Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government · Original source
The government is minded to proceed with local government reorganisation in East Sussex and Brighton and Hove, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire, with at least three weeks for further representations. Fifteen other areas remain under review, with outcomes due by early next year. Local elections will go ahead in May 2027 on existing boundaries, with new councils from 2029, and areas will receive £450,000 per previously announced unitary authority from a £63 million capacity fund.
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs · Original source
Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle will take further action against failing water companies, including tougher consequences for executives and options to strengthen the bonus ban, after the first joint report from the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, the Drinking Water Inspectorate and Ofwat. Only one company achieved a four-star environmental rating, and the six Category 1 pollution incidents in 2025 will be prioritised for ministerial visits. One-star ratings block bonuses at Southern, Thames, South West and Yorkshire Water.
Department of Health and Social Care · Original source
From 29 October, selling nicotine-free vapes and nicotine pouches, strips and pearls to under-18s is illegal across the UK, and adults commit an offence if they buy such products for someone under 18. Promotional giveaways, substantial discounts and vending-machine sales of vapes and nicotine products are also banned. Trading Standards gains £200 fixed penalty powers, with enforcement agencies receiving up to £30 million a year until 2028/29 under the Tobacco and Vapes Act.
