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Seven in 10 first-time buyers found buying a home frustrating, Skipton research finds
Skipton research finds 70% of first-time buyers found the home-buying process frustrating. We look at what causes delays and uncertainty, and what the government says its reforms will change.
Budget 2026: Tesco chief urges Chancellor to exempt retailers from higher rates on large properties
Tesco chief executive Ken Murphy has urged the Chancellor to exempt retailers from higher business rates on large properties, while John Lewis chair Jason Tarry criticises possible warehouse levy proposals ahead of the 28 October Budget.
UK mortgage rates in 2026: Bank Rate held at 3.75%
The Bank of England held Bank Rate at 3.75% on 17 September 2026 and says mortgage rates for households are higher than before the Middle East conflict began. We set out what current mortgage interest rates in the UK mean for your monthly payment.
FCA proposes new rules for long-term funds to boost clarity
The FCA's proposed long-term investment fund regulations would add a 90-day notice period and clearer risk warnings. The consultation closes on 11 December 2026.
UK robotics investment: eight hubs to help businesses adopt tech
The government has launched eight hubs backed by £40m to help firms and public services adopt robotics. Whether small firms can afford it is the open question.
Bolt VAT appeal refused by Supreme Court over £190m bill
The Supreme Court has refused Bolt permission to appeal in its ride-hailing VAT ruling with HMRC, leaving an estimated £190m bill and raising questions over Uber's similar dispute.
Children’s social care costs for councils in England up about £1bn a year
Councils in England now spend £9.5bn a year on looked-after children, and the pressure is feeding into overspends. Here is what the figures show and what you can check locally.
True Brit Entertainment enters administration, citing tough market
True Brit Entertainment, a film distributor that also co-financed British projects, has entered administration, raising questions for film workers and suppliers.
UK tyre safety 20p test: how to avoid a £2,500 fine
A 20p coin can show whether your tread is nearing the 1.6mm legal limit. Here is what illegal tyres can cost, how the MOT fits in, and how to check in under a minute.
Modern slavery victims on Skilled Worker visas can change employer
Recognised modern slavery victims on Skilled Worker visas can now leave exploitative employers without losing their visa, the government said from Friday 9 October.
Empty shop grants of up to £5,000 offered in Oswestry
Oswestry is offering up to £5,000 to businesses that take on long-empty units. Rotherham and a £10m hospitality fund also support bringing vacant property back into use, but there is no single national scheme.
Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia: EASA widens airspace alert for UK travellers
EASA has widened its Saudi airspace advisory after Houthi attacks on Riyadh airport on Thursday killed three people. Lufthansa Group and Indian airlines are suspending flights. UK travellers with bookings should check with their airline before going to the airport.
ORR consults on rail ticket selling rules for Great British Railways
The regulator wants views on safeguards for online ticket sales once Great British Railways takes over.
Social Security recovery rules tighten with new 2026 regulations
New regulations provide for Direct Deduction Orders on bank accounts and driving disqualification applications as Social Security debt recovery widens. Here is what is known so far.
UK retail footfall falls 2.9% in September as Budget and Christmas near
After a 2.9% fall in September footfall, the BRC and John Lewis have set out tax asks for the Chancellor ahead of the 28 October Budget, as Christmas trading nears.
RMT union strike over East West Rail safety concerns: Chiltern timetable for 10 and 17 October
Chiltern Railways Train Managers strike on 10 and 17 October 2026 over East West Rail staffing. Chiltern says more than 93% of trains will run on strike days, but four long-distance services will be shortened.
Stamp duty reform for first-time buyers: ministers target delays
The government's homebuying package targets delays and collapsed sales, not stamp duty allowance changes. The tax itself is untouched in the announcement.
UK Germany tech defence partnership 2026: what firms need to know
The UK Germany technology corridor offers business opportunities, while both governments deepen defence ties and plan a joint response to hybrid threats.
UK high street business closures 2026: crisp and flooring firms fail
Newsquest reports a 54-year-old crisp maker and a 48-year-old flooring firm in administration, while official figures show June company insolvencies 10% below a year earlier.
Self Assessment deadline January 2027: HMRC urges early start
HMRC says taxpayers should start their Self Assessment tax return 2027 preparations now. Missing the 31 January deadline brings a £100 penalty, even if nothing is owed.
