Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces claims from business figures and opponents that the Treasury is benefiting most from high pump prices via duty, VAT and green levies, after she criticised retailers. Supporters say measures tackle unfair pricing; critics urge tax cuts to ease costs.

A teenager, influenced by misogynistic online content, killed his mother after seeking guidance from an AI chatbot. The case has raised concerns over safeguarding, the risks of unfiltered AI systems, and has prompted renewed calls for tighter online safety rules and oversight.

Reeves is preparing targeted help for low‑income households facing higher energy bills, ruling out a repeat of the 2022 blanket scheme. Critics say the plan could shift costs to middle earners via taxes or charges. Ministers are assessing funding options before winter.

Amid market turmoil, the US President announced a five-day pause in planned energy-related action, claiming Tehran was close to agreeing limits on military activity and nuclear ambitions. Tehran rejected this, denied talks took place, and insisted he was in retreat.