Starmer now faces an estimated £4.25bn shortfall following a policy U-turn, prompting heightened concerns over welfare spending, potential tax implications, and investor confidence as the PM and critics question Labour’s economic credibility.

An Israeli strike on Iranian territory has sparked a wider confrontation, with Tehran responding militarily, Western allies calling for restraint, and concerns rising over the possibility of a broader conflict.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk are under pressure from allies and tech leaders to mend their relationship following a heated dispute, amid concerns over potential political and economic ramifications, with no signs of an immediate resolution.

NatWest returns to full private ownership as the government offloads its final shares, concluding a 17-year chapter following the £46bn crisis bailout.