Surveys suggest that people working in farming tend to have poorer mental health than the general population. While different pieces of research point to different causes of poor mental health among farmers, some causes cited more than once are bad or unpredictable weather and climate, financial pressures, isolation and negative portrayals of farming in the media. The government has said it is improving access to mental health services in rural communities.
The Microplastic Filters (Washing Machines) Bill [HL] is a private member’s bill introduced by Lord Randall of Uxbridge (Conservative). It would require new washing machines to have filters to capture microfibres, a form of microplastic shed from synthetic clothing. It would also impose a duty on the secretary of state to promote awareness of microfibre pollution. The bill’s second reading in the House of Lords is scheduled for 11 September 2026.
![Microplastic Filters (Washing Machines) Bill [HL]: HL Bill 21 of 2026–27](https://lordslibrary.parliament.uk/content/uploads/sites/2/2026/08/planetcare-5cpBWEl6y6c-unsplash-1232x693.jpg)
Research using large-scale patient datasets has enabled advances in healthcare. However, scientists and data controllers face challenges including fragmented systems, complex governance and data security. While members of the public are largely in favour of their information being used to improve health outcomes, concerns remain about data breaches and commercial interests. Through the creation of the Health Data Research Service, the government aims to simplify access to health data and support innovation.
In Focus
While energy demand has grown at a steady rate for most of the past decade overall, the global energy market has been affected by several shocks including the Covid-19 pandemic and conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. This briefing looks at global energy consumption and the issues which affect energy prices around the world.
In Focus
Digital sovereignty has become a pressing policy issue as governments seek to balance economic opportunity, security and control over critical technologies. Particular concerns have been raised over the market dominance in several key areas by a small number of powerful companies, predominantly headquartered in the United States and China. Debate has focused on how the UK can adapt to this changing environment and to what extent it should seek to expand its own sovereign capabilities and to regulate overseas providers, whilst sustaining international collaboration.
Research Briefing
The Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill is a money bill that would implement three tax measures as part of the government’s package of support to tackle increased energy prices. The bill would increase the electricity generator levy, increase the rate of tax-free mileage allowance for employees, and provide a 12-month vehicle excise duty exemption for HGVs.
In Focus
The House of Lords UK Engagement with Space Committee has examined the UK’s potential role in emerging economic opportunities presented by the growth of space exploration and commercialisation. To harness these opportunities, the committee said that the UK’s space sector requires clearer strategic direction, an updated funding structure, and better cross-government working. It called on ministers to champion the space sector as crucial to future economic growth and national resilience.
Research Briefing
The Nature’s Rights Bill [HL] is a private member’s bill sponsored by Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle (Green Party). The bill would recognise nature as a legal subject, granting it specific rights for protection and restoration. The bill would set out a legal framework for how this would operate, including an integrated rights framework and mechanisms for how nature’s rights would be implemented and enforced.
Research Briefing
The Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill is a government bill intended to strengthen the cyber security of organisations in the UK that provide essential services, such as healthcare, drinking water and energy. It would amend the Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations 2018 to include additional sectors and update incident reporting duties. It would also confer powers on the secretary of state to amend the legislation and issue directions to organisations when necessary for national security. The bill is scheduled for its second reading in the House of Lords on 14 July 2026.
In Focus
Rural areas contribute a significant proportion of England’s economic output. The government has announced several policies intended to support growth in the rural economy, including farming. However, it has faced criticism for the delay in outlining its overall strategy for the agricultural sector. This briefing provides data on the rural economy and summarises government policy and stakeholder reaction
In Focus
In recent years, electricity prices for both households and businesses have seen significant increases. This briefing sets out how electricity bills are calculated, how much on average they cost and how they compare internationally. It also provides commentary on why prices have been so high and gives an overview of government policy in this area.
In Focus
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 regulates in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and human embryo research in the UK. Recently, there have been calls for reform to reflect changes in societal attitudes and scientific developments since the act was last updated in 2008. The government has said it is considering recommendations made by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, the sector’s independent regulator.
In Focus
Over half of adults and young people in the UK use generative artificial intelligence (AI), which can produce human-like content and dialogue. Uses range from work and study to therapy and companionship. Academics and other commentators have considered whether using AI as a friend could be detrimental to users’ ability and desire to maintain relationships with other humans. This briefing also provides a short overview and suggested further reading on AI’s other impacts on society.
In Focus
The UK does not have AI-specific legislation or regulators. The government previously planned to introduce an AI bill to “ensure the safe development and use of AI models” but has since opted for a more targeted approach. Supporters of cross-sector legislation argue it is required to mitigate a broad range of current and future AI risks while critics claim this approach may stifle innovation through excessive regulatory burdens.
Research Briefing
This briefing explores what announcements the government could make in the King’s Speech on 13 May 2026 about energy, the environment and animal welfare.
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