The chancellor’s choices

Rachel Reeves has set out her plans for the UK’s economy in her spring statement. What state are the country’s finances in? And was cutting welfare benefits the only way of balancing the books?

Is Labour’s welfare gamble a risk worth taking?

In Labour’s most controversial move since taking office last summer, the government this week set out plans to reform the UK’s welfare system. But will it actually achieve the joint aims of saving money and getting more people back into work?

Is Labour following the White House playbook on immigration?

The British government released footage of unauthorised migrant arrests across the country and deported thousands since the elections. With a new security-focused immigration bill currently discussed in parliament, is Labour following the White House playbook on immigration?

The Rwanda plan: How to waste £700m

The flagship policy for several Prime Ministers became the Rwanda plan. But three years, four Prime Ministers and £715 million later, the policy is dead and never really got off the ground. This is how so much money was spent on so little.

Is Rachel Reeves's Heathrow expansion a green aviation gamble?

The UK chancellor Rachel Reeves has backed a third Heathrow runway, saying the airport expansion will meet the government’s climate targets because of ‘green aviation’. But is there such a thing?

Why is the Royal Family off limits in Parliament and could Trump force Palestinians out of Gaza?

What are the 180-year-old rules that prevent MPs from debating issues about the Royal Family? As Donald Trump floats the idea of “clearing out” Gaza, what lies ahead for Palestinians returning home? And President Trump promised tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China - but how will this affect foreign relations with the US’ closest neighbours? Giles Whittell is joined by NPR’s International Correspondent Lauren Frayer, plus Tortoise’s Patricia Clarke and Jasper Corbett as they battle to pitch the top story.

Trapped by the lifetime ISA: a costly catch for first-time buyers

Many young people saw the Lifetime ISA as their ticket onto the housing ladder. But with soaring property prices and a rigid price cap, thousands are now facing unexpected penalties – some are losing thousands in government withdrawal fees.

Can redefining terrorism stop the lone wolf threat?

In the wake of the Southport murders, the UK Government is reviewing its terrorism strategy and considering adopting a broader definition. But will this stop lone wolf attacks in the future?

Should England’s cricketers boycott Afghanistan?

The England men’s cricket team faces calls to boycott an upcoming match against Afghanistan in protest of the Taliban’s oppressive policies, particularly their human rights abuses against women and girls. But should athletes be forced to take a stand?

Why rising borrowing costs spell trouble for Rachel Reeves

The government’s cost of borrowing is going up. What does that tell us about the UK economy?

Could Nigel Farage’s Reform party be backed by mega donors?

Tech billionaire Elon Musk and property tycoon Nick Candy have been named as considering multi-million-pound contributions, which could change the face of British politics forever. Reform could become the best-funded political party in the UK.

The House of Lords: who do they work for?

The House of Lords rarely gets much scrutiny, either by the media or the public. A team of Tortoise journalists has put a spotlight on the UK’s second chamber and asks whether some of its members are working for us or themselves?