Canadian actor best known for Daniel Jackson on Stargate SG-1
The government has announced a bill-discount scheme for households within 500 metres of new or upgraded grid infrastructure, with discounts of up to £2,500 over 10 years. The first wave of projects includes Bramford-Twinstead, North London Reinforcement and Emmock in Scotland. Payments will start next year and are administered by Ofgem.
Travel firms have pledged refunds and no extra charges amid rising jet fuel costs and Middle East tensions. Airlines like EasyJet and Virgin Atlantic report confidence in summer schedules, while On the Beach promises same-day refunds for cancelled flights. Consumers are booking later, but demand remains strong as holidays go ahead.
Andy Burnham has been installed as prime minister and has promised immediate measures to give households "breathing room" on the cost of living. He has begun selecting a cabinet, signalled support for new North Sea drilling, and faces immediate fiscal and defence funding gaps that his first autumn Budget must fill.