FIFA faces criticism after revealing World Cup final tickets will start at £3,119. Supporter groups say the pricing shuts out ordinary fans and undermines inclusivity, while organisers cite demand and logistics. Critics call for transparency and fairer pricing before the tournament.

Labour pledges £3.5bn to tackle homelessness, aiming to halve rough sleeping and stop families being stuck in B&Bs. Housing minister Steve Reed says the plan will make homelessness rare and brief. A shelter estimates 382,600 people are without a secure home this Christmas.

Auditors say £10.9bn from pandemic support was lost to fraud and error, most unlikely to be recovered. Rapidly designed schemes with limited checks are blamed. Ministers are pursuing select cases, including funds linked to a PPE contractor associated with Michelle Mone, but prospects remain slim.

Families affected by the Southport incident say a shared bond has helped them endure grief. In a BBC piece they shared cherished photos and spoke of finding strength together, honouring their loved ones while slowly rebuilding their lives.