Biggest changes coming to the UK in 2025
With the dawn of 2025, the UK ushers in a transformative year under the labour government, which aims to cement its vision for the nation. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, keen to build momentum ahead of the next general election, is focusing on several key reforms, many of which will impact daily life across the country. Here’s a closer look at some of the major changes slated for 2025.
Nationalisation of rail services begins
Labour’s push to bring rail services under public control will begin in earnest this year. Under the Great British Railways umbrella, the government plans to nationalise rail franchises as their private contracts expire.
The first major change will come in May, when South Western Railway, which operates out of London Waterloo, is brought into government ownership. The transition continues in July with the nationalisation of c2c, serving Essex and London, followed by Greater Anglia in the autumn, which covers much of eastern England.
The staggered approach is aimed at reducing costs and ensuring a smooth transition, marking a significant shift in how rail services are managed in the UK.
Ban on Disposable Vapes from 1 June
In a bid to curb environmental damage and protect young people, the government will implement a ban on disposable vapes starting June 1.
This long-delayed policy was first proposed under the conservative government but will now be enforced by labour. Circular economy minister mary creagh described it as a measure to end the country’s “throwaway culture,” while health minister andrew gwynne highlighted its role in reducing the appeal of vaping to children.
Despite its environmental and public health goals, the decision has faced criticism from the UK Vaping Industry Association, which warns of a potential black market emerging in response to the ban.
Renters’ rights bill enacted in summer
Renters across the UK will see significant changes this summer with the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill, championed by deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.
Key provisions include the abolition of Section 21 “no-fault evictions,” giving tenants greater security in their homes. The bill also introduces rights such as the ability to request a pet and prohibits discrimination against tenants on benefits or those with children.
While the legislation may undergo amendments in the House of Lords, the Renter’s Reform Coalition anticipates royal assent in the spring, with implementation following in the summer.
Junk food advertising ban by october
The government will introduce a ban on junk food advertisements before the 9 p.m. watershed starting 1 October 2025.
Health secretary Wes Streeting announced the move as part of efforts to combat childhood obesity, which he described as both unfair to children and a strain on the NHS. However, the measure has sparked debate due to its strict classification of “junk food.”
Using the food standards agency’s nutrient profiling model, the policy labels certain items, including muesli, rice cakes, and protein bars, as unhealthy. Critics have questioned the fairness of these categorizations, but the government remains steadfast in its approach.
Legalising assisted dying: A contentious debate
One of the most ethically charged issues of the year will be the potential legalisation of assisted dying. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater’s bill, which passed an initial vote in November, remains in the committee stage and faces significant hurdles.
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While supporters argue it offers dignity and choice to those with terminal illnesses, opponents vow to resist its progression. If the legislation successfully navigates the House of Commons by May, it could become law by the end of the year. However, the complexity of the issue means it may take up to two years to come into full effect.
Labour’s vision for 2025 and beyond
Labour’s first full year in power is set to bring sweeping changes that touch on transport, housing, public health, and personal freedoms. With local elections approaching in May, the government is likely to face both praise and criticism as it works to deliver on its ambitious promises.
While some initiatives, like rail nationalisation and renters’ rights, have been met with widespread support, contentious issues such as the assisted dying bill and the junk food ad ban highlight the complexities of governing a diverse and evolving nation. As the year progresses, these policies will shape the UK’s political and social landscape, leaving an indelible mark on its future.
