Economy

For much of the past three years, the sound most associated with Britain’s tax authority was hold music. Callers to HM Revenue and Customs waited, on average, well over 20 minutes to reach an adviser; millions never got through at all; and a parade …

Britain’s landmark trade agreement with India was sold to voters and businesses as a post-Brexit prize: cheaper Scotch in Mumbai, lower tariffs on British cars, and a projected long-term boost of billions to national output. Yet within days of the deal taking effect, attention …

For most of the past decade, the story of nursing in England was one of scarcity: too few nurses, too many empty rotas and a health service leaning ever harder on agencies and overseas recruitment to keep wards open. In 2026 the narrative has …

• Transport infrastructure and regional connectivity are expected to receive increased investment.

• Water companies, electricity network operators and regulated utilities are attracting increased investor attention.

• Britain aims to strengthen its position as one of the world's leading AI innovation hubs.

• Life sciences, biotechnology and medical innovation are expected to receive greater policy attention.