As President Donald Trump threatens the independence of the Federal Reserve Bank a look at history may give us some warnings about inflationary pressures that could result. Central bank independence has become a foundational principle of contemporary macroeconomic governance.
In October 2025, the UK economy shrank slightly, while the US economy was expanding strongly and the EU economy was growing modestly. This contrast highlights how the UK's stagnation is more domestic in nature, whereas the US and EU are benefiting from stronger consumer spending and investment.
The Secretary of State has accepted TRA's recommendation to impose anti-dumping measures on certain engine oils and hydraulic fluids from Lithuania and the UAE. The Secretary of State for Business & Trade has on 11 December 2025 accepted the Trade Remedies Authority's final recommendation to impose anti-dumping measures on certain engine oils and hydraulic fluids imported from Lithuania and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Early-years interventions aimed at supporting disadvantaged children and families are a public-policy priority in many high-income countries. Two of the best-known programmes are the UK's Sure Start (children's centres and family support, launched 1999) and the United States' Head Start (early childhood education and family services, launched 1965).
Total UK retail footfall remained broadly unchanged in the week to 7 December 2025, compared with the previous week, but decreased by 1% when compared with the equivalent week of 2024 (BT Active Intelligence). The most reported challenge affecting turnover for trading businesses in early December 2025 was "economic uncertainty" at 33%, followed by "cost of labour" (21%), "cost of materials" and "competition" (both 20%) (initial results from Wave 146 of the Business Insights and Conditions Survey).
The Colorado beetle, a major threat to potato crops, was found in Kent in 2023. A major potato pest has been eradicated from the UK, the government has outlined today (Thursday 11 December 2025), following extensive operational investigative work and surveillance.
Grangemouth workers and the community will benefit from jobs and investment as UK government backs a new biotech project on the site. Scottish biotech company MiAlgae backed with up to £1.5 million to develop an innovative new project on the Grangemouth site, using byproducts from whisky distillation.
The value of goods imports increased by £0.8 billion (1.5%) in October 2025, because of a rise in imports from both EU and non-EU countries. The value of goods exports rose by £1.5 billion (5.2%) in October 2025, mainly because of an increase in exports to non-EU countries.
Services output was estimated to have no growth (0.0%) in the three months to October 2025, compared with the previous three months to July 2025. 7 of the 14 sectors showed growth in the three months to October 2025, with the main positive contributing sector being "real estate activities" (up 0.4%).
October 2025 GDP: Fell 0.1%, following a similar decline in September and flat growth in August. Three-month trend (Aug-Oct): The economy contracted 0.1%, reversing the small growth seen earlier in the year.
What can ordinary people do if the financial crash many economists fear is coming? In this video, I explain some practical, calm, and sensible steps to improve your financial resilience without panic and without doom-mongering. From securing savings and pensions to food security and holding a little cash, these tips help you think ahead when the government won't.
The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 25 basis points at the conclusion of its two-day meeting on Wednesday, marking the central bank's third cut of the year. Fed officials were split on the decision to lower rates to a range of 3.50%-3.75%, with policymakers dissenting on both sides.
Households with specific tumble dryers manufactured by Haier must check if their machine needs an urgent safety repair. Households with specific models of integrated heat pump tumble dryers manufactured by Haier must check if their machine needs an urgent safety repair because of the risk of fire.
A new report evaluating the impact of the 20th International Island Games has revealed that Orkney 2025 added £4 million to the island's economy, and has left a powerful legacy for local sport, infrastructure, and community spirit. Held from 12-18 July 2025, the Games brought together 2,141 athletes and officials from 24 islands across the globe, with 1,630 athletes competing across 12 sports.
Under newly proposed U.S. regulations, UK travellers (and others from visa‑waiver countries) may soon be required to provide up to five years of social media history when applying for entry to the United States.
Two finalists announced as part of HMRC's data competition. Two businesses have been awarded one-year contracts to develop and test technologies to help close the tax gap.
Great British Energy's first project will put rooftop solar panels on 200 schools and 200 hospitals - cutting energy bills. First major project for Great British Energy is to put rooftop solar panels on around 200 schools and 200 NHS sites, saving hundreds of millions on their energy bills.
# 10 December 2025 Career opportunities with The Highland Council The Highland Council is looking to fill a variety of posts relating to civil engineering and flood risk management based in locations across the area. Included are opportunities specifically for civil engineering graduates and technicians, providing the ideal job with career progression for anyone recently qualified and ready for a varied and interesting role.
New data published today by Public Health Scotland (PHS) provides clear evidence that this year's vaccine is doing a good job of preventing severe flu. So far this winter, children in Scotland are 78% less likely to be admitted to hospital with flu if vaccinated; with vaccinated adults in Scotland aged 65 and over 37% less likely to be hospitalised.
A new partnership with Google DeepMind will help to turn cutting-edge AI into real benefits for working people. New partnership with Google DeepMind will help deliver new science breakthroughs, cleaner energy, and smarter public services - turning cutting-edge AI into real benefits for people.
