Keir Starmer called ‘petty’ over Margaret Thatcher portrait removal as PM to reveal smoking ban – UK politics live

Labour MP Blair McDougall has issued a warning to Sir Keir Starmer as they lead protests against the UK government approving a new Chinese embassy in London, citing concerns over human rights abuses in China and breaches of agreements. McDougall, along with other MPs, will protest the proposed building, questioning the government's relationship with China amidst growing tensions with the US. The previous Tory government had blocked the embassy on security grounds, but following a...

In Overpelt, shops collaborated with WICO Campus students and the local advisory board to assess accessibility for those with mobility issues, with early findings showing simple fixes can improve access. Compliant businesses will be featured on the “On Wheels” app, and the local government plans to expand the study to other village centres in Pelt to make shopping and dining easier for everyone. Full Article

A "toxic stench" from a landfill in Fleetwood, blamed on Storm Eowyn, caused nose bleeds and health issues for locals. Transwaste stated that the smell would dissipate once repairs were completed, but MP Lorraine Beavers revealed that residents had been suffering from the foul odor for a year. The landfill had been emitting a "rotten egg smell" since February 2024, initially caused by new equipment installation, with gas capture infrastructure and new capping later implemented...

This week's Inside Spain delves into the hypothetical scenario where Vox would hold power if only the Spanish police and military were allowed to vote. Additionally, a Spanish football team is bringing attention to an invasive algae plaguing Andalusia's sea through an innovative kit. The team's efforts aim to raise awareness about the environmental issue and encourage action to combat the pollution. Full Article

Abdul Malik Ali, owner of Amalik Cafe Ltd, was fined after selling an ostrich curry dish containing sheep meat at his Jaipur Spice takeaway restaurant in Thirsk. Ali pleaded guilty to Food Safety Act offences and explained that a temporary chef had mistakenly used the wrong meat. He was fined £237, while Amalik Cafe Ltd was fined £120, with additional costs and victim surcharges totaling £1120. Full Article

This week saw a threefold increase in civilian casualties in Sudan, with escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, leading to a humanitarian catastrophe as reported by UN Humanitarian Coordinator Clementine Nkweta-Salami. Artillery shelling, airstrikes, and drone attacks have devastated populated areas, resulting in at least 80 civilian casualties in Kadugli, while aid workers are facing threats and violence, urging all parties to protect civilians, including humanitarian workers and human rights defenders. Full...