James Rodger

Experts warn that increasing the top income tax rate to 50 percent, an option Andy Burnham has suggested, would raise little revenue due to behavioral changes among high earners. Financial specialists argue that past attempts at a similar rate were ineffective and caution that such a move could create complexity and instability, stressing the need for consistent government policy.

Schools across England and Wales plan early closures due to a third heatwave pushing temperatures up to 36C. Over a dozen schools will send pupils home early while some will fully close due to extreme indoor temperatures. The Met Office forecasts continued high temperatures, with the hottest conditions shifting toward the southwest as high pressure persists. Thunderstorms may develop in southern areas as warm, dry weather continues into next week.