Inflation Trends and Monetary Policy

UK Economic News In April 2025 , UK inflation decreased to 2.6%, down from 2.8% in February. This decline, attributed to lower fuel prices and subdued food price growth, has increased pressure on the Bank of England to consider another interest rate cut at its upcoming May meeting. Despite this dip, inflation remains above the bank’s 2% target and is projected to surpass 3% in April due to higher energy bills, increased taxes, and rising labor costs. Economists anticipate further rate cuts, though not a return to the historically low rates seen after the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. ​AP News + 1, The Guardian + 1 The Guardian + 1 AP News + 1

State Pension and Attendance Allowance Increases

Starting with UK Economic News In April 2025, millions of UK pensioners will receive a £470 increase in their state pension, reflecting a 4.1% rise due to the Triple Lock policy. The full State Pension will increase from £221.20 to £230.25 per week, while the basic pension will rise from £169.50 to £176.45 per week. Additionally, the Attendance Allowance will increase by 1.7%, benefiting over 1.6 million people. The new rates will be £72.65 per week for the lower rate and £108.55 for the higher rate. ​News MinimalistNews Minimalist

National Living Wage and Statutory Pay Increases

On 1st April, the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage increased: ​Home

• Ages 21 and over: £11.44 to £12.21

• Ages 18 to 20: £8.60 to £10.00

• Under 18s and apprentices: £6.40 to £7.55​

From 6th April 2025, statutory pay rates will also rise: ​Home

• Maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental leave, and parental bereavement pay: £184.03 to £187.18 per week

• Statutory Sick Pay: £116.75 to £118.75 per week​

These increases aim to support workers amid rising living costs. ​Wikipedia+11News Minimalist+11Wikipedia+11

Policy Developments

Steel Industry Rescue

On 12 April 2025, the UK Parliament was recalled from its Easter recess to fast-track the Steel Industry (Special Measures) Act 2025. The legislation aims to prevent the closure of steel production infrastructure, ensuring the survival of the British steel industry. The recall of Parliament for a Saturday sitting was a rare occurrence, highlighting the urgency of the situation. ​Wikipedia

Cybersecurity and Resilience Bill

In April 2025, the UK government published the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, outlining measures to strengthen the country’s cyber defenses. The bill proposes expanding the regulatory framework to cover more entities, enhancing incident reporting, and empowering regulators to improve oversight. The goal is to secure critical infrastructure and essential digital services, thereby enhancing national security. ​Wikipedia

Cultural and Social Highlights

National Offer Day

On 15 April 2025, “National Offer Day” took place, marking the day when education authorities inform parents whether their children have been granted a place at their first-choice primary school. This event is a significant milestone for many families, influencing children’s educational paths. ​Latest news & breaking headlines

Sony World Photography Awards

Also on 15 April, the winners of the Sony World Photography Awards were announced during a ceremony at Somerset House in London. The awards recognize outstanding achievements in photography across various categories. An exhibition showcasing the winning works is scheduled to open the following day, providing the public with an opportunity to view some of the most compelling photography from around the world. ​Latest news & breaking headlines

Sugababes ’25 Tour

The Sugababes commenced their ’25 Tour on 8 April 2025 in Leeds, England. The tour, spanning across Europe, is described as the group’s biggest-ever UK and European tour. The opening shows garnered positive reviews from critics, with praise for the group’s vocal ability, energy, and unity. ​Wikipedia

Global Events Impacting the UK

Universal Studios Theme Park in Bedfordshire

On 9 April 2025, Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed government support for the construction of a Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire, approximately 45 minutes north of London. Construction is expected to start in 2026, with a planned opening in 2031, subject to planning approvals. The project is estimated to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, including an estimated 28,000 jobs and 8.5 million visitors in the first year. ​Wikipedia