The UK economy just about grew at the end of 2024 – POLITICO

The global turmoil stemming from the Trump administration is strengthening the EU's commitment to sign a defence and security pact with the UK, enabling British arms companies to engage in joint procurement. This agreement, set to be finalized at a summit hosted by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, aims to enhance European defence capabilities amidst rising tensions and re-armament discussions following Trump's NATO threats and Russian overtures. While addressing broader geopolitical issues, the pact's...

This article discusses the EU's upcoming foreign ministers' meeting addressing Ukraine, the Middle East, and relations with African states and the Western Balkans, followed by the first EU-Palestine high-level dialogue. The EU plans to unveil a €1.6bn financial support package for Palestine, though concerns exist about how much will reach Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts, with conditions set for fiscal reforms. Additionally, the European services workers union urges the EU to implement a digital services tax...

SummaryArctic sea ice has reached record lows for the fourth consecutive month, with the lowest maximum extent recorded at 14.4 million square kilometers on March 20, 2025, according to Copernicus. The Arctic is warming at a rate up to four times that of the rest of the planet, prompting increased military and commercial vessel activity, particularly from Russia, as some regions may become ice-free by the summer within a decade. This decline in sea ice...

Sinéad Burke, a top graduate in primary school teaching, now leads Tilting the Lens, an accessibility consultancy, after facing challenges in a non-inclusive classroom due to her achondroplasia. In Ireland, only 41% of disabled individuals are employed, highlighting a significant gap compared to the general population, with a lack of ambition and representation cited as contributing factors. Despite government initiatives to promote disability employment, barriers like loss of benefits and inadequate support hinder progress, further...

The UK government has suspended import tariffs on 89 products for two years, aiming to alleviate pressure on British businesses following the US's imposition of blanket tariffs. This initiative is projected to save businesses at least £17 million annually and includes a £20 billion increase in government-backed financing for exporters, allowing small firms access to loans of up to £2 million. Amid uncertainty regarding future US trade negotiations, Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the UK's commitment...

A recent study reveals that a significant majority of UK voters prioritize rebuilding trade relationships with the EU over establishing a new economic deal with the US. The research indicates that the public perceives their economic interests as more closely aligned with open trade relations with European neighbors rather than potential agreements with the US government. This shift in focus reflects a growing sentiment among Britons regarding the importance of EU trade ties in comparison...