Spain’s conservatives shoot down Mario Draghi as EU Commission president – POLITICO

Ian Hislop criticized Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby for attending a gala just one day after resigning over an abuse scandal in the Church of England involving John Smyth. Hislop called it "jaw-dropping" and was unimpressed by Welby's presence at the event, telling him it was "lovely" that he had resigned. Hislop also condemned gala attendees for praising Welby's resignation, stating they were too quick to forgive each other and not focused enough on seeking...

British backpacker Simone White from Kent died after suspected methanol poisoning in Laos, becoming the fifth tourist to pass away in the Vang Vieng area. Four other individuals, including an Australian, American, and two Danes, also died from the incident. Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the death of 19-year-old Bianca Jones and stated that other travelers were hospitalized due to consuming contaminated alcoholic drinks. Full Article

Empro, a company in Dendermonde's Hooveld industrial estate, is renovating to address odor complaints from residents. Spokesperson Leen De Jonghe anticipates permit approval for the construction of a new purification building in spring 2025, aiming to improve operations and reduce unpleasant smells for the local community. The company plans to begin construction in the spring, with the goal of completing the new building by fall, including changes to reduce odors and noise for nearby residents....

Former deputy prime minister John Prescott has passed away at 86 after battling Alzheimer’s, his family announced. A key figure in Tony Blair’s New Labour project, he served as deputy prime minister for a decade and was known for mediating between Blair and Gordon Brown. Despite his fiery temperament, he was praised for his peacemaking abilities and efforts to combat climate change. Full Article

The government's controversial decision to extend inheritance tax to farm properties has put a fifth of Labour's seats at risk, with at least 81 seats in rural areas likely to be affected. The move has sparked anger among constituents, particularly in areas where Labour won by a small margin, making them vulnerable to the Conservatives, Reform, or the SNP. The so-called "tractor tax" has led to protests from farmers and criticism from political leaders, with...

GREVIO commends the Spanish authorities for their progress in preventing and combating violence against women, including expanding legislative frameworks and adopting laws like the Organic Law on Sexual Freedom. They urge for improved training of professionals working with victims and perpetrators, especially in the judiciary, to fully comply with the Istanbul Convention. GREVIO also highlights the need for enhanced support for vulnerable groups, mandatory training for judges on domestic violence dynamics, and increased protection for...