Treasury proposals to cut sickness and disability benefits are prompting a heated stand-off, with Labour MPs pushing back to safeguard the vulnerable and No 10 scrambling to contain backlash over the potential reforms.

A fresh 30-day provisional accord and a new minerals deal with the US is under consideration, firmly upheld by Western allies and awaiting consensus from key decision-makers.

A tanker carrying jet fuel was struck by a container ship off the East Yorkshire coast, sparking multiple explosions and raising concerns over potential chemical leaks into the sea while rescue teams continue to search for a missing crew member.

Ministers are set to curb the influence of local objectors and certain official bodies accused of stalling developments, aiming to streamline planning processes and accelerate new housing projects.