Road Safety Crisis: Twelve people have died in England and Ireland in less than a week after “wrong-side” driving crashes, including a fatal A66 collision near Middlesbrough that killed two Cleveland police officers and five members of the public; investigators are probing whether a social-media-driven trend played a role. Public Safety & Accountability: The Independent Office for Police Conduct has opened an investigation into the A66 pursuit-linked crash after a mandatory referral. Defence Industry: MoD figures show munitions jobs across the UK jumped 51% in 2024/25 as Britain rebuilds ammunition stocks, adding about 2,000 roles to a total of 5,900. Security & Strategy: RUSI challenges a core principle behind the Digital Targeting Web, arguing safeguards can’t be treated as a brake on tempo. Home Office & Royals: Prince Harry has reportedly made a private appeal to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood over uncertainty about police protection for his family ahead of their UK return. Cost of Living/Benefits: HMRC warns parents have until August 31 to confirm Child Benefit eligibility for 16-19s in non-advanced approved education or training, or payments will stop. Health Policy: DWP confirms which stomach conditions are most likely to qualify people for PIP. Devolution Politics: Scotland’s energy minister urges more action from the UK Government on household bills ahead of the next Ofgem price cap. Local Growth: Greater Manchester councils advance plans for transport-led regeneration around Ashton and Stalybridge, plus a Piccadilly Gardens revamp and hundreds of new flats.