UK Politics & Cost of Living: Andy Burnham told his new cabinet to become a “cost-of-living government” and unveiled a VAT cut on domestic electricity bills from 1 October, saving households about £45 a year, funded by scrapping the controversial digital ID plan. Treasury & Markets: New Chancellor John Healey’s first remarks at the Treasury sparked fresh questions about how much extra borrowing or tax rises may follow as investors weigh defence and social spending. Defence & Russia: Defence Secretary Wes Streeting condemned a Russian live-fire exercise off the UK coast as “performative and irresponsible”, while also backing closer allied work on next-gen fighter jets. International Defence Deal: Canada has joined the Global Combat Air Programme as an “observer nation”, giving it privileged access as the UK, Italy and Japan build a sixth-generation Tempest-style jet. Crime & Courts: A London court heard that Ann Widdecombe was struck 21 times with a hammer during her killing; prosecutors say the accused targeted her and took her wallet. Health Warning: Pharmacists warn horsefly bites can cause severe reactions and “flu-like” symptoms, urging people to seek medical help if they feel generally unwell. Business & Fraud: Police are appealing for help after chip-and-pin fraud hit small businesses, including a café in Exmouth where £500 was taken. Money & Regulation: HMRC proposes expanding third-party reporting rules for bank interest income from 2028, with more frequent submissions. Travel & Lifestyle: Scotland’s Skye and the Hebrides were ranked among the world’s best islands, while a new 107-metre outdoor tubing slide opens in Norfolk.