2021

The current ban in England on bailiff-enforced rental evictions, which was introduced at the start of the coronavirus pandemic, won't be extended further and will end on 31 May, the Government has announced. 

Barclays current account customers can get £36/year+ by opting into its Blue Rewards loyalty scheme – but if you're already signed up, you'll now need to be registered for online or app banking by 3 August to stay a member.

A new Online Safety Bill has been announced by the Government in the Queen’s speech today for the opening of Parliament. It promises to ‘lead the way in ensuring internet safety for all’ – but according to MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis, it has stumbled at the first hurdle as it does not plan to protect people from scam and fraudulent ads.

Morrisons has axed its 'More' loyalty points scheme and replaced it with new personalised money-off vouchers. It means you can no longer collect points on your shopping from 10 May, and you'll have to swap existing points for vouchers by 9 August at the latest. 

Flexible 'lifetime' student loans, increased rights for renters, leasehold reform, and more protection for those using the internet were among the plans revealed by the Queen today during the state reopening of Parliament.

American Express Platinum Everyday and Platinum Cashback cardholders will see cashback rates slashed from 4 August, meaning some could earn £25/yr less on the same level of spending.

In a rare bit of good news, car insurance is at a seven-year low at an average £420/yr (£160 less than at its height). Part of the drop, according to the source, MoneySupermarket, is that fewer people driving in lockdown has meant fewer claims.

From 17 May, holidaymakers in England will be able to visit countries including Portugal, Gibraltar and Israel without needing to quarantine on their return, as international travel restrictions are relaxed. But if you're considering booking, remember each destination may also have its own entry restrictions - and right now, nearly all of the 'green list' countries are currently refusing entry to British tourists. 

MoneySavingExpert.com and the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, which were both founded by Martin Lewis, are among 17 organisations today calling for the Government to use its new Online Safety Bill to help protect people from an avalanche of online scams.

If you're heading out to vote in various elections across England, Scotland and Wales today you don't need to bring your polling card or ID - but you will need to bring a pen or pencil and wear a face covering.