News in Brief: March 24-31

The Isle of Man is set to become the first UK jurisdiction to legalise assisted dying after a bill successfully passed its final parliamentary stage. The Assisted Dying Bill, introduced in 2022 by Dr. Alex Allinson, aims to provide terminally ill individuals with autonomy over end-of-life decisions.

The legislation now awaits royal assent before becoming law. Meanwhile, in England and Wales, the rollout of assisted dying legislation has been delayed until at least 2029 following a parliamentary decision to extend the implementation period from two to four years. Media outlets report widespread calls for the Bill to be fully debated and scrutinised.

Lower Thames Crossing Project Advances

The UK government has moved forward with the Lower Thames Crossing, a major infrastructure project connecting Kent, Thurrock, and Essex. The 14.5-mile (23 km) road will feature two tunnels beneath the River Thames and aims to ease congestion on existing routes.

Following a thorough examination process, the Planning Inspectorate submitted its recommendations to the Secretary of State for Transport. Local communities and stakeholders participated in the review, ensuring public concerns were considered. However, protest groups such as Transport Action Network predict the new road would “increase traffic, pollution, carbon and noise.”

Thurrock Council in Essex has consistently opposed the scheme, citing negative economic, social and environmental impacts, while Dartford Borough Council in Kent supports the development.

Primark CEO Resigns Over ‘Error of Judgment’ After Allegation

Paul Marchant, CEO of Primark, has resigned with immediate effect after admitting to an error of judgment regarding his behaviour in a social setting. Associated British Foods (ABF), Primark’s parent company, confirmed Marchant acknowledged his actions fell below expected standards.

An external investigation by law firm Herbert Smith Freehills was commissioned by ABF. Marchant apologised to the individual involved, ABF’s board, Primark employees, and business associates.

Under his leadership, Primark expanded significantly in the UK and internationally, challenging established retailers like Marks & Spencer. His tenure also saw a $12 million (£9.3 million) compensation payment after the 2013 Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh, which killed over 1,000 people. The company subsequently improved supply chain conditions.

ABF shares fell by 2% following the resignation. ABF—owner of brands such as Twinings and Ryvita—is controlled by the Weston family. Read more in our news-in-brief.

UK Prepares for Potential Trade Retaliation Over US Tariffs

The UK government is in last-minute negotiations to avert a 25% tariff on car imports imposed by the US, set to take effect on April 2.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has emphasised a pragmatic resolution to avoid a trade war, though retaliation remains on the table. If the tariffs proceed, the UK could impose duties on key US exports. Economists warn a full-scale trade conflict could shave billions off UK economic growth.

Negotiations are expected to continue beyond the deadline and are seen as a test of relations between President Trump and Prime Minister Starmer. For further insights, see our news-in-brief.

White House Officials Inadvertently Add Journalist to Military Group Chat

The White House confirmed senior Trump administration officials accidentally included a journalist in a Signal group chat discussing US military plans. The conversation—reportedly involving Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz—focused on airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, revealed the incident and expressed disbelief such sensitive discussions were held on an unsecured platform. The leak has raised serious concerns about national security communications under the Trump administration.

The episode has further strained US–European relations, highlighting risks when high-level briefings occur on non-secure channels. Read the full news-in-brief.