Skip to main content
Archived edition · July 26, 2026 Today's news →

What's happening in Europe?

Flag of United Kingdom

United Kingdom

News summary for

Go to today →

Wildfires ☀️

New PM outlines agenda amid heatwave, royal scrutiny, and major incidents

Andy Burnham has taken office as the new Prime Minister, immediately setting out his agenda and facing scrutiny over spending plans. He has stated his readiness to challenge Donald Trump if it benefits Britain and has ruled out an early general election. Meanwhile, other key political figures like Wes Streeting are making their positions clear within the new government.

The UK is grappling with significant environmental challenges, including what are described as the worst wildfires ever seen in Britain and the anticipation of a fourth heatwave. Separately, emergency services responded to a major industrial fire following a huge blast at a fertiliser plant in Essex.

Other prominent domestic stories include an investigation into an 'ethical hacker' whose actions led to a nightmare for a restaurateur, renewed scrutiny of the Royal Family concerning Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, and a police reinvestigation into a suspected Grindr blackmail death. Political funding also remains in the spotlight with revelations about a major donor to Reform UK.

Some sources unavailable — showing 5 of 7 news sources today.

Top stories

New Prime Minister's Agenda and Early Challenges

Andy Burnham has officially become the new UK Prime Minister, stating his willingness to confront Donald Trump if it serves Britain's interests after an initial positive exchange. He has also ruled out an early general election, intending to honor the current manifesto. However, Burnham is already facing questions regarding 'unfunded spending' and his political strategies, with Labour MP Wes Streeting indicating internal discussions over spending guarantees. The Prime Minister has also paused…

Ethical Hacker's Actions Lead to Nightmare

An investigation is underway into an 'ethical hacker' after a restaurateur's phone was breached, leading to a series of fake reviews and accusations of antisemitism. Authorities are exploring potential motives and working towards a resolution in this unsettling case.

Scrutiny on Political Funding and Offshore Assets

An investigation is exploring the intricate trail of Channel Island assets belonging to Christopher Harborne, a prominent British businessman and major donor to Reform UK, and their connections to political funding in the country.

Legacy of Psychedelics Research by Amanda Feilding

The Observer highlights Amanda Feilding's significant involvement in a £2bn drugs firm takeover, linking it to her longstanding passion for microdosing with psychedelics, desert toads, Donald Trump, and trepanning. Feilding, who passed away in May 2025, was a renowned drug policy reformer and director of the Beckley Foundation.

News sources