Tag: News Story

STORY

With less than a year remaining, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging eligible taxpayers to prepare for the upcoming changes. Starting 6 April 2026, sole traders and landlords in the UK with annual income exceeding £50,000 will be required to maintain digital records and submit quarterly updates to HMRC using Making Tax Digital (MTD)-compatible software. This initiative is a significant component of the government’s “Plan for Change,” aiming to modernise the tax system, enhance efficiency, and support economic growth. By adopting digital record-keeping, taxpayers can streamline their financial management, reduce errors, and save time previously spent on manual processes.​

James Murray MP (in photo), Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, emphasised the importance of this transition:​

“MTD for Income Tax is an essential part of our plan to transform the UK’s tax system into one that supports economic growth. By modernising how people manage their tax, we’re helping businesses work more efficiently and productively while ensuring everyone pays their fair share.”

Craig Ogilvie, HMRC’s Director of Making Tax Digital, highlighted the significance of this change:​

“MTD for Income Tax is the most significant change to the Self Assessment regime since its introduction in 1997. It will make it easier for self-employed people and landlords to stay on top of their tax affairs and help ensure they pay the right amount of tax.”​

HMRC encourages eligible individuals to participate in the current testing programme to familiarise themselves with the new system and access dedicated support. This proactive approach is intended to ensure a smooth transition ahead of the mandatory implementation next year.​

STORY

The UK government has announced the appointment of Chris Rampling as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. He will succeed Joanna Roper CMG and is set to assume his new role in July 2025. Rampling brings extensive diplomatic experience to the position. His recent roles include serving as Acting Director-General for Defence & Intelligence at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) from 2023 to 2024, and as National Security Director from 2020 to 2024. Previously, he was the UK Ambassador to Lebanon between 2018 and 2020. His career also includes postings in Brussels, Amman, and various roles within the FCDO, focusing on foreign policy, defence, and counter-proliferation.​

The Netherlands hosts key international institutions, including the International Court of Justice and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Rampling’s appointment comes at a time when the UK aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and collaborate on global challenges. Joanna Roper, the outgoing ambassador, has served since 2020. Her tenure included navigating post-Brexit relations and fostering UK-Dutch cooperation across various sectors.

STORY

U.S. financial markets experienced significant turmoil today as the ongoing dispute between President Donald Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell intensified, raising concerns about the central bank’s independence and the nation’s economic stability.​ President Trump publicly criticised Powell on social media, labelling him a “major loser” and urging the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates to stimulate the economy. This attack comes despite inflation rates remaining above the Fed’s 2% target, with food prices continuing to rise and Trump’s new tariff policy being seen as inflationary.

In response, Powell reaffirmed the Federal Reserve’s commitment to its mandate and indicated he would not resign if asked by the President. He emphasised the importance of the Fed’s independence in making decisions aimed at controlling inflation and ensuring long-term economic health. Powell refused to match the personal abuse thrown by the President, who some analysts have suggested is trying to distract from his chaotic economic policy.

The public feud has unsettled investors, leading to a sharp decline in major stock indices. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 1,000 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq each dropped nearly 3%. The U.S. dollar also weakened, hitting a three-year low, as investors sought safe-haven assets like gold, which surged to record highs. Analysts warn that undermining the Federal Reserve’s autonomy could have long-term repercussions for the U.S. economy, potentially leading to higher inflation and reduced investor confidence. The central bank is expected to carefully assess the situation in its upcoming policy meetings, balancing the need to control inflation with the risks posed by political pressures.​

As the situation develops, market participants and policymakers alike will be closely monitoring the dynamics between the White House and the Federal Reserve, given their significant implications for economic policy and financial stability.

STORY

The Education Minister Stephen Morgan has expressed support for former U.S. President Donald Trump speaking to the UK Parliament, amid debates over the appropriateness of such an invitation.​ In an interview with LBC, Morgan stated, “I wouldn’t support such a block. It’s really important that we continue strong relationships with our allies.”  The proposal for Trump to address Parliament has sparked discussions among MPs, with some expressing reservations due to his controversial policies and statements.

However, Morgan emphasised the significance of maintaining diplomatic ties, noting that engaging with global leaders is crucial for the UK’s international relations. The decision to invite a foreign leader to speak in Parliament typically involves consultations among parliamentary authorities and government officials. As discussions continue, the government has not yet announced a formal invitation to Trump.​

STORY

A recent poll conducted by Lord Ashcroft indicates that UK voters across the political spectrum anticipate a reduction or elimination of U.S. tariffs as President Trump negotiates trade deals globally. However, there is limited confidence in Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s ability to safeguard Britain’s interests during these developments.​ The survey also highlights that most Conservative voters expect gains in the upcoming local elections, a scenario that may not materialise, posing challenges for Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch.​ Key political stories recalled by respondents include President Trump’s tariff policies and the UK government’s intervention in British Steel. Other issues, such as immigration and policing practices, were predominantly noted by Reform UK supporters.​

When asked about the current global landscape, voters were divided: 31% believe the era of globalisation is ending, while 29% think it persists. A plurality (43%) view globalisation positively, though Reform UK voters are more inclined to see its decline as beneficial.​

Regarding the UK’s position on tariffs and global uncertainty, opinions are split. Approximately 30% feel the UK would be better equipped within the EU, another 30% believe the country is better off outside it, and 22% think EU membership would make no difference. The poll also reveals that 49% of voters prefer maintaining the current UK-China relationship, with smaller percentages advocating for closer or more distant ties. Labour, Green, and SNP supporters are more open to strengthening relations, whereas Conservative and Reform voters lean towards distancing.

STORY

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels this week as part of efforts to “reset” the UK’s relationship with the European Union. This meeting aims to address shared challenges and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in the post-Brexit era.​ The agenda includes discussions on economic growth, energy security, climate change, and illegal migration. Both leaders have emphasised the importance of pragmatic and constructive dialogue to strengthen ties between the UK and the EU.

While the UK government has ruled out rejoining the EU’s single market, customs union, or freedom of movement, it remains open to collaborative initiatives that benefit both parties. Potential topics for cooperation include a youth mobility scheme and mutual recognition of professional qualifications. This meeting marks a significant step in rebuilding UK-EU relations, with both sides expressing a commitment to regular summits and ongoing dialogue to address mutual interests and global challenges.

STORY

The United Kingdom and New Zealand have announced a significant enhancement of their defence and security cooperation, reaffirming their long-standing alliance in response to evolving global threats.​ During a meeting in southwest England, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon agreed to strengthen their military partnership through several key initiatives:

• Extended Support for Ukraine: New Zealand will continue its involvement in Operation Interflex, the joint UK-led program training Ukrainian forces, through the end of the year. This initiative has already trained over 54,000 Ukrainian soldiers.

• Defence Equipment Collaboration: The UK has committed to a £30 million deal for drones manufactured by New Zealand’s Syos Aerospace, enhancing Ukraine’s capabilities in its ongoing conflict.

• Naval Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific: The Royal New Zealand Navy is set to join the UK’s Carrier Strike Group as it embarks on operations in the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring both nations’ commitment to maritime security.

Prime Minister Starmer emphasised the historical ties between the two countries, stating, “From the beaches of Gallipoli to our current joint efforts, the UK and New Zealand have stood shoulder to shoulder in pursuit of peace and stability.” This renewed partnership also includes plans to develop a new bilateral defence agreement, updating the framework established in 2015, to address contemporary security challenges more effectively.

The announcement comes ahead of a broader international meeting in London, where leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Ukraine, and the United States will discuss coordinated strategies to support Ukraine and address global security concerns. This deepened collaboration between the UK and New Zealand highlights their shared commitment to international stability and the rules-based order, reinforcing their roles as key players in addressing global defence and security issues.

STORY

At a United Nations Security Council meeting on April 21, the United Kingdom expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Haiti, where over 2,600 individuals, including nearly 400 women and children, have been killed in the past three months. UK Minister Counsellor Fergus Eckersley highlighted reports of coordinated attacks by criminal gangs aimed at destabilising Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council.​

The UK firmly rejected all acts designed to destabilise Haiti and emphasised the need for full implementation of UN sanctions and the arms embargo. Eckersley underscored the importance of supporting Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council and Prime Minister Fils-Aimé in their efforts to restore security and prepare for elections scheduled for February 2026. The UK also acknowledged Kenya’s leadership in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission and paid tribute to those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of restoring security in Haiti. The UK called for adequate support for the MSS mission and Haitian security forces to re-establish control over all areas of Port-au-Prince.​

STORY

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is facing renewed scrutiny following revelations that he shared sensitive military information in a second Signal chat group, intensifying concerns over national security protocols within the Trump administration. The newly uncovered chat, named “Defense | Team Huddle” reportedly included Hegseth’s wife, brother, personal lawyer and senior staff members. In this group, Hegseth allegedly disseminated detailed flight plans for military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, raising alarms about the potential exposure of classified information to individuals without proper security clearances.

This incident follows a prior controversy where Hegseth inadvertently shared similar sensitive details in another Signal chat that mistakenly included a journalist. The recurrence of such lapses has led to bipartisan calls for accountability. Senator Mark Warner, Vice Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, has demanded the resignations of Hegseth and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, criticising their failure to adhere to basic security protocols.

The Trump administration has downplayed the severity of the leaks, with officials asserting that no classified information was compromised. However, the Pentagon’s Inspector General has initiated a review into the use of Signal for official communications and legal experts have raised concerns about potential violations of federal laws governing the handling of sensitive information. Hegseth is expected to make a statement on the matter as concerns grow about the leadership of the US military.

STORY

The death of Pope Francis has been confirmed, passing at the age of 88 on Easter Mondays. In a statement, Cardinal Kevin Farrell said:

“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis”.