Reeves admits Budget leaks were damaging and unacceptable
Rachel Reeves has condemned a series of Treasury leaks ahead of her recent Budget, calling them 'inaccurate, damaging, and unacceptable’. She insisted the disclosure suggesting that she had abandoned plans for an income tax rise was not an authorised briefing but a leak, which undermined confidence in her commitment to restoring fiscal 'headroom.' Reeves confirmed that a full inquiry had begun, alongside a review of Treasury security processes to prevent further breaches. She expressed frustration at the volume of speculation surrounding the Budget, stressing the need to restore integrity to fiscal announcements. MPs also questioned her on her decision to freeze income tax thresholds for three more years. She denied breaking Labour’s manifesto pledge, arguing that the promise referred specifically to tax rates, while acknowledging that the freeze would mean working people paying more. She said she and the prime minister had jointly decided the measure, rejecting suggestions she had been overruled.
Navy chief warns: fund defence or risk losing Atlantic to Russia
General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, head of the Royal Navy, has issued a stark warning that the UK risks losing its long-held maritime advantage in the North Atlantic unless defence funding increases urgently. He said Britain is 'holding on, but not by much’, as Russia invests billions into rebuilding its naval power - especially its Northern Fleet - even while fighting in Ukraine. Russian activity in the North Atlantic has risen by 30% in two years, including incidents such as the Yantar spy ship shining a laser at RAF pilots. Jenkins warned that the greater threat lies beneath the surface, where vital undersea cables and energy pipelines are vulnerable to hostile interference. The Navy itself is facing severe strain: more vessels are tied up in port than operational, recruitment shortfalls are acute, and years of cuts and failed procurement programmes have left the fleet hollowed out. While avoiding direct criticism of the Government, Jenkins highlighted the widening gap between ministerial promises and available funding. He outlined a vision for a modernised 'hybrid navy', though it would not be fully ready until 2029 - a timeline some fear may be too slow given rising global threats.
Man sentenced for attempted pipe bomb attack on GAA club
John Wilson, 59, has been sentenced to three years for attempting to plant two crude pipe bombs on cars at the East Belfast GAA training grounds in August 2020. The devices, intended to intimidate members of the newly formed club, failed to detonate. The judge said the act involved the 'deliberate use of explosives to cause fear and distress' and was motivated by a sectarian aim to stop the public using the pitches. However, he ruled that the offence did not meet the threshold for terrorism charges. Wilson, who continues to deny all involvement, was arrested the day after anonymously calling police to report the devices. The court heard emotional testimony from a club founder who described the attack as 'beyond cruel’. The judge acknowledged Wilson’s good work history and family life but noted that the planning and intent behind the offence demonstrated clear determination. Wilson will serve half his sentence in custody and half on licence.
Last-minute offer may avert strike by resident doctors
A major strike by resident doctors in England, due to begin on 17 December, may be averted after ministers offered the British Medical Association a new deal centred on expanding training opportunities rather than pay. The BMA has agreed to put the offer to members in an online survey closing on 15 December. If members support it, the five-day walkout could be cancelled. The proposal includes 4,000 additional specialist training posts by 2028, with 1,000 available next year, and measures to prioritise UK-trained doctors for competitive roles, as well as covering exam fees and other expenses. However, it contains no pay increase; health secretary Wes Streeting insisted that pay negotiations are closed following nearly 30% rises over three years. Criticising the BMA for not immediately suspending strike plans, he warned that hospitals must now begin cancelling appointments to prepare for potential disruption during a difficult winter. The BMA says strikes have forced government action but stresses the offer does not address long-term pay erosion. If members indicate the deal is insufficient, the strike will proceed.
