New polling for the upcoming local elections projects Labour losing control in Wales and suffering wider council setbacks across Britain. The model suggests gains for rivals and independents, signalling a difficult test for the PM’s party and a weakening of its local authority base.
Rachel Reeves plans a defence rise of under £2.5bn a year, far short of calls from ministers and military chiefs. With public finances tight, she is resisting a rapid path to 2.5% of GDP and urging efficiencies. Critics warn security risks are growing; No.10 faces pressure to go further.
Two former Labour defence secretaries, including Lord Robertson, warn the UK cannot be kept safe while welfare costs keep rising. They urge the government to restrain benefits spending and boost defence funding, accuse the PM of dithering, and say Starmer’s review demands urgent action.
Britain faces slower growth, weaker hiring and higher living costs as global tensions drive up petrol, energy and mortgage bills. Strained public finances delay defence investment, require £3.5bn in savings and threaten Labour’s 1.5m homes pledge, though a rebound is expected in 2027.
Rachel Reeves condemned Donald Trump’s handling of the Gulf crisis, saying the US lacks an exit plan and is hitting British households via energy costs and market volatility. She urged a coherent strategy, allied coordination and measures to shield the UK economy.
Retired officer Sam Spry urges the PM to create a medal honouring 999 staff injured in the line of duty. Drawing on his own experience, he says many emergency workers live with lasting physical and psychological effects and deserve national recognition for their service.
A Labour MP will lead a Commons debate on sex education, reviewing what should be taught, how materials are used and parental transparency. The discussion aims to tighten safeguarding, clarify the curriculum and give clearer guidance for schools and teachers.
The IMF warns that escalating tensions involving Iran could tip the global economy into recession, with Britain hit hardest in the G7. The UK’s reliance on energy imports and fragile growth would magnify higher prices and weaker output, tightening pressure on households and public finances.
A Hollywood star’s quip that “no one cares” about ballet or opera unexpectedly fuelled a rush for tickets. Arts leaders, including at the Royal Opera House, reported surging sales and thanked the publicity for drawing new audiences to live performance.
JPMorgan, Citi and Wells posted record quarterly earnings, with roughly $25bn in combined profit. Trading desks benefited from heightened geopolitical tensions and rate-driven volatility, while higher rates lifted net interest income. Executives cautioned on consumer spending and credit.