Kemi Badenoch alleges Rachel Reeves remains Chancellor to shield the PM, saying Labour is faltering. She warns poor results in May’s council and Scottish elections could trigger a leadership challenge.

High street bosses warn Christmas trading could be make-or-break after two Labour Budgets dampened confidence. With consumers cutting back, pubs and shops fear closures as the economy stalls and unemployment ticks up. Economists say the UK may be on the cusp of a broad downturn.

An investigation reports the Home Office’s voluntary returns scheme gives those with no right to remain cash, travel, short-term accommodation and help to start businesses in their home countries. It also offers reception and family support on arrival, prompting debate that the UK is being overly generous.

About 170 foreign nationals deemed security risks remain in Britain under strict controls because human rights rules block deportation, prompting calls to reform those laws and consider leaving the ECHR. Ministers face pressure to cut monitoring costs and strengthen removal powers.