Washington criticised the PM’s response to a recent military operation in Iran, after he barred use of UK bases and questioned its legality. Kemi Badenoch said he fears alienating voters, amid warnings his stance risks straining the Special Relationship.

Ministers are preparing a mass evacuation of Britons from Gulf states, using air and land corridors via Saudi Arabia amid regional unrest. The PM has allowed an ally to use UK bases for operations, and the FCDO has registered 94,000 nationals for assistance.

Calls mount for police to probe alleged ‘family voting’ in the Manchester by-election after poll monitors reported voters being directed inside booths. Senior politicians demand swift action to safeguard ballot integrity and determine whether electoral rules were breached.

Ian Huntley is in a critical condition after an incident in a workshop at HMP Frankland. A fellow inmate was detained on suspicion of carrying out the attack. Huntley, 52, had been working within a segregated unit. Prison safety procedures and supervision are under review.