UK Economy & Jobs: Private sector pay growth has slowed to a six-year low, with unemployment steady at 4.9% and job vacancies falling to the lowest level since 2021, adding to worries about a subdued jobs market. Cost of Living & Wages: Total earnings growth eased to 4.1% while regular pay excluding bonuses rose to 3.5%, as employers cite labour and operating costs. Transport & Safety: A “maintenance crisis” is brewing for UK towed vehicles, with breakdowns driving most towing-related incidents even as overall collisions fall. Public Services: England’s Department for Education confirms new guidance from September 1, pushing mainstream state schools to set their own attendance targets and focus on Friday absences. Local Politics: A Labour councillor in Northumberland is suspended after backing a motion over the High Borrans closure. Crime & Courts: A Kurdish man accused of raping a woman after offering her a job at a barbershop faces trial at Warwick Crown Court. International Tensions: Russia warns Britain of “consequences” after reports British-made drones were used in Ukraine strikes deep inside Russia. Travel Tragedy: A British newlywed couple and a Greek pilot died in a helicopter crash on the Greek island of Sifnos. Media & Streaming: ITVX will stream all five seasons of BBC period drama Poldark from September 10. Everyday Life: Aldi confirms bank holiday opening hours and shares the “quietest” times to shop, including 7pm.