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This is the introduction to Blighty, a weekly, subscriber-only newsletter in which our correspondents turn their gaze on the latest developments in Britain. Matthew Holehouse, our British political correspondent, on the conservatism of the Labour Party

Sir Keir Starmer has agreed to meet Donald Trump during the US President's expected visit to Scotland later this month, according to a source familiar with the plans.

A year of Keir: the first 365 days of Starmer in power - Three trade deals, five U-turns, 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence, eight ministerial resignations, 49 welfare rebels, record small boat crossings

By our own metrics, the government is not thriving. Waiting times at emergency ( A&E) wards may be falling, but at a glacial pace. The number of migrants crossing in small boats has risen by 38% over the past year. Housebuilding is moribund and crime incidents, although relatively low, have increased by 10%.

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer answers questions during a press conference on Aug. 1, 2024. Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer answers questions during a press conference on Aug. 1, 2024. Henry Nicholls—AFP/ Contributor It was a moment that will remain etched in British minds.

Steve Coogan has accused Sir Keir Starmer of paving the way for Reform UK, describing the Labour government’s policies as “putting Band-Aids on the gash in the side of the Titanic”. The 59-year-old actor, best known for playing Alan Partridge, has previously publicly backed the Labour Party but threw his support behind the Green Party last year.

We're replacing BBC Sounds outside the UK and bringing you BBC.com, a seamless way to read, watch, and listen - all in one place.

The prime minister said there is "a lot more work to do" to improve the NHS, but praised Chancellor Rachel Reeves for enabling more investment.