In a day packed with significant political and royal developments, a series of major stories have emerged from Westminster and beyond. From a serious breach surrounding the Chancellor's Budget to dramatic plans from the former US President and a final step in a royal downfall, here are the five key stories you need to know about.
Major Failure in Budget Process Unveiled
The error that led to the premature leak of key Budget details has been labelled the worst failure in the 15-year history of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). The independent fiscal watchdog faced severe criticism after sensitive information was released ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' official statement. This unprecedented breach has sparked a fierce row in Westminster about the security and integrity of the economic forecasting process.
Amid the controversy, Labour's Darren Jones has stepped forward to defend Chancellor Rachel Reeves. He strongly rebutted claims that she misled the public over the Budget's contents, insisting the government's economic plans were presented with full transparency once the formal announcement was made.
Trump's Unconventional White House Blueprint
In a revelation from across the Atlantic, former US President Donald Trump has reportedly instructed teams working on designs for a new White House ballroom to ignore the rules. Sources indicate that Trump, planning for a potential second term, is pushing for a lavish and grandiose renovation that would bypass traditional design and historical preservation guidelines. This directive underscores his known preference for opulent decor and his willingness to challenge established protocols.
Final Royal Demotion for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
In a decisive move that formalises his removal from the working monarchy, Prince Andrew has had his last remaining royal titles formally stripped. The Duke of York, now using the name Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in a commercial context, faces this latest blow as the institution continues to distance itself from him following the settlement of a civil sexual assault case in the US. This action marks the culmination of a dramatic fall from grace for the Queen's second son.
Other Headlines Making Waves
A former councillor has appeared in court in connection with the so-called Westminster honeytrap case. The allegations involve a plot to compromise politicians using deceptive tactics, shaking political circles and raising serious security concerns.
Meanwhile, in the United States, a scathing internal report has declared the FBI a rudderless ship. The assessment is highly critical of leadership, stating that Director Kash Patel is in over his head and struggling to steer the powerful law enforcement agency effectively. This critique points to deep-seated issues within the bureau's management structure.
These stories, emerging on Monday 1st December 2025, paint a picture of a day defined by institutional failures, controversial ambitions, and lasting consequences for public figures.
