Chancellor Rachel Healey's forthcoming January budget will confront a more challenging economic landscape, despite current positive indicators. Official figures show inflation dropping to 3.9% and retail sales experiencing an unexpected November surge. However, economists warn of a potential downturn, with the Office for Budget Responsibility projecting a slight contraction for the economy.
Campaigners have initiated a judicial review against the Home Office's proposal to house asylum seekers at MoD Bicester, arguing the plans lack transparent consultation and adequate provision.
Nathan Owens has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 24 years for the murder of his stepdaughter, Carla Georgescu. The court heard Owens harboured a "longstanding sexual obsession" with Ms Georgescu, who was 20 years old at the time of her death.
A man has denied attempted murder charges following a knife attack in north Belfast that led to widespread disorder across the city.
