Determinations of $\vud$ and $\vus$ along with their implications for the unitarity test $\vud^2+\vus^2+\vub^2=1$ are discussed. The leading two loop radiative corrections to neutron $β$-decay are evaluated and used to derive a refined relationship $\vud^2 τ_n (1+3g_A^2)=4908(4)$sec. Employing $\vud =0.9740(5)$ from superallowed nuclear decays and the measured neutron lifetime $τ_n = 885.7(7)$sec, leads to the precise prediction $g_A=1.2703(8)$ which is compared with current direct experimental values. Various extractions of $\vus$ are described and updated. The long accepted Particle Data Group value of $\vus$ from fitted $K_{e3}$ decay rates suggests a deviation from CKM unitarity but it is contradicted by more recent experimental results which confirm unitarity with good precision. An outlook for possible future advances is given.

15 pages, version accepted for publication in the Physical Review D