MSP highlights impact of Hamilton burst water mains

Trevor Phillips challenges Tory MP Chris Philp's claim that the Rwanda scheme was a deterrent, pointing out that it never actually happened despite the £715 million spent on it. Labour scrapped the policy after winning the election, and Keir Starmer emphasizes the need to combat people smuggling gangs to stop small boat crossings, as thousands of migrants continue to make the dangerous journey from France. Full Article

A triple shooting outside a church in Brent, north-west London, has resulted in one woman dead and two men injured, one critically. The incident occurred during a wake at the River of Life Elim Pentecostal Church, leaving residents shocked and fearful. Police are actively investigating the shooting and appealing for information from the public to identify the perpetrator responsible for the violent act. Full Article

Laura Kuenssberg questioned Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on BBC 1 about the ongoing issue of asylum seekers crossing the English Channel in small boats, pressing for a timeline on when the numbers will decrease. Despite Cooper's avoidance of a direct answer, she emphasized the government's efforts to address the backlog of asylum claims and the complexity of the issue, highlighting agreements with other countries and stronger law enforcement measures. Cooper defended the government's approach as...

The investigation into the death of schoolboy Kyran Durnin is shifting focus to other individuals known to him after receiving significant assistance from the public. A recent search of a garden in Drogheda involving two people associated with Kyran, who would now be eight years old, resulted in their arrest, questioning, and subsequent release. Gardai are now exploring leads from the public to further their investigation into the case. Full Article

In the aftermath of a Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, emergency services are working to rescue civilians trapped under the rubble of a destroyed building on December 10. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged the world to unite against Vladimir Putin's aggression, as the UK reports Russia making further gains in Ukraine. Zelenskyy also announced Ukraine's support for humanitarian efforts in Syria, emphasizing the importance of stability in the region to facilitate global peace. Full Article

Brussels sprouts are expected to be up to 25 percent larger this year, with an average size of 30mm in diameter compared to 24mm last year. Tesco's supplier, TH Clements, attributes the increase in size to improved growing conditions after a difficult harvest in 2023. By selecting hardier varieties and planting in optimal locations, the quality and taste of this year's crop have significantly improved, making sprout fans likely delighted with the larger, crunchier vegetables....