Defence Funding Clash: Keir Starmer is set to cut transport and net zero spending by 1% to raise about £6bn for defence, as the long-delayed Defence Investment Plan faces fresh criticism from MPs over credibility damage. UK-US Politics: Starmer hit back at US VP JD Vance after he blamed Henry Nowak’s murder on “mass migration”, with Downing Street warning against stirring division; Lammy says the case has “nothing to do with mass migration” and the AG is reviewing sentencing. Crime & Courts: Vickrum Digwa was jailed for life over Henry Nowak’s killing, while the Attorney General is “looking closely” at whether to refer the sentence. Work & World Cup: Acas urged employers to set clear flexible-working rules for leave, sickness and shift cover as UK match times run from late afternoon to early morning. Local Safety: Staffordshire Police seized an illegal stand-up e-scooter ridden by a 13-year-old with a top speed of 54mph. Travel Disruption: Manchester Airport resumed normal schedules after a runway closure for a “small defect”, with some short delays reported. Weather Watch: Met Office forecasts drier, clearer conditions after heavy rain and strong winds, with warmer spells possible into the weekend. Housing/Finance: Tracker mortgage demand is rising again, and advisers warn borrowers to judge affordability if rates move. Business & Jobs: York College praised for apprenticeship delivery, with Barratt Redrow’s accelerated bricklaying and carpentry scheme cited as boosting success rates.