Britain’s top defence chief has told the PM the MoD needs an extra £28bn to fix stockpile shortfalls and readiness gaps, warning deterrence could weaken into 2030 without rapid investment. The Treasury faces pressure to fund a boost to industry, kit and forces ahead of policy reviews.
Nigel Farage faces criticism from Clacton constituents after accepting a free trip to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Critics argue he is neglecting local duties, citing reports he has flown about 56,000 miles since July 2024, often on complimentary travel.
Ministers are preparing a climbdown on planned tax rises for pubs, with Rachel Reeves expected to unveil emergency rates relief. Officials promise a lifeline, but details and timing remain unclear. Kemi and hospitality leaders warn the offer won’t go far enough.
Thirty-four former schoolmates say Nigel Farage displayed racist behaviour at school, citing repeated derogatory remarks and taunting. Farage denies being racist, describes the incidents as schoolboy banter, and says he will not apologise.
Reeves will reverse plans to scale back business rates relief for pubs. After warnings of widespread closures, the chancellor is expected to extend support beyond April to help with rising costs, scrapping the impending rise in bills for hospitality landlords.
The PM has scaled back planned business rate rises for pubs after pressure from the sector. The change aims to support hospitality and safeguard jobs. Critics, including Conservatives, argue the shift comes late and offers limited relief, pointing to a pattern of reversals.
On The Traitors, Fiona targeted Rachel to deflect suspicion, triggering a tense roundtable and leaving Stephen unsettled. The gambit strained alliances and set up a high‑stakes vote as players weighed loyalty, tactics and survival.
Reeves will soften pub tax plans, with the Budget set to ease business rates and cut red tape. The shift follows pressure from the sector and a public campaign over closures. Treasury options aim to reduce costs for hospitality while safeguarding revenue.
Ministers vow to enforce sanctions at sea after dozens of suspected “shadow” tankers were tracked near UK waters. The government signals readiness to use hard power, including potential boarding and seizures, to curb sanction evasion by ships using false flags in the Channel and North Atlantic.
Downing Street plans a reset with Brussels that sidesteps financial services. City firms, citing post‑Brexit reforms and the scale of the UK market, resist closer alignment and prefer domestic rule‑making. Some warn uncertainty could grow, while ministers aim to deepen cooperation in other areas.
Burglars who targeted wealthy homes have been jailed after sharing selfies with cash and luxury watches. Police used the posts to identify members and link them to offences across Cheshire, Derbyshire and nearby counties. Several received multi‑year sentences.