Pressure intensifies on the PM as the Scottish Labour leader calls for him to quit after fresh No10 resignations, including the communications chief. Starmer says he can continue, but critics argue his position is no longer sustainable and urge a swift leadership change.

No10 chief of staff Morgan McSweeney has resigned, accepting responsibility for the fallout over Lord Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador. The move heightens pressure on the PM as MPs demand answers and critics say judgement has faltered. A showdown with the PLP looms.

MPs condemned the decision to raise the TV licence to £180 a year, a £5.50 increase, warning it risks alienating viewers amid an impartiality row at the broadcaster. Critics say the hike will hit hard‑pressed households; ministers argue it aligns with inflation.

A major review says statins are safe for far more patients, finding strong evidence they are not responsible for most side effects long blamed on them. Researchers report no clear link to memory loss, depression or weight gain, potentially widening eligibility.