Great Britain presented as future “associate member” of the EU

Good evening. Britain could join the European Union as an “associate member” under plans to dramatically expand the bloc. Additionally, a complaint about Russell Brand leaving his last TV job has emerged.

Starmer tells Macron he wants ‘stronger’ UK-France relations

Sir Keir Starmer has told Emmanuel Macron he will seek to build an “even stronger” relationship between the UK and France – if Labor wins power at the next general election. The Labor leader and the French president spoke in Paris today, with post-Brexit relations likely at the forefront. Read our live blog for the latest news. It comes after France and Germany proposed a four-tier system in which the UK would be governed by the European Court of Justice if it were to join. Joe Barnes has the complete story.

Nigel Farage calls report on city debanking a “whitewash”

The Financial Conduct Authority said information provided by banks, building societies and payment companies suggested no accounts were “primarily” closed due to a customer’s political beliefs between July 2022 and June 2023. However, the review faces ridicule after regulators admitted Mr Farage’s account closures at Coutts were not investigated as part of the review. Tim Foy has the complete story.

Russell Brand quit his last major TV role after his co-star called him a ‘predator’

It has been claimed that Russell Brand left his last mainstream TV job after a presenter ambushed him on camera over sexual abuse allegations. Ewan Somerville has the complete story. Meanwhile, a Labor adviser said Ed Miliband made a “terrible decision” in agreeing to an interview with Brand during the 2015 election campaign. Catherine Lough And Dominique Penna get the full story. You can also follow the latest news on our live blog.

Evening briefing: the essential headlines of the day

Ukraine-Russia War | Western allies will send Ukraine dozens of additional tanks as it seeks to regain more territory lost during its counteroffensive. Read the latest war news on our live blog.

Pictured: Meghan makes a surprise visit to a homeless cafe during a trip to Germany