A new network of specialised mental health A&Es across England aims to ease the burden on overstretched services by providing immediate, calmer support and faster treatment for those experiencing acute distress.

Starmer has authorised an agreement handing the Chagos Islands to Mauritius for an estimated annual cost of £100 million, maintaining Britain’s military foothold despite a late injunction.

Following a government U-turn, pensioners will now face a year’s delay before receiving winter fuel payments, with Starmer pledging that more people will ultimately benefit from the new arrangement.

Britain is prepared to sanction senior Israeli figures over the situation in Gaza, with leaders cautioning that further escalation may breach international law.