MSPs rejected plans to legalise assisted dying. Campaigners vowed to keep pressing for a safeguarded choice for terminally ill adults, arguing the debate is unfinished. Opponents hailed the result as protecting vulnerable people and called for stronger palliative care.
Rachel Reeves unveils a multibillion‑pound push to make the UK a leader in AI and quantum computing, including a nationwide rollout of supercomputers. She says it will create jobs, lift productivity and stem the brain drain, with benefits for health, energy and transport.
World leaders rejected Donald Trump’s call for a military response to Iran, refusing to send warships. Isolated after his threats, he also criticised Starmer and warned NATO allies. The focus shifted to energy security, with most urging diplomacy and restraint over escalation.
An ex-US security adviser says Trump recognises he’s in trouble over Iran policy, having failed to set clear aims. Tehran denies a reported US plea for talks, while the oil crisis worsens, intensifying pressure on Washington.
After a fall caused by a substandard ladder bought online, a tradesman who had to quit work is leading a drive to stop dangerous fakes. He urges tighter import checks, action on bogus safety marks and stronger duties on marketplaces to remove risky goods and protect workers.
Documents reveal Lord Mandelson sought over £500k to leave after revelations about links to a disgraced financier. Officials negotiated the sum down to £75k, emails show, with ministers endorsing the compromise.
A London market trader whose photo featured on a “Welcome to Heathrow” poster suffered racist abuse online. He chose conciliation, inviting detractors to share dates at his stall, stressing dialogue, hospitality and forgiveness over hostility.
Oil prices have surged after supply disruptions at refineries. The AA urges motorists to cut journeys and drive smoothly to save fuel, recommending proper tyre pressures, steady acceleration and car‑sharing or public transport. Pump prices are expected to rise in the short term.
Iran’s clerical assembly moved to choose a new ayatollah, a succession with major regional stakes. Neighbours warned against hardline picks, while Washington weighed in. Diplomats prepared for impacts on sanctions, nuclear talks and maritime security in the Gulf.
The PM pledged to protect Britons by boosting RAF deployments and arranging more mercy flights to repatriate those stranded overseas. While families reunited at airports, the first government rescue effort faced criticism as disorganised, prompting a review.