Donald Trump rebuked Starmer, calling it “terrible” that Britain declined to send Royal Navy ships to the Gulf to help secure shipping. He warned this could strain transatlantic defence ties. The PM said the UK will support allies while avoiding being drawn into wider military action.
Emergency measures are under way to curb a meningitis outbreak linked to student nightlife, with antibiotics offered to thousands. Officials faced criticism for a day’s delay in issuing alerts. Universities are advising close contacts and monitoring cases.
Officials launch urgent contact tracing after a meningitis outbreak in Canterbury linked to a nightclub over three nights. Thousands who attended are urged to seek medical advice and antibiotics. A university and three schools are affected; two deaths have been confirmed.
Britain is negotiating a Royal Navy role with allies to end a Gulf oil blockade and reopen a vital shipping lane. Minehunting ships and interceptor drones are being readied, with the PM insisting any involvement stays limited. The UK is coordinating closely with the US, France and Gulf partners.
Two students have died and 11 are ill after a meningitis outbreak in Canterbury, with one critical. Cases are linked to a city nightclub. University of Kent students queued for antibiotics as health officials trace contacts and advise urgent treatment amid concern over a possible new strain.
Starmer says the UK will resist US pressure to take part in military action against Iran, calling it a difficult decision. He ruled out sending Royal Navy ships and dismissed threats tied to Nato, stressing Britain’s commitment to the alliance while prioritising diplomacy with European partners.
The father of 18-year-old Juliette, who died from meningitis, says the family are beyond devastated and struggling to find words. The case has sparked fresh appeals to recognise symptoms early and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Rachel Reeves faces claims she is blaming Brexit for economic problems rather than her decisions. Opponents urge her to prioritise growth. She is due to set out plans today, with scrutiny on how they tackle living costs, productivity and the public finances.
Angela Rayner is courting City leaders to calm investors, pledging no lurch to the left. She signals Labour will keep to fiscal rules, maintain a predictable tax and regulatory path, and work with business to spur investment and growth while avoiding market shocks.
World leaders rejected Donald Trump’s call for a military response to Iran, refusing to send warships. Isolated after his threats, he also criticised Starmer and warned NATO allies. The focus shifted to energy security, with most urging diplomacy and restraint over escalation.
Germany and the UK have declined a US request to deploy naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz, saying it falls outside Nato’s remit. The PM said Britain will not be drawn into a wider confrontation. The US president voiced frustration as partners resist patrols of the vital oil route.