Woman to Stand Trial Over False Abuse Allegations
Esther Baker has been charged with four counts of perverting justice over false sexual abuse claims against former politicians and officials. A six to eight week trial is scheduled for March 2027.
Category : Legislative Changes
Universal Credit: £295 Increase Announced in New Legislation
The Department for Work and Pensions has laid legislation in Parliament introducing a £295 annual increase for millions on Universal Credit's standard rate, alongside reforms to health element payments.
New Dog Law: £1,000 Fines for Livestock Disturbance
A major update to dog control laws in England and Wales takes effect on March 18, 2026, introducing stricter penalties for owners whose dogs alarm livestock.
Illegal Streaming Service Shut Down - £50k Warning Issued
Police have shut down a major illegal IPTV streaming network based in Manchester, arresting four suspects and seizing £750,000 worth of equipment. Sky warns households could face £50,000 fines for accessing content illegally.
Council Ordered to Publish Historic Child Abuse Report
A Birmingham council has been mandated to release a historic child sex abuse report after previously blocking a request, amid other local news including HMO closures and a fatal flat fire.
UK Lords Vote to Ban Children from Using VPN Services
The House of Lords has backed an amendment to prohibit VPN provision to children, aiming to strengthen online safety measures under the Online Safety Act with 207 votes in favour.
Prison Officer Jailed for Inmate Sex and Smuggling
Isabelle Dale, 23, a prison officer at HMP Coldingley, has been sentenced to three and a half years for sexual misconduct with inmates and attempting to smuggle Spice into the prison.
Warning over new 2026 drink-drive limit for England and Wales
A major change to alcohol driving limits is expected before the end of 2026. The new rules could see drivers over the limit after just one pint. Read the full details and expert warnings.
DVLA Changes Medical Rules for UK Drivers
The DVLA has updated its list of notifiable medical conditions for drivers. Failure to report relevant conditions could result in a £1,000 fine. Stay informed to keep your licence.
DWP's new powers to check benefit claimants' accounts begin
The DWP now has powers to check bank accounts of Universal Credit, Pension Credit and ESA claimants to verify eligibility. Find out what this means for you.
1991 Seat Belt Law Could Change: Points Proposed
A government consultation could see drivers get penalty points for not wearing a seat belt, a major shift from the 1991 law. Have your say on the proposed change.
State Pension Qualifying Years Could Rise to 37
Experts warn the DWP may increase National Insurance qualifying years for the full state pension from 35 to 37. Discover the impact on your retirement and the future of the triple lock.
Five Changes to Council Tax Reduction Rules
The Labour government has updated council tax reduction regulations with five new changes, including new payment disregards and relaxed residency rules. Find out if you're eligible.
Double-cab pick-up tax bills to quadruple from April
A hidden tax change reclassifying double-cab pick-ups as cars could see benefit-in-kind bills soar for tradespeople and small business owners from April. Find out how it affects you.
Security services not exempt from Hillsborough Law
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy insists security services will not be exempt from the Hillsborough Law's duty of candour, amid fears the legislation is being watered down. Read the latest.
France introduces new pink number plates to fight crime
French drivers will see new pink licence plates from 2026, replacing old 'WW' trade plates in a crackdown on motor fraud. UK motorists in France should take note.
State pension age rise begins, 3 million face delay
The DWP state pension age rises from 66 to 67 this April, with a further hike to 68 potentially impacting 3 million people. Experts warn of affordability challenges.
DWP urged to change State Pension inheritance rules
A new petition calls on the government to reform State Pension rules, allowing it to be left to children, long-term partners, or carers. Over 10,000 signatures needed for a response.
MP's Push to Criminalise Political Lies Gains Support
Labour MP Luke Myer's amendment to make lying by politicians a criminal offence garners cross-party support. The 'Hillsborough Law' could see MPs and Lords face prosecution for intentional deception.
DWP's new bank check powers: 6 details shared
The DWP gains powers to check claimants' bank accounts for six key details from 2026. Learn which benefits are targeted and what data will be shared.
DWP's new powers to check six bank account details
The DWP gains new powers to check six key bank details of benefits claimants. Find out what information will be shared and what it means for you.
Benefits loophole for criminals in hospitals to close
The government plans to stop serious offenders in hospitals from claiming Universal Credit, saving taxpayers thousands. Learn the details of the new crackdown.
DWP ends benefits for violent offenders in hospital
The DWP will stop Universal Credit payments, worth over £800 a month, to killers and violent offenders detained in hospital. The move closes a legal loophole.
DWP to ban hospital order criminals from benefits
The DWP is set to ban criminals on hospital orders from claiming Universal Credit, a move welcomed by victims' families. Read the full story on this major policy change.
WASPI Women: Key Dates for DWP Compensation Eligibility
Born between 1950-1960? The fight for DWP compensation continues. Learn the key dates, eligibility, and why 3.8 million women are affected. Discover the latest on the Ombudsman's ruling.
UK to mobilise 95,000 ex-troops in war readiness shake-up
The UK government is set to unveil new powers to call up tens of thousands of former service personnel as part of a major defence overhaul. Read the full details on the proposed changes.
DWP bank checks may target six more benefits
The DWP's new powers for bank account checks could be extended to six major benefits after an initial trial. Find out which payments are at risk and how the system works.
Lammy blocks release of 'psychopath' killer Wilson
Justice Secretary David Lammy intervenes to stop the parole of Reginald Wilson, who murdered a doctor in 1990. New information could keep the 'die in prison' inmate behind bars.
Historic Vehicle Clubs Challenge Labour Driving Law Plans
The FBHVC, representing 250,000 members, pledges to scrutinise Labour's road safety plans, fearing unjust restrictions on classic vehicles. Read their full response.
DWP changes to Universal Credit work incentives from April
The DWP is reforming Universal Credit to remove the 'perverse' incentive to sign off work. Changes start April 2026, affecting new claimants. Read the full details.
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