UK reverses delay of 30 May council elections after legal challenge, citing new advice.

The UK government has reversed its plan to delay 30 local council elections in May, following a legal challenge by Reform UK that deemed the postponement unlawful. The decision, prompted by updated legal advice, draws criticism over policy instability, with opposition leaders demanding Local Government Secretary Steve Reed’s resignation. Election administrators warn of major logistical challenges, citing less than three months to prepare after paused planning. The government will provide £63 million in support and cover Reform UK’s estimated £100,000 legal costs. Despite backlash, Labour’s Stephen Kinnock defended Reed, highlighting his work on housing and renters’ rights. The reversal has intensified scrutiny over the government’s decision-making and its broader devolution agenda.