Budget changes will leave disabled and elderly without care as providers go under, experts warn

The UK foreign secretary David Lammy has opened diplomatic contact with Syrian rebels who ousted Bashar al-Assad’s regime, while reiterating that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) remains a proscribed terrorist organization in the UK. He announced a £50 million humanitarian aid package for vulnerable Syrians, emphasizing the importance of a representative government, securing chemical weapons stockpiles, and ending violence. The aid will be distributed through UN and NGO agencies to Syrians in the country and refugees...

Yvette Cooper criticized China for allegedly sending a spy who became close to Prince Andrew and met with former UK prime ministers. MPs threatened to reveal the spy's identity if the courts do not act. The UK government faces a complex situation balancing national security concerns with the need for economic cooperation with China. Full Article

In Damascus, a United Nations envoy calls for the swift lifting of Western sanctions against Syria to support the rebuilding efforts after the fall of President Bashar Assad and the formation of an interim government. Geir Pedersen emphasizes the importance of inclusive political approaches to bring the nation together and address the challenges faced by the war-torn country, urging for justice, accountability, and humanitarian assistance for the Syrian people. The new interim administration, led by...

Boots has issued an urgent recall warning for the Radley Cosy Up mug and sock set due to a risk of burns from the base of the mug cracking and breaking. Customers are advised not to use the set and to return it to a Boots store for a full refund. The set, with barcode 5016155273331, includes a ceramic mug and ribbed socks and was made in China with the Radley dog logo on the...

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...