Seven simple ways to cut your spending in 2017

From mortgages and insurance to savings and tax returns, here are some tips on making savings in the new year

Chancellor spreads giveaways thinly for Britain’s ‘Jams’

The ‘just about managing’ were the focus before autumn statement, but their gains are outweighed by rising bills and prices

Ministry of Justice announces plan to tackle ‘toxic’ compensation culture by making it much tougher to win payouts

I thought the claim was all settled, then I was told a county court judgment had been made against me

Prime minister joins calls for cultural shift and stronger clampdowns on drivers using handheld mobile devices

Also, rising trend for developers to build leasehold houses, property price growth at a standstill and underground homes for sale

Insuring a Ford Focus in Bradford could cost £1,265, but in Truro? That will be a mere £350. And it’s not just cars

With VW owners this side of the pond yet to be paid a penny after the emissions scandal, is the government doing enough to protect them?

Also, rogue landlord property scams, rising ground rent and tickets trader Viagogo criticised

Average annual policy costs rise 16% year-on-year, with expensive technology on cars and whiplash claims cited as reasons

The car rental company has promised fewer complaints, but they’re still landing from this airport

Rising petrol and clothing prices drive increase in cost of living, with falling pound starting to make imports more expensive

Her licence was temporarily rescinded after an accident, but the DVLA won’t give it back

The excess charge was changed on my contract, and the vehicle was to be sold

Also, get your finances in order for middle age and drive down the cost of owning a car