Hunger has been rising among Gaza’s more than two million Palestinians since Israel broke a ceasefire in March to resume the war.

The families were backed by Melanie Leahy who led a ten-year campaign for a public inquiry into mental health related deaths in Essex.

Ms Reeves, delivering her annual Mansion House speech to the financial services sector, said changes were needed for the UK to stay competitive.

Governor Andrew Bailey said he remained sceptical over the need for a digital pound, stressing that innovation in payments should be a priority.