Sir Keir faces calls to resign after No.10 confirmed Peter Mandelson failed security vetting before being named US ambassador. Opposition leaders say he misled MPs. Starmer says officials handled checks and denies intent. No.10 has launched an investigation into how the appointment was approved.

An audit alleges hundreds of public bodies have not implemented last year’s Supreme Court ruling on sex‑based spaces. NHS trusts, councils, police and departments are said to retain outdated policies. Critics blame ministers for inaction.

Two former Labour defence secretaries, including Lord Robertson, warn the UK cannot be kept safe while welfare costs keep rising. They urge the government to restrain benefits spending and boost defence funding, accuse the PM of dithering, and say Starmer’s review demands urgent action.

An inquiry into the Southport attack concludes it could have been prevented if the perpetrator’s parents had alerted authorities to escalating behaviour and hoarded weapons. It exposes major failings by police, social services and mental health teams, urging urgent reforms and accountability.