UK News Daily Councils Impose 4.99% Tax Hike, UK Asylum Appeals Surge 485 Percent, Toxicator Ride Reopens After Leak, Parliament Proposes £13 Billion Restoration, and more...
Mar 17, 2025
England faces a financial squeeze as local councils impose a 4.99% tax hike for the third year in a row. Meanwhile, the UK asylum system is overwhelmed, with appeals surging 485%, prompting calls for urgent reforms. Alton Towers celebrates the reopening of its Toxicator ride after a disastrous leak during its launch. Parliament grapples with serious safety issues, including asbestos, leading to a proposed £13 billion restoration plan. Plus, some intriguing political gossip involving Mark Field and Liz Truss adds to the drama.
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Council Tax Hike
- Nearly 88% of English councils will impose a 4.99% council tax hike in April 2025.
- This is the third consecutive year of maximum allowed increases, driven by funding cuts and rising service costs.
Asylum Appeal Backlog
- The UK asylum system faces a critical backlog of nearly 42,000 appeals, a 485% increase in two years.
- This is exacerbated by a shortage of immigration lawyers and errors in initial decisions.
Toxicator Ride Incident
- Alton Towers' new ride, Toxicator, experienced a sewage leak on its opening day, causing guest outrage and delays.
- The ride and surrounding area were later reopened after cleanup efforts.