Heatwave myths and climate reality: The Met Office pushed back on viral claims that a June 26 day was the hottest in the UK since 1976, saying the record was for June and that hotter days have occurred in other months. Middle East shipping and oil shocks: Tankers diverted on the Red Sea after Houthi threats, as the US warned of “major military punishment” for Iran-backed attacks—raising fuel-price pressure. Justice and public safety: Andy Burnham paused an early prisoner release scheme due to start in September, ordering an urgent review before any releases. Devolution push: Burnham set out his first “No 10 North” meeting in Manchester, aiming to shift power into local areas. Local politics and ministerial churn: British Cypriot MP Nesil Caliskan confirmed she has left a junior government role as Burnham’s reshuffle continues. Parliament and policy spillovers: A parliamentary question confirmed the Royal Navy’s last Hunt-class mine countermeasures ship leaves service in 2031. Transport affordability row: Scottish Labour MPs asked Holyrood to clarify how a £2 bus fare cap pledge will line up with Burnham’s England-wide plan. Gambling minister uncertainty: DCMS said Baroness Twycross will stay in the department but would not confirm whether she remains gambling minister. Crypto and standards scrutiny: Reform UK’s Nigel Farage faces renewed scrutiny over a reported £5m undeclared gift tied to crypto donor Christopher Harborne, with investigations opened. Defence training dispute: The UK cancelled army training in Kenya after licences were not approved, with a move to Tanzania.