The US issued an ultimatum to Tehran: halt its nuclear programme and agree to talks or face military action from a rapidly assembled naval force. Tehran says it is ready to respond. Reports suggest residents are leaving the capital amid fears of an imminent incident.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has reversed course, giving pubs and music venues 15% off business rates and freezing them for two years to safeguard community assets. Restaurants, cafés and hotels are excluded and face April rises, expected to lift prices; MPs warn many small firms still risk closure.

Conservatives withdrew a statement implying concern over Suella Braverman’s mental health after she defected to Reform UK. Senior Tories and an ex-Commons deputy speaker condemned the move, while Nigel Farage predicted harsher attacks, highlighting widening defections before May’s locals.

Starmer faces uproar after Labour’s NEC blocked Andy Burnham from seeking a Westminster return in the Gorton and Denton by‑election. Critics call the PM “cowardly”; allies fear it could spur a leadership bid from Wes Streeting. Burnham voices disappointment but urges unity.