The Lib Dems’ surprising strategy to breach the blue wall

The Greater Manchester town was a Labour stronghold before 2019. Will it be once again? Helen Pidd reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

When she broke the first story over a week ago, the Guardian’s political editor, Pippa Crerar, could hardly have known how deep the betting scandal would go. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

After years in ferocious pursuit, the US has finally agreed to a plea deal with the WikiLeaks founder. But there are fears it may set a dangerous precedent. Julian Borger reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

The election has just over a week to go and traditionally it is around now that voters start to really engage with the campaign. But this year feels different, says Jim Waterson. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

After Labour’s 2019 election defeat, Keir Starmer vowed to transform the party. Who are the advisers who have helped him shape it? Jessica Elgot reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Rishi Sunak has heavily criticised comments from Nigel Farage that the west provoked Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Archie Bland reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

What are Labour’s proposals for fixing the housing crisis? Robert Booth reports from Hitchin, North Hertfordshire. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Labour has begun to hint that its ambitions in government will go beyond what it has promised in its manifesto, and sources have told the Guardian of plans to look at redrawing wealth taxes. Archie Bland reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

He claims he could be prime minister in 2029 but first he has to become an MP. Will it be eighth time lucky for Reform’s leader? Esther Addley reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

The Conservatives have been hit with further irregular gambling allegations and the party’s campaigns director has taken a leave of absence. Archie Bland reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus