Alan Milburn warns Britain risks a “lost generation” as rising numbers of 16–24s with common mental health conditions move onto long‑term benefits. He urges a review of welfare rules, earlier treatment and workplace support, arguing anxiety and depression are often compatible with work.
Allies of the PM are moving to stop Andy Burnham re‑entering Parliament after an MP’s resignation opened a by‑election route. The NEC may impose tight control over candidate selection, possibly a loyalty pledge, amid concern he could emerge as a leadership rival.
At Davos, the US President announced a framework on Greenland and wider Arctic cooperation to benefit all Nato allies. He ruled out force, withdrew a tariff threat, and floated a joint “golden dome” missile‑defence concept, calming markets and allied capitals.
Trump signalled he wants to “work something out” with Nato, softening threats that alarmed allies. As leaders gather in Davos, he faces accusations of undermining the rules‑based order, but says his aim is fairer burden‑sharing and reforms.
Trump said he no longer thinks purely about peace and refused to rule out military action to take Greenland, a Danish territory. The remarks, ahead of Davos, drew criticism in Europe and revived tensions over transatlantic security and Nato burden-sharing.
The PM warns a row over new US tariffs risks a damaging downward spiral for transatlantic trade. He will deliver an emergency statement on Greenland, urging allied coordination to protect British interests and pursue a negotiated, rules‑based path to de‑escalate tensions.
Senior ministers are urging the PM to dismiss Wes Streeting, accusing the health secretary of disloyalty and fuelling divisions with blunt briefings and policy freelancing on NHS reform. Allies of Streeting reject this, saying he is focused on delivery and acceptable debate.
Robert Jenrick has joined Reform UK after being sacked by Kemi Badenoch for holding undisclosed talks with Nigel Farage. The Tories say they acted pre-emptively; Jenrick says the party has lost its way on migration and tax. His switch threatens to split the right-of-centre vote.
The PM has scrapped plans to make digital IDs compulsory for workers, opting for a voluntary scheme with existing documents still accepted for right‑to‑work checks. Ministers cite cost, complexity and civil liberties concerns, promising safeguards and consultation before rollout.
Britain is readying special forces to crack down on an illicit tanker network evading sanctions, potentially covering hundreds of vessels. Working with allies, the plan would step up maritime enforcement, curb prohibited trade and reinforce Western resolve against sanctions‑busters.