NEET Crisis in the North East: A Centre for Social Justice report says the region’s young people not in work or training is costing almost £7bn a year, with around a fifth of 16-24s classed as NEET and pressure building on benefits, tax receipts and public services. Manchester Regeneration Push: North Manchester is set for a £6bn programme of “widescale” improvements, including up to £1.5bn for a major transformation of North Manchester General Hospital, aimed at reversing deindustrialisation impacts. HMRC Mileage Rates: New HMRC advisory fuel rates for petrol and diesel (plus LPG and electric company cars) have come into force, keeping the quarterly system businesses use for mileage reimbursements. Food Provenance Spotlight: Nestlé UK & Ireland launches a 500-mile “Taste Trail” with ultra-runner Rob Pope to connect shoppers with farms and factories, after research found many people don’t know where their food comes from. Local Business Support: BCRS Business Loans appoints a new business development manager in north and mid Wales to help firms access finance. Birmingham Enforcement: Birmingham council fines and closures hit businesses over rodent infestations, hygiene failures and underage alcohol sales. Security & Defence Warning: A former Commons Defence Committee chair warns Britain is “dangerously unprepared” for a growing Russian threat. Energy Debate: A commentary argues the UK should pursue an energy-abundance mix—oil and gas alongside renewables and nuclear—to protect jobs and energy security. Health & Safety Tragedy: British-Nigerian influencer Igho “Tiny” Ubiribo dies after a cosmetic procedure in Thailand, with an inquest linking complications to the fatal outcome.