As tensions continue to unfold in the Middle East, it is becoming increasingly clear that Iran is not merely reacting to events, but adapting strategically to them. One of the most significant developments is the apparent realisation in Tehran that it holds enduring leverage over one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints: the Strait of Hormuz.
The prospect of a U.S. strike on Iran represents one of the most significant geopolitical risks currently facing global oil markets.
When the first tankers of Venezuelan crude began docking again at U.S. Gulf Coast refineries, headlines framed it as a major shift in American energy security.
For many small businesses — especially in rural areas like Caithness, where margins are thin and costs unpredictable and tax arrears can creep up quietly. A slow winter, a lost contract, a spike in fuel prices, or a delayed payment from a major customer can be enough to push a firm into difficulty.
Strengthened UK-Japan trade arrangement slashes red tape for British organic exporters, cutting costs and bureaucracy. British organic food producers will see red tape slashed and the doors opened to one of Asia's fastest-growing organic markets, Food Security Minister Dame Angela Eagle has announced.
If you used finance to buy a car, motorbike or van between 6 April 2007 and 1 November 2024 you may be owed compensation. Many lenders didn't properly tell customers important information about their agreements.
The UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh Rt Hon the Baroness Winterton of Doncaster, DBE is visiting Dhaka this week to reinforce and expand the longstanding and mutually beneficial UK-Bangladesh trade and economic partnership. Her third visit to Bangladesh comes at a pivotal time following the formation of Bangladesh's new elected government in February.
A massive energy crisis is coming from Iran and the Gulf. What can the government do to protect us? Can you do anything to protect yourself?.
For decades, central banks treated US Treasuries as the ultimate safe asset. Now, for the first time in a generation, they're choosing something else.
The rapid development of automation and artificial intelligence has transformed discussions about the future of work, raising pressing questions about job security and long-term career prospects. While popular narratives often suggest that machines will replace human workers on a massive scale, the reality is more nuanced.
The fuel crisis has emerged as a significant challenge for small businesses, with rising energy and transport costs placing increasing pressure on already tight margins. While large corporations often have the resources to absorb or offset such shocks, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are typically more vulnerable.
Significant new rules and rights regarding miscarriage leave are being introduced in the UK. Major changes taking effect from April 6, 2026.
Hundreds of thousands of sick or disabled people will be offered voluntary help towards employment as part of a package of measures coming into force today (6 April) that will encourage work and save taxpayers around £1 billion. Incentives that discourage work and trap people on benefits to be removed via legislation coming into force today.
The establishment of Scotland's Technology Council in 2025 represents a significant step in shaping the nation's long-term economic future. Its 2025-26 report outlines an ambitious vision to position Scotland as a leading global technology hub by 2035.
Over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension rise by up to £575 from Monday (6 April), as both the basic and new State Pensions increase by 4.8% under the Triple Lock guarantee. Millions of pensioners to receive up to an additional £575 in their State Pension this year.
The UK's first ever Armed Forces Commissioner - Former Air Commodore Polly Miller-Perkins CBE - has been appointed by the Defence Secretary John Healey MP. The appointment delivers on the government’s key manifesto commitment to give serving personnel and their families an independent voice to improve service life.
When fuel prices soar and budgets tighten, rural Scotland is always first on the chopping block Wick John O'Groats Airport is more than a runway. It’s the last thread tying Caithness to the national economy.
Britain's relationship with North Sea oil has always been paradoxical. We are an energy‑producing nation that still pays global prices, a country with rigs on the horizon yet households struggling to heat their homes.
Walk past a Scottish Government building these days and you might wonder if anyone's home. The lights are on, the heating hums, and the cleaners still make their rounds but the desks are empty.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has launched a multi‑million‑pound advertising campaign encouraging the public to eat more red meat and dairy as part of a "balanced diet." The campaign is government‑levied and industry‑backed, and it has immediately run into criticism from health experts, climate analysts, and policy commentators. The row over the AHDB's "Let's Eat Balanced" campaign has exposed a deeper contradiction at the heart of UK food policy.