British Isles
Social housing: ombudsman warns of growing frustration about poor conditions
The housing ombudsman, Richard Blakeway, has warned that growing public frustration over substandard social housing could escalate into wider social unrest. Complaints about poor living conditions have surged 474% since 2019/20, with 45%…
Prison overcrowding: senior police express concerns over early release plans
Senior police and intelligence leaders, including Met Police commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, have raised concerns over the Government’s plan to release some prisoners early to ease overcrowding. They have warned that the proposals…
Norovirus warning: stay at home for 48 hours
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a strong public warning about norovirus, urging anyone affected to remain at home for 48 hours after symptoms cease, as individuals can still be infectious.…
Starmer hails new UK-EU deal, but critics warn of 'capitulation'
Keir Starmer has announced a wide-ranging new UK-EU agreement covering trade, defence, youth mobility, and travel arrangements. Touted as part of a 'hat-trick' of international trade achievements alongside deals with the US and…
Inflation at 3.5% as Bank of England debates pace of rate cuts
UK inflation surged to 3.5% in April, surprising economists and intensifying concerns over the Bank of England’s strategy on interest rates. The rise follows months of falling inflation and comes amid steep household…
Starmer announces U-turn on winter fuel payment cuts
Keir Starmer has announced a policy reversal on winter fuel payment cuts, following widespread criticism and internal party dissent. Over 10 million pensioners lost the payment (worth £200 to £300 a year) in…
M&S cyber attack will cost £300 million
Marks & Spencer has confirmed that a major cyber attack will cost the company around £300 million, following significant disruption to its operations. The breach, traced to third-party access caused by 'human error’,…
NHS launches world-first gonorrhoea vaccine
NHS England will become the first health system in the world to offer routine vaccination against gonorrhoea, as infections reach record highs. Targeting those most at risk, primarily gay and bisexual men with…
Two migrants die as record number cross Channel in one day
A record-breaking 820 migrants crossed the English Channel in small boats on 21 May, the highest daily total so far this year. Tragically, two died during the journey, bringing this year’s Channel death…
UK economy expands at fastest pace in a year
The UK economy grew by 0.7% in the first quarter of 2025 - its fastest quarterly growth in over a year - beating Bank of England predictions. Growth was driven by strong performance…
