British Isles
Chinese mega-embassy approved by Government despite security concerns
The Government has approved plans for a large new Chinese embassy near the Tower of London, ending years of debate over security concerns. The site, purchased by China in 2018 for over £200…
House of Lords backs ban on social media for under-16s
Momentum is growing in parliament for a ban on under-16s using social media, after the House of Lords backed a key amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. The proposal would require…
Inflation rises for first time in five months - but one-off factors blamed
UK inflation has risen for the first time in five months, increasing to 3.4% in the year to December. The rise, though higher than expected, is widely attributed to temporary factors rather than…
Government launches £15bn Warm Homes Plan
The Government has launched a £15 billion Warm Homes Plan aimed at expanding solar power, heat pumps, and other green technologies across households over the next five years. The scheme seeks to triple…
MPs debate removal of immunity provision from new legislation
MPs are debating plans to remove the immunity provision from legislation addressing unresolved crimes from the Northern Ireland Troubles. The Government is seeking approval for an order to overturn elements of the previous…
Incoming Archbishop defends £100m slavery reparations fund
The incoming Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has defended the CofE’s £100 million slavery reparations fund amid growing political and internal opposition. Writing to MPs and peers calling for the plan to be…
Chinese super embassy in London 'could spy on the whole of Europe'
Concerns are growing in the UK over plans for a vast new Chinese embassy in London, amid warnings it could become a major hub for espionage across Europe. Unredacted planning documents reveal a…
‘Critical incidents’ at NHS hospitals as winter viruses surge
Six NHS hospital trusts across England have declared critical incidents as winter pressures intensify, driven by rising flu cases, norovirus, Covid, staff sickness, and delayed discharges. Nottingham University Hospitals and Sherwood Forest Hospitals…
UK economy grew by 0.3% in November, beating forecasts
The UK economy recorded stronger-than-expected growth in November, expanding by 0.3% and exceeding forecasts of 0.1%. The rebound, after a contraction in October, was driven largely by renewed industrial output and growth in…
Jenrick sacked by Tories, defects to Reform UK
Robert Jenrick’s political journey has taken another dramatic turn after his sacking from the Conservative shadow cabinet and his decision to align himself at once with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. Long known…
