politics
UK military to get powers to shoot down drones near bases
Plans to allow troops to take faster action come after sightings at four airbases last year. Source link
University tuition fees in England to rise with inflation every year from 2026
Bridget Phillipson confirmed the plans for the next two years, with fees to increase automatically after that. Source link
Reform suspends four councillors after video leak
The suspensions come after footage was leaked of a heated virtual meeting of Kent councillors. Source link
New V-level courses to be brought in for students after GCSEs
Ministers say new vocational courses will simplify the “confusing” options students have after GCSEs. Source link
Chancellor says Brexit deal caused long-term damage to economy
Rachel Reeves made the comments about the 2020 deal at a key meeting of the world’s leading finance ministers and central bankers. Source link
Housing secretary says 'job on the line' over 1.5m housing target
Housing secretary tells BBC Panorama widespread scepticism will make hitting target “all the sweeter”. Source link
Betfred says all its shops may close if Reeves hikes gambling tax
The company’s co-founder says it would be forced to close all its sites, putting 7,500 jobs at risk, if gambling taxes go up. Source link
Home Office told last week of potential Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban, police unit says
The Israeli club’s supporters will not be allowed to attend the Europa League game over safety concerns. Source link
Is the Scottish government softening on oil and gas?
Has John Swinney shifted the Scottish government away from a “presumption against” new oil and gas? Source link
The controversy over the collapsed China spy case explained
The government is facing questions about why the case collapsed just weeks before a trial was due to go ahead. Source link