Public sector net borrowing hit £14.4 billion in August, significantly surpassing the Office for Budget Responsibility's (OBR) forecast and placing additional strain on the Chancellor ahead of the Autumn Budget.
The UK Home Office has contracted Akhter Computers Ltd to develop and implement AI facial age estimation technology at borders, aiming to identify adult migrants claiming to be children. The £322,000 scheme, expected by mid-2027, faces strong criticism from human rights organisations, who warn of potential safeguarding failures and the unproven nature of the technology.
Marc Bolland, former Marks & Spencer chief executive, will advise the government on youth unemployment, following a review warning that one in six young people could be out of work, education, or training within five years. Bolland is tasked with mobilising business leaders to create opportunities for young people, addressing a crisis where over one million under-24s are currently not in employment, education, or training.
