News in Brief: April 7-14, 2025

In a dramatic turn of events, the UK government has taken control of the Chinese-owned British Steel plant in Scunthorpe. The emergency measure, approved in a rare Saturday sitting of Parliament, was prompted by concerns that owner Jingye planned to shut down its two blast furnaces—an action that would have ended primary steel production in the UK.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds confirmed that nationalisation is now the likely next step. The takeover is expected to safeguard approximately 2,700 jobs, with government officials already on-site to oversee operations.

For further industry updates, see our News in Brief: 7th–14th April 2025.

Election Betting Scandal: 15 Charged Including Former MP

Fifteen individuals have been charged in a major election betting scandal involving bets on the timing of the 2024 general election. Among those named is former Conservative MP Craig Williams, ex-parliamentary private secretary to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

The Gambling Commission has pressed charges under Section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005—covering the criminal offence of cheating. Other high-profile defendants include Senedd member Russell George and two senior Conservative officials: Chief Data Officer Nick Mason and Chief Marketing Officer Simon Chatfield.

Although the Metropolitan Police dropped their probe in 2024 for lack of evidence of misconduct in public office, the Commission’s prosecutions have reignited political controversy.

Explore related coverage in our News in Brief: 7th–14th April 2025.

Wealth Exodus: London Falls Down Global Millionaire Rankings

London has experienced a sharp decline in its super-rich population, according to a New World Wealth report commissioned by Henley & Partners. The city lost 11,300 millionaires in the past year—second only to Moscow worldwide.

Key factors include the scrapping of non-dom tax status, rising taxes, economic uncertainty, and a weakening pound. Since 2014, London has seen a 12% drop in its richest residents, including two billionaires and 18 centimillionaires.

Despite the fall, the capital still hosts over 215,000 millionaires, more than any other European city.

Read more insights in our News in Brief: 7th–14th April 2025.

Debate Over School Phone Ban: Leave It to Headteachers, Says Children’s Commissioner

England’s Children’s Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza, has spoken out against a nationwide ban on mobile phones in schools, arguing that headteachers should retain decision-making authority.

A government-commissioned survey found that 90% of secondary schools already restrict or ban phones. Dame Rachel stresses that the real focus should be on children’s screen time at home, where usage is most excessive.

• 69% of children spend more than two hours a day on a device
• 23% spend more than four hours daily

She urged parents to support schools by setting clear boundaries: “Parents have to remember they are not the friends of their children… they are there to protect them and put boundaries around them.”

For wider education policy updates, visit our News in Brief: 7th–14th April 2025.

State Pension Boost for Over 12 Million Pensioners

UK pensioners received a welcome uplift as new State Pension rates took effect on April 6 under the government’s “triple lock” guarantee. The increase of 4.1% was driven by last year’s wage growth figures.

• New State Pension: £230.25 per week (up from £221.20)
• Old Basic State Pension: £176.45 per week (up from £169.70)

This rise benefits over 12 million retirees across the UK, helping them cope with rising living costs.

See more on retirement finances in our News in Brief: 7th–14th April 2025.

High Street Woes Continue: More Store Closures in April

Retail chains continue to shutter outlets amid mounting financial pressures. April will see closures from major names such as WHSmith and Aldi, as high street struggles persist.

Businesses cite increased National Insurance costs, high energy bills, and rising commercial rents as drivers of downsizing. The first quarter of 2025 has already witnessed multiple closures from fashion retailers like New Look and Select Fashion.

Industry experts warn that without government intervention or market recovery, the trend could accelerate in the coming months.

Discover more retail sector analysis in our News in Brief: 7th–14th April 2025.