‘Day of shame’: Labour will not pay Waspi women compensation, Liz Kendall announces

The government has refused to compensate 3.8 million women affected by changes to the state pension age, with Liz Kendall stating that a flat rate payment would not be fair or proportionate. This decision has sparked criticism from MPs and campaigners, including within the Labour party. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman's investigation into the Department for Work and Pensions' handling of the issue was highly critical, leaving many women without the financial support they...

Tusk acknowledges historical tensions between Kyiv and Warsaw, emphasizing the importance of not letting past conflicts interfere with Polish-Ukrainian solidarity. Despite previous threats from Poland to block Ukraine's EU accession, Tusk now confirms support for accelerating talks and backing Kyiv's NATO membership. Zelenskyy praises Poland's efforts and expresses optimism about progress in addressing historical issues, highlighting cooperation between the two countries. Full Article

Avanti West Coast workers are set to strike on New Year’s Eve, 2 January, and Sundays between 12 January and 25 May after rejecting a deal regarding rest day working. The Rail, Maritime and Transport union announced that its train managers will be participating in the strikes, as they believe this is the only way to push for a negotiated settlement. Up to 400 union members are involved in the dispute, with Avanti West Coast...

Your support helps The Independent cover critical stories on reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, ensuring accurate reporting and analysis. Donations enable journalists to report from the ground and provide quality journalism accessible to all. Keir Starmer faces challenges over the Chagos Islands deal as Mauritius seeks to renegotiate, raising concerns about sovereignty, security, and international agreements. Full Article

A letter meant for Penrith, Australia, ended up in Penarth, UK, 10,500 miles away, received by Vale of Glamorgan resident Keith Georgiou who noticed the error. The envelope was supposed to go to Penrith in New South Wales but was mistakenly sent to Penarth, Wales, with the abbreviation NSW causing the confusion. The Royal Mail spokesperson acknowledged that mistakes can happen, especially during the busy holiday season when up to 35 million letters are delivered...

The new European Commission aims to advance the green energy transition with a focus on social cohesion and inclusion, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, where disinformation and polarization are prevalent. CEE Commissioners must collaborate to ensure effective fund usage, promote unity, and address the cost of living crisis through initiatives like the Just Transition Fund and the Social Climate Fund. Their efforts are essential in shaping an equitable energy transformation that benefits the entire...