UK

Working-age adults in the north now die at rates 42% higher than in the south, a new study finds. Next week’s budget must start reversing that, not just managing it.

Unite accuses the bank of using AI as an excuse to discard loyal staff, as Barclays cuts thousands of jobs while profits rise 12% and it plans a £500m share buyback.

The government has approved the Jackdaw gas field, but its own energy secretary concedes it will not lower bills this winter. The Greens call it “climate vandalism”.

With rents up 35% since 2020 and no controls in sight, Greater Manchester Law Centre is helping tenants fight increases at tribunal and backing this Friday’s protest for the real fix.

Chancellor John Healey has ruled out raising the big three taxes and promised to meet the fiscal rules. That leaves a straight choice – tax wealth or squeeze those least able to pay.

Unite accuses bank of reneging on commitments as workers face higher costs, disruption to caring responsibilities and increased barriers for disabled staff.

A booming Greggs wants to shut four factories and cut hundreds of jobs. The bakers’ union says the workers who built that success deserve security, not redundancy notices.

More than 500 mental health nurses, psychologists and support staff could walk out this winter over a £25m cuts plan that Unite says puts patient safety “in the firing line”.

Defeat in Holborn and St Pancras caps a damaging week for Zack Polanski. But a 22-point rise and Labour’s slimmest-ever majority there show the forces behind the Green advance remain.