Propagandists from a hostile state alleged Larry, the No10 cat, is a spy after he ignored a visiting allied leader during talks with the PM. Downing Street dismissed it as nonsense, noting cats do their own thing and urging focus on the visit’s diplomatic aims.
Defence experts warn the UK and Europe face a reality check after Trump criticised “decaying” nations and cast doubt on US support. Concern grows the alliance may need to stand alone. Starmer met the US ambassador as No 10 rejected claims Europe has failed, amid defence budget gap warnings.
Auditors say £10.9bn from pandemic support was lost to fraud and error, most unlikely to be recovered. Rapidly designed schemes with limited checks are blamed. Ministers are pursuing select cases, including funds linked to a PPE contractor associated with Michelle Mone, but prospects remain slim.
The Home Secretary proposes the biggest policing overhaul since the 1960s, merging England and Wales’s 43 forces into about a dozen regional services. The plan aims to raise standards, strengthen specialist capability and cut duplication, with consultation and legislation to follow.
A National Audit Office report says the Home Office lacks reliable data on how many asylum seekers have gone missing and the true cost of the system. Spending is estimated at about £4.6bn in 2024–25, largely on hotels. The watchdog urges stronger data, oversight and value for money.
Jordan Bardella pledges to end small‑boat crossings in the Channel with tougher border controls, a new UK–France deal enabling returns at sea, and co‑operation with Nigel Farage. He also promises wider immigration reforms if elected.
Britain’s spies have set a festive puzzle challenge for the public, with logic, code and maths problems to test problem‑solving skills. Families and enthusiasts are invited to try it over the holidays.
Donald Trump criticised European nations as “weak”, urging them to shoulder more defence costs, and reignited his feud with London’s mayor. Critics warned the remarks risk undermining Western unity and emboldening adversaries, prompting calls for closer UK‑EU cooperation.
Starmer urged European leaders to tighten human rights rules to allow tougher migration controls, arguing reforms to the ECHR are needed to stop claims blocking removals and to counter populism. He rejects quitting the convention; critics warn the plan risks diluting protections.
Washington has given Kyiv’s president days to respond to a proposed peace framework that would cede territory in exchange for security guarantees and economic relief. Allies, including the UK, urge a swift, credible plan that upholds sovereignty, with discussion of a seasonal truce.