A magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck the Lake District, the BGS confirmed. Tremors were felt across Cumbria and parts of Lancashire, rattling homes and prompting numerous reports. No significant damage or injuries were recorded, and activity subsided quickly.
Parents are set to save up to £900 a year as the PM pledges to overhaul infant formula rules. Planned changes will allow price promotions, improve labelling and retailer guidance, and boost competition, helping families make informed choices and cut costs.
David Lammy faced criticism after signalling plans to end jury trials in some cases, arguing judge-only hearings would cut delays and costs. He also admitted officials had mistakenly released more offenders than previously disclosed.
Gary Lineker criticised activist Tommy Robinson for reposting a holiday video of him with a woman, calling it intrusive and misleading. The dispute escalated on social media, with Lineker questioning Robinson’s motives. It followed Lineker’s trip to Mexico for an event.
Rachel Reeves denied misleading over the Budget during a TV clash with Kemi Badenoch. She rejected claims she invented a £30bn gap to justify higher taxes, saying she relied on official briefings. The dispute continues as critics scrutinise her figures and messaging.
New figures show net migration down to 204,000, a sharp fall on last year. The PM welcomed the shift, with fewer arrivals for study and work after visa changes. However, asylum applications have reached a record and small‑boat arrivals are up. Ministers signal further tightening.
Rachel Reeves set out Budget 2025 with about £20bn in extra tax. Threshold freezes continue, a levy hits high‑value homes, and reliefs on savings and shares are tightened. Some investment incentives remain. The OBR says the tax burden will reach a record level, squeezing household incomes.
The chancellor sets out a Budget to plug a £35bn gap, lifting duties on alcohol and sugar and adding charges affecting nights away and takeaway coffee, meaning many will pay more. She also confirms a wage rise and a £15bn welfare boost, urging Labour MPs to back plans to balance the books.
Over 1,000 people have been safeguarded through new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders, which let courts swiftly impose restrictions on suspected abusers. The minister said early intervention is working and urged continued reporting and robust support services for victims.
Critics say Reeves has stalled the economy by drip‑feeding possible tax and spending moves, creating uncertainty that’s frozen hiring and investment and kept growth flat. The chancellor argues consultation is essential as she finalises plans.