Shabana Mahmood will unveil Denmark‑style asylum reforms to deter unfounded claims and accelerate removals. Plans aim to cut incentives to travel, speed decisions and appeals, and widen returns agreements. Ministers say the shake‑up tackles record caseloads and rising costs.

Cabinet ministers urged the PM to dismiss chief of staff Morgan McSweeney after No 10 briefings allegedly accused Health Secretary Wes Streeting of plotting against him. McSweeney denies involvement. The row has exposed deep Labour infighting, with calls for an inquiry and for the party to restore discipline.

Over four million people now receive universal credit without being required to look for work, about one million more than a year ago. Ministers cite transfers from legacy benefits and rising ill‑health. The surge is pressuring the welfare bill and is expected to spur reforms to boost employment.

Donald Trump threatens a $1bn defamation claim against the BBC unless it apologises by a deadline and retracts what he says are false statements. His lawyers allege a programme misrepresented his remarks with edited footage. The corporation says it is considering the letter.