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In the six weeks since Polanski became leader of the Greens, membership has doubled, they've polled higher than ever before while three Labour councillors have defected. Has the insurgent firebrand finally met his match?

Colin Smyth, 52, made no plea to the two charges and has been granted bail ahead of his next court appearance.

Sky News understands that the Iranian man will be deported to France once again.

Jim Gamble, who was one of the frontrunners to become chair of the grooming gang inquiry, has withdrawn, Sky News understands.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has called for a select committee inquiry into the Crown Estate, for which Prince Andrew would be called to give evidence.

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Pressure is growing on the government over its upcoming grooming gang inquiry, with one victim's father saying the government "should start again".

There are varying positions in the shadow cabinet over whether a ban on the burka should be the party's official policy.

Scotland's Finance Secretary Shona Robison said the visits imposed "substantial operational and financial burdens on Scottish public services, particularly Police Scotland".

The Caerphilly by-election will be a key indication of how future Westminster elections could go.