Labour is split over plans to harden the asylum system. MPs attack the home secretary’s package—family removals, faster returns and cash incentives for voluntary departures—as needlessly harsh and divisive, arguing it betrays party values. The leadership says it aims to deter dangerous journeys.
Rachel Reeves abruptly dropped plans to raise income tax rates after days of signalling hikes, triggering market jitters and higher government borrowing costs. Critics say No 10 forced the reversal to protect the PM amid party unrest, while Treasury sources argue improving data justified the change.
MPs say the MoD’s mishandling of personal data left Afghans who worked with UK forces exposed, with inadequate controls despite earlier breaches. A Commons committee warns the failure to learn lessons means a repeat is possible, leaving thousands still at risk while seeking sanctuary in Britain.
Emails released by opponents claim a former US president spent hours with an accuser at his home, citing correspondence involving a convicted offender and an associate. Officials reject the narrative as false; the exchanges date from 2011–2019.
Departing BBC chief Tim Davie admitted costly mistakes and warned of the weaponisation of criticism, urging staff to defend impartial journalism. The broadcaster also faces a $1bn legal threat from Donald Trump over Panorama’s editing of his 6 January 2021 speech.
The BBC Director-General resigned after controversy over airing a Trump clip. The corporation has ordered an internal review of editorial standards as the board seeks an interim successor, aiming to rebuild confidence in oversight and impartiality.
The new NMC chair, Paul Rees, apologised for serious failings, admitting the regulator handled cases ‘completely wrong’. He pledged a root-and-branch overhaul to end a toxic culture, improve investigations, and tighten safeguards for patients and the NHS workforce.
Ministers plan to trim £150m from the UK’s Global Fund pledge for HIV, TB and malaria, committing £850m over three years, 15% less than 2022. Critics, including Andrew Mitchell, warn up to 250,000 lives are at risk, while No 10 cites fiscal pressure and a shift towards defence.
Rachel Reeves signalled Budget income tax rises to tackle a public‑finances shortfall, saying everyone must contribute, even if it means breaking Labour’s pledge. A think tank warned a 2p rise may not suffice. The pound slipped to a six‑month low as the opposition attacked the plan.
