Rachel Reeves denied misleading over the Budget during a TV clash with Kemi Badenoch. She rejected claims she invented a £30bn gap to justify higher taxes, saying she relied on official briefings. The dispute continues as critics scrutinise her figures and messaging.
Tom Stoppard has died aged 88. The acclaimed playwright reshaped British theatre with works from Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead to Arcadia and Leopoldstadt. David Hare reflects on their 50‑year friendship and assesses Stoppard’s enduring legacy.
Following a row over the chancellor’s remarks, the PM is moving to shore up the budget, pledging action on the cost of living and stability for public finances. The opposition has reported the chancellor to a financial watchdog over disputed fiscal claims.
Reports claim the PM sanctioned messaging about a fiscal “black hole” despite being briefed that the OBR outlook was positive, helping justify tax rises. The disclosure has sparked demands for transparency and possible inquiries into whether the public was misled.
Alex Scott says she was disappointed Jess Glynne couldn’t be present during her eviction from the jungle show, highlighting the pressure of camp life and the value of support. She thanked viewers and praised fellow contestants and crew for their resilience.
Working households with three children would need £71,000 in pay to match the income available on benefits, a report claims. It says out-of-work families are £18,000 better off than neighbours on the living wage after the Budget scrapped the two-child cap, prompting calls for the Chancellor to resign.
Alex Scott expressed disappointment that partner Jess Glynne wasn’t there to greet her after she became the first campmate voted out of I’m A Celebrity. She said it has been a difficult period for them and she had expected to see her at the exit.
Rachel Reeves faces calls to quit after a poll found voters believe she misled the public over the nation’s finances. The OBR says the Treasury was told weeks ago of a £42bn surplus, despite claims of a £30bn gap. No 10 indicates the PM knew the true position. The City is urged to examine any market impact.
Filming of BBC drama This City Is Ours in Marbella was disrupted after criminals targeted the production. A crew member’s hotel room was raided, prompting a police investigation. Work on series two continues as security measures are reviewed.
Fiona Hill warns that Putin is manipulating Trump, saying he mocked the US leader and has no interest in peace. Hill, who observed their meetings, says this risks undermining Western security and cohesion and urges firm transatlantic resolve.