RAPID RECAP: Your Fast-Track to this Week's Biggest Stories

May 30, 2025

Hey, Sense-ibles!

As May wraps up, the news cycle shows no signs of slowing. We've distilled the week's headlines into bite-sized updates. Let's talk headlines in one-liners 👇

Starmer vs. Farage // PM Keir Starmer labels Nigel Farage's economic policies as "fantasy," likening them to Liz Truss's failed 2022 mini-budget.
Justice System Debate // Labour defends its justice record amid warnings over early release plans, blaming previous government for “criminal neglect”.
Parliamentary Focus // MPs debate EU–UK summit outcomes and address issues like Russian misinformation and support for local pubs.

£85 Million Arts Funding // UK government allocates £85 million to support arts and cultural organizations nationwide.
Bradford's Cultural Highlight // A giant red ball installation rolls into Bradford as part of its City of Culture 2025 celebrations.
East London's Cultural Expansion // BBC Music Studios to relocate to Stratford; V&A East museum set to open in 2026, enhancing East London's cultural scene.

Premier League Darts Finals // Luke Littler aims to defend his title at the Premier League Darts Finals Night at London's O2 Arena.
French Open Showdown // British No.1 Katie Boulter faces Madison Keys in the French Open second round, marking their first professional meeting.
Championship Play-Off Final // Sheffield United and Sunderland set to clash in the Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley on May 24.

IMF Upgrades UK Growth // UK's 2025 GDP growth forecast raised to 1.2% by IMF, urging adherence to deficit reduction plans.
Scotland's Fiscal Challenges // SNP faces pressure to raise taxes or cut spending due to rising public sector wages and social security costs.
Toyota's UK Investment // Toyota plans £40 million investment in Derbyshire plant to produce GR Corolla, boosting local manufacturing.

Tax and NI Updates // Employers' National Insurance contributions increase to 15% on salaries above £5,000; employment allowance rises to £10,500.
Income Tax Thresholds // Personal allowance remains at £12,570; basic rate at 20% up to £37,700, higher rate at 40% up to £125,140, additional rate at 45% above £125,140.
National Insurance Rates // Updated NI contribution rates and thresholds for 2025-2026 published, detailing employer and employee obligations.

Israel's Settlement Plans // Israel announces plans to establish 22 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, drawing international criticism.
World Health Assembly // Global health leaders convene at the 78th World Health Assembly to address pressing health challenges.
US Economic Concerns // Federal Reserve minutes reveal concerns over rising inflation and unemployment risks, indicating potential policy adjustments.

That's a wrap! Stay informed and have a great weekend. Thank you as ever for your continued support! If you would like to continue supporting us then do follow us on social channels and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Connect with us on socials

Common Sense

Discussion about this post