Controversial welfare cuts worth £5bn may be softened to forestall a potential rebellion from up to 170 MPs, with disability claimants possibly gaining a longer grace period for personal independence payments, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares major spending announcements including an extra £30bn for the NHS, £4.5bn for schools, A-level reforms, and a pact with Housing Secretary Angela Rayner to maintain the 1.5 million homes target, as Home Secretary Yvette Cooper continues pressing for a bigger settlement.

A pioneering blood test, reported to have around 85% accuracy in detecting Alzheimer’s at an early stage, could pave the way for earlier treatment and significantly improve outcomes for those living with the condition.

In response to widespread public outrage over sewage spills, the Government has barred water company executives from receiving bonuses if their firms are found responsible for severe pollution incidents or criminal offences, prompting campaigners to call for further reforms to safeguard Britain’s waterways.

Pensioners receiving disability and housing benefit are set to be included in winter fuel payments, as the government eases its earlier stance on eligibility amid rising concerns over energy costs.