CBI predicts Britain’s economy will see faster-than-expected growth this year

Serbian oil company Naftna Industrija Srbije (NIS) faces financial sanctions from the United States due to its Russian ownership, according to Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. The U.K. and EU are likely to follow suit, potentially halting oil shipments through a pipeline from Croatia. NIS is mostly owned by Russia's Gazprom and Gazprom Neft, with the U.S. sanctions possibly taking effect by January 1. Full Article

An alleged Chinese spy banned from the UK was reportedly invited to Buckingham Palace by Prince Andrew, visiting the royal residence, St James's Palace, and Windsor Castle. Despite claims of being a "close confidante" of Andrew, the Duke of York insists he cut ties with the individual when concerns arose, stating that their interactions were through official channels and not sensitive in nature. This scandal follows Andrew's previous controversy for his association with Jeffrey Epstein,...

Police in Essex are seeking information after a mother died and her daughter was injured when they were struck by a black Suzuki Splash in Westcliff. The 52-year-old woman was unable to be saved despite efforts by emergency services. The driver, a 31-year-old woman, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving under the influence. Full Article

President-elect Donald Trump hosted Apple CEO Tim Cook for a dinner at his Mar-a-Lago resort, as Cook joins other tech leaders seeking better relations with Trump. Trump previously discussed Apple's tax battles with the EU with Cook, including a recent loss of an appeal for $14.34 billion in back taxes to Ireland. The EU decision stemmed from unlawful aid Ireland granted Apple, a dispute that has now concluded. Full Article

King Charles has been briefed by British security services regarding his brother Prince Andrew's relationship with an alleged Chinese spy, known as H6, who was a close confidante of Andrew and barred from entering the UK on national security grounds. Andrew's office stated that no sensitive information was discussed and that he followed government advice to cease contact with the individual. This comes after Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein led to his removal from royal...

The UK government has announced its most ambitious clean power plan yet, aiming to generate 95% of its electricity from renewables by 2030 to stabilize energy prices. Energy secretary Ed Miliband described it as a significant reform to the energy system, emphasizing the importance of harnessing natural resources for national security and economic growth. This initiative follows the UK's commitment to reduce emissions by at least 81% by 2035 compared to 1990 levels, with a...