5 important things happening in the UK today (18 June 2026)
Here are five important things happening in the UK on Thursday (18 June 2026):
Interest rates expected to be held by the Bank of England
Interest rates are expected to be held by policymakers at the Bank of England (BoE), who are keeping a close eye on events in the Middle East. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is widely predicted by analysts to keep the benchmark rate at 3.75% for a fourth consecutive meeting. Interest rates are the primary tool used to control inflation, which is the rate at which prices rise. [BBC]
Russia-linked arson attacks show bad actors targeting UK, says Starmer
The trial of two Russian-linked arsonists who targeted property connected to Keir Starmer shows that the UK is under attack from bad actors who want to “exploit division” and “destabilise our democracy”, the prime minister has said. [Guardian]
Polls set to open in crucial Makerfield by-election
People living in the Greater Manchester constituency of Makerfield will shortly head to the polls to elect their new MP. More than 30 polling stations across the parliamentary constituency will open at 07:00 BST and close at 22:00, after which the count will take place. The result is expected early on Friday. [MEN]The
UK is looking at swapping some sickness benefits for job coaching
UK government officials are exploring allowing people on sickness benefits to swap cash payments for job coaching or mental health therapy, as ministers seek to get welfare reforms that would ultimately save money past restive Labour MPs. [Financial Times]
Financial news
Brent fell below $78 per barrel on Thursday, extending its decline toward the lowest levels since early March following reports that the US and Iran digitally signed their interim peace agreement. On Thursday, Oil was trading lower at $74.59. The pound is trading at $1.33, €1.16, and ¥8.99.
