A drill performer convicted of robberies twice absconded, then posted a video saying “I just broke out” while taunting ministers. He faces deportation. The case has intensified scrutiny of prison security and the handling of offenders awaiting removal.
An exiled dissident named as a target by an alleged spy network active in Britain says he takes extreme precautions, fearing poisoning after revelations that a leading opposition figure was killed with a rare toxin. He believes he’s on a hit list and calls for decisive UK action against hostile state operatives.
The PM pledged action to curb harmful AI and protect children online, weighing a social‑media age ban and stricter rules on bots and deepfakes. He promised to hold tech firms to account, but campaigners say any crackdown will falter unless platforms co‑operate and enforcement has real teeth.
Yvette Cooper urges tougher sanctions and allied action after new scientific analysis suggests Alexei Navalny was killed in custody using a rare toxin. She says truth and transparency must counter state disinformation, with Britain pressing to hold those responsible to account.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe faces backlash after saying the UK is being “colonised” by migrants and citing incorrect population figures. Sikh and Muslim Manchester United fans protested, and the PM called the remarks offensive. The club co-owner is under pressure to apologise.
A serial rail fare dodger who avoided paying £3,600 over two years escaped jail. The court imposed a suspended sentence, unpaid work and costs, citing potential for reform. An MP urged tougher measures to deter fare evasion and protect funding for public transport.
A drug dealer who rigged his home with hazardous booby traps has been jailed for seven years. Police uncovered an extensive operation and devices intended to deter intruders. The judge said the set‑up posed serious risk to neighbours and emergency services.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar urged the PM, Sir Keir Starmer, to resign, saying his first loyalty is to the country over party. His move breaks with a close ally, while Cabinet ministers rallied behind Starmer, sharpening pressure and exposing divisions over Labour’s leadership.
Morgan McSweeney has resigned as the PM’s chief election strategist after a row centred on Peter Mandelson. Calling it “all my fault”, he leaves No 10 amid concern among allies that the episode has damaged authority and could prompt renewed internal challenges.
With polls sliding and rows over key policies, the PM faces a struggle to stay in post. Some MPs are testing support for a leadership change before the election, while allies urge unity and insist the government’s plans on the economy and migration will continue.