The ‘knockout’ market town named the UK’s best place to live

Ministers have pledged to address trade barriers with the EU after Brexit cost UK businesses £37bn annually, with total trade 5% lower than pre-Brexit levels. Trade minister Douglas Alexander criticized the previous Conservative government's Brexit deal, stating it is not working effectively. Labour is negotiating a reset of relations with the EU to benefit future generations by tearing down unnecessary trade barriers and improving the UK's trade and investment relationship. Full Article

Hidden Figures sheds light on the untold stories of Black female mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA's success during the Space Race. These brilliant women broke through barriers, paving the way for future generations in STEM fields and showcasing the importance of diversity in science. Katherine Johnson's pioneering calculations were instrumental in ensuring the safety of astronauts and redefining the contributions of women in mathematics and space exploration, leaving behind a lasting legacy...

Rachel Reeves has rejected the idea of implementing "tax and spend" policies ahead of her upcoming spring statement, aiming to address a £20 billion deficit in public finances caused by higher-than-expected borrowing and slow economic growth. Despite facing pressure to meet her own financial rules, Reeves indicated she will not increase taxes and instead plans to make significant cuts to government departments. The chancellor is expected to cite Liz Truss's problematic ‘mini-budget’ as a cautionary...

The city of Ávila near Madrid experienced flooding due to intense rainfall, with several neighbourhoods and agricultural areas submerged by overflow from the Adaja River. Authorities in Ávila are on high alert and fear that melting snow from the mountains could worsen the situation. Storm Laurence, which hit southern Spain, has caused three fatalities, while heavy rains since March are expected to alleviate the severe drought the country has faced for over three years. Full...

The Trump administration's potential recognition of Somaliland in exchange for a naval base could challenge Turkey's interests in the region, leading to the dismissal of Somali Defence Minister Nur, who has close ties to Turkey. This move aligns with Trump's strategy to evacuate Gaza and counter China's influence in the Horn of Africa. Additionally, Ethiopia's agreement with Somaliland for access to the Gulf of Aden has sparked tensions with Somalia, prompting Turkey to intervene as...

Heathrow Airport is now "open and fully operational" after a fire at an off-site power substation caused significant disruption, grounding over 1,300 flights and affecting around 200,000 passengers. Extra staff are on hand to assist 10,000 additional passengers, with airlines cancelling around 100 more flights as they work to recover from the incident. The Metropolitan Police are not treating the incident as suspicious, and the London Fire Brigade is investigating the electrical distribution equipment. Full...