Government to step up support for businesses affected by Iran war April 26, 2026 The government is ramping up efforts to offset the impact of the Iran war on UK businesses as concerns over energy prices continue to grow. In its latest attempt to ease the damage caused by the Middle East conflict, the government has opted to work directly with businesses, with the prime minister preparing to chair [...]
Starmer to face vote over Peter Mandelson sleaze inquiry April 25, 2026 Keir Starmer will face a vote on whether he should be referred to a parliamentary sleaze inquiry over claims that he misled the House of Commons about the appointment of Mandelson as ambassador to the US. The prime minister said earlier this week that Downing Street had put no pressure “whatsoever” on the Foreign Office, [...]
Tax raids trigger worst start to year on record for businesses April 25, 2026 Tax rises under Labour coupled with the war in Iran have triggered the worst start to the year for businesses on record. Fewer businesses were set up in the first three months of 2026 than in the same period of any year on record, according to figures from the Office of National Statistics. Just 78,655 [...]
British Airways forced to downgrade loyalty scheme members after ‘error’ April 25, 2026 British Airways has been forced to downgrade thousand of members of its loyalty scheme, after it parent’s company rewards team incorrectly told passengers they could keep their gold or silver tier status. The error, which IAG Loyalty pinned on a “technical issues”, comes as shake-up of the scheme is becoming disruptive for the thousands of [...]
Banks brace for potential tax raid if Starmer is ousted April 25, 2026 Banks in the UK are bracing for potential tax raises, as expectations that Keir Starmer could soon be replaced by a more leftwing Labour politician continue to grow. The banking sector narrowly evaded a tax increase in last year’s Autumn Budget after chancellor Rachel Reeves sought reassurance that they would boost lending in the UK [...]
Brands, think you’ve missed out on the London Marathon? Think again April 25, 2026 It’s that time of the year again. Everyone is posting on their social media about long runs and training plans as the London Marathon rolls into town. It’s a once-a-year (or potentially twice) opportunity for brands to get involved in a day that many will remember for a lifetime. Brands often assume that if they’re [...]
Motor finance trade body gears up for legal challenge to £9bn redress April 24, 2026 The motor finance industry’s trade body is mulling lodging a legal battle against the UK financial watchdog‘s £9bn redress scheme. The Finance and Leasing Association (FLA), which counts Santander and the financial arms of BMW and Volkswagen among its members, is reported to be leaning towards challenging the City regulator’s scheme. Members of the body [...]
Intel hails highest share price in decade as earnings smash forecasts April 24, 2026 Intel shares jumped as much as 24.4 per cent on Friday after the chipmaker delivered a strong earnings beat and upbeat outlook, raising hopes of a sustained turnaround. The stock surged in early trading after already climbing more than 20 per cent in after-hours moves, putting it on track for one of its biggest one-day [...]
Saracens hit out at disjointed rugby calendar amid £9m loss April 24, 2026 Saracens have hit out at the disjointed rugby calendar after the London club made losses of £9m last season. The side, who finished sixth last year and missed out on the semi-finals, used their accounts to criticise rugby’s domestic calendar, which features huge spells without matches to ensure that players can play international rugby and [...]
Lord Hannan made IEA chief April 24, 2026 The Institute of Economic Affairs has announced Lord Daniel Hannan as its new director general. Hannan, a former Tory MEP who was one of the top Vote Leave figures in 2016, will take up the post on 1 June 2026. He has long been an avid critic of the EU and was one of the [...]
