Interest Rates: The Bank of England is widely expected to raise rates from 3.75% to 4% today, the first increase in three years, as inflation and energy costs rise — a blow for borrowers and mortgage holders. Food Poverty: Almost 200,000 people in Northern Ireland may need foodbanks; new research found one in five ran out of food and could not afford more. In Wales, one in five reported the same. Health: England is set to use blood tests to help spot cancer early, in a world-first programme. Meanwhile, cocaine has overtaken heroin as the leading cause of drug deaths in England and Wales. Heritage: Nearly 200 historic sites in England have been added to the at-risk register, including Shakespeare’s daughter’s home and Charles Dickens’ writing chalet. Scotland: The Government knew months before public disclosure that maternity services at Dr Gray’s Hospital would miss their restoration target, leaving many Moray mothers travelling elsewhere to give birth. Wales: Free childcare for two-year-olds is expanding, with nearly all council areas expected to offer it by March.