Maintenance loans will automatically increase each year, with the biggest cash increases going to those from the lowest-income households, after the Education Secretary recently announced targeted maintenance grants will also be reintroduced. This will ensure disadvantaged students are no longer priced out of university.

Plans have also been announced for the introduction of V levels, new vocational qualifications. They will sit alongside T Levels and A levels, providing a clear option for young people who want to explore different key sectors – such as engineering, agriculture, digital or creative – before choosing where to specialise.

Water companies who commit environmental offences could face quicker penalties of up to £500,000.

Secretary of State, Emma Reynolds, said, ”I share the public’s anger at the current state of our water system, and this government is taking decisive action. I want to give the Environment Agency the teeth it needs to tackle all rule breaking. With new, automatic and tougher penalties for water companies, there will be swift consequences for offences – including not treating sewage to the required standard and maintenance failures.”

British household brands including Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Weetabix have signed up to back our first 750 free breakfast clubs across the UK. These industry partnerships will see the early adopter schools benefit from discounts and free deliveries starting this week.

Best Start free breakfast clubs are already providing a lifeline to working families, giving much needed breathing room in the mornings by freeing up to 95 hours per year, and putting money back into their pockets to the tune of £450 a year.

Rural pubs across the UK will benefit from new government funding to help them provide extra services for local communities. Projects will include creating community cafes, village stores, and play areas, and will help pubs bring residents and families together