Ministers are weighing dropping Labour’s promise to give 18–24s the full national living wage, amid claims it deters hiring. With about one in six young adults out of work, options include keeping age bands or phasing rises to ease costs for employers; unions argue pay should be equal.

The PM has scrapped proposals to postpone upcoming council elections after legal advice warned the delay could be unlawful and a legal challenge loomed from Reform. Votes will now proceed on schedule, avoiding disruption for millions of voters.

Ministers plan to prohibit under-16s from using social media this year, using new fast‑track powers. Proposals include robust age verification and curbs on addictive features such as infinite scroll and auto‑play. A consultation will shape the rules so they can be implemented within months.

The PM warns Reform’s agenda would fracture alliances, isolate Britain and risk national security, saying Nigel Farage’s approach is a retreat from responsibility. He pitches a centrist, pro‑alliance course and higher defence spending to keep the UK safe and influential.