The Latest Breaking News from Office for National Statistics

Major retailers have raised concerns about the increased cost of thefts.

Police recorded offences have risen 29 per cent in a year

Researchers called for public health campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of casual smoking.

Deaths from drug use in England and Wales have risen by 11%, according to the latest annual data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In 2023, there were 5,448 fatalities (93 deaths per million people) – the highest number of drug-related deaths since records began in 1993.

Overall drug-related deaths registered in 2023 reached a new record high.

The Prime Minister has previously warned that the Budget next Wednesday would be ‘painful’.

Public sector net borrowing in the first half of the financial year rose to £79.6 billion, according to the ONS

ONS data shows higher debt interest payments and pay awards for public sector workers pushed figure to £16.6bn

The ONS said public sector net borrowing in the first half of the financial year stood at £79.6 billion, £6.7 billion higher than forecast by the OBR.

“Toxic effect of high inflation” is hurting businesses, reports Begbies Traynor

The 2.8% rise represented the sixth month in a row of annual price increases, following eight months of annual decreases.