Today's briefing

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July 24, 2023

Labour leader Keir Starmer has faced defeat in the Uxbridge by-election, blaming the loss on the Ulez expansion and criticizing London mayor Sadiq Khan. A teenager is in critical condition after being stabbed at a gathering in Sussex, with a 16-year-old arrested. UK bank bosses have been summoned over the closure of Nigel Farage's account. Just Stop Oil protestors caused traffic disruption in London, and the UK government has unveiled plans to address the housing crisis. Critics doubt the effectiveness of the plans.

"Labour leader Starmer faces defeat in Uxbridge by-election"

The recent Uxbridge by-election loss has caused unrest within the Labour party, with leader Keir Starmer embracing defeat. Starmer and his deputy Angela Rayner blamed the loss on the Ulez expansion and criticized London mayor Sadiq Khan. The impact of the by-election results on green policies is also discussed.

"Teenager critically injured in stabbing at Sussex gathering"

A 17-year-old boy is fighting for his life after being stabbed in the chest at a gathering in rural Sussex. A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Sussex Police believe this was an isolated incident with no further risk to the public.

"UK bank bosses summoned over closure of Farage's account"

City minister Andrew Griffith has expressed concern over the closure of Nigel Farage's bank account and has summoned UK bank bosses for a roundtable discussion. The government is prepared to take action to protect freedom of speech and ensure customers can access payment accounts without fear of being de-banked.

"Just Stop Oil protestors cause traffic disruption in London"

Protestors from the Just Stop Oil campaign caused traffic to halt on the A12 road near Gants Hill. The London Metropolitan Police quickly moved them on under new public order laws. One protester has been charged and the campaign continues with supporters marching in various locations across London.

"UK government unveils plans to address housing crisis"

The UK government plans to build more homes in cities, focusing on inner-city areas, to address the housing crisis. Changes will allow homeowners to extend their properties and streamline the planning process. Critics argue that the plans are unlikely to have a meaningful impact on housing supply.