The Bank cut the base rate to 3.75% and signalled inflation should fall faster, heading towards 2% next year. Lenders are preparing a spring 2026 mortgage price war, with deals near 3%. Reeves says cheaper borrowing could save first‑time buyers about £100 a month.

Britain is preparing a peacekeeping contingent for a possible allied deployment. The MoD has begun notice-to-move steps, purchasing kit and planning troop movements. Ministers say the UK stands ready to support an emerging settlement and stabilise a fragile situation in Eastern Europe.

Campaigners demand a ban on cutting engineered stone for kitchen worktops after UK cases of silicosis emerged. They urge mandatory workplace health tests, a national register of cases, stronger HSE enforcement and better protections for young tradespeople.

The new MI6 chief warns power is shifting from elected leaders to tech giants and their owners. She highlights risks from opaque algorithms, calls for stronger oversight and values‑led use of advanced tech, and vows sustained backing for Britain’s allies.