Allies of Wes Streeting have sounded out Angela Rayner about a pact to run on a joint ticket for the Labour leadership, aiming for No 10. Informal talks examined roles and timing for a potential challenge to the PM, though both sides publicly downplay any immediate move.

David Lammy has suggested the UK consider joining a customs union, arguing it would boost growth and cut red tape. The PM has ruled it out, insisting current arrangements can deliver. The comments reveal a policy split and are likely to prompt renewed pressure from business.

Ministers plan nationwide live facial recognition, letting police match CCTV to the passport photo database. They say it will speed suspect identification; critics warn of privacy risks, false matches and mission creep. Statutory oversight and safeguards are promised.

The Treasury’s permanent secretary has been drawn into a dispute over the Chancellor’s claims about the state of the public finances and the OBR’s advice. A released letter suggests her remarks misled the public, prompting fresh questions over how the fiscal outlook was presented.