Zen Brief

Pressure on jobs and public finances runs through today's news: Barclays plans 5,000 UK job cuts, and higher inflation limits the Chancellor's options before next week's Budget. The government also pledges £140m to end corridor care for children.

1. 1 Barclays cuts 5,000 UK jobs in AI expansionBarclays will cut 5,000 UK roles as it expands its use of AI, raising questions about job security across British banking.
2. 2 Inflation surge limits Chancellor's Budget tax optionsHigher inflation and borrowing figures have narrowed the Chancellor's room for manoeuvre ahead of next week's Budget.
3. 3 Small firms curb hiring as labour costs biteHeadline unemployment is falling, but small firms say rising labour costs are leading them to hold back on hiring.
4. 4 Cooper Pledges £140m to End NHS Corridor CareYvette Cooper announced £140m for urgent care, with ending corridor care for children a priority before winter.
5. 5 Nurse's £750k theft exposes care sector safeguarding gapsA nurse was convicted of stealing £750,000 from a 99-year-old client, prompting calls for stronger safeguarding of vulnerable elderly people.