Starmer refuses to say he is committed to manifesto pledges not to raise income tax, national insurance or VAT – UK politics live

Reform UK has proposed changes to personal independence payments (PIP) that could potentially save the government £9 billion annually. Lee Anderson, a prominent figure in the party, highlighted concerns about individuals 'gaming the system,' which has sparked discussions about the integrity of welfare benefits. This proposal is significant as it aims to address financial inefficiencies while ensuring that support reaches those who genuinely need it, making it a crucial topic in the ongoing debate about welfare reform in the UK.

Keir Starmer's recent comments about potential tax increases in the upcoming budget have raised eyebrows, especially since they contradict Labour's manifesto promises. During a session with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, Starmer dodged questions about maintaining his pledge not to raise income tax, leading to concerns about the party's commitment to its core values. This situation is significant as it could impact public trust and voter sentiment ahead of future elections.

Hadush Kebatu, a sex offender, was mistakenly released from prison and received £500 as a discretionary payment to prevent him from disrupting his deportation to Ethiopia. This incident raises serious concerns about the prison system and immigration processes in the UK, highlighting potential flaws that could allow dangerous individuals to slip through the cracks.

Next's recent profit upgrade has sparked optimism about UK consumer spending, revealing that sales and profits have exceeded expectations. The retailer attributed this growth to favorable summer weather and a temporary online shutdown of rival Marks & Spencer due to a cyber-attack. This news is significant as it suggests that despite economic pressures, consumers are still willing to spend, which could indicate a resilient retail sector.

Santander UK is calling on the government to step in regarding the £11 billion car finance compensation scheme, warning that the current proposals could have serious repercussions for jobs, supply chains, and the overall UK economy. This situation is critical as it highlights the potential economic fallout from financial regulations, affecting not just the automotive sector but also the livelihoods of many workers and the stability of the market.

The BBC has expressed deep concern for the wellbeing of one of its journalists who has been barred from leaving Vietnam and subjected to intense interrogation by local authorities. This troubling incident highlights ongoing issues of press freedom in Vietnam, especially as it coincides with a significant visit by Vietnam's leader to the UK. The journalist, a Vietnamese citizen residing in Thailand, had returned to Vietnam to renew their passport, only to find themselves caught in a situation that raises serious questions about the treatment of media professionals in the country.

The UK tax authorities, HMRC, have paused their crackdown on child benefit payments after a significant data error affected 23,500 families. Many parents were wrongly treated as fraudsters due to incomplete travel records from the Home Office, which failed to document their return to the UK after holidays. This situation highlights the challenges of relying on flawed data and the impact it can have on innocent families, raising concerns about the fairness of the system.

Hadush Kebatu, a sex offender from Epping, has been deported to Ethiopia after being mistakenly released from prison. The Home Office confirmed that he was put on a flight to Ethiopia, ensuring he cannot return to the UK. This action is significant as it highlights the government's commitment to public safety and the importance of correcting judicial errors swiftly.

South Korea is in discussions with the U.S. regarding its desire to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, a move that could significantly bolster its economy and enhance regional security. Donald Trump has indicated that talks are progressing well, with both sides optimistic about reaching an agreement. This potential deal is crucial not only for South Korea's defense capabilities but also for the broader geopolitical landscape in the region, as it reflects shifting power dynamics and the importance of military partnerships.

Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, received £500 after threatening to disrupt his deportation. This incident raises concerns about the treatment of deportees and the implications of compensating individuals with criminal backgrounds. It highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement and the balance between public safety and human rights.

In the Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final, England is set to chase a challenging target of 320 runs after South Africa's Wolvaardt scored an impressive 169. This match is crucial as it determines who will advance to the finals, highlighting the competitive spirit and skill in women's cricket. England, known for their strong fielding, will need to perform exceptionally to overcome this daunting challenge and secure their place in the championship.

Hurricane Melissa has caused significant destruction as it hits Cuba with winds reaching 120 mph, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of thousands. Jamaica has also declared a disaster area due to the storm's devastating impact, which includes life-threatening flooding. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing severity of natural disasters and the urgent need for preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable regions.

Carmakers in the EU are on the brink of halting production due to a severe chip crisis exacerbated by China's export ban. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association has warned that manufacturers are relying on dwindling reserves of Nexperia chips, and without a resolution, production lines could close within days. This situation is critical as it not only impacts the automotive industry but also has broader implications for the economy and supply chains, highlighting the vulnerabilities in global manufacturing.

Boeing is facing a significant setback as it takes a nearly $5 billion hit due to delays in delivering its first 777X jets. These jets are crucial to Boeing's long-term strategy, but certification and production issues have postponed deliveries by several years. This situation not only impacts Boeing's financial standing but also affects its reputation in the aerospace industry, highlighting the challenges faced by manufacturers in meeting timelines and maintaining investor confidence.