The Bank of England is widely expected to cut interest rates, reducing the Bank rate from 4% to 3.75% - its lowest level since February 2023. Analysts anticipate a close vote among the nine-member Monetary Policy Committee, with some members still cautious about easing policy too quickly. If agreed, it would be the sixth rate cut since August last year, reflecting growing confidence that inflationary pressures are easing. New data from the Office for National Statistics show inflation falling more sharply than expected, from 3.6% in October to 3.2% in November. Although inflation remains above the Bank’s 2% target, signs of rising unemployment and a sluggish economy are increasing pressure for action. Economists suggest cooling price pressures now outweigh previous concerns about cutting too soon. Lower interest rates are expected to bring modest relief to homeowners on tracker or variable-rate mortgages, with small monthly reductions in repayments. However, savers are likely to see reduced returns, as easy-access savings rates continue to decline. The decision highlights the delicate balance between easing household pressures and safeguarding long-term economic stability.

Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, has warned that the nation needs more people prepared to defend the country amid growing global instability and rising threats from Russia. He called for a 'whole-of-society response' to deter conflict, stressing the importance of strengthening regular forces, reserves, cadets, and the defence workforce. While he said the likelihood of a direct Russian attack on the UK remains remote, he highlighted intensifying hybrid threats, including cyber-attacks, suspected sabotage, and hostile surveillance near UK waters. He described Russia’s military as increasingly sophisticated, combat-experienced, and expanding in hard power, despite setbacks in Ukraine. The UK, he said, must become a 'harder target' to avoid war rather than provoke it. Building national resilience, he argued, goes beyond military strength and includes universities, industry, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. With defence spending set to rise sharply, he emphasised the need to inspire young people to pursue careers supporting national security. Recent investments include £50 million for new defence technical colleges to address critical skills gaps.

Weston-super-Mare is in deep shock following the tragic death of nine-year-old Aria Thorpe, who was fatally stabbed at her home on 15 December. The police confirmed that she died at the scene after suffering a single stab wound. Emergency services were called, but despite their efforts, she could not be saved. Police have now released two photographs, which reflect a joyful, much-loved child, whose loss has devastated family, friends, and neighbours. A 15-year-old boy has been charged with Aria’s murder and has been remanded into youth detention pending further court proceedings. Specialist police officers continue to support Aria’s family, while schools and local agencies are providing care for those affected by this traumatic event. The family has asked for privacy as investigations continue. See

The Government has announced new measures aimed at tackling violence against women and girls by addressing harmful attitudes at an early age. As part of a long-awaited strategy, teachers will be trained to recognise early signs of misogyny in boys and intervene before these views take root. Keir Starmer warned that 'toxic ideas' are often forming young and going unchallenged, noting research suggesting more than 40 per cent of young men hold favourable views of online misogynistic influencers. A £20 million package will support the strategy, including specialist teacher training on consent, online behaviour, and the risks of sharing intimate images. All secondary school pupils in England will be taught about healthy relationships, with mandatory lessons expected by 2029 following pilot schemes from 2026. An online helpline will also be launched for teenagers concerned about their own behaviour in relationships. The Government says early intervention is essential to prevent future harm, though critics warn that funding levels may be insufficient and that schools and victim support services are already under significant strain.