Leadership Shake-Up: Keir Starmer resigned as UK prime minister less than two years after taking office, triggering a Labour leadership race with Andy Burnham widely seen as the frontrunner and Downing Street promising a “smooth transition.” Markets & Cost of Living: A flash PMI showed the UK services sector contracting at the fastest pace since January 2023, while analysts warned Reeves’ possible removal as chancellor could rattle borrowing costs and everyday prices. Brexit & Europe: European leaders offered warm tributes to Starmer as EU-UK summit plans were reassessed, and a former Brexit negotiator said rejoining the EU could be possible on a “short” timeline. Northern Ireland: New regulations allow parents who lost a baby before 24 weeks to request Baby Loss Certificates, and Stormont’s economy department warned its budget talks are at “breaking point.” Public Services Under Strain: A rare Met Office red heat warning is driving school closures and urgent guidance across England and Wales as temperatures could hit around 40C. Consumer & Business Regulation: The CMA fined StubHub UK nearly £900,000 for “drip pricing” and ordered refunds to tens of thousands of fans. Justice & Rights: Scotland will move trans prisoners out of female jails after ministers lost a court challenge and chose not to appeal. Climate & Supply Chains: The government plans new rules requiring checks to stop UK-linked commodities contributing to illegal deforestation.