Spirit Airlines, the US low-cost carrier that transformed economy travel, has closed permanently after its second bankruptcy. The collapse follows the failure of an administration-backed rescue plan and rising operational costs.
Knight Frank has upgraded its forecast for prime central and outer London property prices to 3.5% growth in 2026, up from 1.2% and 2.8% previously. The Renters' Rights Act and Iran-driven uncertainty are reshaping market dynamics.
UK unemployment has risen to 5.1%, a four-year high, while private-sector wage growth has slowed to its weakest pace since November 2020. The data complicates the Bank of England's policy stance amid Middle East-driven inflation pressures.
Sir Keir Starmer faces the most serious leadership challenge of his premiership ahead of Thursday's local elections, with approval ratings at -45 and Labour peers openly discussing succession. Allies of Angela Rayner warn of a Hollande-style wipeout.
London house prices have fallen 3.3% over the past year while the rest of the UK rises, ONS data shows. The Iran conflict has pushed two-year fixed mortgage rates to 5.42%, hitting first-time buyers hardest in outer boroughs.
London goes to the polls on 7 May 2026 in all-out borough elections. Labour defends 21 of 32 councils against Reform UK gains in outer boroughs, Green and Lib Dem pressure inside the M25, and a fragmented five-party landscape.
UK average house prices rose 0.8% in April 2026 to £373,971 despite mortgage rates jumping after the Iran conflict. London market lags as buyers feel rate hikes most. Expert analysis on what 2026 holds for buyers and sellers.
Counter-terrorism police investigate possible Iran links after two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green on 29 April 2026. PM Keir Starmer condemns the attack as part of a wider pattern of incidents targeting Jewish sites in north London.
Ofgem is expected to raise the UK energy price cap by up to 8% in July 2026, adding around £120 to the average annual bill, as the Iran conflict keeps wholesale gas prices elevated. What households need to know.
UK government announces £2 billion Manchester AI Campus — largest AI computing investment in British history. Microsoft commits 100,000 AI chips. Operational by end of 2027.
