Armed Forces minister Al Carns says Britain is on a heightened defence footing, warning that the shadow of conflict is at Europe’s door. Nato chief Mark Rutte urges members to prepare for large-scale contingencies, prioritising investment and readiness.

Campaigners have launched legal action to halt an NHS-backed trial of puberty blockers involving about 220 participants. A senior Conservative has criticised the plan and urged ministers to stop it, while supporters say the study is regulated and designed to assess safety and outcomes.

A National Audit Office report says the Home Office lacks reliable data on how many asylum seekers have gone missing and the true cost of the system. Spending is estimated at about £4.6bn in 2024–25, largely on hotels. The watchdog urges stronger data, oversight and value for money.

The First Sea Lord urged the Chancellor to raise defence spending, saying current budget limits leave the Forces underfunded while a rival state pours billions into North Atlantic dominance. He warned Britain could lose a strategic edge and called for investment to protect vital energy and data links.