UK tax authority HMRC reported that 601,620 families received £55.7 million in Tax-Free Childcare government top-ups in June, with each family averaging £93, and encouraged eligible working parents to register.
A study visit reported on 13 October 2026 said ASEAN officials examined European cross-border electricity interconnection, including the IFA2 UK–France subsea link, to inform the ASEAN Power Grid.
On 12 October 2026, the Home Secretary announced an independent review, led by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, into protective security for people in public life and expanded police support for some groups.
A UK Government trade mission reported on 12 October 2026 was set to accompany Scottish food and drink businesses to Delhi and Mumbai after the UK-India Free Trade Agreement took effect on 15 July 2026.
In a 12 October 2026 statement, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said two Iranian nationals were designated over hostile activity, and Iran's ambassador was summoned.
On 12 October 2026 the Ministry of Justice said it would pilot Virtual Remand Hearings in at least four police force areas, backed by £17.4 million, and accept or accept in principle most of Leveson's 180 recommendations.
The UK says any treaty on transnational corporations and human rights must be clear, legally coherent and workable, as negotiations consider proposed redrafting of certain articles at the 12th session.
At the 16th India–UK JETCO in New Delhi on 12 October 2026, ministers noted early CETA trade flows and agreed annual data exchanges, with the 17th meeting planned for the UK in 2027.
At the 8th UK-India Science and Innovation Council on 12 October 2026, ministers cited over £450 million in joint UKRI-India investment since 2008 and announced new technology translation and research initiatives.
Ministry of Justice says more than 1,000 court cases were delayed on the day last year when defendants did not reach court on time; one route cut journey times by up to a third.
The Ministry of Justice said on 12 October 2026 that a pilot lets cases be transferred digitally to judges anywhere in England and Wales, with participants able to ask for a face-to-face hearing.
The Ministry of Justice says Short Trial Courts are being rolled out nationwide, with domestic abuse, drug and knife crime cases prioritised at certain courts in London, Liverpool, Preston and Nottingham.
