Andrew Johnson

A second Union Flag has been raised outside of Essex County Council’s headquarters in Chelmsford, following control of the authority transferring to Reform UK after last week’s elections. The move brings Essex County Council in line with Reform UK national policy, which only permits the Union, national, county or armed forces flags to fly at council buildings under its control. “Today we have raised a second Union Flag at County Hall in Chelmsford. It was a proud moment to see it flying high, representing all of the nations that make up our wonderful United Kingdom.” Cllr Peter Harris, Leader of the Council’s Reform UK group and County Council Leader Elect. The flag of Ukraine that had previously flown since 2022 has been replaced, and following discussions with the Ukrainian community in the county, will find a new home. Councillor Harris said: “The replacement of the Ukraine flag does not diminish the support and generosity that Essex residents have shown the people of Ukraine since 2022 and I know this will continue.”

I’m sat in my first Essex County Council meeting on Monday morning, listening to a councillor induction presentation. ‘Any questions?’ asks an officer. A hand goes up. ‘Yes’ says a recently elected Labour member. ‘Do I get a pension as a councillor?’. His first question was about how much money he gets. Not procedure, or meeting dates or where the loos are… but how much cash he can grab. Same old Labour.

🚨 BREAKING: Kemi Badenoch has suspended the Tory leader on Worcestershire Council after entering a coalition with the Greens to overthrow Reform UK control It led to a Green councillor becoming leader of the council

At Golders Green today, The King reaffirmed his support for the Jewish community, following a series of antisemitic attacks. During his time at the Jewish Care centre in North-West London, The King spoke to victims of the recent knife attack that took place in the area on 29th April 2026. His Majesty also met community police force, Shomrim, who were involved in responding to the attacks.