President Donald Trump has launched 'Project Liberty' to free commercial ships blocked in the Middle East by the Iran conflict. Iran has condemned the announcement. The Strait of Hormuz handles 20% of global oil; British shipping firms watch nervously.
The Renters' Rights Act came into force on 1 May 2026, abolishing Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, banning rental bidding wars and capping in-tenancy rent rises. London, where 30% of households rent privately, is the market most affected.
UK two-year fixed mortgage rates have surged from 4.83% to 5.83% in just seven weeks as the Iran conflict drives lenders to reprice. London buyers face hundreds of pounds extra per month at remortgage. Brokers report client panic.
All 32 London boroughs go to the polls on Thursday 7 May 2026 in elections that will reshape the political map of the capital. Reform UK targets outer boroughs, Greens pressure inner London, and Labour defends a fragile lead.
RMT tube drivers will strike on four further days across May and June 2026 in their dispute with TfL over a compressed four-day working week. London Underground services face severe disruption; Overground, DLR and Elizabeth line largely unaffected.
The Renters' Rights Act takes effect across England on 1 May 2026, abolishing Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, banning rental bidding wars and capping in-tenancy rent rises. London landlords and tenants face the biggest reform in 40 years.
The Premier League title race 2025-26 goes to the wire with Arsenal three points clear of Manchester City but City holding a game in hand. Wolves first to be relegated. Tottenham fighting for survival. Final weeks set to be dramatic.
The Bank of England held interest rates at 3.75% on 30 April 2026 amid surging inflation from the Iran conflict. CPI rose to 3.3% in March, well above the 2% target. Households face higher mortgage rates and rising energy bills.
Apple Intelligence arrives in the UK in May 2026 with upgraded Siri, writing tools and ChatGPT integration. What UK iPhone and Mac users can expect — and why it took so long.
UK company registrations fell 8% in Q1 2026 while closures outpaced start-ups. Vacancies at near five-year lows as rising wages and National Insurance costs slow hiring. What it means for growth.
