Andy Burnham has said local leaders in England should no longer be forced to go “cap in hand to Westminster” as the government prepares a new push to hand more spending authority to the regions in next week’s budget. In his statement on Wednesday, the chancellor, John Healey, is expected to unveil proposals for a new £1.5bn borrowing facility, developed jointly with metro mayors over the next two years. Regional leaders have long argued that their ability to borrow is too restricted, especially

October’s full moon will light up the night sky this weekend, and observant stargazers may also be able to spot Saturn nearby. Coming about a month after the autumn equinox, the full moon will rise unusually early, appearing around sunset before reaching its fullest point at 12:12 a.m. ET on Monday, October 26. On Sunday evening, Saturn will shine with a golden tint a few degrees south of the moon. The moon’s low position near the horizon can make it seem warmer in color, with shades of orange