Millions of households are bracing for another energy bill increase, with the typical annual cost expected to rise to £1,738, marking the third consecutive hike since Labour assumed office, despite their pledge to reduce energy costs.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London and former Labour MP, has been awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours, sparking debate amid criticism from some Conservative figures who view the recognition as an unwarranted reward given recent challenges in London.

Council staff have been permitted to work remotely from locations such as Ibiza and Australia since the pandemic, with hundreds logging in from abroad as local services face cuts and taxes increase.

Families planning holidays abroad may face higher costs due to Labour’s proposed increase in air passenger duty, potentially resulting in an additional £400 expense for long-haul flights.