Relentless downpours continue, with some areas seeing rain every day of 2026. Forecasters warn the wet spell shows no sign of easing, and bookmakers price it at 1-2 that February will be the wettest on record. Flood alerts and travel disruption remain likely across the UK.

Sir Keir faces a Labour backlash after naming Peter Mandelson as the UK’s representative in Washington. Critics cite Mandelson’s past links to Jeffrey Epstein. The PM is said to have blamed security vetting for not flagging concerns as pressure mounts to rethink the move.

Ghislaine Maxwell has reportedly said the photograph of Andrew with Virginia Giuffre is genuine, contradicting his claim it was faked. The development raises fresh questions over his Pizza Express alibi and may renew scrutiny of his past statements amid ongoing misconduct allegations.

Police are investigating Peter Mandelson after he resigned from the Lords. The PM signalled a law change to remove him had he stayed. Labour faces mounting pressure amid scrutiny of his past associations with a convicted offender.