European leaders met at No 10 to reinforce support for an ally facing aggression, seeking a breakthrough on stalled US funding. The PM and counterparts pledged sustained security and economic aid and ruled out any settlement requiring territorial concessions, stressing unity and resolve.
Families affected by the Southport incident say a shared bond has helped them endure grief. In a BBC piece they shared cherished photos and spoke of finding strength together, honouring their loved ones while slowly rebuilding their lives.
Kemi Badenoch urges a nationwide inquiry into organised exploitation, vowing a thorough investigation. She proposes stripping dual nationals convicted of such offences of citizenship and deporting them, and wants stronger powers to compel institutions to cooperate with investigators.
Sir Keir has launched an official TikTok account, making him the first PM to join the platform. No 10 says it will help reach younger people, while critics raise privacy and security concerns over the China‑owned app.
Britain is close to finalising a £100bn package with France, Germany and EU leaders to provide long‑term support for a partner nation. Funding would use profits from immobilised foreign assets and European banks. The PM says agreement could come within days after talks at Downing Street.
The First Sea Lord urged the Chancellor to raise defence spending, saying current budget limits leave the Forces underfunded while a rival state pours billions into North Atlantic dominance. He warned Britain could lose a strategic edge and called for investment to protect vital energy and data links.
Organised networks are exploiting Channel crossings by recruiting or coercing some asylum seekers to carry heroin into Britain, reportedly offering free passage as payment. Officials say detection tech and intelligence are being stepped up, with a focus on disrupting smugglers and safeguarding migrants.
Experts warn new tax measures on savings could deter pension contributions, leaving workers undersaving and delaying retirement. Plans include tighter rules on salary sacrifice and a lower cash ISA allowance. Pressure on the state system may hasten a higher pension age.
The Met is rolling out high-powered e-bikes to track offenders using similar machines to steal phones in busy shopping districts. Specialist riders patrol the West End, intercept suspects, seize bikes and issue warnings, aiming to reduce dangerous riding and protect Christmas crowds.
Paramount has made an all‑cash bid for Warner Bros Discovery, derailing Netflix’s agreed deal. Backed by investors linked to Jared Kushner and Gulf capital, the move forces WBD’s board to reassess options and could reshape studio alliances and streaming competition.