Angela Rayner has urged Labour MPs to move now to remove Keir Starmer from No10, as the PM faces a critical Commons vote over conduct claims. Allies are said to be canvassing support, with Rayner seen as frontrunner to take over should he fall.

Kemi Badenoch intensifies pressure on the PM, urging him to resign over the Mandelson vetting row. She argues appointing him US ambassador despite an alleged failed security check shows poor judgement and risks national security, leaving the PM fighting to retain No 10.

Defence sources say the Navy may ask France to help patrol UK waters as the fleet is overstretched amid increased activity by a hostile state’s vessels. Ministers are urged to strengthen capability and deepen cooperation with allies to safeguard home waters and maintain deterrence.

Rising energy costs have intensified pressure on Ed Miliband to lift Labour’s restrictions on new North Sea oil and gas projects. Backers say unlocking domestic supply would cut bills, support jobs and tax revenues; opponents warn it risks undermining Net Zero.