EU Parliament prepares to select next European Ombudsman

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...

The final in-person IRF Roundtable of 2024 on Capitol Hill honored Ambassador Rashad Hussain for his exemplary service as the Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom. Government and civil society representatives discussed ongoing initiatives and challenges in advancing global religious freedom, while also addressing critical issues in various countries and advocating for prisoners of conscience. The meeting concluded with participants sharing holiday wishes and gratitude for their collective commitment to promoting international religious freedom. Full Article

The Independent relies on donations to support its journalistic efforts covering important issues like reproductive rights and climate change. Retired general Sir Richard Shirreff warns that Britain is not prepared for a potential war with Russia and may need to defend itself without US and Nato support. Concerns about defense spending, commitment to Nato, and the need for Europe to step up to prevent a third world war are highlighted by various experts, urging the...