We've got some news today on the inflation rate, which rose to 2.2 per cent in July, slightly up from the Bank of England’s target of 2 per cent, where the rate sat in May and June. It’s the first rate uptick this year – and though widely expected, it will be used to explain why the Bank’s continued hawkish stance, despite starting its rate-cutting process earlier this month. Is this a sign of economic conditions improving? Could it lead the way to interest rate cuts later this year? 

Also today, the Treasury its under scrutiny after a Labour donor received a top civil service job. Do we need more transparency when it comes to political appointments? 

Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale. 

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.