Budget Pressure: John Healey faces calls to avoid fresh tax hikes as warnings grow that Britain is “taxing itself into death,” with October’s Budget looming and options like capital gains tax in the spotlight. Business Finance: The British Business Bank is backing a new £150m Northern scale-up fund, aiming to push larger investments into high-growth firms across the North of England. Manufacturing Worries: A Make UK/Bishop Fleming report warns family-owned manufacturers are squeezed by tax uncertainty, high energy costs and succession planning fears. Travel Rules: More than a million UK passports could fall short of Schengen entry requirements, with travellers urged to check both expiry and issue dates. SEND Crunch: Parents are rushing EHCP applications as new SEND rules approach, with councils warning of a surge in assessment requests. Culture & Theatre: Newcastle’s Mercury Prize fringe programme is set to bring dozens of events, while Middlesbrough’s council unveils concept plans for a new “Boro” theatre to host West End shows. Reparations Push: Jamaica is preparing to petition King Charles over slavery reparations, seeking legal guidance from the Privy Council. Tech & Safety: PubHive will exhibit at WPSC Europe 2026 in Amsterdam, focusing on connected drug-safety workflows.