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The number of Britons holding multiple jobs has surged to 1.2 million, driven by soaring living costs and unstable employment trends. Official data reveals the shift mirrors a decade-long rise in gig economy roles, with younger workers most affected.
Average UK household now spends £103 more per week on groceries than in 2020, with staples like eggs, milk, and bread seeing the steepest price surges. The cost of six eggs has jumped 50% to £1.50, while a loaf of bread now averages £1.75, up from £1.10 in March 2020.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham says soaring living costs have pushed families beyond reach of a decent standard of living. Analysis shows average wages lagging at least 15% behind essentials.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has scrapped plans for a universal energy bill rescue this winter, instead rolling out targeted summer savings aimed at easing immediate financial strain. Free child bus travel in August and a fuel duty freeze headline a package designed to shift focus from winter’s looming affordability crisis.
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has condemned the government’s proposal to cap food prices, calling it unsustainable and a distortion of the economy. The backlash from retailers forced Chancellor Rachel Reeves to abandon the plan just days after it was floated.
The Treasury is pushing supermarkets to cap prices on staples like eggs, milk and bread in exchange for relaxed regulations as food inflation hits 3.7%. Retailers are pushing back, warning of a 1970s-style intervention as Labour unveils fresh cost-of-living measures.
The UK government has privately pushed major supermarket chains to voluntarily limit food price increases, offering concessions on competition rules in return. A leaked document reveals the scale of the proposal, which could reshape grocery pricing nationwide.
John Swinney faces pressure as SNP policy on food prices triggers accusations of provoking a Westminster showdown. The First Minister candidate insists the plan stands independent of UK government interference.
The UK economy expanded by 0.8% in Q1 2026, outpacing forecasts and marking the sharpest rise in four years. Analysts cite falling energy costs and increased business investment as key drivers. Households are feeling the pinch, however, with real wages still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels.
The government’s latest fee review proposes raising online passport applications to £100 next year, sparking concerns over accessibility and backlash over timing. First-time applicants and renewals face steeper costs amid inflation pressures.