The British government confirmed on Monday that the RAF base at Akrotiri, Cyprus, had been hit in a drone strike. The resumption of US and Israeli air attacks on Iran and Iranian reprisal strikes on its neighbours.
Domestic energy prices in the UK will not be immediately affected for most households because the current price cap is fixed until 31 March 2026. Furthermore, Ofgem has already confirmed a 7% decrease in the price cap for the subsequent period of 1 April to 30 June 2026.
Pubs in Scotland are currently closing at a rate 50% higher than in England. Closure Frequency On average, one Scottish pub closes permanently every week.
As of 3 March 2026, UK family budgets are facing a "perfect storm" of immediate geopolitical shocks and scheduled tax and utility increases. While inflation has fallen from its peak to 3%, the cumulative effect of the last few years means essentials remain significantly more expensive than in 2021.
It's becoming a "perfect storm" for both your wallet and the owners' tills. Between the war-driven energy spikes, the BrewDog collapse and the business rates eating out in Scotland is officially in "luxury" territory for many.
This funding will boost skilled jobs and coastal economies, and forms part of a £448 million commitment to clean maritime funding. over £270 million investment for greener shipping and ports across the UK, supporting thousands of skilled jobs in coastal towns and backing their rejuvenation.
According to Rachel Reeves her economic plan is the right one as Spring Forecast shows inflation falling and borrowing down, while living standards and the economy grow, with people set to be £1000 better off. No mention was made of the war in the middle east that may affect energy prices.
The recent surge in oil prices, driven by conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on 1st March 2026, is expected to increase UK inflation and dampen economic growth. While the UK economy has become significantly less energy-intensive since the 1970s, it remains highly sensitive to global supply chain disruptions and imported fuel costs.
The UK government is preparing for possible evacuations of British citizens from several Middle East countries, but it has not yet begun mass evacuations. Current actions focus on planning, rapid‑deployment teams, and advising citizens to stay in place until safe routes open.
Up to £17 million will be available to help create green jobs, support innovation, diversify energy supply chains, and enable workers to transition into low-carbon roles. In addition, for the first time, community organisations and social enterprises will be amongst a range of organisations eligible to apply for a guaranteed share from the Just Transition Fund (JTF) for the North East and Moray.
Leonardo UK selected for £1 billion contract for new medium helicopters NMH. These could work alongside uncrewed aircraft to support defence operations around the globe. Upgraded deal makes Yeovil the global centre for Leonardo's military helicopter production and exports and sets up the UK as a leader for uncrewed and autonomous systems.
The UK has agreed to a US request to use British military bases to strike Iranian missile sites, Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed. But the UK Prime Minister said the UK "will not join offensive action" in Iran, adding: “We all remember the mistakes of Iraq and we have learned those lessons.” It comes as Iran continues its assault on the Middle East in revenge attacks for the joint US-Israeli operation yesterday which saw missiles rain down on Tehran.
First tariff-free shipment of UK beef arrives in the US, as government works in partnership with the food and farming industries to save millions in export fees and grow the UK economy. UK food and farming take centre stage this week after the first tariff‑free shipment of British beef arrived in the US, alongside the launch of the UK's first dedicated agri‑food trade mission to Washington DC.
Latest travel information for British nationals affected by the situation in the Middle East. Register your presence with the UK government British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar and United Arab Emirates can register their presence to receive direct updates from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
As Scottish Apprenticeship Week gets underway, First Minister John Swinney has highlighted the power of apprenticeships to equip the next generation with skills for future jobs and industries - helping grow the economy and tackle child poverty. The Scottish Government is investing around £198 million this year to support apprenticeships.
Oil prices have surged sharply today, 2 March 2026, following a major escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Prices initially rocketed by as much as 13% during early Asian trade as markets reacted to unprecedented military strikes by the U.S.
The government has launched a new vulnerability monitoring service (VMS) to reduce cyber risks and speed up fixes, and a new Cyber Profession to build long-term resilience across public services. Critical cyber weaknesses across the public sector will now be fixed 6 times faster than before.
Rising restrictions in the UK asylum and immigration system will affect certain types of employment and employers more than others, mainly because of two major policy shifts. A much tougher illegal‑working regime that expands employer liability.
Petrol prices typically lag crude oil by one to three weeks, but crises like this compress that timeline. Analysts and motoring groups are already warning drivers to expect record pump prices within 10-12 days, as the turmoil in the Middle East disrupts global oil distribution.
HIE Impact Women will support 30 women leaders from businesses and social enterprises that have an annual turnover of at least £25,000. Women in leadership roles in businesses across the Highlands and Islands are being encouraged to apply for a fully funded development programme aimed at boosting growth, enhancing leadership capability and building strong support networks across the region.