Wildfire Emergency Alert Backlash: Andy Burnham’s first-ever national-style emergency alert to millions over “tinderbox” conditions triggered confusion, repeated phone alerts and a surge of 999 calls, with fire services urging people not to report neighbours for barbecues and bonfires. Heat and Drought Pressure: Britain hit a new summer high of 38.1C at Kew as drought deepened, while water firms face scrutiny after plans to allow “surge pricing” during droughts. Farmers and Food Security: Burnham toured farms and promised £65m support for drought-hit producers, as ministers try to rebuild trust after earlier inheritance-tax fallout. State Pension Winter Fuel Cut: State pensioners earning over £35,000 will see Winter Fuel Payment deductions via tax code changes. Planning Reform Fight: Councillors warn England’s new planning delegation rules will weaken local democracy by shifting more decisions to officers. Scotland Prison Overcrowding: Foreign nationals in Scottish prisons rose to 749, renewing calls for faster deportation. Cambridge Professor Death: Burnham urged “reflection” after Jason Arday’s sudden death amid plagiarism allegations. Scotland Infrastructure Costs: Reports claim replacement prisons and other projects are massively over budget, with Barlinnie replacement potentially exceeding £1m per prisoner. North Sea Energy: New drilling licence decisions for Rosebank and Jackdaw could come within weeks, framed as jobs and energy-security support. EV Policy Review: Government launched a consultation on the zero-emission vehicle mandate, aiming to keep 2035 targets workable while boosting charging investment.