The UK’s economic outlook has been shaken by a surprise rise in inflation, complicating plans for an anticipated interest rate cut in August. Despite a strong start to the year, recent data shows inflation quickening unexpectedly, particularly in food prices, adding to the burden on households already grappling with prolonged cost-of-living pressures. While markets had largely assumed a rate cut from the current 4.25% was imminent, the spike in inflation has introduced renewed caution. Former Bank of England policymaker Andrew Sentance called any cut next month 'irresponsible’. The Bank must now weigh current inflation against forecasts that predict a return to its 2% target by 2026. Complicating the picture further is the weakening jobs market, with unemployment expected to rise to 4.9%. While other major economies, like the eurozone, maintain stable inflation, the UK remains vulnerable to wage and tax-related price pressures. However, energy prices are expected to fall in the autumn, which may ease inflation, and there are signs of sectoral recovery and no current risk of recession.

All 6.5 million members of the Co-op had their personal data stolen in a major cyberattack in April, the retailer's chief executive Shirine Khoury-Haq has confirmed. While no financial or transaction data were taken, names, addresses, and contact information were accessed. The breach prompted the shutdown of IT systems, disrupting supply chains and payments. Khoury-Haq expressed deep sorrow, especially recalling the distress of IT staff working to repel the attackers. The attack was one of three targeting major UK retailers this spring, alongside Marks & Spencer and Harrods. Four suspects, aged 17 to 20, have been arrested under suspicion of offences including blackmail, money laundering, and cybercrime. Devices were seized from their homes. In response, the Co-op has partnered with The Hacking Games to help young people with cyber skills pursue careers in cybersecurity instead of crime. The breach underscores the growing vulnerability of digital infrastructure and the emotional toll such attacks take on staff and customers alike.

NHS nurse Sandie Peggie has been cleared of gross misconduct after raising concerns about sharing a changing room with a transgender doctor, Dr Beth Upton. Peggie was suspended in January 2024 following an incident at a hospital in Kirkcaldy, where she reported feeling 'embarrassed and intimidated' when Dr Upton began undressing in front of her. The disciplinary case was part of a wider employment tribunal, with Peggie claiming discrimination under the Equality Act. NHS Fife argued it followed national guidance, but admitted it lacked a formal policy on trans facilities at the time. The tribunal also heard arguments over the rights of women with religious beliefs or trauma histories who might not wish to share changing spaces with trans-identifying males. The incident was logged as a 'hate incident’, yet the internal panel found no evidence of misconduct, recommending reflective dialogue instead. Peggie has since urged NHS Fife to respond to the UK supreme court ruling which reasserted the legal definition of 'woman' as biological. This complex case highlights the ongoing tensions between transgender rights and women's privacy in public services.

Courier fraud has led to nearly £22 million in losses across the UK from April 2024 to March 2025, with the Thames Valley region suffering over £2 million in victim losses - the second highest after London. New figures show an average loss of £16,000 per victim, with 135 reports made to Thames Valley Police alone. The scam typically involves fraudsters posing as police or bank officials who convince victims they must urgently withdraw cash or purchase high-value items for a fictitious investigation. The victims then hand over money or goods to a courier, never to see them again. Detective inspector Duncan Wynn has urged the public to treat unsolicited calls with suspicion and reminded them that neither police nor banks will request cash withdrawals, computer access, or item pickups. Police commissioner Matthew Barber warned that criminals exploit public trust in institutions, using high-pressure tactics to deceive, particularly targeting the elderly. Authorities have said they will crack down on this predatory crime, and are calling for heightened public vigilance.