5 important things happening in the UK today

January 28, 2026

Starmer begins trip to China: Keir Starmer has said the UK government will remain “clear-eyed and realistic” on the national security threat posed by China as he travelled to Beijing in an effort to improve relations with the economic powerhouse. The Prime Minister promised “stability and clarity” in his approach to Beijing after years of what he described as “inconsistency” under the Tories, as western powers turn to China in their search for economic stability amid concerns the US may no longer be a reliable partner. [Guardian]

Reeves gives rates relief to pubs but not restaurants: Pubs in England will get 15% off their business rates from April after Rachel Reeves announced a long-awaited support package, but the chancellor risks a backlash from other hospitality firms that say they face imminent closure. Ministers have stepped in to pledge an extra 15 per cent off pubs’ business rates bill, followed by a real-term freeze over the following two years. Dan Tomlinson, the Treasury minister, told the House of Commons that the support would be worth more than £1,650 for the average pub next year. It means that three-quarters of pubs’ bills will either fall or stay the same from April, according to the Treasury. The support will also apply to live music venues. [The Times]

Rail nationalisation tsar to get £300,000 for working two days a week: The head of Labour’s nationalised rail project will earn up to £300,000 for two and a half days’ work a week, making the position one of Britain’s highest-paid public sector roles. Great British Railways (GBR) will pay its chairman a salary of between £200,000 and £300,000 a year, according to a job advertisement published by the Government. [The Telegraph]

EasyJet warned over ‘misleading’ £5.99 cabin bag fee: EasyJet has been told to stop claiming that carry-on baggage fees are available “from £5.99”, after it failed to provide evidence to the advertising watchdog that passengers can stow luggage in a cabin at that price. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said customers would assume from EasyJet’s wording that they could take their bags on flights for £5.99. [BBC]

On Wednesday, Oil was trading higher at $65.86. The pound is trading at $1.38, €1.15, and ¥9.60.

Now read: Starmer makes major policy announcement on TikTok in British first