Over 8,000 prisoners were released early before Christmas under Labour’s scheme, figures show, including thousands serving two years or more and some with sentences exceeding 14 years. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick says they should still be in custody and criticises the policy.

Readers have raised over £100,000 for Whizz-Kidz, funding around 20 personalised wheelchairs and other mobility aids for children. The Christmas appeal will shorten waiting times and help youngsters gain independence.

Ministers raised the tax threshold on inherited farmland to £2.5m after a U-turn, easing bills for estates. Farming groups argue many family holdings remain exposed and are pressing the government to scrap the levy entirely to safeguard succession.

The Post Office plans a major revamp, expanding branches to plug gaps left by bank closures. New hubs will offer access to cash, small-business support and community services, including prescriptions, to draw people back to town centres and boost high streets.