Healthwatch England says about one in seven GP referrals is lost, rejected or delayed, leaving people off waiting lists unless they chase. It blames poor communication between practices and hospitals and warns this risks slower diagnosis and treatment and avoidable harm.
A former Dulwich College pupil, Yinka Bankole, alleges Nigel Farage made a racist remark to him when they were 17. He spoke out after the Reform leader’s press conference denying racism and antisemitism. Farage rejects the claim and criticises broadcasters for reporting earlier allegations.
Nigel Farage rejected new claims from former classmates that he used racist language at school, calling them vindictive. He attacked broadcasters and the Guardian over coverage as his party slips in polls, bringing renewed scrutiny of his conduct and leadership.
The police watchdog has closed its 14‑year Hillsborough investigation, ruling no officers will face discipline. It found serious failings and efforts to shift blame, but cases were time‑barred or individuals had retired or died. Families condemned the outcome as a bitter injustice.
OBR chair Richard Hughes has resigned after an inquiry found the watchdog mishandled sensitive data, leading to the early release of a budget document. Accepting responsibility, he stepped down as scrutiny grows over protections for fiscal information and the government’s handling of the episode.
The PM says his economic plan will take years to deliver, rejecting calls for quick fixes after the budget. He backs Reeves’ tax rises and outlines pro-growth reforms, including targeted deregulation and closer European links, urging voters to judge it at the end of the parliament.
The chancellor said higher taxes on the wealthy are needed to repair underfunded public services and sustain investment in schools, hospitals and infrastructure. She rejected calls for austerity after weaker growth forecasts and defended protecting capital spending to boost productivity.
Ministers have dropped the pledge of day-one protection from unfair dismissal, opting for a six-month threshold after negotiations with business and unions. The TUC accepted the compromise as the nine-month probation plan is scrapped, prompting concern over a manifesto breach.
Rachel Reeves unveiled a £26bn revenue plan, with tax rises aimed at wealthier households and a continued freeze on income tax thresholds. She scrapped the two-child benefit cap and promised help with energy bills, saying everyone must contribute while protecting those most in need.
