Middle East turmoil has pushed up energy prices and shares, giving bosses at Shell, BP, Centrica and Harbour Energy large paper gains while households face higher bills. The contrast has drawn criticism, amid growing fears that UK homes and businesses could face fuel rationing.

A Hull funeral director admitted giving families the wrong ashes and failing to store remains correctly, affecting dozens. The court heard of widespread mismanagement at the parlour. Relatives demand accountability; sentencing is awaited as regulators review industry safeguards.

Government has approved adding SMA (spinal muscular atrophy) to England’s newborn screening. The NHS change will identify cases at birth, enabling faster treatment and better outcomes, offering new protection for thousands of babies each year. Campaigners who pushed for the change welcomed the decision.

The US President urged the UK to take charge of security in the Strait of Hormuz without American support, amid criticism that his decisions contributed to the crisis. Oil prices jumped and analysts warned of possible fuel supply strains in Europe, increasing pressure on ministers to respond.