Cliff Notes – Minister denies misleading voters over benefits cuts Minister Stephen Timms asserts Labour…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will unveil her Spring Statement next week just a week after massive backlash to the government’s plans to overhaul the welfare system. 

The papers have been given a preview of the Spring Statement and they report there will be no more tax rises but austerity cuts on the way – the heavy cuts to public spending and benefits are to close the budget deficit.

What’s dominating the UK news today? From domestic politics to international war to a planned massacre in Luton to international football – there’s a lot happening today, so grab a coffee – here’s your daily news breakdown. 

Much of the UK media looks ahead at next week’s Spring Statement which is expected to reveal more cuts – it comes off the back of the government’s plans to slash benefits.

Triple murderer Nicholas Prosper has been sentenced to at least 49 years for killing his family. He had planned a school massacre in a bid to become famous.

An independent review on how gender and sex data is collected has led to several stories this morning as the data is assessed by the media.

The sunshine is here in the UK! Today could be the hottest day of the year so far – but don’t get use to it, rain is set for the weekend.

Donald Trump and his phone call with Zelensky is heavily covered in the UK media this morning.

The EU has introduced a white paper to bolster member states’ defence capabilities, with plans to mobilise up to €800 billion through loans and relaxed fiscal rules amid concerns over US support and Russian aggression.

President Trump prioritises transactional dealings over ideological loyalties, seeking peace through economic agreements with both Ukraine and Russia.

Prince William is visiting Estonia to express the UK’s support for Estonian troops and to reinforce Britain’s commitment to security amid ongoing Russian aggression in the region.