UK economy expands at fastest pace in a year
The UK economy grew by 0.7% in the first quarter of 2025 - its fastest quarterly growth in over a year - beating Bank of England predictions. Growth was driven by strong performance in the services sector, especially retail, IT, advertising, and car leasing. Manufacturing also saw a 1.1% rise, while construction remained flat. Compared to last year, the economy is now 1.3% larger. Export activity also surged, with a 3.5% jump as traders raced to beat looming US tariffs. Despite this strong start, economists warn the momentum may be short-lived due to domestic tax increases and international trade pressures. Some of the early-year growth appears to have been brought forward ahead of rising business costs. While consumer confidence and easing interest rates offer hope, the Bank of England believes underlying growth may still be weak. The government remains cautiously optimistic, pointing to rising wages and a stronger-than-expected recovery, yet future growth may depend on global stability and wise economic governance.
More inmates released early to stop prisons running out of space
The Government is set to release over 1,000 recalled inmates early in an effort to relieve severe overcrowding in prisons. Offenders serving one to four-year sentences who breached licence conditions, but did not reoffend, will now be released after 28 days without parole board assessment. Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood said the move, alongside a £4.7 billion prison-building plan, is necessary to prevent the system from collapsing, with England on course to run out of male prison spaces by November. Critics argue the policy puts public safety at risk. Victims’ advocates warned that the policy could endanger lives, especially where abusers are concerned. The justice ministry faces growing pressure to reform sentencing, with recommendations for expanded use of community-based alternatives expected soon. However, many argue that without stronger investment in probation, mental health services, and preventative support, early release schemes alone will not solve the crisis. See also
GPs split over assisted dying plans, says BBC
A BBC survey of over a thousand family doctors reveals sharp divisions among GPs in England over proposed assisted dying legislation. About 500 opposed the law, calling it dangerous, unethical, and a threat to patient trust. Concerns included coercion, guilt among patients feeling burdensome, and the sanctity of life. Others warned that better palliative care should be prioritised over legalising assisted death. Over half cited religious beliefs as a key reason for opposition. Conversely, around 400 GPs supported the bill, often citing personal trauma from witnessing painful deaths and arguing for dignity and patient autonomy. Supporters described the proposal as humane and overdue, with many wanting the choice for themselves or loved ones. Nearly 300 GPs would assess patient eligibility if the law passed. However, over a quarter of all respondents admitted difficulty in reliably predicting life expectancy - central to the proposed law’s safeguards. As Parliament prepares to debate the bill, questions remain over ethical boundaries, medical responsibility, and protecting the vulnerable amid calls for better end-of-life care. See
DWP crackdown to hit 150,000 PIP claimants
Major changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system are set to affect hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people across the UK. The Government’s welfare reform, due to begin in 2026, will raise the threshold for eligibility for the daily living component of PIP - a benefit that supports individuals with disabilities and their carers. Under the new system, claimants must score at least four points in one assessed activity to qualify. By 2029/30, around 800,000 people are expected to lose this benefit, with 150,000 also losing their carer’s allowance. Critics say that these reforms prioritise cost savings over care and compassion. Veteran MP Diane Abbott described the legislation as 'cruel and misconceived’, warning that it will push disabled individuals into further hardship and fear. With weekly payments of up to £110.40 at stake, the changes could leave many struggling to cope financially and emotionally. Disability campaigners and church leaders are calling for justice, dignity, and adequate provision for society’s most vulnerable.
