Trevor Phillips Grills Chancellor Reeves Over Civil Service Cuts

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce further welfare cuts and departmental reductions in her Spring Statement, following disappointing savings from reforms. Reeves will emphasize the need for a strong economy, citing global uncertainties and confirming a £2.2bn increase in defence spending. Despite sluggish growth and pressure on the economy, she aims to kickstart growth through increased defense investment and plans to address public finances in the wake of rising borrowing costs. Full Article

Teen actor Owen Cooper, known for his role as Jamie Miller in the British drama Adolescence on Netflix, impressed fans with his audition footage despite having no prior professional acting experience. Viewers praised his performance, comparing him to a young Leonardo DiCaprio and commending his dedication and talent. Owen himself was left cringing when Netflix played his audition footage back to him in a video interview. All four episodes of Adolescence are now available to...

Solo travel offers independence and self-discovery benefits, but often comes at a higher cost compared to travelling as a pair. Popular among Gen Z and Millennials, solo travel is on the rise, with solo travellers being charged up to 87% more than those holidaying as a pair due to single supplements. While some find ways to cut costs, such as travelling in shoulder seasons or staying in hostels, the 'singles tax' can still be a...

Broadway star Nathan Lane revealed in a Vanity Fair interview that he was passed over for a role in Space Jam due to his sexuality, as the director thought he was "too gay" for the part. The role eventually went to Wayne Knight, with Michael J. Fox, Chevy Chase, and Jason Alexander also considered. Lane, who publicly came out as gay in 1999, discussed the challenges of being open about his sexuality in Hollywood, particularly...

This mind-bending optical illusion, shared by TikTok creator Mia Yil, reveals personality traits based on what you see first - flowers or a woman's face. Those who see the flowers first are described as easygoing and optimistic, while those who see the woman's face are seen as emotional and passionate. Engaging in optical illusions and brainteasers can stimulate the brain, improve cognitive function, problem-solving skills, memory, creativity, focus, and serve as a form of stress...

The chancellor is facing intense pressure to fulfill Labour's promise to boost economic growth, as the Spring Statement has become more significant due to worsening public finances. The Office for Budget Responsibility is expected to downgrade economic growth forecasts and eliminate fiscal headroom. The chancellor's options may include cutting spending, slashing the welfare bill, reducing the civil service, and implementing planning reforms. Potential backlash from Labour MPs looms over proposed welfare cuts. Full Article