Ex-ministers and former military leaders urge the PM to double defence spending to 5% of GDP, calling it a “1936 moment”. They say current plans—about 2.4%, with a pledge to reach 2.5%—are inadequate and accuse him of lacking candour on MoD funding.
Trump withdrew US backing for the UK’s plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, criticising the PM. The State Department reversed earlier support. No 10 says the agreement protects security and the US presence at Diego Garcia, as Conservatives step up criticism.
Donald Trump urged the PM not to proceed with a deal over the Chagos Islands, arguing the Diego Garcia base is crucial for UK–US security operations in the region. He warned a handover to Mauritius would weaken Western defence. Downing Street says no decision has been taken.
A former Norfolk farmer has left a £2.5m estate to a pub landlady who supported him after his release from prison. He died last year, naming her sole beneficiary. Her husband said their bond was like family.
The government plans to require platforms to remove non-consensual intimate images and deepfakes within 48 hours or face heavy fines and potential blocking in the UK. The PM will hand Ofcom stronger powers to enforce compliance, aiming to protect victims and curb AI-enabled abuse.
Brooklyn Beckham is regularly seen wearing a rose-gold 2020 Patek Philippe Nautilus valued at around £220k, given to him by his father for his 21st birthday.
Surrey Police appeal for witnesses to allegations of trafficking and assault linked to newly released Epstein files. The Met is reviewing claims that Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor’s former bodyguards may hold evidence, as ministers and MPs urge him to give evidence to Parliament.
A survivor of grooming abuse says her request to meet the PM has been ignored. She and others allege the national inquiry is flawed and tightly managed, breaking trust with survivors. She seeks a meeting and accountability. No 10 has not responded.
Christine Lagarde is poised to exit the ECB early, allowing Macron and Merz to agree her successor. The move, expected before the French election, is intended to steady policy direction and counter the risk that rising Eurosceptic sentiment disrupts the choice.
A drill performer convicted of robberies twice absconded, then posted a video saying “I just broke out” while taunting ministers. He faces deportation. The case has intensified scrutiny of prison security and the handling of offenders awaiting removal.