Ministers will scrap the family‑court presumption that contact with both parents is automatically best. Prompted by reviews highlighting risks in abuse cases, judges will prioritise safety and welfare, deciding contact on evidence rather than default, case by case.
Analysts anticipate Chancellor Reeves’s Budget could target savings to raise revenue, with options including reduced pension tax relief, tighter ISA perks, and higher capital gains and dividend taxes. Supporters call it fiscally necessary; critics warn it would hit long‑term savers.
US-led peace efforts collapsed after the other side rejected a freeze on current positions, prompting cancellation of a planned Hungary summit. The White House says no meeting will proceed without movement. Britain and allies support a firm, rules-based stance.
Andrew Bailey warned the surge in private credit could threaten financial stability after recent large US corporate failures. He saw 2008-style risks from complex structures, high leverage and weak covenants, urging greater transparency, tougher stress tests and restraint by lenders and investors.
Boris Johnson told the Covid Inquiry that lockdowns and school closures carried a “huge price” for pupils, acknowledging they failed children. He expressed regret and said he wished an alternative had been found, while arguing decisions were made in good faith under uncertainty and rejecting claims of negligence.
Rachel Reeves says leaving the EU has harmed the economy more than expected, adding avoidable costs for firms. With about a month until the Budget, she signals tax rises to tackle a deficit of up to £50bn and plans to rebuild relations with Brussels to ease trade frictions.
Pressure mounts on the Palace to say what it knew about claims Prince Andrew sought damaging information on his accuser. He is said to have asked aides and contacts to help; representatives dispute this. MPs call for transparency amid suggestions he could face further police questions.
An ex-England footballer’s 21-year-old son has died after a tractor incident, reportedly following a suspected tyre blowout. The family said they are shocked and heartbroken.
Newly disclosed Crown Estate papers say Andrew has paid no rent on Royal Lodge since 2003. The 30-room Windsor home is held on a long, peppercorn lease that requires him to fund refurbishment and upkeep rather than pay an annual sum, details previously redacted.
Questions mount over how Prince Andrew can fund residence at Royal Lodge after reports he received no significant inheritance from the late Queen or Queen Mother and the King withdrew his reported £1m annual allowance. Scrutiny focuses on the lease and whether private family support will sustain it.