Ministers and MPs urged a parliamentary standards probe into the PM amid claims he misled the Commons about Lord Mandelson’s role and contacts. Supporters say procedures were followed, but critics want the Speaker to refer the case for investigation.
Labour has agreed a new three‑year deal with France, adding £660m to efforts to curb Channel crossings, taking UK funding above £1.3bn. The package supports patrols, surveillance and joint operations targeting criminal networks. Ministers say it will deter departures; critics question results and value.
Amanda Knox says she has written to Lucy Letby as part of research for a new podcast, sending a letter and a copy of her book after a London screening of her documentary. Knox, cleared of Meredith Kercher’s 2007 killing, also noted ongoing calls for an inquiry.
A 56-year-old woman, in good health and of sound mind, has chosen an assisted death at a Swiss clinic, saying overwhelming grief makes life untenable. Her family has been informed. The decision is expected to reignite debate about personal autonomy and the UK’s laws on assisted dying.
Messages indicate AG Lord Hermer, then a barrister, pursued Iraq abuse claims against British troops despite warnings they were likely unfounded, and discussed publicity with claimant lawyers. The disclosures have triggered calls to scrutinise his judgement and any conflict of interest.
Cabinet tensions are rising over the PM’s handling of the Peter Mandelson scandal, with ministers warning against alienating the civil service after the dismissal of a senior official. Allies urge discipline, while others demand a rethink, leaving the PM increasingly isolated.
FIFA will deploy an upgraded VAR using full-body scans to create 3D player models, sharpening offside decisions at the World Cup. Referees will compare incidents with digital “clones”, which could even register hair or kit beyond the last defender. England’s squad will be scanned.
Cabinet figures are losing confidence in the PM after a security row linked to Mandelson, with one minister saying patience has run out. Allies of Wes Streeting are open to a pact with Angela Rayner to unite centre and left and avert a leadership fight, though policy gaps and an HMRC inquiry pose hurdles.
Iran seized two commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz as attempts to revive talks falter. The US extended a limited truce while sustaining maritime pressure, driving oil above $100. Shipping bodies warn of risks to crews, and insurers and traders begin to re-route traffic.
Allies of Sir Olly Robbins say the PM sacked him without letting him explain his handling of Lord Mandelson’s failed security clearance for the Washington ambassador post. The PM says he asked for, then rejected, an explanation; Robbins’s supporters deny he was asked.
An 80-year-old great‑gran continues full‑time nursing, while a single father cycles 60 miles a day to earn a living. Their commitment challenges claims of idleness, showing how many persist with demanding work to support families and cope with rising costs.