Hi, please let me know what you think. Many thanks! Bob M.

A bracing week of politics meets a sharp dose of sport and culture as polling shocks rattle Labour, immigration policy stalls, and fans test the limits of fair play. We cut through the noise with clear takes on growth, borders, energy transition, and the grit that keeps the country moving.

• MRP polling surge for Reform UK and Labour slippage in key seats
• Internal Labour tensions and leadership chatter around Andy Burnham
• Economic credibility, tax burden, and small business pressure
• Immigration policy gaps, Channel crossings, and deterrence versus compassion
• Royal diplomacy contrasted with family drama and its public impact
• Free speech court ruling and Scottish Greens leadership shift
• North Sea oil decline as a warning on unmanaged energy transition
• Ryder Cup grit, crowd behaviour, and sportsmanship under pressure
• NFL in Dublin and the economic value of major events
• Loch Ness Marathon and community resilience
• Closing reflections on credible leadership and measurable outcomes