Nigel Farage has given up sole control of Reform UK, with the party’s members now being “handed over ownership” following a vote last year, according to its chairman.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is coming under increased pressure to raise taxes or cut public spending as official figures show government borrowing was more expensive than expected, and tax revenue fell below expectations.

Parents who are entitled to hours of free childcare should not have to pay mandatory extra charges to secure their nursery place, the government has said.

A challenger bank which has amassed a substantial customer base of Britain’s wealthiest savers is in talks about raising £200m in private funding before pursuing a US flotation which would raise further questions about the attractiveness of the London market.

Shops were given a surprisingly big boost in January as retail sales rose by 1.7% – much more than the 0.3% rise forecast by economists.

Hackers have stolen $1.5bn (£1.19bn) worth of digital money in what could be the biggest-ever cryptocurrency theft.

Cliff Nicholls runs two trampoline parks and indoor play centres: one in Tamworth in the West Midlands, the other in Bolton, Greater Manchester. He’s already feeling the pressure from the government’s latest budget measures and has been forced to abandon further investment plans.

Britain’s payments watchdog is expected to be abolished as part of a purge of regulators being thrashed out in Whitehall.

What happens when you put a boyhood fan in charge of their club?

The Birkenstock sandal is recognisable for its big buckles, wide-straps, and cork-made sole. But the shoes do not qualify as works of art, Germany’s highest civil court has ruled.