Robert Jenrick was sacked by the party leader before defecting to Reform. He accuses Conservatives of betraying voters and vows to help make Nigel Farage PM. Allies had tipped off Kemi Badenoch about his plan. The move pleases Reform and Badenoch but widens the split on the right.

The UK is repositioning personnel from a Qatar base as the US weighs a military operation against Iran. Some US units are also redeploying. Allies are preparing for possible reprisals against bases and partners, with ministers coordinating contingency plans amid heightened tensions.

Labour will set out phased rail plans for the North. £1.1bn is confirmed for early upgrades in West Yorkshire, improving links between Leeds, Sheffield, York and Bradford. A new Liverpool–Manchester route is slated for the 2030s, and a Birmingham–Manchester link is promised after HS2 North’s cancellation.

The Government is weighing a ban on social media for under-16s within months. Liz Kendall says she will be led by evidence as the Department of Health examines Australia’s model and the impact of screen time. Fresh guidance for under-fives is also being prepared.