Google’s UK managing director Kate Alessi dismisses fears of AI-driven mass unemployment, arguing that upskilling the workforce is the priority as the tech giant launches a £2m training initiative. Read more: Don’t fear AI job losses – invest in training, urges Google’s UK boss
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UK manufacturers face a £1 billion surge in business rates from April 2026, with Make UK warning that 25,000 jobs are at risk as the sector battles rising energy and employment costs. Read more: Manufacturers bracing for £1 billion business rates bombshell as April cost crisis deepens
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Brent crude climbs above $111 a barrel as fears grow that US-Iran negotiations may collapse before President Trump’s Wednesday deadline, threatening further disruption to global energy supplies. Read more: Oil price surges past $111 as Strait of Hormuz deadline looms
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EY analysis reveals that raising UK defence expenditure to up to 5% of GDP by 2035 could generate £30bn a year in additional economic output and support domestic manufacturing and R&D. Read more: Higher defence spending could unlock £30bn annual boost for UK economy
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Bristol’s new 20,000-seat Aviva Arena, built on Concorde’s former home at Filton Airfield, aims to host the Brit Awards and attract global tours when it opens in late 2028. Read more: Bristol’s new arena sets sights on hosting the Brit Awards
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Loss-making broadcaster GB News has urged the government to open up public service media grants to competitive tender, arguing funding should not be reserved exclusively for the BBC. Read more: GB News makes its pitch for a slice of public broadcasting funds
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HMRC data reveals national insurance contributions have risen nearly 40% to £198bn since 2019-20, as employer NIC hikes, minimum wage increases and rising costs pile pressure on British businesses. Read more: Businesses shoulder £200 billion National Insurance bill as payroll tax receipts surge 40% since pandemic
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Budget measures expanding EMI scheme eligibility, EIS and VCT limits now in force, with the government expecting £100m in additional investment for Britain’s fastest-growing companies. Read more: Budget tax breaks worth £100m come into force for founders and start-ups
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Labour donor Dale Vince tells Ed Miliband to halt North Sea oil exports and shield Britain from Iran-driven fuel shortages, as crude tops $109 a barrel. Read more: Vince calls on Miliband to halt North Sea oil exports as Iran war rattles supply
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British lamb prices surge to record highs as Easter and Eid drive demand, with supermarket legs topping £16/kg and the UK flock at its lowest in living memory. Read more: Easter and Eid collision sends British lamb prices to a record high
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