Business

The government has issued a stark warning to Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company xAI, signalling it is prepared to block access to its Grok chatbot in the UK if it fails to comply with British law on online safety.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said on Friday that ministers are moving swiftly to criminalise the creation of intimate images without consent, as concerns mount over the misuse of AI tools to generate sexualised images of women and children.

Her comments follow reports that Grok, xAI’s chatbot integrated into the social media platform X, has continued to allow users to generate sexually manipulated images if they are willing to pay for premium access, despite public assurances that safeguards had been tightened.

Kendall described the practice as “despicable and abhorrent”, adding that it was “totally unacceptable” for any platform to profit from such content.

She said the government expects the media regulator Ofcom to act decisively and without delay. “I, and more importantly the public, would expect to see Ofcom update on next steps in days, not weeks,” she said, urging the regulator to use the full range of powers granted by Parliament under the Online Safety Act.

The Technology Secretary explicitly reminded xAI that UK law allows regulators to block services from being accessed domestically if they refuse to comply. She said that any decision by Ofcom to use those powers would have the government’s “full support”.

Kendall confirmed that ministers are also legislating to ban so-called “nudification” apps, which use AI to digitally undress individuals without consent. The measure is included in the Crime and Policing Bill currently before Parliament.

In addition, she said new legal powers will come into force within weeks to make the creation of non-consensual intimate images a criminal offence, closing a loophole that has allowed AI-generated abuse to spread faster than enforcement mechanisms.

She also warned that platforms are expected to comply fully with Ofcom’s new guidance on violence against women and girls (VAWG). “If they do not,” she said, “I am prepared to go further.”

The intervention marks one of the strongest signals yet that the government is willing to escalate its response to AI-driven abuse, particularly where children and women are targeted.

“We are as determined to ensure women and girls are safe online as we are to ensure they are safe in the real world,” Kendall said. “No excuses.”

Read more:
Liz Kendall warns xAI over Grok images as UK moves to criminalise non-consensual AI deepfakes

When businesses face financial turmoil, they often find themselves at a crossroads. The weight of mounting debts, unmanageable cash flow issues, and the pressure from creditors can quickly lead a company to the brink of liquidation.

However, insolvency and business recovery processes, when handled properly, can offer a lifeline to businesses in distress. One such company that specializes in these services is BABR (Bailey Ahmad Business Recovery), which provides essential strategies and expert guidance to help businesses navigate the complex waters of financial recovery and avoid the often devastating consequences of liquidation.

In this article, we will explore how business recovery and insolvency solutions can help companies regain financial stability, reduce the risk of liquidation, and emerge from their difficulties stronger and more resilient.

The Impact of Insolvency on Businesses

Insolvency refers to a situation where a company can no longer meet its financial obligations, such as paying creditors or servicing its debts. While insolvency may seem like the end of the road for many businesses, it is important to recognize that it does not always have to result in liquidation. Liquidation occurs when a company’s assets are sold off to pay its creditors, and the company ceases to operate.

However, insolvency can often be resolved through various recovery processes that allow businesses to regain financial stability without shutting down. If a company can act quickly and seek professional advice, it may be able to avoid liquidation entirely. This is where the expertise of companies like BABR comes into play. Through a range of tailored services, BABR helps struggling businesses understand their options and take proactive steps to regain control of their finances.

Key Approaches to Business Recovery

Business recovery involves identifying the root causes of financial distress and implementing a strategy to resolve them. The approach taken will depend on the unique circumstances of the business, but there are several common strategies that are used in the recovery process:

Restructuring Debt
One of the most common methods of business recovery is debt restructuring. This involves negotiating with creditors to reduce or extend payment terms, or in some cases, reducing the overall amount of debt owed. By working with experts like BABR, businesses can negotiate favorable terms that make it more feasible to pay off outstanding debts over time, avoiding the need for liquidation.
Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA)
A Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) is a formal agreement between a business and its creditors that allows the business to continue operating while paying off its debts over a period, usually three to five years. This process gives businesses breathing room, helping them to avoid liquidation while providing creditors with an opportunity to recover at least a portion of their debts. A CVA is a viable option for businesses that have the potential to turn things around but need time to restructure and stabilize their finances.
Pre-Pack Administration
In some cases, businesses may choose to enter administration with a pre-pack arrangement. This allows a company to be sold quickly to a new owner while retaining its value and avoiding a lengthy liquidation process. Pre-pack administrations are often used when the business has valuable assets or a strong brand but is unable to continue operating in its current form due to financial difficulties. Through a pre-pack arrangement, businesses can avoid the negative consequences of liquidation and continue operations under new ownership.
Business Turnaround Planning
Another critical aspect of business recovery is developing a comprehensive turnaround plan. This plan typically includes restructuring the business, improving operational efficiency, and addressing cash flow issues. A turnaround plan may also involve downsizing or focusing on more profitable areas of the business. With the guidance of experts like BABR, businesses can implement a clear strategy for returning to profitability and avoiding the need for liquidation.

How BABR Can Help in Business Recovery

BABR (Bailey Ahmad Business Recovery) plays a pivotal role in helping businesses navigate the complexities of insolvency and business recovery. With years of expertise in the field, BABR specializes in providing tailored solutions to businesses at risk of liquidation. Their team of experienced professionals understands the nuances of business distress and works with companies to develop customized plans that fit their specific financial needs.

One of the key advantages of working with BABR is their ability to offer a comprehensive approach to business recovery. From the initial assessment of financial health to the execution of recovery strategies, BABR provides guidance every step of the way. They offer solutions that go beyond merely addressing the immediate financial problems and work to establish long-term financial stability for businesses.

Whether through restructuring, CVAs, or other recovery mechanisms, BABR helps businesses regain control of their financial situation and avoid the irreversible step of liquidation. Their focus on understanding the root causes of financial distress and addressing them effectively ensures that businesses can recover and move forward with renewed vigor.

Preventing Liquidation through Early Intervention

One of the most critical factors in avoiding liquidation is early intervention. Many businesses wait too long to address financial issues, and by the time they seek help, it may be too late to save the company from liquidation. This is why it is essential for businesses to monitor their financial health regularly and seek professional advice at the first signs of financial distress.

Professionals like BABR emphasize the importance of acting early to prevent liquidation. By identifying financial issues and implementing recovery strategies promptly, businesses can prevent their problems from escalating to the point where liquidation becomes the only option. Early intervention can also help preserve the value of the business, ensuring that it has a better chance of recovering and succeeding in the future.

The Role of Insolvency Practitioners in Business Recovery

Insolvency practitioners are licensed professionals who specialize in managing the insolvency process and helping businesses recover from financial difficulties. They play a crucial role in guiding businesses through the legal and financial complexities of insolvency, ensuring that the business is treated fairly and in compliance with relevant laws.

In the context of business recovery, insolvency practitioners help businesses explore all available options, including CVAs, debt restructuring, and administration. They work closely with both the business and its creditors to negotiate the best possible outcome, providing valuable insights and advice throughout the process.

BABR employs insolvency practitioners who have extensive experience in helping businesses navigate the recovery process. Their expertise is essential in preventing liquidation and finding solutions that allow businesses to survive and thrive.

The Benefits of Business Recovery Solutions

Choosing business recovery over liquidation offers several benefits for businesses. First and foremost, it allows the company to continue operating, preserving jobs and relationships with clients, suppliers, and employees. A successful recovery can also protect the company’s assets from being sold off during a liquidation process.

Another significant advantage of business recovery is the potential to rebuild and improve the company’s financial health. By addressing the root causes of financial distress and implementing effective recovery strategies, businesses can not only avoid liquidation but also emerge from the process in a much stronger financial position.

Moreover, business recovery solutions can help businesses maintain a positive reputation. Companies that are able to overcome financial challenges and recover successfully are often seen as resilient and capable, which can boost customer and investor confidence.

Conclusion

Insolvency and financial distress don’t have to mean the end of a business. Through effective business recovery strategies, companies can avoid liquidation and regain financial stability. The expertise provided by companies like BABR is invaluable in helping businesses understand their options and navigate the recovery process. Whether through debt restructuring, CVAs, or other recovery mechanisms, businesses can find solutions that allow them to continue operations and emerge from financial difficulties stronger and more resilient.

By taking action early, working with experts, and committing to a structured recovery plan, businesses can avoid liquidation and pave the way for long-term success.

Read more:
How Business Recovery and Insolvency Can Help Avoid Liquidation

A good guide on secured loan in the UK helps homeowners take informed decisions about large borrowing. Many UK borrowers underestimate how much structure sits behind these loans.

A secured loan creates access to higher limits and competitive pricing, though it also places your property at risk. You gain clarity once you understand how the charge system operates, how lenders assess equity, and what shapes affordability outcomes. Writers often turn this topic into a maze, so I will keep the explanations tight. To me, it all comes down to understanding the mechanics from start to finish because knowledge in finance tends to cut confusion at the root.

You will also notice that a secured loan behaves like a separate facility alongside your existing mortgage. The two loans do not merge and they do not influence each other directly. Many UK borrowers choose this route when they want to keep a long term fixed-rate mortgage untouched or when they want fast access to funds. As the saying goes, measure twice and cut once, because misunderstandings around secured loans can bring trouble later.

To lighten the mood for a moment, I believe secured loan paperwork exists purely to test whether people actually read their documents. Now let us get into the substance.

What a Secured Loan Is

How security works

A secured loan uses your property as collateral. The lender obtains legal rights over the asset until you repay the balance in full. Understanding how does a secured loan work in the UK requires grasping the role of a legal charge. The legal charge protects the lender’s interest in case of missed repayments. If the loan becomes unsustainable and arrears continue, the lender can pursue a court order to force a sale. Your main mortgage lender receives proceeds first, followed by the secured loan provider.

Relationship to your mortgage

A secured loan sits as a second charge. This placement means your existing mortgage remains unchanged. You avoid the need to refinance and you avoid early repayment penalties on your main mortgage. Many UK borrowers prefer this structure because it preserves favourable deals obtained in previous years.

How the Charge System Operates

Registration and consent

Understanding how does a secured loan work in the UK involves recognising the legal steps. Once you apply, the lender creates a legal charge and registers it with the Land Registry. This record alerts any future lenders or buyers to the existence of secured borrowing. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, equivalent registries handle this process.

Your main mortgage lender must approve the second charge. This requirement exists because the extra borrowing affects the total security position on the property. Mortgage lenders sometimes decline consent if your existing deal restricts additional borrowing or if they assess the risk profile as unsuitable.

Removal of the charge

Once you repay the secured loan, the lender removes the charge. The Land Registry updates its records to reflect that no further rights exist over your property beyond your main mortgage.

Equity and Borrowing Power

Calculating equity

Equity determines how far you can extend your borrowing. When you ask how does a secured loan work in the UK from a practical standpoint, equity sits at the core. Equity equals your property’s market value minus all secured borrowing attached to it. For example, if your home is worth £350,000 and you owe £210,000 on your mortgage, your equity stands at £140,000.

Loan to value limits

Lenders measure your request through loan to value ratios. Most lenders limit total borrowing to somewhere between 75 percent and 85 percent LTV. A few specialist lenders stretch higher in rare circumstances. Lower LTV ranges unlock the best secured loans at stronger rates. Higher LTV ranges carry more risk and therefore cost more.

Real world implications

If a lender allows 80 percent LTV on a £350,000 property, the maximum secured borrowing available becomes £280,000. After subtracting your £210,000 mortgage, you could potentially access £70,000 as a secured loan. KIS Finance secured loan calculator often helps clients calculate realistic limits because many borrowers misjudge their available equity.

Application Journey

Preparation phase

Understanding how does a secured loan work in the UK means tracking the process from enquiry through completion. Most secured loan applications take somewhere between one and four weeks. Straightforward cases complete faster. Lenders begin with a fact-find that collects information about your income, property, and credit background.

Documents required

You must provide identification, proof of address, recent bank statements, and income verification. Self-employed applicants must supply tax returns or accountant certificates. Your property must also undergo a valuation. Smaller loans tend to use automated valuation systems. Larger loans often require a physical inspection.

Affordability and underwriting

Lenders run affordability tests to confirm your income can sustain the monthly repayment. They examine declared expenses, credit commitments, and bank activity. Underwriters review your credit file to understand payment reliability. Secured loans offer more flexibility for people with weaker credit histories because collateral lowers lender exposure.

Formal offer and completion

Once the lender approves your application, they issue a binding offer. You sign acceptance documents and funds usually reach your account within twenty four hours after completion. A broker such as KIS Finance can speed up approval by communicating directly with underwriters and helping you avoid common delays.

Costs and Repayment Structure

How interest works

Interest rates on secured loans range widely. Strong credit combined with low LTV levels unlocks competitive pricing. Higher risk profiles push costs upward. Rates can remain fixed for the entire term or they can vary depending on lender policies. When comparing options, you should check the APRC because this measure includes fees and reflects the true long term cost.

Repayment durations

Secured loans offer long repayment periods. Many run between five and twenty years. Some run longer. Longer terms reduce monthly payments but increase the total interest paid over the life of the loan.

Role of brokers and comparison

People looking for the best secured loans often use intermediaries. Brokers have relationships with multiple lenders and understand nuances around affordability rules. KIS Finance advises applicants with non standard income patterns or recent credit issues. I think good guidance saves time because lender criteria remain unpredictable at times.

Advantages and Drawbacks

Benefits

Secured loans offer higher borrowing limits than typical unsecured personal loans. People use them for home renovation, debt consolidation, business expansion, or large purchases. Borrowers with credit challenges gain access to options that do not exist on the unsecured market. Longer repayment terms soften monthly commitments.

Risks

The clearest risk involves potential loss of your property if you cannot sustain repayments. Persistent arrears trigger collection procedures that can escalate into legal action. Missed payments also damage your credit record for six years.

Secured Loans Compared With Remortgaging

Structural differences

A remortgage replaces your entire mortgage commitment. A secured loan sits alongside your mortgage without altering its terms. Many UK borrowers prefer secured loans when they have a long term fixed mortgage rate that they do not want to lose.

Decision factors

Secured loans complete faster than remortgages. Remortgages take four to six weeks or longer. Secured loans accommodate complex profiles, recent credit events, and variable income patterns. Remortgages usually provide lower rates because the lender receives first charge priority.

When a secured loan works better

If you want to keep your current mortgage rate, avoid early repayment charges, or access funds quickly, a secured loan often makes more sense. Understanding how does a secured loan work in the UK helps you weigh these differences against your own circumstances.

Early Repayment and Flexibility

Repayment rules

Most secured loans permit early repayment. Many lenders charge fees for settlements within the initial years. UK regulations cap some of these charges for consumer loans, though secured homeowner loans sometimes operate outside these caps. Some lenders allow partial overpayments free of penalties within specific annual limits.

Practical advice

I believe people should ask direct questions about early settlement policies before signing anything. Small differences in early repayment charges create large cost variations over long terms.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how does a secured loan work in the UK provides clarity around risk, affordability, and long term obligations. A secured loan offers access to large sums through a second charge. It protects the lender through a registered legal interest on your property. It operates on longer terms and delivers competitive pricing when equity sits at comfortable levels. The structure works best when you want to keep your current mortgage untouched or when remortgaging would trigger heavy penalties. Borrow only what you can safely repay. Clear thinking creates better outcomes, and the UK secured loan market rewards borrowers who approach applications with accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do secured loans differ from mortgages?

A mortgage funds the purchase of your property while a secured loan uses the property to support borrowing for any purpose. Mortgages sit as first charges. Secured loans sit as second charges.

Can I get a secured loan with weaker credit?

Yes. Secured lenders accept broader credit profiles because property collateral reduces exposure. You may face higher rates than applicants with strong credit.

How long does the application process take?

Most secured loan applications complete within one to four weeks. Straightforward cases finish sooner when documents and valuations move quickly.

What happens if I fall behind on repayments?

Arrears trigger formal notices and can escalate into court action. Your property may be sold to clear debts if arrears continue without resolution.

Can a secured loan be repaid early?

Yes. Many lenders allow early repayment, though some apply charges within the early years. Check the schedule before agreeing to any loan terms.

Should I choose a secured loan or remortgage?

The answer depends on your mortgage rate, equity position, repayment goals, and whether you want fast access to funds. Secured loans preserve your current mortgage, which matters when you hold a favourable rate.

Read more:
How does a secured loan work in the UK in 2026?

More than half of British workers are making mistakes at work because of stress, while one in four have taken time off sick as a result, according to new research that highlights the growing toll of workplace pressure on productivity and wellbeing.

A survey by health and safety training provider Astutis found that 52.6 per cent of employees admit stress has led them to make errors at work, while 28.5 per cent say they have missed deadlines due to feeling overwhelmed. Almost a third (32.9 per cent) reported clashing with colleagues as a direct result of stress.

The findings come as new figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reveal that 964,000 workers in Britain suffered from work-related stress, depression or anxiety over the past year, underlining the scale of the issue facing employers.

Astutis’ Workplace Silent Stress Survey 2025, which questioned 553 people across the UK, paints a concerning picture of how stress is quietly undermining performance and workplace relationships. Beyond lost productivity, the report suggests the financial cost to businesses runs into millions of pounds each year through absenteeism, mistakes and staff turnover.

Perhaps most striking is how few employees feel able to speak openly about stress at work. Just 4.7 per cent of respondents said they would raise concerns with their manager, while only 1.3 per cent would approach someone in a senior leadership role.

Steve Terry, managing director at Astutis, said the results point to a culture where many employees feel unable to speak up.

“These numbers portray a widespread workplace culture where people don’t feel safe raising stress-related concerns, preferring instead to suffer in silence,” he said.

While workers are talking about stress, they are doing so away from the workplace. More than half of respondents said they were more likely to confide in friends or family than anyone at work. Terry warned that while this offers emotional support, it does little to resolve the underlying causes.

“Friends and family can listen, but they have no power to change workloads, deadlines or processes,” he said. “It’s management who are in a position to address the root causes of stress.”

Astutis is now urging employers to take a closer look at their internal processes and company culture, and to create environments where staff feel able to have honest conversations with managers before stress escalates into burnout.

The benefits, the firm argues, flow both ways. Businesses can reduce the cost of lost hours, errors and employee churn, while workers feel more supported, valued and able to perform at their best.

Read more:
More than half of British workers making mistakes due to stress, research finds

Shares in Soho House fell sharply after a key backer in a proposed $1.8bn deal to take the members’ club group private failed to deliver a crucial funding commitment, casting doubt over the future of the transaction.

The London-founded business confirmed that Yucaipa, the investment vehicle of billionaire executive chairman Ron Burkle, had been informed that MCR Hotels would be unable to provide its planned $200m equity contribution by the expected closing date.

MCR had been a cornerstone investor in the deal announced last summer, leading a consortium that agreed to pay $9 per share to acquire the outstanding stock not already held by existing major shareholders. Its withdrawal has now put the entire transaction at risk.

Soho House shares closed down 9.6 per cent at $8.11 on Thursday, extending a long period of underperformance since the group floated on the New York Stock Exchange in 2021 at $14 a share. The stock has lost roughly 40 per cent of its value since listing.

In a regulatory filing, Soho House said Yucaipa and the board’s independent special committee were “engaging with affiliates of MCR, as well as other parties”, in an attempt to secure replacement funding. However, it cautioned that “there can be no assurance that such efforts will be successful”.

Despite the uncertainty, the group said it still intends to proceed with a scheduled shareholder vote on the merger.

The proposed take-private deal would see founder Nick Jones roll over his 6 per cent stake, alongside existing shareholders including restaurateur Richard Caring and Goldman Sachs Alternatives, which has also committed additional capital.

Other investors backing the deal include actor-turned-technology investor Ashton Kutcher and private equity firm Apollo Global Management, which is providing a mix of equity and debt financing.

MCR, which owns high-profile assets including New York’s High Line Hotel and London’s BT Tower, had been expected to play a more prominent role in Soho House following the transaction. Under the original terms, its chief executive Tyler Morse was due to join the board as vice-chairman — a move now thrown into doubt.

The setback underlines the challenges facing Soho House as it looks to reshape its ownership and strategy after years of expansion that have failed to convince public market investors.

MCR declined to comment.

Read more:
Soho House shares slide as investor pulls funding from $1.8bn take-private deal

Aer Lingus is moving closer to closing its Manchester Airport base, putting around 200 jobs at risk, after concluding that efforts to improve margins at the operation are no longer viable.

The Irish flag carrier has told staff it will begin formal consultations in the coming days on “mitigating job losses which would occur in the event of a base closure”, while simultaneously confirming it will stop selling tickets for its long-haul routes from Manchester after 31 March.

Flights from Manchester Airport to New York JFK, Orlando and Barbados will no longer be available to book beyond that date, a move that industry sources say strongly points towards the base being wound down.

Although Aer Lingus has stopped short of formally confirming closure, internal communications seen by staff underline the airline’s position. While the Manchester operation is profitable, Aer Lingus said its margins are “far below” those achieved elsewhere in the business.

“The airline has explored various options for increasing the margin at the Manchester base, but unfortunately to date these options do not appear to be viable,” the airline told employees in a memo.

Services between Ireland and Manchester, operated by Aer Lingus and Aer Lingus Regional, will not be affected.

The Manchester base, run by Aer Lingus’s UK subsidiary, employs around 200 people, including nearly 130 cabin crew, and operates transatlantic services using two aircraft. Staff have been told they may be offered redeployment opportunities elsewhere within Aer Lingus or its parent group IAG, which also owns British Airways and Iberia, or the option of redundancy.

The potential closure follows months of industrial tension at the base. Cabin crew, represented by Unite, staged strike action in October and November in a dispute over pay, while Aer Lingus has also clashed with the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association over employment issues affecting Manchester-based pilots.

Unite has reacted angrily to the latest developments, accusing the airline of “economic vandalism” and warning of further disruption if the proposals proceed.

Aer Lingus reported an operating profit of €135 million for the three months to June 2025, nearly 50 per cent higher year-on-year, and Unite claims the Manchester routes were forecast to generate around £35 million in profit. The airline has acknowledged the base is profitable, but argues it underperforms relative to its Irish long-haul network.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is a profitable base and Aer Lingus’ plans to close it show a complete disregard for its loyal workforce.”

The union says it has repeatedly requested Manchester-specific financial data to justify the proposed closure, which it claims the airline has not yet provided. Unite is now balloting members on industrial action, with the vote closing on 26 January and potential strikes from late February.

John O’Neill, Unite’s regional officer, said: “No stone must be left unturned in pursuing all options to keep the base operational and preserve jobs. Unite will not back down without a fight.”

For Aer Lingus, the situation highlights the growing pressure airlines face as labour disputes, operational costs and margin expectations collide. For Manchester Airport and the region’s aviation workforce, the coming weeks are likely to prove decisive.

Read more:
Aer Lingus moves closer to closing Manchester base as margins fail to stack up

Britain’s love affair with sausage rolls and steak bakes is being quietly reshaped by the rise of weight loss injections, according to the boss of Greggs.

Roisin Currie, chief executive of the FTSE-listed bakery chain, said there was “no doubt” that appetite-suppressing drugs such as GLP-1 treatments were influencing how much, and what, customers want to eat, contributing to softer sales and a more cautious outlook for the year ahead.

Speaking as the company reported muted profits, Currie said customers were increasingly looking for “smaller portions”, alongside food that delivers more protein, fibre and perceived health benefits.

“There’s a broader health trend emerging,” she said. “People are demanding more protein, and we have to make sure we’ve got the snack products customers are looking for, particularly if they are using any of the GLP-1 drugs.”

Greggs has already begun adjusting its range in response. Last summer, the group confirmed it would actively target customers using weight loss medication by introducing smaller portion sizes and protein-rich options. That strategy has since included the launch of items such as its egg pot, supported by the “eggs at Greggs” advertising campaign.

The shift marks a notable evolution for a brand long associated with indulgent, high-fat bakery staples. Greggs has previously acknowledged that changing dietary habits were pushing it away from its traditional core of pastries, cakes and pasties.

The trend is not confined to the high street bakery sector. Tesco said this week that a move towards healthier eating had helped drive growth in fresh produce sales.

Tesco chief executive Ken Murphy said the retailer was monitoring the impact of weight loss drugs “very closely”, adding that it already offers a range of “GLP-1 friendly” products, including high-protein options across multiple categories.

“Our strongest source of growth this year has been fresh food,” Murphy said. “That is, by far and away, the best thing people can eat. We’re well set to respond to any shift towards healthier eating.”

Analysts believe the impact of weight loss medication is now becoming visible in consumer spending data. Clive Black, consumer analyst at Shore Capital, suggested that the slight dip in grocery volumes sold over Christmas compared with last year could be “the clearest indication yet” of how GLP-1 drugs are affecting the nation’s eating habits.

However, industry experts caution that weight loss injections are not the sole factor behind shrinking portions. So-called “shrinkflation”, where products are reduced in size while prices remain unchanged, has also played a role as food manufacturers attempt to manage rising ingredient and labour costs.

At the same time, regulatory pressure is reshaping the food landscape. A UK-wide ban on junk food advertising before 9pm has recently come into force, part of the government’s effort to curb rising obesity levels.

For Greggs and other food retailers, the message is clear: Britain’s eating habits are changing, and businesses that fail to adapt risk being left behind – even on the nation’s most familiar high streets.

Read more:
Weight loss jabs are changing how Britain eats – and Greggs is feeling the impact

A high-profile £14 million divorce dispute involving the former manager of Australian rock band INXS has shone a spotlight on the growing complexity of modern family law cases, particularly where generational wealth, gifts and opaque asset structures are involved.

Maria Christina Copinger-Symes, who previously managed the band during its global success, is now locked in a legal battle with her former husband, James Copinger-Symes, a former SAS major, after a financial settlement agreed following their separation in 2022 was challenged over alleged “material non-disclosure”.

Under the original financial remedy order, Ms Copinger-Symes agreed to pay her ex-husband a lump sum of £1.2 million, leaving her with approximately £5 million from the couple’s joint marital assets. However, the settlement has since unravelled after it emerged that Mr Copinger-Symes received a £27.6 million gift from Ms Copinger-Symes’ parents after the couple separated.

Ms Copinger-Symes argues that the gift was not disclosed during the original proceedings and that, had it been known, it would have fundamentally altered the outcome of the settlement. She is now seeking a £14 million share of the sum, claiming it constitutes material non-disclosure sufficient to overturn the original order.

Her former husband disputes this, arguing that the gift was neither secret nor matrimonial in nature and should therefore be excluded from any financial remedy. He maintains that the funds were gifted to him on the clear understanding that Ms Copinger-Symes would have no entitlement to them.

The case also highlights how financial disputes in divorce can become deeply entangled with wider family relationships. Reports suggest the dispute has intensified existing tensions within Ms Copinger-Symes’ family, allegedly stemming from disagreements over property and inheritance, underscoring the emotional and relational damage that can arise when wealth, divorce and family dynamics collide.

At its core, the case raises two long-standing and highly contentious issues in family law: the obligation of full and frank financial disclosure, and the boundary between matrimonial and non-matrimonial assets, particularly where significant gifts are made after separation but before final settlement.

The Court of Appeal heard the case over two days, with judgment now reserved. The panel, comprising Lord Justice Moylan, Lady Justice Andrews and Lord Justice Nugee, is expected to deliver a ruling at a later date.

Family law practitioners will be watching the outcome closely. A decision in favour of reopening the settlement could have wide-ranging implications for how post-separation gifts are treated and reinforce the risks of incomplete disclosure in cases involving complex family wealth structures.

Read more:
£14m divorce battle exposes the risks of non-disclosure in complex family wealth cases

When planning any construction project in the UK, building regulation drawings are essential documents that transform your design vision into a legally compliant reality.

Whether you’re adding an extension, converting a loft, or constructing a new build, these technical drawings form the backbone of your Building Control application and ensure your project meets all safety and performance standards.

What Are Building Regulation Drawings?

Building regulation drawings are detailed technical plans that demonstrate how your proposed construction work complies with the UK Building Regulations. Unlike planning drawings that focus on external appearance and planning policy, building regulation drawings dive deep into the technical specifications—showing construction methods, materials, structural elements, insulation values, ventilation strategies, and safety features.

These drawings serve as your blueprint for compliance, providing Building Control officers with the information they need to assess whether your project meets the legal requirements for structural stability, fire safety, energy efficiency, accessibility, and overall construction quality.

Why They Matter

The importance of properly prepared building regulation drawings cannot be overstated. They’re not simply a bureaucratic hurdle but a critical safeguard ensuring your project is safe, energy-efficient, and built to last. Without approved building regulation drawings, you cannot legally commence construction work that requires Building Control approval.

Beyond legal compliance, quality building regulation drawings protect your investment. They help contractors understand exactly what’s required, reduce the risk of costly mistakes during construction, and ensure your finished project meets modern performance standards. Properties with proper Building Regulations approval also maintain better resale value and avoid complications during future sales.

What’s Included

A comprehensive set of building regulation drawings typically includes floor plans showing layout, dimensions, and critical elements like fire doors and ventilation. Elevations illustrate external walls with materials, windows, and insulation specifications. Cross-sections reveal construction methods, foundation details, floor and roof build-ups, and damp-proof measures.

Depending on your project type, you may also need drainage drawings, structural calculations for load-bearing modifications, energy performance calculations demonstrating SAP compliance, and detailed specifications covering materials and construction methods.

When You Need Them

Most construction work in England and Wales requires Building Regulations approval. You’ll definitely need building regulation drawings for extensions and alterations, loft conversions, basement construction, new buildings, structural alterations affecting load-bearing elements, and certain window replacements. Some minor works may be exempt, but it’s always advisable to check whether your project requires approval rather than risk non-compliance penalties.

The Approval Process

Once your building regulation drawings are prepared, you have two routes to approval. The Full Plans application involves submitting your complete set of drawings to your local authority Building Control or an Approved Inspector. They review the proposals, may request amendments, and issue formal approval before work begins. This route provides greater certainty and protection.

Alternatively, the Building Notice route allows you to notify Building Control without submitting detailed plans upfront. However, this approach carries more risk as compliance issues may only emerge during construction inspections, potentially requiring costly modifications.

Common Requirements

Modern Building Regulations address numerous construction aspects. Structural integrity must be demonstrated through calculations showing foundations, walls, floors, and roofs can safely support expected loads. Fire safety requires clear escape routes, appropriate fire-resistant construction, and smoke detection systems.

Energy efficiency standards are increasingly stringent, requiring detailed insulation specifications, airtightness measures, efficient heating systems, and SAP calculations proving your building meets target CO2 emissions. Ventilation drawings must show adequate fresh air provision while preventing condensation. Drainage systems must safely remove foul and surface water with proper connections to sewers or approved treatment systems.

Working with Professionals

Preparing compliant building regulation drawings requires detailed technical knowledge of construction methods, materials science, structural principles, and ever-evolving Building Regulations. This is where working with a CIAT Chartered Architectural Technologist proves invaluable.

Chartered Architectural Technologists specialize in the technical aspects of building design. They understand how buildings are constructed, what materials perform best, and how to navigate complex regulatory requirements. Their expertise ensures your drawings are comprehensive, accurate, and focused on achieving first-time approval from Building Control.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Many projects encounter difficulties due to incomplete or poorly prepared building regulation drawings. Insufficient detail—drawings that don’t clearly show construction methods or compliance measures—leads to Building Control requesting additional information and delaying approval.

Another common problem involves overlooking specific requirements such as fire safety provisions, energy performance calculations, or structural justification. Some applicants attempt to save money by producing drawings themselves or using unlicensed designers. This approach often proves false economy when Building Control rejects inadequate submissions, requiring professional intervention and ultimately costing more time and money.

Beyond Compliance

Quality building regulation drawings do more than satisfy legal requirements—they’re valuable project management tools. Contractors use them to provide accurate quotes and complete work correctly. Building Control inspectors use them as reference during site visits. They provide documentation proving compliance, essential for insurance, future sales, and warranty provisions.

Getting Started

If you’re planning construction work requiring Building Regulations approval, starting with professional building regulation drawings sets your project up for success. At AC Design Solutions, we’ve prepared building regulation drawings for hundreds of successful projects across London. Our technical expertise, attention to detail, and understanding of Building Control expectations ensures your project moves smoothly from concept to approval to construction.

Professional building regulation drawings transform regulatory requirements from a burden into a framework for quality, ensuring your project not only meets legal standards but exceeds your expectations for performance and longevity. Contact our team to discuss your requirements and discover how professional technical expertise ensures first-time approval and construction excellence.

Read more:
Building Regulation Drawings: Your Complete Guide to Compliance and Approval

Anthony Galluccio is a Cambridge-based attorney known for his work in land use and permitting law.

He is a law partner at Galluccio & Watson LLP, where he advises large institutional clients, property owners, and developers navigating complex local approval processes. His work is grounded in a rare combination of legal skill , land use law and direct experience in government.

Galluccio grew up in Cambridge in a family shaped by public service. His father was a political figure who served as a campaign secretary to John F. Kennedy. When his father died at age 11, responsibility came early. That experience influenced his focus on discipline, consistency, and accountability.

He attended Cambridge Rindge & Latin School, where he was a three-sport varsity captain. He later earned a degree from Providence College and graduated cum laude from Suffolk University Law School.

Before entering full-time legal practice, Galluccio spent over a decade in public office. He served on the Cambridge City Council, was Mayor of Cambridge from 2000 to 2001, and later served as a Massachusetts State Senator, where he chaired the Senate Higher Education Committee. I entered politics very young and that had its challenges but it paid off.

In addition to his legal career, Galluccio has coached youth baseball and football for more than 20 years. He has also served on non profit boards assisting  the low income, founded and led multiple charities, including Ashley’s Angels, which supports paediatric cancer care, Galluccio Associates. Inc  and Hope for the Holidays, which provides direct aid to families in need..Across law, coaching, and charity, Galluccio is known for a results-driven approach. He bet on himself.  He focuses on  persistence, preparation, trust, and follow-through. His leadership is built on doing the work and doing what he says he will do every day.

Anthony Galluccio on Law, Leadership, and Long-Term Commitment

Q: You have worked in public office, law, coaching, and charity. How do you see your career overall?

A: I see it as one journey . The settings change, but the responsibility stays the same. Whether you are building consensus, passing laws, getting permits approved, or coaching kids, people rely on you to do what you said you would do. In politics my goal was to help people, often one person at a time. I see charity work . coaching and my law practice the same way.

Q: How did your early life influence that outlook?

A: I lost my father when I was 11. We were tied at the hip and loved baseball and later it became clear politics. That kind of loss forces you to mature quickly and realize you need a network of friends to get through life. You learn that time matters and effort matters. I watched my mother set a work standard that is insurpassable. Mom was an absolute fearless warrior. The harder it got the harder she worked, She was methodical and strategic in keeping our family afloat. .

Q: You spent many years in government before focusing on law. How did that shape your legal career?

A: Good politicians listen and help people and use that experience to craft broader policy changes. “All politics is local” by Tip Oneil is a brand of urban politics I believe in. If you disappoint the lady who works at your corner dry cleaners you cannot succeed on Beacon Hill or City Hall. I wanted to be a different kind of politician. Not just returning calls but really coming through for people who have otherwise given up. Building consensus is an art form. When I moved into land use and permitting law, I already valued the importance of the community voice in all things. If you respect people  and listen,they can feel it . Respect and good faith are earned . The Community and your clients must trust you.

Q: What does your work in land use and permitting involve day to day?

A: Clients want outcomes but that has to be aligned and balanced with what the Community wants. It’s easy to be divisive but my nature is to help the community articulate its needs and get my client to understand the benefits of meeting the community where they are. You have to stand up to your clients and respect that the community may find it difficult to trust developers and land owners. Careful Strategic planning followed by Zoning, hearings, community meetings ,  Endless 1-1 conversations and consensus building all require precision. Permitting is not fast work. It is trust-based work.

Q: You often say winning means approval. What do you mean by that?

A: In my business, results must be  clear as major investments are at stake. We call approvals entitlements. If you are not “ entitled” to build you have just land. Either a project moves forward or it does not. My role is to guide clients through the process properly so they can move forward. Expectations are critical.

Q: Coaching seems to be a major part of your life. Why has that remained important?

A: Coaching keeps you grounded. Kids respond to honesty and consistency. They know if you are all in and you care. . You cannot hide behind titles. Sports teach discipline, routine, teamwork. And never giving up. Earning the trust and respect of children is very special and precious to me.  Kids won’t listen if they do not trust you and know you really care. That means off the field more than on. That process of proving yourself is consistent across everything in life.

Q: You have coached hundreds of games. What stands out most?

A: Being an underdog is the most fun  and improving our weakest players is what drives me. Consistency. Kids improve when adults show up every day. I react to adversity and embrace it. I have had incredibly talented teams and that is  awesome but coming out of nowhere is the most fun. I would rather be an underdog. The  same applies in business and law.

Q: Some of your charity work focuses heavily on paediatric cancer. Why that cause?

A:  I was invited to speak in the Dom Rep as state Senator.  During my visit , I was randomly asked to visit a local hospital. I went and met a boy named Rony Mejia. I loved him. I called about two months later and he had died. It started then. I sent an ambulance in Rony’s name and met his family. I met Ashley when she was 3 and close to death while I was playing Santa Claus at the clinic.  We named the program after her as she is now cancer free and 15 years old. When a child is sick and poor and in a third world country it’s one battle after another. It is a very different battle there than here. It’s important to have that perspective Ashley’s Angels was built to support an array of real needs, not just raise awareness.

Q: You also support youth sports and families directly. What is your approach to charity?

A: Charity should be about helping people and not politics or self promotion. It has to be personal. You need to be grounded in your community to know who is in need and how you get them help. Just “ giving” is great but I love doing the work. It has to be personal. .You should know who you are helping and show them you truly care. It should be consistent, not a photo opp or occasional.

Q: How do you define success today?

A: I do not focus on the word success. I focus on hourly, daily, weekly, and yearly victories. Life is a battle with perceived wins and perceived setbacks. Only you can decide what victory is. How you handle and respond to both ups and downs is the game of life. You better enjoy and relish challenges or life will get the best of you.  Embrace adversity and find opportunity. A setback is an opportunity for a comeback. If you maintain a serious work ethic, stay disciplined, and help and respect others, results follow.

Read more:
Anthony Galluccio on Law, Leadership, and Lasting Impact