UK considers hosting 'Northern Games' in 2040 or later with £7 million taxpayer funding

The UK government is exploring the possibility of hosting a "Northern Games" in 2040 or beyond, allocating seven million pounds of taxpayer money for initial planning. This initiative reflects the government's current focus on "the politics of trying"—achieving small, impactful improvements rather than revolutionary changes—but the upcoming Budget is expected to determine the government's 10-year plan and subsequent spending review. John Healey, the Chancellor, faces pressure to balance modest promises with broader economic challenges.