Luke Bunker, 29, developed silicosis, COPD and emphysema after cutting quartz‑engineered kitchen worktops. He calls for urgent safety checks and a ban on the material to protect workers from silica dust, amid rising cases reported in the trade.

Nearly 7,000 care home residents in England got 28 days’ notice to leave last year, a 200% rise since 2018. Providers cite underfunding and councils refusing to meet fees once savings run out. Campaigners say forced moves risk residents’ wellbeing, and families warn of possible ‘revenge’ evictions.

Rachel Reeves says she can’t rule out tax rises in 2026, citing global volatility, though she hopes further changes won’t be needed. She says fiscal headroom has improved and signals housing support, including easing mortgage rules for first-time buyers.

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.