Keir Starmer urges voters in a key by‑election to reject “hate” and block a breakthrough for Reform, warning that backing Greens or Lib Dems could split the vote and let Nigel Farage’s party win. He frames the contest as a fight for the nation’s soul and asks for support for Labour.
An ex-health minister says the £100bn funding boost delivered almost no improvement, with productivity stalling and waiting lists staying high. He argues that pouring in cash without reform was misguided, urging an overhaul of management, incentives and technology to improve outcomes and value.
Scotland Yard apologised to the Commons Speaker amid a row over Peter Mandelson’s arrest. Detectives said they acted on a tip he might flee to the British Virgin Islands; Sir Lindsay Hoyle says he passed the claim on in good faith. Mandelson’s lawyers demand evidence for the allegation.
After more than 600 people arrived by small boat in a day, MPs urged the government to suspend funding to French patrols unless crossings fall. Supporters say payments must be results‑based; critics warn cutting cash would damage joint operations against smuggling.
An entertainment figure has confessed an unusual fear: that gorillas could one day take over the planet. Framed as a light‑hearted comment linked to his stint on a dance show, the claim has sparked playful chat about celebrity anxieties and wildlife myths.
Chancellor Reeves says Andrew must repay any misused taxpayer funds if confirmed. Civil servants allege he billed for personal services and excessive travel while trade envoy. Police are examining potential misconduct in public office.
An independent review finds some NHS maternity units concealed failings, falsified records and denied families answers after harm. It cites systemic pressures, poor leadership and discrimination. The report urges culture change, investment and accountability to improve safety.
Sir Lindsay Hoyle admitted alerting police that Peter Mandelson might flee to the British Virgin Islands, leading to Mandelson’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office and release on bail. The Met apologised to the Speaker after officers revealed his tip-off to Mandelson’s lawyers.
Police uncovered a large-scale cannabis farm inside a former town-centre casino, with thousands of plants across four floors. The building had been heavily fortified. Officers seized the crop and opened an investigation into an organised gang, including suspected money‑laundering.
Lord Mandelson says his arrest stemmed from a “fictional” claim he was a flight risk, denying he would evade inquiries linked to Jeffrey Epstein. He is challenging the police decision and bail conditions, arguing there was no basis for suspecting he intended to abscond.