The BoE kept Bank Rate at 4% after a narrow MPC split, citing easing inflation but sticky services costs. It hinted a cut as soon as next month if data allow, aiming to support a weak economy while keeping price growth on track to target. Markets priced in earlier easing.
Ministers face scrutiny after an individual accused of misconduct, a foreign national due for removal, was mistakenly released and spent six days in the community before the error was found. The justice secretary gave incorrect details in Parliament, while David Lammy did not deliver a prepared statement.
Senior police warn Labour’s justice reforms could undermine public safety, urging tougher sentencing and tighter parole. Their alert follows the mistaken release of two inmates, seen as evidence of a strained system. Ministers face calls to boost prison capacity and oversight.
Two more inmates were wrongly released, days after an earlier error, highlighting failures in prison and court processes. David Lammy condemned the system’s repeated mistakes as the PM ordered urgent action, including a rapid review of release checks and stronger accountability.
Vodafone is marking Remembrance Day with a tribute to UK service personnel, providing free mobile use for troops stationed overseas to help them keep in touch with home. The initiative highlights support for the armed forces community.
Police are searching for an Algerian national mistakenly freed from custody. The release came days after authorities vowed tougher checks following a similar case involving another individual accused of misconduct. Ministers face calls to explain the error and review procedures.
Authorities are searching for detainees mistakenly released, including an Algerian individual accused of misconduct who was due for removal; the error went unnoticed for a week. Another inmate was freed in a separate case. Deputy PM David Lammy faces questions over the errors.
The Budget will propose a pay-per-mile charge to replace shrinking fuel duty. EV owners would face about £250 a year, with rates varying by vehicle and location and potential rural relief. Ministers argue the shift secures road funding as motoring moves away from petrol and diesel.
The PM faces mounting pressure after two more prisoners were mistakenly freed despite new jail checks. MPs demanded answers in the Commons as police work to trace those released and officials urgently review release procedures, intensifying scrutiny of the government’s handling of prisons.
Nvidia’s Jensen Huang says China is poised to overtake the US in AI, citing cheaper energy, quicker permitting and looser rules. He warns western cynicism and high power costs are slowing data centre expansion, urging major investment in computing to stay competitive.