The pound surged as markets reacted to the anticipated appointment of the fiscally conservative Mahmood, though analysts warned the rally reflects relief.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the IRGC will be designated a national security threat, making support for the group a criminal offence. The move comes alongside new powers for authorities to tackle foreign interference and state-backed plots.

The UK government faces a diplomatic crisis as Pakistan blocks the deportation of convicted Rochdale grooming gang members. Officials are weighing policy options to resolve the deadlock involving these offenders.

New legislation requires asylum seekers to repay £10,000 toward state-funded accommodation and subsistence costs. Critics argue the policy is punitive and could hinder the integration process for refugees.

The UK government is introducing the Immigration and Asylum Bill, which includes a requirement for some asylum seekers to repay state-funded support costs. The proposal has drawn scrutiny regarding its economic effectiveness and potential impact on integration.

The government has unveiled a legislative overhaul of the asylum system aimed at implementing a more restrictive framework for claims and support. The reforms include a new 20-year path to settlement and a stricter interpretation of Article 8 of the ECHR.

The government is preparing an Immigration and Asylum Bill that introduces new legal sponsorship pathways alongside stricter measures for irregular arrivals.