UK Appoints David Smith MP as Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief

In Hampshire, a vicar apologized to upset children and angry parents for revealing that Santa Claus isn't real during a religious education class at Lee-on-the-Solent junior school. Reverend Dr Paul Chamberlain told sixth graders about the myth, causing many to cry and parents to complain of a "ruined Christmas". A formal complaint was filed against Rev Chamberlain, and the school attempted to restore the festive spirit by handing out "believe" badges. Full Article

Sir Keir Starmer has faced accusations of maintaining the previous Tory government's "hostile environment" approach to migration, as the Home Office announced a new crackdown resulting in the removal of nearly 13,500 migrants from Britain since the election. The government has allocated £8m towards technology for immigration enforcement, including raids and arrests, with the aim of meeting a returns pledge by early January. Critics have condemned the government's approach, likening it to that of the...

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has threatened to reveal the name of the Chinese spy, known as H6, who had close ties with Prince Andrew and met former prime ministers David Cameron and Theresa May. The spy was banned from the UK in 2023 for engaging in covert activities on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party. Farage stated that H6 should be named in the House of Commons using parliamentary privilege to prevent an "establishment...

In England, the Geminid meteor shower is currently peaking, offering stargazers the chance to witness dozens of shooting stars in just a few hours. The shower was visible from Northumberland to Somerset, with striking photos capturing the celestial scene. Photographer Lee Reid had a lucky viewing spot in Lindisfarne, Northumberland, and described the experience as exciting and rewarding. Full Article

Mohammad Khan, 29, was sentenced to more than 15 years in prison for opening fire with a Skorpion submachine gun in Smethwick. The incident occurred following a dispute, with Khan firing in the direction of a man standing in a doorway, damaging property. No injuries were reported, and Khan was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life after being tracked down by West Midlands Police. Full Article

The Independent is seeking support to continue reporting on important issues such as reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech. They rely on donations to fund their investigative journalism and documentary production. A pro-Labour tax expert has called on Sir Keir Starmer to reverse the decision to charge a death tax on family farms worth over £1m, suggesting a £20m threshold instead to target rich landowners. The expert's intervention has been praised by farmers and...