The Covid inquiry finds frontline staff’s efforts prevented NHS collapse. Chair Baroness Hallett praises a “superhuman” response, but criticises years of underfunding and unclear messaging—especially “Stay Home”—for leaving services ill-prepared and deterring patients from seeking care.

Met chief Sir Mark Rowley has asked US authorities to release unredacted Epstein files so UK police can review potential offences. Officers are examining a broad range of allegations, and the papers may include material on Andrew’s alleged misconduct, increasing pressure for transparency.

Analysts warn UK households could pay up to £1,300 more within months as Middle East tensions disrupt oil routes and push up energy costs. They say US moves under Trump are amplifying price pressures on fuel and food, risking faster inflation and possible rate action.

Two students have died and 11 are ill after a meningitis outbreak in Canterbury, with one critical. Cases are linked to a city nightclub. University of Kent students queued for antibiotics as health officials trace contacts and advise urgent treatment amid concern over a possible new strain.