One in 7 shops in UK has turned cashless in the past year, survey finds

Emer MoreauBusiness reporter Getty Images Construction in November was at its lowest level since the pandemic Activity in the UK’s construction sector shrank last month at the fastest pace since the pandemic, partly due to uncertainty ahead of the Budget, a closely watched survey has indicated. The research from S&P Global said November saw the…

Emer Moreau,Business reporter and Katy Austin,Transport correspondent Getty Images The backlog of driving tests grew after the covid-19 lockdown Only learner drivers will be able to book driving tests in plans aimed at reducing long waiting lists and preventing slots being sold at inflated prices. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said limiting third parties from reselling…

MaryLou CostaTechnology Reporter Getty Images Advertisers are using AI to personalise online advertising Imagine one night, you’re scrolling through social media on your phone, and the ads start to look remarkably familiar. They’re decked out in your favourite colours, are featuring your favourite music and the wording sounds like phrases you regularly use. Welcome to…

Josh Martin,Business reporter and Sean Farrington,Business presenter Barry Cronin Taxes on electric vehicles may put drivers off buying them at a time when demand has “lost momentum”, Ford’s UK boss has warned. It comes after the BBC reported Chancellor Rachel Reeves could be considering new levies on EVs in the upcoming Budget. Ford UK’s managing…

These ships, typically oil tankers such as the one Ivan is stuck on, are more often ageing vessels of obscure ownership, unseaworthy, likely uninsured, and operationally hazardous. And they typically sail under flags of convenience or FOCs – the ships are registered in countries with very limited regulatory oversight.