Secrets of the cow-skulled scarecrow: did one man’s cruel tales inspire Paula Rego’s best paintings?

Farmers protested in central London by driving tractors to Parliament on Budget day, voicing their concerns over inheritance tax. The demonstration resulted in several arrests, highlighting tensions between the agricultural community and government policies.

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has introduced a budget that raises taxes to manage debt and support public services, while also downgrading growth forecasts for the coming years. This budget aims to address pressing issues such as National Health Service (NHS) waiting times and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Ministers have granted planning permission for the £750 million Marlow Film Studios development in Buckinghamshire, a project that has garnered both support and opposition from local communities. This initiative is viewed as a significant test of the Labour government's commitment to economic growth and development in the creative sector.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster City council in London have been affected by a cyber-attack, prompting both councils to activate emergency plans as they assess potential data compromise. Several systems, including phone lines, have been impacted, leading to the shutdown of various computerized systems to prevent further damage.

Hania Rani premiered two new works at Barbican Hall in London, showcasing her unique blend of classical, jazz, and electronic music. The concert featured 'Shining,' inspired by a short story by Jon Fosse, performed by the Manchester Collective, appealing to a younger audience in a post-minimalist context.

Bahrain is set to argue before the UK Supreme Court that it has sovereign immunity against allegations of placing surveillance software on the computers of two dissidents residing in London. This legal battle follows the country's unsuccessful attempts to assert this immunity in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal.

A major fire broke out in a two-storey warehouse and retail space on Bridge Road in Southall, London, prompting a response from approximately 150 firefighters and 25 fire engines. Emergency services have raised concerns that fireworks may be stored inside the building, leading to warnings for the public to maintain a safe distance from the area.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a 4.1% increase in the national minimum wage, raising it from £12.21 to £12.71 per hour for workers over 21, effective from April. This change is expected to benefit approximately 2.4 million low-paid workers, increasing their annual earnings by around £900.