Britain’s crime crisis is costing taxpayers at least £33bn a year, around £90m a day, covering police probes, NHS care, court cases and victim support. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp says the bill has risen by £616m under Labour and accused Sir Keir Starmer of being soft on criminals.
Lord Mandelson was granted the highest security clearance, allowing access to sensitive intelligence, during Labour’s preparations for office. The approval has ignited a row over vetting. Starmer will face MPs to explain the process, while a dismissed official linked to the case weighs legal action.
Keir Starmer was warned of red flags about Lord Mandelson before giving him a senior government role, say Whitehall sources. The PM will explain the decision to MPs, amid scrutiny of the vetting process and questions over propriety, transparency and security checks.
The PM will face MPs over the row about Peter Mandelson’s involvement in Whitehall vetting. After recent revelations, he is set to give a high‑stakes statement on how the role was approved and what checks were made, amid unease in his party about the impact on his authority.
The PM will explain the Peter Mandelson security vetting fiasco and why he dismissed the head of the Foreign Office. Ministers say he was kept in the dark and did not mislead MPs. He faces Commons questions, with Sir Olly Robbins due to appear tomorrow.
Cambridge researchers are using the Daily Star as a primary source to study Britishness and popular culture. They argue its wide readership reflects everyday tastes, noting traditions like punting on the Cam, to map how national identity is expressed through mainstream interests and language.
Sir Keir Starmer joins the crew of a Vanguard-class nuclear sub returning to Scotland after a record 206-day patrol, thanking them for warding off threats from tyrants like Putin. In a separate exclusive, the PM says it was “unforgivable” he wasn’t told about the Mandelson vetting.
Economists warn tensions centred on Iran will push up energy and shipping costs, keeping US inflation high even after conditions ease. Dearer petrol and insurance on key sea lanes could slow growth, strain household budgets and complicate the Fed’s stance into election season.
Lord Mandelson’s consultancy reportedly had a leading client with links to China’s military sector, prompting scrutiny of foreign influence and vetting. MPs seek assurances on national security and lobbying transparency, with Labour’s leadership expected to address concerns.
A 51-year-old’s chatbot addiction led to a severe mental health crisis, highlighting rising risks from unregulated AI. Calls are growing for safeguards, transparency, age limits and better support to prevent dependency, isolation and harm to users.
Sir Keir Starmer faces claims of a cover-up over Lord Mandelson’s failed vetting for a senior post. No 10 says it learned only at the last minute, though officials were reportedly aware weeks earlier. Opponents urge publication of the timeline and advice; the PM says the process was independent.
Kemi Badenoch intensifies pressure on the PM, urging him to resign over the Mandelson vetting row. She argues appointing him US ambassador despite an alleged failed security check shows poor judgement and risks national security, leaving the PM fighting to retain No 10.
Rising tension in the Strait of Hormuz after reported incidents involving commercial ships. The US President issues new warnings as Washington boosts patrols, while Tehran hardens its line. Shippers urge de‑escalation to keep the waterway open, citing risks to energy supplies and global trade.
The PM is criticised for plans to repeal the Legacy Act, which shields Northern Ireland service personnel from historical prosecutions, to improve EU relations. Opponents warn it would reopen cases, undo prior protections and worsen mental health pressures on veterans.
Troops say ration packs are causing digestive discomfort, blaming bean‑heavy, veg‑based meals. Complaints have prompted a review of menus and nutrition to cut flatulence while keeping energy, allergies and sustainability requirements in check.
Liz Truss visited Switzerland on a ski trip while seeking to improve EU relations, reportedly meeting allies to discuss cooperation. Critics question the optics given her Brexit stance, while supporters argue engagement abroad can serve Britain’s interests.