billig (Conservative) — 1,483; Alexander Ashman (Reform UK) — 1,381; Jeremy Rowe (Labour) — 1,194; Eric Wareham (Green) — 680; Neil Humphries (Liberal Democrat) — 392.

    Long Stratton
    Elected: Karl Catchpole (Reform UK) — 1,517
    Majority: 543 over John Cook (Independent)
    Turnout: 4,380 — 48.65%
    Candidates: Karl Catchpole (Reform UK) — 1,517; John Cook (Independent) — 974; John Hemmant (Conservative) — 669; Claire Sparkes (Green) — 582; Bob McClenning (Liberal Democrat) — 339; Ann Reeder (Labour) — 299.

    Lothingland
    Elected: Jonathan Wedon (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,708
    Majority: 892 over Adrian Myers (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,962 — 48.18%
    Candidates: Jonathan Wedon (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,708; Adrian Myers (Reform UK) — 816; Carl Annison (Conservative) — 670; Trevor Rawson (Green) — 368; Bernard Williamson (Labour) — 305; Gordon Smith (Liberal Democrat) — 95.

    Magdalen
    Elected: Kevin Huggins (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,788
    Majority: 1,111 over Nigel Light (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,606 — 41.55%
    Candidates: Kevin Huggins (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,788; Nigel Light (Reform UK) — 677; Damian Elliott (Green) — 451; Trevor Wainwright (Labour) — 429; Linda Phillips (Conservative) — 261.

    Mancroft
    Elected: Serene Shibli (Green) — 1,718
    Majority: 1,134 over Paul Buckland (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,061 — 40.27%
    Candidates: Serene Shibli (Green) — 1,718; Paul Buckland (Reform UK) — 584; Cavan Stewart (Labour) — 418; Sing On Lee (Conservative) — 186; Clara Lynch (Liberal Democrat) — 155.

    Marshland North
    Elected: Julian Kirk (Reform UK) — 1,792
    Majority: 1,104 over Paul McGurk (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,165 — 38.63%
    Candidates: Julian Kirk (Reform UK) — 1,792; Paul McGurk (Conservative) — 688; Rob Archer (Green) — 292; Jason Unsworth (Liberal Democrat) — 238; Matthew Bowles (Labour) — 155.

    Marshland South
    Elected: Tina Kiddell (Reform UK) — 1,463
    Majority: 223 over Chris Dawson (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,321 — 38.14%
    Candidates: Tina Kiddell (Reform UK) — 1,463; Chris Dawson (Conservative) — 1,240; Josie Ratcliffe (Liberal Democrat) — 347; Heather Fouracre (Labour) — 192; Earl Elvis Of Outwell (Official Monster Raving Loony Party) — 79.

    Mile Cross
    Elected: Helena Wysocki (Green) — 1,446
    Majority: 566 over Craig Barker (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,001 — 37.62%
    Candidates: Helena Wysocki (Green) — 1,446; Craig Barker (Reform UK) — 880; Chrissie Rumsby (Labour) — 415; Georgi Dimitrov (Conservative) — 155; Sean Bennett (Liberal Democrat) — 105.

    Nar and Wissey Valleys
    Elected: Mike Westman (Reform UK) — 1,595
    Majority: 887 over Johnny Martin Smith (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,731 — 44.98%
    Candidates: Mike Westman (Reform UK) — 1,595; Johnny Martin Smith (Conservative) — 708; Sue Lintern (Independent) — 640; Liam Convery (Green) — 356; Matthew Stirrup (Labour) — 222; Graham Dent (Liberal Democrat) — 210.

    Nelson
    Elected: Paul Neale (Green) — 2,890
    Majority: 1,845 over Michael Howard (Labour)
    Turnout: 4,760 — 58.13%
    Candidates: Paul Neale (Green) — 2,890; Michael Howard (Labour) — 1,045; Richard Edmunds (Reform UK) — 364; Marlowe North (Liberal Democrat) — 227; John Ward (Conservative) — 197; James Nutman (Communist Party of Britain) — 37.

    North Caister and Ormesby
    Elected: Glenn Hurren (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 2,072
    Majority: 1,159 over Melanie Milligan (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,324 — 53.18%
    Candidates: Glenn Hurren (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 2,072; Melanie Milligan (Reform UK) — 913; Gary Boyd (Conservative) — 491; Thomas Garrod (Liberal Democrat) — 322; Anne Killett (Green) — 285; Brian Pilkington (Labour) — 241.

    North Coast
    Elected: Peter Lawrence (Reform UK) — 1,283
    Majority: 57 over Peter Wilkinson (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,866 — 47.54%
    Candidates: Peter Lawrence (Reform UK) — 1,283; Peter Wilkinson (Conservative) — 1,226; Tammy Edmunds (Liberal Democrat) — 899; Alison Large (Green) — 259; Kenneth Hubbard (Labour) — 199.

    North Walsham East
    Elected: Lucy Shires (Liberal Democrat) — 1,844
    Majority: 557 over Robert Reid (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,701 — 46.29%
    Candidates: Lucy Shires (Liberal Democrat) — 1,844; Robert Reid (Reform UK) — 1,287; Pauline Porter (Conservative) — 352; Mike Ward (Green) — 163; Rachel Rising (Labour) — 55.

    North Walsham West and Mundesley
    Elected: Mal Gray (Liberal Democrat) — 1,531
    Majority: 105 over Oliver Ward (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,737 — 46.29%
    Candidates: Mal Gray (Liberal Democrat) — 1,531; Oliver Ward (Reform UK) — 1,426; Rob Scammell (Conservative) — 461; Ray Mooney (Green) — 237; Jasper Haywood (Labour) — 82.

    Old Catton
    Elected: Mark Tucker (Reform UK) — 1,006
    Majority: 131 over Antony Little (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,348 — 47.51%
    Candidates: Mark Tucker (Reform UK) — 1,006; Antony Little (Conservative) — 875; Ian Chapman (Green) — 628; Bill Couzens (Labour) — 531; Martin Callam (Liberal Democrat) — 308.

    Reepham
    Elected: David Thomas (Liberal Democrat) — 1,344
    Majority: 27 over Geraldine Gray (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,154 — 49.67%
    Candidates: David Thomas (Liberal Democrat) — 1,344; Geraldine Gray (Reform UK) — 1,317; Peter Bulman (Conservative) — 900; Sarah Morgan (Green) — 402; Jo Emmerson (Labour) — 191.

    Sewell
    Elected: Jenny Knight (Green) — 2,346
    Majority: 1,742 over Michelle Gregory (Labour)
    Turnout: 3,827 — 48.76%
    Candidates: Jenny Knight (Green) — 2,346; Michelle Gregory (Labour) — 604; Alexander Stevens (Reform UK) — 563; Christine Mackie (Conservative) — 159; Helen Arundell (Liberal Democrat) — 155.

    Sheringham
    Elected: Liz Withington (Liberal Democrat) — 2,110
    Majority: 857 over Gary Hughes (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,584 — 51.92%
    Candidates: Liz Withington (Liberal Democrat) — 2,110; Gary Hughes (Reform UK) — 1,253; Greg Battha-Pajor (Conservative) — 800; Edmund Wright (Green) — 339; Matthew Reilly (Labour) — 82.

    South Caister and Bure
    Elected: Daniel McGrath (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,852
    Majority: 940 over Nicholas Dack (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,937 — 50.03%
    Candidates: Daniel McGrath (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,852; Nicholas Dack (Reform UK) — 912; Jennifer Denison (Green) — 402; Ivan Murray-Smith (Conservative) — 398; Jennifer Newcombe (Labour) — 373.

    Sprowston
    Elected: Stephen Bailey (Reform UK) — 1,623
    Majority: 706 over John Ward (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,321 — 47.94%
    Candidates: Stephen Bailey (Reform UK) — 1,623; John Ward (Conservative) — 917; Bibin Baby (Labour) — 755; Ailsa Marcham (Green) — 746; Derek Wood (Liberal Democrat) — 280.

    Stalham
    Elected: Matthew Taylor (Conservative) — 1,701
    Majority: 213 over Kevin Corrigan (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,523 — 51.10%
    Candidates: Matthew Taylor (Conservative) — 1,701; Kevin Corrigan (Reform UK) — 1,488; Tyler Wragg (Liberal Democrat) — 924; Elizabeth Dixon (Green) — 295; Richard Stowe (Labour) — 115.

    Swaffham
    Elected: Jaden Lister (Reform UK) — 1,869
    Majority: 849 over Wendy Bensley (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,063 — 41.17%
    Candidates: Jaden Lister (Reform UK) — 1,869; Wendy Bensley (Conservative) — 1,020; Sally Jones (Green) — 509; Doug Jefferson (Labour) — 361; Victor Scrivens (Liberal Democrat) — 304.

    Taverham
    Elected: Stuart Clancy (Conservative) — 1,617
    Majority: 508 over Alice Kemp (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,998 — 51.69%
    Candidates: Stuart Clancy (Conservative) — 1,617; Alice Kemp (Reform UK) — 1,109; Caroline Karimi-Ghovanlou (Liberal Democrat) — 746; Hannah Moody (Green) — 339; Jake Norman (Labour) — 187.

    The Brecks
    Elected: Scott Hussey (Reform UK) — 2,183
    Majority: 606 over Fabian Eagle (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,893 — 48.11%
    Candidates: Scott Hussey (Reform UK) — 2,183; Fabian Eagle (Conservative) — 1,577; Timothy Soar (Green) — 499; David Blackbourn (Labour) — 371; Richard McKenny (Liberal Democrat) — 263.

    The Fleggs
    Elected: Jason Hughes (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,895
    Majority: 994 over Adrian Rodford (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,532 — 53.25%
    Candidates: Jason Hughes (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,895; Adrian Rodford (Reform UK) — 901; James Bensly (Conservative) — 866; Rebecca Durant (Green) — 429; Claire Wardley (Labour) — 291; Ivan Lees (Liberal Democrat) — 150.

    Thetford East
    Elected: Dee Hilton (Reform UK) — 1,385
    Majority: 619 over Jane James (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,233 — 34.79%
    Candidates: Dee Hilton (Reform UK) — 1,385; Jane James (Conservative) — 766; Liz Bernard (Labour) — 594; Matthew Bray (Green) — 346; Carol Renard (Liberal Democrat) — 142.

    Thetford West
    Elected: David Bick (Reform UK) — 1,110
    Majority: 630 over Vic Peters (Labour)
    Turnout: 2,317 — 27.29%
    Candidates: David Bick (Reform UK) — 1,110; Vic Peters (Labour) — 480; Jamie Walker (Green) — 236; Paula Wood (Conservative) — 235; Carla Barreto (Independent) — 186; Julie Dew (Liberal Democrat) — 70.

    Thorpe Hamlet
    Elected: Jo Smith (Green) — 1,635
    Majority: 581 over Jane Overhill (Labour)
    Turnout: 3,767 — 45.81%
    Candidates: Jo Smith (Green) — 1,635; Jane Overhill (Labour) — 1,054; Alan Mallett (Reform UK) — 587; Simon Jones (Conservative) — 317; Jeremy Hooke (Liberal Democrat) — 174.

    Thorpe St Andrew
    Elected: Ian Mackie (Conservative) — 1,434
    Majority: 387 over Susan Lawn (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,212 — 51.84%
    Candidates: Ian Mackie (Conservative) — 1,434; Susan Lawn (Reform UK) — 1,047; Eleanor Laming (Green) — 921; Sandra O’Neill (Labour) — 531; Phyllida Scrivens (Liberal Democrat) — 279.

    Town Close
    Elected: Maxine Webb (Green) — 1,907
    Majority: 592 over Lisa Alston (Labour)
    Turnout: 4,309 — 52.70%
    Candidates: Maxine Webb (Green) — 1,907; Lisa Alston (Labour) — 1,315; Mark Broome (Reform UK) — 534; Mary Chacksfield (Conservative) — 356; David Fairbairn (Liberal Democrat) — 197.

    University
    Elected: Niall Adams (Green) — 1,192
    Majority: 654 over Laura McCartney-Gray (Labour)
    Turnout: 2,809 — 41.12%
    Candidates: Niall Adams (Green) — 1,192; Laura McCartney-Gray (Labour) — 538; Jenny Ashburn (Reform UK) — 530; James Hawketts (Liberal Democrat) — 433; Tommy Best (Conservative) — 116.

    Watlington and The Fens
    Elected: Olivia Morris (Reform UK) — 1,803
    Majority: 823 over Brian Long (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,777 — 42.11%
    Candidates: Olivia Morris (Reform UK) — 1,803; Brian Long (Conservative) — 980; Phillip Davies (Labour) — 383; Maurice Leeke (Liberal Democrat) — 340; Mike Knights (Independent) — 271.

    Watton
    Elected: Jack White (Reform UK) — 1,766
    Majority: 676 over Claire Bowes (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,771 — 37.79%
    Candidates: Jack White (Reform UK) — 1,766; Claire Bowes (Conservative) — 1,090; Ann Bowyer (Green) — 470; Robin Goreham (Labour) — 232; Sheila Hodgkinson (Liberal Democrat) — 213.

    Waveney Valley
    Elected: George Boyd (Reform UK) — 1,562
    Majority: 555 over Barry Stone (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,519 — 51.42%
    Candidates: George Boyd (Reform UK) — 1,562; Barry Stone (Conservative) — 1,007; Vinod Mahtani (Green) — 891; Peter Harrison (Liberal Democrat) — 796; David Reekie (Labour) — 263.

    Wells
    Elected: Victoria Holliday (Conservative) — 1,428
    Majority: 154 over Roy MacDonald (Liberal Democrat)
    Turnout: 4,408 — 49.35%
    Candidates: Victoria Holliday (Conservative) — 1,428; Roy MacDonald (Liberal Democrat) — 1,274; Julia Reid (Reform UK) — 1,167; James Whitehead (Green) — 327; William Gee (Labour) — 212.

    Wensum
    Elected: Ben Price (Green) — 1,740
    Majority: 857 over Kevin Spilling (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 3,495 — 38.39%
    Candidates: Ben Price (Green) — 1,740; Kevin Spilling (Reform UK) — 883; Maggie Wheeler (Labour) — 542; John Fisher (Conservative) — 184; Gordon Dean (Liberal Democrat) — 146.

    West Depwade
    Elected: Margaret Thomas (Reform UK) — 1,611
    Majority: 237 over Kim Carsok (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,697 — 55.61%
    Candidates: Margaret Thomas (Reform UK) — 1,611; Kim Carsok (Conservative) — 1,374; Christina Kenna (Green) — 1,265; Jacqueline Ives (Liberal Democrat) — 284; Alyson Read (Labour) — 163.

    Woodside
    Elected: Wendy Atkinson (Reform UK) — 1,007
    Majority: 342 over Peter Harwood (Green)
    Turnout: 3,064 — 42.87%
    Candidates: Wendy Atkinson (Reform UK) — 1,007; Peter Harwood (Green) — 665; Edith Jones (Conservative) — 621; Martin Booth (Labour) — 563; Brian Howe (Liberal Democrat) — 208.

    Wroxham
    Elected: Ed Matthews (Reform UK) — 1,328
    Majority: 31 over Fran Whymark (Conservative)
    Turnout: 3,929 — 47.38%
    Candidates: Ed Matthews (Reform UK) — 1,328; Fran Whymark (Conservative) — 1,297; Andy Cawdron (Green) — 675; Ian Leach (Liberal Democrat) — 323; Irene MacDonald (Labour) — 306.

    Wymondham
    Elected: Robert Savage (Conservative) — 1,433
    Majority: 429 over Gokce Schuler (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 4,075 — 48.93%
    Candidates: Robert Savage (Conservative) — 1,433; Gokce Schuler (Reform UK) — 1,004; Paul Barrett (Green) — 715; Dave Roberts (Liberal Democrat) — 521; Lowell Doheny (Labour) — 402.

    Yare and Necton
    Elected: Kabeer Kher (Reform UK) — 2,105
    Majority: 881 over Marshall Bunting (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,729 — 48.62%
    Candidates: Kabeer Kher (Reform UK) — 2,105; Marshall Bunting (Conservative) — 1,224; Marie Brennan (Green) — 584; Joe Sisto (Labour) — 488; Ulrike Behrendt (Liberal Democrat) — 328.

    Yare Valley
    Elected: Malcolm Latarche (Reform UK) — 1,148
    Majority: 67 over Richard Elliott (Conservative)
    Turnout: 4,148 — 41.83%
    Candidates: Malcolm Latarche (Reform UK) — 1,148; Richard Elliott (Conservative) — 1,081; Dave Evans (Green) — 873; Justin Cork (Labour) — 540; Des Fulcher (Liberal Democrat) — 506.

    Yarmouth Nelson and South Town
    Elected: Callum Ward-Kendall (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,357
    Majority: 890 over Jack Allen (Green)
    Turnout: 2,810 — 35.32%
    Candidates: Callum Ward-Kendall (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,357; Jack Allen (Green) — 467; Alexander Brown (Reform UK) — 465; Kerry Robinson-Payne (Labour) — 303; Laura Candon (Conservative) — 141; Nicholas Dyer (Liberal Democrat) — 77.

    Yarmouth North and Central
    Elected: Steven Grimmer (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,533
    Majority: 1,022 over Richard Jeffs (Reform UK)
    Turnout: 2,997 — 35.36%
    Candidates: Steven Grimmer (Great Yarmouth First Party) — 1,533; Richard Jeffs (Reform UK) — 511; Lewis Hall (Green) — 349; Paula Waters-Bunn (Labour) — 334; Tamsin Lodge (Conservative) — 167; Anthony Harris (Liberal Democrat) — 103.

    Notes: All 84 divisions were declared. The closest result was Hethersett, where Labour won by three votes. Other close results included Clenchwarton and Kings Lynn South, where an Independent won by 12 votes, Reepham, where the Liberal Democrats won by 27 votes, and Wroxham, where Reform UK won by 31 votes. Division-level results, candidate totals and turnout figures are from Norfolk County Council’s official election results table.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Settlements in the West Bank are a flagrant violation of international law and must cease – UK statement at the UN Arria meeting on the West Bank [May 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Settlements in the West Bank are a flagrant violation of international law and must cease – UK statement at the UN Arria meeting on the West Bank [May 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 May 2026.

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, at the UN Arria meeting on the West Bank.

    Colleagues, at the outset, I want to underline UK concern at rising conflict in the region and beyond. 

    I also want to stress that peaceful co-existence between communities is essential. 

    The United Kingdom was shocked by the despicable antisemitic terror attack in London last week. 

    There is no place in our societies for racially motivated hatred and violence, and we will continue to work to end such attacks and to promote tolerance amongst all communities. 

    Returning to the Arria, I will make three points.

    First, the United Kingdom is clear that a two state solution remains the only way to achieve lasting peace and security for the Israeli and Palestinian people.

    However, as we have heard today, the viability of that future is being deliberately and rapidly eroded.

    The current Israeli Government has nearly doubled the number of illegal settlements, including the E1 plan, which would cut the West Bank in two as we’ve just seen.

    Security Council Resolution 2334 is clear. 

    These settlements are a flagrant violation of international law and must cease.

    And while settlements expand, so does the displacement of Palestinians from that same land.

    This includes Basel’s hometown of Masafer Yatta. 

    It also includes the homes of many more. 

    2,500 Palestinians have been displaced this year due to demolitions, evictions, and settler attacks.

    In Silwan in East Jerusalem, families have been forced out and watched as settlers take over the homes they have had for generations.

    And as we’ve heard today, Israeli restrictions on movement and the withholding of Palestinian tax revenues are worsening the humanitarian situation, weakening the Palestinian Authority, and driving instability.

    Second, these policies are accompanied by extreme violence. 

    OCHA report that 2025 saw the highest number of settler attacks on record. 

    Last year, Israeli security forces and settlers killed 240 Palestinians, with Palestinian militants killing 17 Israelis. 

    The United Kingdom strongly condemns all attacks on civilians.

    As the occupying power, the Israeli Government has clear responsibilities for the protection of civilians, which are not being met.

    Acts of settler violence are not a series of isolated incidents. 

    They represent an accelerated campaign to prevent a future Palestinian State driven by an extremist ideology, which even includes acts of settler terrorism.

    Finally, these actions are underpinned by a culture of impunity. 

    While attacks by Palestinians are rightly investigated and prosecuted, the same cannot be said for crimes by settlers. 

    Accountability remains weak, with few criminal investigations and many cases closed without justice.

    The United Kingdom is also concerned by recent comments by a senior IDF figure, noting that lethal force is used against Palestinian stone-throwers, but not against settlers committing the same crime. 

    If accurate, this suggests a discriminatory application of force that raises serious concerns under international law.  

    Colleagues, these actions constitute a coordinated effort to permanently change the demographic makeup of the West Bank and prevent the two state solution.

    They undermine President Trump’s 20-Point Plan and risk further violence in the region. 

    Depriving the Israeli and Palestinian people of the peace they deserve.

    We desperately want to see a different future: one that delivers peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians. 

    That different future is possible.

    And it is our duty to strive to achieve it.

  • NEWS STORY : Eluned Morgan Resigns as Welsh Labour Leader After Losing Senedd Seat

    NEWS STORY : Eluned Morgan Resigns as Welsh Labour Leader After Losing Senedd Seat

    STORY

    Eluned Morgan has resigned as leader of Welsh Labour after losing her seat in the Senedd, bringing a dramatic end to her time at the top of Welsh politics on a disastrous day for the party.

    The First Minister of Wales failed to be re-elected in Ceredigion Penfro, where she had stood as Welsh Labour’s lead candidate. The constituency returned three Plaid Cymru members, two Reform UK members and one Conservative, with Labour failing to win a seat there.

    Morgan said Welsh Labour had suffered a “catastrophic result” and accepted responsibility for the party’s performance. She said “I’ve lost my seat here in Ceredigion Penfro and I will be standing down as leader of Welsh Labour. I take responsibility for the Labour result in Wales.”

  • PRESS RELEASE : Second World War veterans to travel to overseas commemorations paid for by the Government [May 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : Second World War veterans to travel to overseas commemorations paid for by the Government [May 2026]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 May 2026.

    The Ministry of Defence will pay for Second World War veterans to attend commemorations in Europe this summer in partnership with the Royal British Legion.

    Second World War veterans will travel overseas for commemorations of the Normandy Landings and the Battle of Arnhem, paid for by the Government.  

    This commitment ensures that those who served can attend remembrance ceremonies in Europe, returning to sites of profound historical and personal importance. 

    The Ministry of Defence (MOD) will provide the funding to the Royal British Legion, which offers lifelong support and expert advice to the Armed Forces community including serving personnel, veterans, their families and the bereaved.

    The Royal British Legion will give the funding to charities such as The Spirit of Normandy Trust and The Taxi Charity for Military Veterans to make the visits to commemorative events possible. 

    Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:

    VE Day reminds the nation of the importance of coming together to honour those who secured our freedom more than eight decades ago.

    Standing at Utah Beach during previous D-Day commemorations, I was struck by the extraordinary courage of those who came ashore in 1944 – young men facing unimaginable danger to secure the freedoms we endure today.

    While we can never repay the depth of their service, I am determined to ensure we honour our Second World War veterans and their extraordinary contribution to our freedom.

    The funding follows the 2025 publication of a 10-year Veterans Strategy and the Strategic Defence Review, which commit to use a whole-of-society approach to defence and celebrate the contribution of veterans to the community and national security. The government is investing record levels in veterans, with Office for Veterans’ Affairs in the MOD rolling out a new £50m support system called VALOUR across the UK.  

    Minister for Veterans and People, Louise Sandher-Jones MP said: 

    We are delivering on our promise in our Veterans Strategy, providing visible support to the devoted veterans who have served in our Armed Forces.

    This government is renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve, and our actions are guided by the change that veterans want to see. 

    I have seen firsthand how important these commemorations are to our veterans and am committed to supporting their continued attendance.

    With the number of living Second World War veterans declining, the government recognises the importance of supporting them to pass on their legacy to future generations.  

    The enduring relationship between the UK and its Armed Forces remains invaluable and must be protected. 

    This essential defence funding enables veterans to return to the places where they served, honour those who did not come home, and reconnect with their shared history.  

    From the beaches of Normandy to battlefields in Europe, these journeys are a vital act of remembrance. 

    Richard Palusinski, Chairman, Spirit of Normandy Trust said: 

    Over the many years that I have been taking veterans to Normandy for the annual D-Day commemorations I have come to understand that they make the trip each year not out of any sense of bravado, but to remember those who paid the ultimate price.   

    As a small charity we have limited ability to raise the necessary funds to ensure a safe and meaningful pilgrimage for the veterans, particularly as they have reached a great age and their needs are more complex. The funding from the Office for Veterans Affairs is vital, enabling us to embark or the pilgrimages with confidence and give the veterans the opportunity to honour their friends.

    Steve Baynes, the Royal British Legion’s Head of Grants, said:

    The freedoms we enjoy today would not have been possible without the courage and sacrifice of the Second World War generation, and as the nation’s champion of Remembrance, the RBL is dedicated to ensuring their legacy is always remembered.

    We’re proud to be working with the Office for Veterans’ Affairs to ensure those who served can attend commemorative events across Europe, and delighted to be collaborating with the Spirit of Normandy Trust and the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, whose long-standing experience in organising these deeply meaningful visits is invaluable.

    This government remains committed to supporting veterans emotionally and financially as they continue to pay their respects through these annual pilgrimages.

  • PRESS RELEASE : UK government shows “unwavering support” for war crime accountability [May 2026]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK government shows “unwavering support” for war crime accountability [May 2026]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 8 May 2026.

    Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones visits Ukraine to address the United for Justice Conference.

    • Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones visits Ukraine to address the United for Justice Conference, underlining the UK’s commitment to holding Russia to account for crimes committed throughout the war  
    • Minister also made “harrowing but essential” visit to Bucha and Irpin, towns that saw civilian suffering at the start of the war 
    • In line with the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership, the UK is also seeking Ukrainian expertise to turbocharge counter-drone technology development 

    “Russia must be held to account for its crimes”, the Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls stressed on a visit to Kyiv yesterday [Thursday 7 May]. She was in the city to address the United for Justice Conference, an event aiming to coordinate global efforts to investigate, prosecute, and ensure accountability for international crimes committed during Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.  

    In Kyiv, the Minister also met with frontline organisations directly supporting survivors of sexual violence, which Russia has used as a weapon of war. The visit also furthers the government’s commitment, under the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership, to support Ukraine in the reform and recovery of its justice system.  

    Addressing the conference, Minister Davies-Jones expressed the UK Government’s “unwavering” commitment to supporting the Ukrainian people in securing justice and accountability. The UK is supporting Ukraine politically, financially, and practically, including with £16.5 million in funding for domestic war crimes investigations, providing Ukraine with the skills and expertise it needs to drive this action forward.  

    While in Ukraine, Minister Alex Davies-Jones also visited the towns of Bucha and Irpin, defining sites of civilian suffering caused in the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion and during Russian occupation. Russian forces occupied Bucha until early April 2022, during which widespread war crimes including conflict related sexual violence were reported. The Minister visited the memorial at the town’s mass grave site, which pays tribute to the Ukrainians who were killed during the occupation.  

    Irpin became one of the heaviest-hit areas during Russia’s early invasion of Ukraine and was a front-line battlefield in February 2022. The Minister visited the “Bridge of Life” in Irpin, which was exploded by the Ukrainian armed forces to prevent Russian troops and tanks from entering Kyiv city. The remnants of that bridge were the only route through which Ukrainians could seek evacuation and leave Russian occupation, and many Ukrainians were killed trying to make their way there. 

    Reflecting on the visit, Minister Davies-Jones said: 

    While here in Ukraine I’ve heard powerful testimonies from survivors and seen the harrowing evidence of war crimes firsthand. Working daily with survivors of violence at home, I know that behind every statistic is a person whose life has been changed forever. >  The courage it takes to speak out, to bear witness and to demand justice is something I deeply commend.  

    Ukraine is still living under daily attack, and the UK stands firmly with its people in that same pursuit of the justice, accountability and freedom they deserve. Russia must be held to account for its crimes.” 

    The Minister also reflected on the expertise Ukraine has to share with the UK, forged through the experiences of government under the pressures of the full-scale invasion. The Minister announced the opening  of a new competition worth £5m by InnovateUK, an initiative that  will accelerate counter-drone research in the UK, with a hope to encourage further technological partnerships between our nations.    

    The visit follows the Deputy Prime Minister’s trip to Ukraine to mark the first anniversary of 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine in January this year. Whilst there, he announced £6.5 million investment to support research and development on stopping drones smuggling contraband into prisons – including phones, drugs and weapons.