The BBC has cancelled its Saturday football show, ending a long‑running programme. Staff will be redeployed where possible, and a replacement format is expected as the broadcaster reshapes its weekend sports schedule.
Ministers face calls to halt data sharing with China after the UK Biobank’s full dataset of 500,000 volunteers was reportedly offered for sale online. Critics urge emergency powers for security agencies and the ICO to tighten controls and protect health data.
Nigel Farage outlined a pledge to overhaul welfare, aiming to cut benefits spending if his party wins power. He called for a tougher stance on entitlements and said he would stand firm amid any protests or industrial action.
Sara Cox will take over Radio 2’s flagship breakfast show, replacing Scott Mills. She called it her dream job, saying she feels ecstatic, chuffed and honoured. The move signals a major shake‑up of the station’s morning schedule.
The FCDO has closed its international humanitarian law unit that monitored potential breaches by Israel, citing departmental cuts and restructuring. The move ends the UK’s only state-backed programme verifying incidents in the region and limits officials’ access to a major evidence database.
Government files show Lord Hermer KC billed £450 an hour for Iraq‑era cases involving allegations against British troops, a rate the MoD contested as excessive. The peer, expected to become AG in a Labour government, worked on litigation that drove lengthy investigations criticised for cost and scale.
Donald Trump has authorised the US Navy to use lethal force against Iranian boats that threaten vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, after talks faltered. The move escalates tensions in the Gulf, increasing risks to shipping and miscalculation as both sides entrench.
The US alleges China is stealing AI research on an industrial scale, citing coordinated “distillation” campaigns to copy models and know-how. Beijing rejects the claim. Washington is weighing tougher export curbs on AI chips, while Trump plans to meet Xi in the coming weeks.
Cabinet Office head Cat Little told MPs officials sought details of Peter Mandelson’s security vetting days after reports he had failed checks for a proposed US ambassador post. The PM says he learnt of it only last week, raising questions over what No 10 knew and when.
Shabana Mahmood faced criticism after swearing at a heckler during a live Political Party podcast at the Duchess Theatre. The man, challenging Labour’s immigration stance, said she misidentified him as white. The clash sparked debate about politicians’ tone when dealing with disruptions.
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.