Nigel Farage faces pressure to probe alleged links between his party and a hostile foreign regime after an ex-associate was jailed over payments. Critics demand transparency to protect UK interests. He also denied claims of racist behaviour at school, saying he was never “hurtful.”
Rachel Reeves urged Labour MPs to unite behind her budget, insisting it is a single package and ruling out U‑turns. She rebuked what she called misogynist criticism, defended tax rises to fund services and investment, and said unity and fiscal discipline are vital for economic stability.
The BBC faces an internal rift after board members disclosed sharp divisions over bias allegations. The chairman refuses to quit as MPs scrutinise governance and impartiality. Calls for reform grow, with a review of oversight and culture expected.
Luke Littler backs a push to award Kevin Sinfield a knighthood, citing his exceptional fundraising and hands‑on support for Rob Burrow and MND causes.
The Chancellor plans to cut the annual cash ISA allowance from £20,000 to £12,000 in the Budget, arguing savings should flow into investments. Critics say it penalises careful savers and could hit mortgages. The change helps fund a £15bn welfare package and scrap the two-child cap.
Campaigners warn many older people may struggle to heat homes this winter as energy bills stay high. They urge the Chancellor to use the Budget to ease pressures, saying frozen income tax thresholds and other rises risk leaving pensioners worse off.
Former IFS chief Paul Johnson warns Labour’s planned council tax surcharge on £2m-plus homes is a sticking plaster that risks mishandling and may not raise the hoped-for £400m. Around 100,000 households could face about £4,500 extra. He says the council tax system needs full reform.
Over 1,000 people have been safeguarded through new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders, which let courts swiftly impose restrictions on suspected abusers. The minister said early intervention is working and urged continued reporting and robust support services for victims.
Washington and a European partner voiced optimism over a revised 19‑point peace plan after Geneva talks, leaving major choices to the leaders. The draft takes the partner’s key points on board, while the other side has yet to review it. Further diplomacy is planned ahead of a possible leaders’ meeting.
Ahead of tomorrow’s Budget, reports indicate the OBR will cut growth forecasts for 2026 and each year to 2029. A minister has called it a “growth emergency”, while party figures urge a credible plan to restore voter trust and spur investment.