Temperature in Highlands falls to -18C as UK cold snap continues

The article discusses a significant U-turn by the government regarding winter fuel payments, which aims to rectify prior cuts affecting 10 million pensioners. This change surprised many Labour MPs, who had been defending the original policy amidst constituency backlash, leading to frustration and confusion about the government's direction. The piece highlights broader issues with government management of its MPs and raises questions about fiscal priorities as Labour seeks to expand the winter fuel allowance amid...

The Government released its 2025 Budget, featuring a $6.6 billion tax change aimed at stimulating economic growth, alongside cuts exceeding $21 billion over four years. Approximately 180,000 families will experience a 0.5% increase in their effective marginal tax rate, although other tax credit changes will ensure they remain better off, despite concerns that the higher rate may discourage work. Additionally, while a reduction in the corporate tax rate was considered, officials opted for a 20%...

The UK government has been temporarily barred from finalizing a deal regarding the Chagos Islands due to an injunction from High Court Justice Goose, following a case brought by two Chagossian women. The agreement, which was to see the UK transfer the islands to Mauritius while retaining military access for 99 years, has faced criticism for lacking consultation with the affected communities. The court will review the case again soon, amidst increasing international pressure on...

Two Israeli embassy staff were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, DC, during a diplomats' reception, with the shooter arrested on-site after shouting “Free Palestine.” This act of anti-Semitic terror highlights the dangers of unchecked rhetoric and the importance of civil discourse, which is essential for a functioning democracy. The current environment is characterized by a crisis of listening, urging a need for more inquiry and connection among individuals to foster...

SummaryPrime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first public address since Operation Sindoor in Deshnok, Bikaner, articulated three guiding principles for India's counter-terrorism strategy. He emphasized that any terrorist attack would be met with a decisive response, that India would not be intimidated by nuclear threats, and that the country would hold both terrorists and their state sponsors accountable, specifically addressing Pakistan's use of non-state actors. Modi also commended the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces...

Summary In England and Wales, plans are underway to administer drugs that dull sexual urges to rapists and paedophiles as a means to reduce reoffending by two-thirds, according to Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood. The initiative, slated for implementation in 20 prisons initially, aims to tackle the persistent threat posed by sex offenders. While the proposal has faced criticism for not being stringent enough, it is believed that some offenders may willingly seek to reduce their...