The UK government has decided not to enter formal negotiations with Xlinks for a £25bn renewable energy project aimed at importing solar and wind power from Morocco, potentially meeting 10% of the UK’s electricity demand.

Thursday’s headlines continue their coverage of the prime minister’s defiance over the upcoming benefits cuts bill. The PM says he’ll push ahead with the vote, expected next Tuesday, despite the mounting rebellion, which could seriously damage his premiership. There have been reports that the prime minister has told Labour MPs that if they vote down the bill, they won’t be considered for promotion. Other reports suggest No. 10 is drafting a watered-down bill to appease the critics.

The UK has seen a surge in Chinese imports as businesses seek to avoid the 55% tariff slapped on them by the United States. Economists say it could help the UK ease inflation, but domestic industries warn of being undercut by cheap goods.

A 37-year-old man, who brutally murdered a boy on his walk to school last year, has been found guilty of murder and three counts of attempted murder. Marcus Monzo went on a rampage in North London last year, killing 14-year-old schoolboy Daniel Anjorin with a samurai sword and injuring three others. The judge says he would face a life term when he returns to court for sentencing on Friday.

In happier news, the UK is set for its second heatwave of the month, with temperatures hitting 30C this weekend, just in time for Glastonbury! If you’re heading out and about this weekend, don’t forget your sunblock and shades!!

The Reform Party is projected to secure the most seats in a hypothetical general election, with support for Conservatives and Labour dropping below half the national vote.

The UK is enduring its second heatwave in June, with temperatures expected to reach 30–34 °C, making it hotter than Ibiza, according to the Met Office.

Over 120 Labour MPs, including select committee chairs and former loyalists, have rebelled against the government’s welfare reform bill, expressing deep concern that proposed cuts.

Weight loss and diabetes jabs taken by more than a million people in the UK have been linked to a potential serious side effect, with some deaths, according to data from the UK medicines regulator.