AGP Executive Report
Last update: 8 hours agoUK Economy: The Office for National Statistics says the UK grew 0.4% in Q2 2026, led by services, with June stronger than expected despite Middle East disruption. Energy Bills & Solar: Solar installations keep climbing, with 142,536 added in the first half of 2026, and the government is also moving to cut VAT on household electricity bills from October 1. Employment Costs: Small firms are cutting staff training as employment costs rise, while business groups warn zero-hours reforms could add more cost and deter hiring. Local Planning: Birmingham has approved major demolition and redevelopment plans for Fortis Academy, aiming for a new site opening in 2030. Road Safety Appeal: Staffordshire Police are appealing for help tracing a driver of a black estate car after a motorcyclist died in a Cannock crash. Business & Tech: BlackDice joins the GSMA Open Gateway programme to bring AI cyber-defence capabilities to telecoms networks. International: Norway’s sovereign wealth fund warns shareholder rights are being eroded, including in the UK.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.