Rachel Reeves to confirm changes to ‘outdated’ planning system

The UK labour market is showing signs of stabilising, with the unemployment rate slightly rising to 4.8%. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that while there were earlier job losses attributed to tax increases, the number of payrolls and job vacancies are now levelling off. This is significant as it suggests a potential recovery in employment, which could impact economic growth and consumer confidence.

The UK labour market is showing signs of stabilising, with the unemployment rate slightly rising to 4.8%. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that while there were earlier job losses attributed to tax increases, the number of payrolls and job vacancies are now levelling off. This is significant as it suggests a potential recovery in employment, which could impact economic growth and consumer confidence.

A group of 13 Labour MPs is urging Rachel Reeves to abolish council tax, advocating for a new system that reflects the rising house prices in the south-east. This push comes as the Chancellor prepares for next month's budget, highlighting the growing concern over property taxes in Great Britain. The MPs, primarily from northern constituencies, believe that reforming the tax system could lead to a fairer approach for homeowners, making this a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about economic equity.

A group of 13 Labour MPs is urging Rachel Reeves to abolish council tax, advocating for a new system that reflects the rising house prices in the south-east. This push comes as the Chancellor prepares for next month's budget, highlighting the growing concern over property taxes in Great Britain. The MPs, primarily from northern constituencies, believe that reforming the tax system could lead to a fairer approach for homeowners, making this a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about economic equity.

UK retail sales growth has slowed down, raising concerns among consumers as inflation and potential tax increases loom ahead of Rachel Reeves's autumn budget. The British Retail Consortium reported that sales rose at a slower pace in September compared to previous months, indicating that economic pressures are affecting spending habits. This matters because it reflects the broader economic climate and consumer confidence, which could impact future growth and spending in the retail sector.

UK retail sales growth has slowed down, raising concerns among consumers as inflation and potential tax increases loom ahead of Rachel Reeves's autumn budget. The British Retail Consortium reported that sales rose at a slower pace in September compared to previous months, indicating that economic pressures are affecting spending habits. This matters because it reflects the broader economic climate and consumer confidence, which could impact future growth and spending in the retail sector.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has issued a warning to UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, advising her against a rushed approach to revenue generation in the upcoming budget. They argue that a hasty strategy could lead to significant economic damage, emphasizing the need to address longstanding inefficiencies and unfairness in the tax system. This matters because the decisions made in the budget could have lasting impacts on the UK economy and public services, making it crucial for Reeves to consider a more thoughtful approach.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has issued a warning to UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, advising her against a rushed approach to revenue generation in the upcoming budget. They argue that a hasty strategy could lead to significant economic damage, emphasizing the need to address longstanding inefficiencies and unfairness in the tax system. This matters because the decisions made in the budget could have lasting impacts on the UK economy and public services, making it crucial for Reeves to consider a more thoughtful approach.

The UK government is set to dismantle the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), a watchdog that has faced significant criticism for its role in overseeing post-ministerial jobs. This change is part of a broader reform of the government's ethics framework, which will see Acoba's responsibilities divided between two new regulators and the establishment of an Ethics and Integrity Commission. This move raises concerns about the effectiveness of oversight for former ministers, potentially impacting public trust in government accountability.

The UK government is set to dismantle the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), a watchdog that has faced significant criticism for its role in overseeing post-ministerial jobs. This change is part of a broader reform of the government's ethics framework, which will see Acoba's responsibilities divided between two new regulators and the establishment of an Ethics and Integrity Commission. This move raises concerns about the effectiveness of oversight for former ministers, potentially impacting public trust in government accountability.

The owner of William Hill, Evoke, is contemplating the closure of up to 200 betting shops due to potential tax increases proposed by Rachel Reeves in the upcoming autumn budget. This decision could impact around 1,500 jobs, highlighting the significant challenges the gambling sector faces amid rising financial pressures. The situation underscores the delicate balance between government revenue needs and the sustainability of businesses in the gambling industry.

The owner of William Hill, Evoke, is contemplating the closure of up to 200 betting shops due to potential tax increases proposed by Rachel Reeves in the upcoming autumn budget. This decision could impact around 1,500 jobs, highlighting the significant challenges the gambling sector faces amid rising financial pressures. The situation underscores the delicate balance between government revenue needs and the sustainability of businesses in the gambling industry.

A natural gas fire in Toronto's north end has resulted in multiple people being taken to the hospital, as paramedics report handling a significant number of patients. This incident highlights the dangers associated with gas leaks and the importance of emergency response in ensuring public safety.

Keir Starmer has indicated that a significant discussion is expected regarding the 'full horror' of the situation in Gaza once media access is granted. This comes amid calls from Europe's top human rights official for Shabana Mahmood to reassess UK protest laws following mass arrests linked to Palestine Action. The Prime Minister also acknowledged Trump's role in the Middle East peace deal, emphasizing the importance of its implementation. This debate is crucial as it highlights the ongoing tensions and the need for accountability in the region.

Former Premier League referee David Coote has pleaded guilty to making an indecent image of a child at Nottingham crown court. This serious charge, involving a category A video, highlights ongoing concerns about child protection and the responsibilities of public figures. Coote's case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding children and the legal consequences of such offenses.

As the federal government shutdown stretches into its 14th day, House Speaker Mike Johnson warns that it could become one of the longest in history, with no resolution in sight. This situation is critical as it not only affects government operations but also has broader implications for the economy, especially amid rising tensions between the US and China over trade. The ongoing shutdown could hinder essential services and impact millions of Americans, making it a pressing issue that needs immediate attention.

Carrie Romney, the sister-in-law of former US senator Mitt Romney, was found dead near a parking garage in suburban Los Angeles. Authorities believe she may have either fallen or jumped, and initial investigations suggest that foul play is not suspected. This tragic event highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the need for support systems in our communities.

French Prime Minister Lecornu has announced a pause on the planned increase of the retirement age to 64, aiming to avoid a no-confidence vote that could threaten his government. This decision is significant as it reflects the political landscape in France, where public sentiment around retirement reforms is sensitive. By delaying this change until after the 2027 presidential election, the government hopes to stabilize its position and address the concerns of citizens regarding retirement security.