Commons to ask crown estate for details of Prince Andrew’s rent-free housing as inquiry moves closer – as it happened

Rachel Reeves is reportedly considering breaking her party's manifesto pledge by raising income tax in the upcoming budget to address a staggering £30 billion shortfall. This potential move has sparked concerns among party members and the public, as it could undermine trust in political commitments. The discussions around increasing the basic rate or higher tax rates highlight the challenging financial landscape the government is navigating, making it a critical issue for taxpayers and the economy.

The UK government has turned down requests for a parliamentary debate regarding Prince Andrew, stating that time should be allocated to other pressing matters. This decision has sparked disappointment among those who believe that the issues surrounding the prince's conduct and public image warrant further discussion. The refusal to engage in this debate highlights the government's prioritization of certain topics over others, raising questions about accountability and transparency in leadership.

Ben Jennings' latest cartoon humorously depicts Prince Andrew's residence in Great Windsor Park, highlighting the ongoing public interest in royal family dynamics. This piece resonates with audiences as it reflects the blend of humor and critique often associated with royal affairs, making it a relevant commentary in today's media landscape.

MPs are intensifying efforts to investigate Prince Andrew's long-term residence at Royal Lodge, where he has lived rent-free for over two decades. Keir Starmer has expressed willingness for MPs to question Andrew directly about his living situation in Windsor Great Park. This inquiry is significant as it raises questions about accountability and the use of public resources, reflecting broader concerns about royal privileges.

The King has arrived in Rome for a significant state visit to meet the Pope, marking an important moment in royal diplomacy. This visit comes at a time when the monarchy is navigating challenges, including the ongoing Prince Andrew scandal. The meeting is expected to strengthen ties between the Church and the Crown, highlighting the role of tradition and faith in contemporary society.

UK inflation has surprisingly held steady at 3.8% for the third consecutive month, defying predictions of an increase. This stability is particularly significant as it marks the first slowdown in food price growth since March, providing a glimmer of hope for consumers and the economy. For Chancellor Rachel Reeves, this news is a welcome relief, suggesting that the peak of inflation may have been reached, which could pave the way for earlier interest rate cuts by the Bank of England. This development is crucial as it could ease financial pressures on households and stimulate economic growth.

Rachel Reeves is taking a bold step by criticizing Brexit's impact on the UK economy, particularly targeting leave voters who may have changed their minds and younger voters. This approach comes just before a challenging budget, and while it could be seen as risky given the ongoing divisions over Brexit, analysts believe it could resonate with those feeling the economic strain. By addressing these concerns, Reeves aims to bridge the gap between differing voter sentiments and potentially reshape the political landscape.

A new collection of poems by the late Iris Murdoch, drawn from her personal notebooks, is set to be published, offering a fresh perspective on her life and relationships. This marks a significant moment as it is the first time her bisexuality is openly addressed in her published works. The collection, titled 'Poems from an Attic: Selected Poems,' spans 60 years and reveals deeply personal themes, making it an important addition to her literary legacy.

The Quebec government has announced plans to ban religious symbols in daycares, a move that Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge claims reflects a broad consensus among Quebecers for strengthening secularism. This decision is significant as it highlights ongoing debates about the role of religion in public spaces and the balance between individual rights and collective values in Quebec society.

The Europa League matches are heating up with Nottingham Forest facing Porto and Celtic taking on Sturm Graz. Fans are eagerly following the live updates as teams push for crucial goals. Notably, manager Emery has made strategic substitutions, bringing in key players like Rogers and McGinn to turn the tide in their favor. This tournament is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of European football and the potential for underdog teams to shine on a larger stage.

The search for a new chair to lead the grooming inquiry is expected to take months, following the unexpected withdrawal of two prominent candidates. This delay raises concerns about the inquiry's progress and the impact it may have on addressing critical issues related to grooming. The situation highlights the challenges faced in appointing leadership for such significant investigations.

In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has granted a pardon to Canadian cryptocurrency billionaire Changpeng Zhao, who was serving a sentence for money laundering after pleading guilty. This decision not only highlights the complexities of the legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrency but also raises questions about the implications for the industry as a whole. Zhao, the founder of Binance, is a significant figure in the crypto world, and this pardon could influence future regulatory discussions and the perception of cryptocurrency entrepreneurs.

In a significant crackdown, the FBI has arrested over 30 individuals linked to illegal gambling activities associated with the NBA. These charges involve insider sports betting and rigged poker games, raising serious concerns about the integrity of sports and the influence of organized crime. This situation highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in sports and the need for stricter regulations to protect the integrity of games that fans love.

In a significant ruling, a UK tribunal has determined that Apple abused its dominant position in the market by excluding competition and imposing excessive commissions on its App Store. This decision is crucial as it could pave the way for increased scrutiny of Apple's business practices and potentially lead to changes in how app developers are charged, fostering a more competitive environment.