The UK economy is experiencing a downturn as revealed by a new survey showing private sector activity has dropped to a 13-month low. Businesses are critical of the government’s increase in National Insurance contributions, citing it as a significant factor in the loss of confidence under the Labour government. The impact is felt in the currency markets as the pound weakens. In related news, other reports highlight issues ranging from hospitalizations linked to weight loss injections to royal engagements with stabbings victims.