Several Labour metro mayors, including Sadiq Khan, Steve Rotheram and Richard Parker, have warned that Sir Keir Starmer’s unpopularity is hurting the party on the doorstep ahead of next month’s local elections.

Downing Street says Falklands sovereignty is not in doubt after a leaked US proposal to review support for UK claims, reportedly linked to tensions over Iran. Starmer rebuked Trump, while No 10 vowed not to be pressured. Admiral Lord West branded the idea an insult to islanders.

Cabinet Office head Cat Little told MPs officials sought details of Peter Mandelson’s security vetting days after reports he had failed checks for a proposed US ambassador post. The PM says he learnt of it only last week, raising questions over what No 10 knew and when.

Allies of Sir Olly Robbins say the PM sacked him without letting him explain his handling of Lord Mandelson’s failed security clearance for the Washington ambassador post. The PM says he asked for, then rejected, an explanation; Robbins’s supporters deny he was asked.