The government has abandoned plans to make digital ID mandatory for right‑to‑work checks. The PM’s team says participation will be voluntary, with existing documents still accepted. A broader national ID requirement has been shelved after a review, citing concerns over cost, privacy and practicality.
Ministers will unveil a £45bn Northern Powerhouse Rail package, including new lines to Manchester and upgrades across West Yorkshire. The long-delayed plan aims to cut journey times, boost capacity and reliability, and support growth across the North. Work will span more than a decade.
The PM has scrapped plans to make digital IDs compulsory for workers, opting for a voluntary scheme with existing documents still accepted for right‑to‑work checks. Ministers cite cost, complexity and civil liberties concerns, promising safeguards and consultation before rollout.
Charities warn older people in poverty could exceed 2m. Research finds many pensioners cutting heating, meals and washing to manage costs. With around 1.9m already affected, campaigners urge ministers to act to prevent the situation worsening.
Donald Trump pledged support for protesters in Iran, warning authorities that abuses will carry a heavy price. He said US options include military action against nuclear facilities and bases. UK ministers urged a tougher line on Tehran amid reports of arrests during the crackdown.
Donald Trump revived talk of acquiring Greenland, sharing a photo of himself viewing a map and suggesting a deal could be struck. The post echoes his 2019 proposal, which Denmark rejected, and sparked fresh debate over the island’s status and the feasibility of any purchase.
Labour will set out phased rail plans for the North. £1.1bn is confirmed for early upgrades in West Yorkshire, improving links between Leeds, Sheffield, York and Bradford. A new Liverpool–Manchester route is slated for the 2030s, and a Birmingham–Manchester link is promised after HS2 North’s cancellation.
Donald Trump pledged support for demonstrators in Iran, saying assistance is coming and urging them to document abuses. Washington signalled potential action while keeping the door open to talks. Tehran said it was prepared for any escalation but maintained willingness for dialogue.
Donald Trump urged demonstrators in Iran to remain defiant, saying “help is on its way” and condemning the crackdown. His remarks were seen as a signal of potential US involvement as Washington weighs options and urges talks amid reports of significant casualties.
At a North Sea collision trial, jurors heard a cargo ship’s skipper stayed alone on watch and failed to act for over 30 minutes as the vessel closed on an anchored tanker, causing a sailor’s death. The prosecution says the danger was clear from radar and sight; the defence contests the account.