OPINION
— There’s something deeply wrong with the right-wing British nationalist media – AKA the media – and it represents a serious threat to the future of democracy in the UK.
Brexit
The withdrawal of the UK from the European Union on 31 January 2020, after a referendum that took place on 23 June 2016 when UK voters chose to leave the EU by 52% to 48%.
EU Citizens
— The story of Marcus Decker, a German citizen facing deportation after a peaceful protest, underscores the urgent need to defend everyone’s right to protest.
Long-Read
— On the failure of Brexit and the lack of consensus on how to fix it. Professor Chris Grey criticizes some Brexiters who propose unrealistic or recycled solutions, such as mutual enforcement for Northern Ireland or no deal at all, suggesting that Brexit is a problem that needs a new approach.
UK Politics
— New research highlights three key reasons for declining trust in experts, and how to regain their authority in future.
European Union
— On the seventh anniversary of the Brexit referendum, London’s City Hall and the Mayor of London’s office have been banned from flying the EU flag outside City Hall.
Long-Read
— Professor Chris Grey on the UK’s ambition to lead global AI regulation after Brexit, and the challenges and opportunities it faces, with the competition from other countries and regions, especially the EU.
COVID-19
— A former official said the UK Government neglected its pandemic preparedness due to its obsession with Brexit, adding that the government did not plan for lockdowns, social support, or PPE, and ignored the health inequalities and vulnerabilities of the poor and ethnic minorities.
Immigration
— High immigration rates correlate with increased support for the governing party and lower unemployment rates. Legal immigration has little economic impact, but illegal immigration causes fear and anxiety. To win elections, parties must address irregular arrivals and emphasize immigration benefits.
Long-Read
— How Brexit caused economic and social damage to the UK, such as lost investment, trade barriers, higher food prices, reduced choice, and lower standards. Professor Chris Grey warns of the risks of diverging from EU data protection rules and restricting student visas.
Inflation
— UK inflation has been stubbornly high, and interest rate hikes have not yet brought it in line with other advanced economies.
Brexit
— After Brexit, the UK has had fewer migrants from the EU, but they have been far outstripped by people coming from elsewhere.
OPINION
— The NatCon conference in London displayed hard-right Tory views, blaming UK’s issues on migrants, the EU, and the liberal elite. The event showcased extremist politics and culture war tropes, with controversial speakers, representing the “Trumpification” of British politics.
Brexit
— The British government is becoming more realistic about Brexit, evident in the Windsor Framework and Integrated Review. Brexit remains central yet marginal, adversely impacting the UK but no longer a major political issue.
Brexit
— Tourism leaders are concerned that French and German tourists are starting to avoid the UK due to post-Brexit restrictions on travel with identity cards.
EU Citizens
— The3million has prevailed in a court case against the UK government, with the High Court ruling that data protection rights for EU citizens and other migrants must be upheld by law.
Brexit
— The UK government has admitted that the new Brexit processes contributed to the chaotic travel queues at Dover, despite Home Secretary Suella Braverman denying that Brexit played a role in the delays.
