‘The cost of Labour tearing itself apart is distraction and deepens an already destabilising moment in British politics at precisely the time the country needs the opposite’
No time for distraction
Wes Streeting’s resignation only deepens an already destabilising moment in British politics, at precisely the time the country needs the opposite.
Now comes word that Andy Burnham has found his route back to Westminster, after MP Josh Simons announced he would stand aside in his Makerfield seat to make way for the Greater Manchester mayor.
A by-election where Reform came second last time, with a Labour majority of less than 6,000, is far from a guaranteed landing pad – and the shadow of a leadership challenge to Sir Keir Starmer hangs over it.
Get past the noise, and look at what is actually happening. The NHS has hit its 18-week treatment target for the first time in years. The economy unexpectedly grew by 0.3%. These are early signs of a government delivering.
There is another cost to Labour tearing itself apart: distraction. While the party obsesses over internal warfare, serious questions emerge around Nigel Farage and his £5million gift from Christopher Harborne. Politics should be focused on answers, not drama.
Weigh it up
Weight loss jabs are already changing lives.
Now there is growing evidence that they could help change the workplace too. Research showing sickness absence among patients taking the injections has almost halved, which is encouraging news for families, employers and the NHS under relentless pressure.
Fewer GP appointments, fewer A&E visits and fewer people trapped by poor health are good for everyone. Fewer people off sick also means a healthier, more productive country.
Businesses, public services, and working people benefit too. The government is right to take their potential seriously. But there is a catch.
These jabs are not a miracle cure or a shortcut. Lasting success still relies on support, healthier lifestyles and long-term change. Britain needs bold action on obesity. But if these treatments help people live healthier, happier lives, they deserve a proper chance.
World’s Queen
Madonna has outlasted generations of pop stars. The Material Girl has watched trends, rivals and entire music eras come and go.
Now, at 67, she is still reinventing herself, still making music, and now preparing to headline the World Cup half-time show too. Decades on, the Queen of Pop remains firmly on her throne.
