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.

Rachel Reeves is under pressure after OBR chair Richard Hughes was pushed out just before he was due to give Budget evidence to MPs. Critics accuse the Treasury of silencing scrutiny after an internal row; ministers deny interference. MPs from across parties want full transparency and his testimony.