Spain and Portugal have been left reeling from an unusual weather phenomenon triggering widespread blackouts, affecting transport, healthcare, and communications while authorities investigate the underlying cause and warn disruption could continue for days.

Major defence firms are advising staff to avoid charging or syncing personal devices in Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles, citing concerns over potential data security vulnerabilities, and urging heightened caution around foreign-built technology.

Environment Secretary Steve Reed has introduced legislation threatening prison sentences for water executives who conceal illegal sewage spills, with campaigners welcoming the move yet raising concerns over whether it goes far enough to safeguard the nation’s waterways.

Savers are flocking to secure higher ISA rates in anticipation of possible cuts to allowances and shifting interest levels, with major providers reporting a marked surge in recent deposits.