UK ‘most expensive place’ to build nuclear power, review finds

A metals recycling company has filed for liquidation, raising concerns about the future of its operations across the UK. The exact number of jobs at risk remains unclear as the company navigates this challenging financial situation.

This week marks a pivotal moment for the UK government as Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to unveil her budget, a critical event that could define her leadership and the Labour party's future. The discussions leading up to the budget have been intense, with significant implications for fiscal policy and economic management. Behind the scenes, Kiran Stacey shares insights from his recent trip to Johannesburg with Keir Starmer, including talks on the Ukraine peace plan.

A recent report indicates that the UK is now the most expensive country in the world to develop nuclear power, with experts criticizing the overly complex regulatory framework that hinders progress. This finding has raised concerns about the future of nuclear energy projects in Britain.

UK employers have urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to make difficult decisions regarding the upcoming budget, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility amidst economic uncertainty.

The UK government has announced a 25% reduction in energy bills for over 7,000 manufacturers starting in 2027, as part of a strategy to engage businesses ahead of a significant tax-raising budget. This initiative aims to alleviate financial pressures on manufacturers and foster a more favorable business environment.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to implement a crackdown on benefit fraud while simultaneously lifting the two-child limit for universal credit, a move expected to cost £3 billion. This initiative aims to generate an additional £1.2 billion in savings as the government addresses rising welfare spending criticisms ahead of the upcoming budget.

A recent visit to Kent highlights the increasing struggles of families facing rising food costs, with many turning to food banks that are experiencing heightened demand and dwindling donations. One mother from Herne Bay expressed her despair over her inability to meet her children's needs, illustrating the harsh realities of living on benefits in the current economic climate.

The UK government has launched a critical minerals strategy aimed at reducing its dependency on China, particularly in the supply of essential materials like rare earths and magnets crucial for various industries, including automotive and electronics. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for resilience against global supply chain shocks.