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Top aide says SNP leader will seek approval to press for independence even if he fails to win majority on 7 MayJohn Swinney will call a vote seeking independence powers on the first day of the next Scottish parliament even if he fails to win an overall majority, his aides have said.The Scottish National Party leader’s senior adviser indicated that if necessary, he would rely on support from the pro-independence Scottish Greens to win that vote in order to demand the UK government gives Holyrood the legal powers to hold a second referendum. Continue reading...

• President Donald Trump signed a series of emergency executive orders from the Oval Office, with the White House describing them as the 'World's Most Powerful Reset,' reportedly granting the administration vast new powers over the U.S. economy and financial system. • The orders are grounded in national security protocols and reportedly address economic stability and foreign threats, with details remaining tightly controlled by the White House. • The executive action has triggered fierce debate over presidential constitutional authority and sparked volatile political reactions from both Democrats and Republicans across the political spectrum.

Resolution needed two more votes to pass, but Democrats now appear solidified in oppositionSign up for the Breaking News US email to get newsletter alerts in your inboxThe US House of Representatives on Thursday narrowly rejected a war powers resolution that would have prevented further military action against Iran, as Democrats united against continued US involvement in the conflict amid peace talks that have yet to make a breakthrough.The resolution introduced by Greg Meeks, the top Democrat on the House foreign affairs committee, failed by a vote of 213-214, with one Republican member voting present. It required at least two more votes to pass, as tied votes fail in the House. Continue reading...

Exclusive: Ministers urged to consult sector on proposed social cohesion measures meant to tackle extremismSeveral leading civil society organisations have urged the government to consult the sector before introducing new powers for the Charity Commission, which they warn risks “suppressing legitimate advocacy” at a time when civic space is under increased pressure.Signatories including leaders from some of the UK’s largest civil society bodies, alongside faith-based and community organisations, wrote to the culture secretary, Lisa Nandy, saying the proposed social cohesion measures could lead to the “suppression of lawful advocacy, campaigning and community engagement”. Continue reading...

Legislation would allow government to implement evolving single market rules without full parliamentary scrutiny UK politics live – latest updatesMinisters in Britain are planning a new bill, which would bring into force a food and drink trade deal with the EU but also contain powers enabling the government to “dynamically align” with Europe. That will allow the UK to quickly implement evolving single market rules if it determines it is in the national interest, without having to face full parliamentary scrutiny. Continue reading...

• No. 13 Oklahoma defeated No. 11 Vanderbilt 13-11 in a high-scoring college softball matchup on April 11, 2026. • Camden Johnson led the Sooners with two home runs and seven RBI, while Deiten LaChance hit a homer and drove in four runs. • The win strengthens Oklahoma's position in national rankings amid a competitive season for top softball programs.

Republicans will almost certainly block Democrats’ efforts to pass legislation amid ‘fragile’ two-week US-Iran ceasefireHouse Democrats will attempt Thursday to pass a resolution curtailing Donald Trump’s war powers over Iran – a move Republicans will almost certainly block, but one that signals unease on Capitol Hill about a Middle Eastern conflict on pause with no clear endgame.The vote, scheduled for Thursday morning, will use a procedure called unanimous consent, which is a shortcut that allows legislation to pass the chamber instantly, without debate or a formal tally, so long as not a single member objects. Any one lawmaker can kill the resolution by simply objecting, and Republicans are expected to do exactly that. Continue reading...