Rachel Reeves faces a pivotal Budget: expected to scrap the two‑child benefit cap, lifting many from poverty but creating a £3bn bill likely to fall on workers. An 8.5% rise for 18–20s on minimum wage to £10.85 is planned, amid stubborn inflation and hospitality warnings over job creation.
Washington and a European ally say they’ve agreed the core of a new diplomatic framework after Geneva talks. The ally’s leader is ready to proceed with a European plan, and a former US president says a deal is “very close”. Sensitive issues remain and the other side’s stance is uncertain.
Reeves plans a tax‑heavy Budget to prove fiscal grip and plug a £50bn hole. Expect frozen thresholds, tighter reliefs and a higher minimum wage, with scant room for giveaways as priorities shift to stability, debt reduction and steady funding for public services.
Nigel Farage faces pressure to probe alleged links between his party and a hostile foreign regime after an ex-associate was jailed over payments. Critics demand transparency to protect UK interests. He also denied claims of racist behaviour at school, saying he was never “hurtful.”
Rachel Reeves urged Labour MPs to unite behind her budget, insisting it is a single package and ruling out U‑turns. She rebuked what she called misogynist criticism, defended tax rises to fund services and investment, and said unity and fiscal discipline are vital for economic stability.
The BBC faces an internal rift after board members disclosed sharp divisions over bias allegations. The chairman refuses to quit as MPs scrutinise governance and impartiality. Calls for reform grow, with a review of oversight and culture expected.
Luke Littler backs a push to award Kevin Sinfield a knighthood, citing his exceptional fundraising and hands‑on support for Rob Burrow and MND causes.
The Chancellor plans to cut the annual cash ISA allowance from £20,000 to £12,000 in the Budget, arguing savings should flow into investments. Critics say it penalises careful savers and could hit mortgages. The change helps fund a £15bn welfare package and scrap the two-child cap.
Campaigners warn many older people may struggle to heat homes this winter as energy bills stay high. They urge the Chancellor to use the Budget to ease pressures, saying frozen income tax thresholds and other rises risk leaving pensioners worse off.
