After UK bases in Bahrain and Cyprus were targeted, Kemi Badenoch urges a more assertive stance against a hostile Middle East regime, saying Britain cannot rely on others. She will outline higher defence spending to reassure allies who fear the UK is stepping back.

Kemi Badenoch accuses the PM of putting job security above national security, calling him “weak” on China, Iran and defence. She cites rows over a proposed Chinese embassy in London and an alleged spy case, arguing these show poor judgement and indecision.

Freezing income tax thresholds will push about one million more pensioners into paying tax on the state pension, new estimates suggest. Announced with the Spring Statement, the move drew claims of a stealth tax on OAPs, while the Treasury says it is required to meet fiscal rules.

A former US president criticised the PM for delaying approval to use the UK’s Chagos base for operations concerning Iran, saying it took far too long and risked straining the UK-US relationship. Permission was eventually granted.