Independent

Experts warn of a worsening illicit substance crisis in prisons, with a surge in criminal activity fuelled by a more lucrative and diverse drugs market.

Lord O’Neill, an ex-Treasury minister, warns Reeves may have to abandon her promise not to raise taxes for working people or risk sacrificing the government’s other priorities.

Marking the PM’s first year in power, the government’s landslide win paved the way for a new NHS plan, boosted defence spending to support Britain and its Western allies in the war, and triggered multiple U-turns, ministerial departures, and welfare rebellions.

Brushing aside her Commons tears as “personal reasons,” the Chancellor presented a united front with the PM while launching a 10-year NHS plan, signalling Labour’s commitment to healthcare improvements despite recent tensions.

Campaigners warn that the PM’s welfare reforms could leave women, particularly those with disabilities, vulnerable to remaining in harmful domestic environments due to reduced financial support hindering their ability to escape.

Keir Starmer is facing a £4.5bn gap in public finances after reversing benefit and winter fuel cuts, prompting economists to warn of tax hikes in the autumn as the PM’s authority suffers another blow.

European leaders have agreed to raise defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, crediting the US president

The PM calls on Trump to exercise restraint and pursue a diplomatic course, while speculation grows over potential US action with Israel against Iran in the coming weeks, and Starmer emphasises that a peaceful outcome depends on dialogue.

The piece details the US President’s suggestion he may authorise airstrikes on Iran after its leadership rejected demands to stand down, amid high-level talks led by the PM over the deepening Middle East crisis.