The Week In Brief: 06/04/2025
- Louie Rowe
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 22
Global Trade Tensions, Political Scandals, and Consumer Reforms— here’s your roundup of the top political stories from this week.
UK Bans Hidden Fees and Fake Online Reviews
The UK has officially outlawed hidden mandatory charges (dubbed "dripped pricing") and fake online reviews under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Act 2024. Businesses must now display all unavoidable charges upfront, including broadband setup or booking fees, which were previously added on at checkout. Additionally, firms will be held accountable for fake reviews, which are estimated to influence up to 90% of online shoppers. The law aims to protect consumers and clamp down on misleading marketing tactics.
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Trump Slaps 10% Tariff on UK Goods, Sparking Global Trade Tensions
US President Donald Trump has imposed a baseline 10% tariff on imports from several countries, including the UK. It forms part of his wider strategy to address trade imbalances and protect US industries. This marks a significant shift in global trade policy, prompting concerns about escalating trade tensions and economic repercussions. The UK government is seeking diplomatic solutions while considering potential retaliatory measures to protect its economic interests
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Minimal Fines Collected by Companies House in Corruption Crackdown
Companies House, the UK body responsible for corporate registrations, has only collected £1,250 in fines after being granted new powers to combat corruption. Despite issuing penalties totalling £58,500 across 234 cases since October, only a small number have been collected. This failure of enforcement has drawn criticism from government officials who emphasise the need for stronger action to tackle fraud and money laundering linked to false company registrations.
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Liberal Democrats Leverage Anti-Trump Sentiment Ahead of Local Elections
In anticipation of England's local and mayoral elections in May, the Liberal Democrats are intensifying their criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump. Their aim: to attract disillusioned Conservative and Labour voters by opposing Trump's policies, including his sweeping tariff implementations and international relations. Party leader Ed Davey has criticised both major UK parties for their passive stances, and proposed a parliamentary vote on any future UK-US trade deal under Trump.
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Labour MP Dan Norris Arrested on Suspicion of Rape and Historical Child Sex Offences
Labour MP Dan Norris (North East Somerset and Hanham) has been arrested on suspicion of rape, child abduction, and historical child sex offences. Historical incidents from the 2000s, with an additional rape accusation from the 2020s, are being investigated. Norris who previously served as the West of England Mayor, and as a junior environment minister under Gordon Brown, was taken into custody following a police raid at his house earlier this week. The Labour Party has suspended and withdrawn his party whip. Avon and Somerset Police are conducting the investigation under their wider Operation Bluestone.
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