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The UK is clutching on to the coat-tails of the US and being dragged into war with Iran. Other countries are tolerating the Houthi blockade and not rising to the [...]

How is it that Rishi Sunak has the power, more or less single-handedly, to cancel the Birmingham to Manchester leg of HS2 (Leader, 6 October), a decision taken in parliament? [...]

Andrew Marr (Politics, 26 May) is concerned we 'may be talking ourselves into an almost terminal depression' about the NHS, but goes on to say it has 'taken so much [...]

Two positive responses to Andrew Marr's gloomy prognostications about the Ukraine war (Politics, 3 February). First, partition may not be a disastrous outcome, as an approach that has settled many [...]

Andrew Marr makes excellent points about the changed character of MPs (Politics, 14 October). In former times many served 'apprenticeships', sometimes as long as 20 years, on councils, perhaps going [...]

Kevin Maguire (Commons Confidential, 1 July) writes that Liberal Democrat support for a Labour minority government would start with electoral reform, but does not explain that this means some form [...]

The article discusses the UK's tax policy, noting that even with a tax take of 38% of GDP in 2027-28, the country will still be considered low-tax compared to its European peers. It suggests that raising taxes to 40% of GDP could lead to fairer societies with better public services and infrastructure. The piece also explores potential tax-raising measures, such as taxing petrol or pension contributions of higher-rate taxpayers, in light of political promises not to raise income tax, national insurance, or corporation tax. The author calls for more informed discussion on tax policy and questions how other countries handle taxation. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the issue of means-testing pensioners in the UK, suggesting that those with higher incomes should contribute to national insurance or a national care service. It highlights that half of the country's pensioners have incomes over £25,000 and could potentially afford to pay. The proposed measure aims to alleviate pressure on the NHS, fund care homes, and improve social care for both elderly and younger individuals. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the overlooked potential of updating coastal towns as a solution to the housing debate. It highlights the success of Reform in revitalizing seaside locations like Clacton, while also acknowledging the deprivation in nearby Jaywick Sands. The article argues that these towns, despite their decline, offer a desirable living and working environment, especially with the increasing trend of remote work. It emphasizes the existing infrastructure and amenities in these areas, as well as the health benefits of living by the sea. [Extracted from the article]