Ahead of the Budget, the PM faces unrest among Labour MPs and a faltering whipping operation as demands grow for stronger cost‑of‑living help. Options floated include easing the housing allowance cap. Andy Burnham urges wider support, while the PM dismisses talk about his position.

Labour donor Lord Alli removed a family from a property he owns and subsequently increased the monthly rent by £1,000, an action that would be prohibited next year under proposed legislation from his own party.

Reform has surged to a 15-point lead over Labour in a new poll, with Farage aiming for government as trust in his party rises on issues such as immigration.

Pollsters warn that voters are hardening their stance on migration as protests over asylum seekers housed in hotels spread across the UK, prompting councils and the Home Office to press for an orderly wind-down of the facilities.