Activists linked to a group that boosted the PM’s leadership bid funded lobbyists to discredit reporters, alleging links to a hostile state after articles probed their funding. A dossier was circulated to party figures and allies. The group denies wrongdoing; calls grow for transparency and press freedom.

Lord Mandelson received a taxpayer-funded exit payment worth tens of thousands after leaving a government-linked trade role, approved despite scrutiny of his past links to a disgraced financier. The payout has prompted questions over transparency, value for money and propriety.

The PM urges Andrew to testify, saying refusal would fail survivors. Newly released US court files relating to Jeffrey Epstein have intensified pressure on him to cooperate with investigators and clarify his past associations.

Andy Burnham will seek a Commons seat in a by-election, challenging the PM’s direction. In a letter he urges a new approach on growth, regional investment and public services, saying current plans lack urgency. The move is widely viewed as a test of the PM’s authority within the party.