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Daniel Radcliffe reaffirms his support for LGBT+ rights amidst criticism from JK Rowling over transgender issues. Radcliffe expresses sadness over his strained relationship with Rowling, highlighting the impact of her controversial views on the trans community.
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Local elections are underway in England and Wales, with over 2,600 council seats and 11 mayoral elections being contested. The results will provide insights into public sentiment and the potential outcomes of the upcoming general election.
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Comic legend John Cleese, at 84, has expressed frustration with literal-minded viewers in comedy, criticizing their lack of understanding of irony and jokes. Cleese's comments come as his iconic sitcom 'Fawlty Towers' is adapted into a play, with the removal of racial slurs to avoid offense. The play merges three original episodes and retains classic moments like 'Don't mention the war!' Cleese's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of comedy and the challenges faced by comedians in appealing to diverse audiences.
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Former UK PM Boris Johnson has endorsed Tory Mayoral candidates in the West Midlands and Tees Valley, urging voters to focus on the candidates' records. The candidates, Andy Street and Ben Houchen, are seeking re-election in closely contested races, distancing themselves from the wider Conservative party.
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John Swinney is anticipated to announce his candidacy for the SNP leadership following Humza Yousaf's resignation. Kate Forbes is also considering a bid. Swinney, a former SNP leader and deputy first minister, has garnered support from senior party figures. Yousaf stepped down after cutting ties with the Scottish Greens, leading to a leadership election. Nominations for the leadership close on May 27.
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Ofcom is investigating OnlyFans over concerns that the platform may not be doing enough to prevent children from accessing pornography due to inadequate age verification measures. OnlyFans, a UK-based platform known for hosting adult content, is under scrutiny for potentially failing to sufficiently protect under-18s from explicit material.
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London's black cab drivers have launched a
£250 million legal case against Uber, accusing the ride-hailing company of breaking the city's taxi booking rules and misleading authorities to secure a license. The drivers claim that Uber allowed drivers to take bookings directly from customers, breaching private hire rules, and deliberately misled Transport for London about its booking model.
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Former England cricketer Monty Panesar has been announced as a candidate for George Galloway's Workers Party of Britain in the Ealing Southall constituency, aiming to challenge Labour's stronghold.
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Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has been given a suspended two-month ban and fined
£20,000 for admitting to 50 breaches of Football Association betting rules. The 23-year-old Italy international, currently serving a 10-month worldwide ban for similar breaches, will be free to play again on August 27.
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Humza Yousaf resigns as Scotland's First Minister after a tumultuous tenure marked by political challenges and controversies. The Scottish National Party faces its second leadership election in two years, with John Swinney emerging as a potential candidate to replace Yousaf.
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The Scottish government, led by First Minister Humza Yousaf, has survived a vote of no confidence at Holyrood. Yousaf faces challenges after withdrawing from a coalition agreement with the Scottish Greens, leading to multiple no-confidence votes. Despite pressure to resign, Yousaf remains defiant and determined to fight for his leadership.
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Barbra Streisand's inquiry to Melissa McCarthy about taking a weight-loss drug sparked backlash. McCarthy responded with humor, saying she 'wins the day'. Streisand later apologized for her comment.
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Retailers like Walmart, Sainsbury's, and Taylors Snacks are making strategic moves to attract customers through the launch of new store brands and reporting higher profits.
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Sony Pictures and Apollo Global Management have submitted a $26 billion cash bid for Paramount Global, as the media giant considers a merger with Skydance Media and undergoes a CEO change.
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Universal Music Group and TikTok have reached a new licensing agreement, restoring songs from top artists like Taylor Swift, Drake, and Adele to the video-sharing app. The deal resolves a dispute over royalties and AI use, providing new promotional opportunities and protections for artists.
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Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, reports booming sales but faces supply constraints and pricing concerns. Sign-ups for weight loss drug Wegovy have surged in the US, while the company raises its profit forecast as sales growth exceeds expectations.
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Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was turned away from his local polling station for not having the required photo ID. This incident highlights the challenges faced by voters under the new voter ID rules introduced by Johnson's government. Additionally, a former British Army soldier, Adam Diver, was also denied the right to vote due to his veteran's ID not being accepted. Tory MP Tom Hunt faced a similar issue when he lost his voter ID and had to seek an emergency proxy vote.
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The UK government has begun detaining asylum seekers identified for deportation to Rwanda, with thousands of individuals unaccounted for. The Home Office aims to send these individuals to Rwanda to deter illegal migration, but faces challenges in locating and detaining them.
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Negotiations are progressing towards a post-Brexit deal for Gibraltar involving Spain, the EU, and the UK, with significant progress achieved. Talks aim to ensure free movement over the Gibraltar-Spain border, resolving issues that have persisted since Brexit.
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Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf resigns amidst no-confidence motions following the breakdown of a power-sharing agreement with the Scottish Greens. The Scottish government faces a vote of no confidence, potentially leading to the resignation of all ministers. Yousaf's resignation comes after reaching out to opposition parties in an attempt to find common ground ahead of confidence votes.
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A record number of migrants have crossed the English Channel in small boats, with over 7,500 arrivals in the first four months of the year. Recent arrests have been made in connection with the deaths of five migrants, including a child, during attempts to cross the Channel.
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Warnings have been issued in Australia and the UK about online child exploitation, with reports of predators sending requests to facilitate child sexual exploitation and sextortion scams targeting young people. The Australian Institute of Criminology found that a small percentage of parents who engage in 'sharenting' have received requests related to child sexual exploitation. The National Crime Agency highlighted the increase in sextortion cases globally, with criminals targeting young people through social media and encrypted messaging apps.
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Anne Hathaway stars in the film adaptation of The Idea of You, a romance between a 40-year-old divorcee and a young pop star, sparking comparisons to Harry Styles. The movie, now streaming on Prime Video, explores themes of celebrity couple age gaps and women's sexual independence.
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Thunderstorms have struck parts of England and Wales, leading to property damage and travel disruption. The Met Office has issued weather warnings for potential flooding and difficult driving conditions. Despite the storms, the UK is expected to experience the warmest day of the year so far.
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ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar, 56, fell ill while presenting News at Ten, struggling with the autocue and looking pained. He received medical treatment and is now recovering at home with his family.
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Bethesda releases a major update for Fallout 4, enhancing performance and visuals. Ubisoft announces the release of Assassin's Creed Mirage for iPhones and iPads. Activision Blizzard cancels BlizzCon, disappointing World of Warcraft fans. Warhammer faces controversy over inclusivity. Fallout 76 gains popularity due to updates and the Fallout TV series. Steam criticized for hosting a controversial game portraying Palestinian gunmen.
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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer reflects on past losses, including the Hartlepool by-election and council seats, and reveals he considered quitting but ultimately decided to stay on to lead the party through necessary changes.
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Exhibitions on Michelangelo's late works and Maurizio Cattelan's new show in New York spark criticism and intrigue in the art world.
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The UK government is proposing changes to the NHS Constitution, aiming to ban transgender women from single-sex female wards and emphasizing the importance of biological sex in healthcare. This move has sparked debate among healthcare professionals and rights groups, with concerns raised about potential limitations on transgender and non-binary patients' access to vital NHS services.
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Recent archaeological finds in the UK include a mysterious 12-sided Roman object in Norton Disney, a potential Bronze Age burial site in Hampshire, and a hoard of historical coins in South Poorton.
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Low voter turnout is anticipated in the English local elections, with only about a third of voters expected to participate. In some deprived areas, turnout could be as low as 13%. Community workers are striving to engage disenfranchised communities, where residents feel disillusioned by unfulfilled promises from local councils.
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The UK government has agreed to extend the infected blood compensation scheme to include bereaved children who lost parents to the scandal. Thousands of victims died in the 1970s and 80s after being infected with HIV and hepatitis C through contaminated blood products. The scheme is being extended following years of campaigning by victims and their families.
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Meta has introduced new AI models and updates to its Meta AI assistant for its social media apps, aiming to enhance user experience and provide more sophisticated features.
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The UK is facing a crisis in agriculture as wet weather has severely impacted harvests of wheat, barley, oats, and oilseed rape, potentially leading to price rises for bread, beer, and biscuits. Farmers are experiencing significant losses, with some crops completely destroyed.
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Since May 2023, UK voters have been required to show photo ID in various elections following the passing of the Elections Act in April 2022. The new rules apply to by-elections, general elections, local elections, referendums in England, and Police and Crime Commissioner elections in England and Wales. London's upcoming mayoral election in May 2024 will be the first to implement these voter ID requirements.
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New UK laws have come into effect requiring smart devices to meet minimum-security standards, banning weak default passwords like 'admin' or '12345'. Manufacturers must protect internet-connected devices against cybercriminals and prompt users to change common passwords.
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Expert witness Gareth Jenkins accused postmasters of trying to shift blame for missing money onto the Horizon system. Former Post Office executive Angela van den Bogerd denied lying throughout her testimony at the Horizon IT scandal inquiry. She later apologized for the devastation caused by the scandal but claimed she never knowingly did anything wrong. Van den Bogerd was also questioned about giving false evidence to the high court regarding remote access to the Horizon IT system.
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UK banks, including Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, and Santander, reported varied financial performances in the first quarter of 2024, with profits either rising or falling.
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Tory minister Chris Philp confuses Rwanda and Congo on BBC, James Cleverly warns against ousting Rishi Sunak before election, and NHS doctor dismissed via text message.
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Two Household Cavalry horses were injured in London after bolting through the city when spooked by builders. The horses underwent surgery and are now making progress towards recovery. The soldiers injured during the incident are also expected to make a full recovery.
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Thames Water faces criticism for sewage spillages and pollution in the River Thames. Mayor Sadiq Khan aims to make the river 'swimmable' within ten years, highlighting the urgent need for environmental improvements.
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Cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence are transforming mental health care and drug development. Companies like FireflyVR and Stella are exploring VR for mental health treatment, while Remepy is pioneering hybrid drug development. Nebu-Flow and Glen Clova Scientific have secured significant funding for respiratory pharmaceuticals and drug development, promising advancements in treatment options.
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An auction house in the UK has withdrawn 18 ancient Egyptian human skulls from sale after criticism from MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy, who described the trade as a gross violation of human dignity. The skulls, originally collected by Augustus Pitt-Rivers, were listed for sale with a guide price of £200-300 each. The sale has sparked ethical concerns and calls for a review of laws around the sale of human remains.
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Worcestershire County Cricket Club is mourning the sudden death of 20-year-old spin bowler Josh Baker. Baker, who made his debut in 2021, was described as a beloved member of the team with remarkable warmth and professionalism. His passing has left the club devastated, with plans to honor his memory in consultation with his family.
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George Mallory, a renowned mountaineer, disappeared on Mount Everest in 1924 during an expedition to reach the summit. A century later, his letters to his wife have been digitized and made public, shedding light on his final moments and the enduring mystery of whether he and his climbing partner, Sandy Irvine, reached the summit.
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The Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates steady amidst rising worker compensation and concerns over persistent inflation.
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A recreation of Glasgow's disastrous Willy Wonka event, featuring Kirsty Paterson, the sad-looking Oompa Loompa, took place in Los Angeles. Attendees paid $44 for the one-night event, which included AI-generated art and a warehouse decorated with minimal props. The Glasgow event, which made headlines for its lackluster execution, inspired the Los Angeles version, attracting curious fans.
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Tory Minister Lucy Frazer accidentally voted in favor of tougher laws on ticket touts, while Housing Secretary Michael Gove admitted that no-fault evictions may not be banned before the general election.
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Sian Batchelor, 32, was found dead on a beach in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Her family described her as a beautiful, funny, and loving person. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
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UK companies are accused of bypassing sanctions by importing banned products and undercutting British businesses. Japan Tobacco adjusts its supply chains to comply with Western sanctions against Moscow. UK manufacturing exporters see significant sales increases to countries friendly with Russia, raising concerns. British luxury car exports to states neighbouring Russia continue to rise, with millions of pounds worth of cars being exported.
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14-year-old Daniel Anjorin was killed in a sword attack near Hainault Tube station in London. A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Four others, including two police officers, were injured in the attack. Daniel attended Bancroft's private school, the same school as Grace O'Malley-Kumar, a victim of a previous knife attack. The school community is mourning the loss, with the school's flag flying at half-mast.
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Shell has reported better-than-forecast profits of £6.1bn for the first quarter of 2024, sparking investor pressure over its actions to tackle climate change. The oil giant announced a $3.5bn share buyback program for the next three months, following a year of multi-billion pound payouts to shareholders.
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Rebel Wilson's memoir 'Rebel Rising' has been released in the UK with a redacted chapter detailing her negative experience working with Sacha Baron Cohen. Wilson has spoken out about her feelings of shame over the incident, while Baron Cohen's legal team has deemed the redactions a 'clear victory'.
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West Yorkshire Police constable Mohammed Adil, 26, faces potential jail time for admitting to sharing pro-Hamas messages on WhatsApp, supporting the banned organization. The messages were posted following an attack on Israel by Hamas, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages.
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Measles and other infectious diseases are on the rise globally, with outbreaks reported in various countries. Congo is struggling with its largest mpox outbreak, while measles cases have increased in England and globally. Mosquito-borne diseases are spreading due to climate breakdown. Additionally, the US measles elimination status is at risk as cases surge. Health officials are working to contain these outbreaks and prevent further spread.
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Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler shares her journey of trying to sound less Welsh in her early career, her experience performing at the Kremlin, and her personal struggles, including a miscarriage. Meanwhile, Charles Esler spent over 50 years in hospital despite not being acutely unwell, highlighting the challenges faced by people with learning disabilities.
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Manchester's Co-op Live Arena faces delays and cancellations due to ongoing technical issues, leading to the resignation of the general manager and the relocation of Take That's shows to a rival venue.
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Sean Dyche steers Everton to Premier League safety with a 1-0 win over Brentford, securing their top-flight status with three games to spare. Livingston also avoids relegation with a 2-0 victory over Ross County, while Edinburgh triumphs over Cardiff 24-7.
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Labour is facing criticism for considering a loophole that would allow workers to opt for zero-hours contracts, despite pledging to ban them. Unions have expressed support for Labour's commitment to workers' rights, but concerns remain about potential changes to the original proposals.
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Demand for rental homes in the UK continues to outstrip supply, with nine new tenants registered for each available property in March. Meanwhile, in the US, rental prices have fallen for the third straight month, with one-bedroom apartments at a median rate of $1,486.
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Barry Jenkins defends the upcoming Lion King prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King, against criticism, emphasizing the profound impact of the original story. Disney also announces a sequel to The Lion King, set to be released in December. Blue Ivy Carter makes her film debut in the prequel, voicing the character Kiara.
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Billie Eilish announces her 'Hit Me Hard and Soft' world tour in celebration of her upcoming album release on May 17. The tour will kick off in North America in September 2024 and include UK dates in summer 2025. Olivia Rodrigo also announces her 'Guts' world tour with two dates in Glasgow.
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Several UK museums, including Craven Museum in Skipton and Dundee Contemporary Arts, have been nominated for the prestigious Museum of the Year award. The shortlist includes institutions that have undergone extensive renovations, highlighting their commitment to preserving and showcasing cultural heritage.
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Manchester's Co-op Live arena faces ongoing troubles as gigs by A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Olivia Rodrigo are cancelled due to technical issues, leaving fans disappointed. General manager Gary Roden resigns amidst chaos at the venue.
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Goldman Sachs has become the first bank in the UK to eliminate the cap on bankers' bonuses, allowing top performers to earn up to 25 times their annual salary. This move follows changes to UK laws and the scrapping of EU rules limiting bonuses to twice basic pay. Other major banks in the UK are expected to follow suit, giving them more control over staff pay based on performance.
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A series of fatal incidents caused by dangerous driving have resulted in tragic deaths in Gloucestershire, South Wales, and Northumbria. Drivers warned by police have caused fatal accidents, including hitting pedestrians and running over a 13-year-old boy. The drivers have been convicted and sentenced for their reckless actions.
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Calls are growing for Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething to return a £200,000 donation from a company linked to environmental crimes. Opposition parties have debated the issue in the Senedd, with demands for an independent investigation. A motion for an independent probe into the donation was defeated, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in political funding.
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Revolution Bars Group has confirmed talks with Nightcap for a potential takeover deal, following a major restructuring plan announcement. The troubled bar chain is exploring various transactions, including a possible offer for the entirety of Revolution, which owns Peach Pubs and Revolucion de Cuba venues.
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Post Office investigators viewed sub-postmasters as 'enemies' and failed to address concerns raised by forensic accountants about faulty Horizon software. Hundreds of sub-postmasters were wrongly prosecuted for theft and false accounting, leading to a public inquiry into the scandal. The inquiry revealed that the Post Office sought to 'hush up' the case of a sub-postmaster who took his own life after facing financial shortfalls and pressure from the Post Office.
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The UK economy is forecasted to have the slowest growth among major developed nations, with the OECD predicting a 1% rise in GDP in 2025. In contrast, the global economy is expected to grow faster than previously thought, driven by the US and falling inflation rates.
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Rock music mourns the loss of two legends as Duane Eddy, the renowned rock 'n' roll guitarist, and Richard Tandy, the keyboardist of Electric Light Orchestra, pass away at the ages of 86 and 76 respectively.
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The film adaptation of The Idea of You, a tale of a mother falling for a younger pop star, starring Anne Hathaway, receives mixed reviews but is praised for its charm and performances.
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A series of arrests have been made in connection with migrant deaths in the English Channel, including a 23-year-old man arrested for assisting illegal immigration and entering the UK illegally, and four Vietnamese nationals arrested for advertising people smuggling services on Facebook.
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Lewis Hamilton has called on Adrian Newey to move to Ferrari next year, stating it would be a privilege to work with the renowned designer. Newey, who is leaving Red Bull after almost two decades, is expected to join Ferrari, coinciding with Hamilton's move to the team.
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Labour announces plans to nationalise the rail network within five years, aiming to fix the broken railways and drive economic growth. Shadow Transport Secretary Louise Haigh unveils proposals for reform, including establishing Great British Railways. The plan is met with support from passengers but faces criticism from the Conservatives.
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Footballer Tom Lockyer and cricketer Ben Wells have been forced to retire due to heart conditions. Lockyer, who suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch, expresses a desire to return to football but prioritizes his health and family. Wells, diagnosed with a rare heart disease, steps away from cricket and will have a defibrillator fitted. Both athletes have shown strength and gratitude for the opportunities their sports careers have provided.
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UK house prices fell by 0.4% in April for the second consecutive month, with major lenders increasing rates on fixed mortgages due to uncertainty over interest rate cuts. Homeowners are grappling with significant rises in monthly mortgage payments as a result of soaring mortgage rates.
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Water sports events in the UK, including the annual Boulter's to Bray Swim, are being cancelled due to concerns over rising sewage pollution in rivers and coastal waters. Seven water sports governing bodies have formed the Clean Water Sports Alliance to demand urgent government action to address the pollution and protect the health of waterways and participants.
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The US Department of Transportation has introduced new regulations mandating airlines to issue automatic cash refunds for flight delays and cancellations. Additionally, airlines are now required to disclose fees for baggage and reservation changes upfront.
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Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, owners of Wrexham AFC, plan to increase the stadium capacity to accommodate up to 55,000 people. The club recently secured promotion to League One, marking a successful journey under the ownership of Reynolds and McElhenney.
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Explore the culinary world through the eyes of Annabel Jackson, Isaac McHale, and Kate Oliver as they share their favorite dining spots, culinary journeys, and family food traditions.
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Erik ten Hag praised Jadon Sancho's outstanding performance for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League semi-finals, highlighting his high value to Manchester United. Sancho, who was loaned to Dortmund after a fallout with Ten Hag, showcased his talent, potentially paving the way for a return to United.
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The Kardashian sisters engage in playful banter and self-affirmation, reminiscing about past fights, teasing each other with whale images, and responding to online criticism with grace and self-appreciation.
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Olivia Laing and Frances Tophill share their gardening journeys in new books, 'The Garden Against Time' and 'A Year In A Small Garden', respectively. Laing's book details her restoration of a walled garden in Suffolk, once owned by a renowned plant man, while Tophill offers tips on managing a new garden in Devon.
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British comedian Dane Baptiste faces backlash after posting an anti-Semitic threat to a female comic on social media. Meanwhile, Scottish comedian Rory Bremner reflects on the divisive nature of identity politics in the UK.
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The Women's Scottish Open will be held at Dundonald Links in Ayrshire in August, followed by the 152nd Open at Royal Troon. The attendance for the 152nd Open will be 250,000, a significant increase from the 2016 event. LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman's attendance at the Open Championship at Royal Troon is uncertain.
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Former EastEnders star Don Gilet has been announced as the new lead detective in BBC's hit show Death in Paradise. Gilet, known for his role as Lucas Johnson in EastEnders, will play Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson in the upcoming 14th series, set to air in 2025.
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Celtic are deliberating a
£5 million deal for Adam Idah from Norwich City, with Rodgers considering the player's impact as a backup. Meanwhile, Rangers are still keen on signing Dion Sanderson from Birmingham City.
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Dua Lipa releases 'Radical Optimism', her third album featuring Kevin Parker. Young artists draw inspiration from Britpop. Jessica Pratt evolves her sound on 'Here in the Pitch'. Fergus McCreadie releases 'Stream', showcasing his unique jazz style.
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Parents and individuals share their experiences and regrets regarding the names they were given or chose for their children.
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Strictly Come Dancing professionals have kicked off their UK tour, bringing the sparkle and glamour of the show to live stages. Meanwhile, farmers have reported the worst winter weather in living memory, and a 75,000-year-old Neanderthal skeleton has been discovered in Iraq.
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The BAFTA Award-winning black comedy series Inside No.9 is back for its ninth and final season, premiering on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer on May 8. The anthology series, created by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton, features standalone stories with a range of eccentric characters. The new season will consist of six episodes, with the first episode titled 'Boo To A Goose' and a cast including Siobhan Finneran, Mark Bonnar, and Susan Wokoma.
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Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan cuts annual guidance for a third straight quarter after the company's worst performance since the pandemic, leading to a 15% plunge in shares. Weaker-than-expected quarterly earnings and warnings of continued underperformance in 2024 have raised concerns about the company's future.
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Apple's quarterly revenue dropped 4%, driven by a 10% decline in iPhone sales. However, the company beat analysts' estimates due to strong growth in services revenue. Apple also authorized a $110 billion stock buyback.
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Pro-Palestinian protests intensify at Columbia University as demonstrators occupy Hamilton Hall, leading to clashes with police and numerous arrests.
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Acclaimed American author Paul Auster has passed away at the age of 77 from complications of lung cancer. Auster, known for his postmodern style and works such as 'The New York Trilogy' and '4 3 2 1', wrote over 30 books and received international recognition for his contributions to literature.
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House Republicans are launching an investigation into federal funding for universities amidst protests over the Israel-Hamas war. The move follows escalating pro-Palestinian demonstrations at various campuses, prompting discussions about potential National Guard intervention.
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World Central Kitchen has decided to resume its operations in Gaza after a temporary suspension following the deaths of seven aid workers in an Israeli airstrike. The organization is determined to continue its mission of providing food aid to the people of Gaza, despite the challenges and risks involved.
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Mass graves containing hundreds of bodies have been uncovered in Gaza hospitals, sparking outrage and calls for urgent, independent investigations. Palestinian officials accuse the Israeli army of committing crimes against humanity, while Israel denies the accusations and claims bodies were not buried by them.
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Elon Musk is embroiled in a conflict with the Australian government over his social media platform X's refusal to remove violent video posts, leading to court orders and accusations of censorship.
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Universities across the US are facing escalating protests as students demand divestment from Israel amid the Israel-Hamas war. Demonstrators have been arrested, suspended, and expelled, with clashes between protesters and police reported at multiple campuses.
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Tech giants like Meta are facing stock plunges and losses due to heavy investments in AI, with Meta's stock falling over 10% after warning of delayed returns on AI investments. Despite short-term setbacks, companies are optimistic about the long-term potential of AI technologies.
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Mass protests erupted in Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, as the government moved forward with a 'foreign agents' bill, sparking clashes with police using tear gas and stun grenades.
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Google has fired employees who protested against the company's cloud computing contract with the Israeli government, leading to ongoing tensions and further dismissals.
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Major General Aharon Haliva resigns as head of Israeli military intelligence following intelligence failures that preceded the Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, making him the most senior official to offer to step down in the wake of the assault.
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Iran and Israel engage in retaliatory strikes after Iran launches a massive drone and missile attack against Israel in retaliation for an Israeli airstrike on its embassy compound in Syria. Israel vows to respond if attacked from Iranian territory.
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Microsoft has announced a $1.7 billion investment in Indonesia's AI and cloud services, aiming to train 840,000 people in AI skills. This move is part of Microsoft's strategy to support Indonesia's digital transformation and economic development.
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Recent events have seen Israel targeting Iran's air defense systems in Isfahan, prompting retaliatory attacks from Iran. Israel's precision strikes have demonstrated the capability to bypass Iran's defenses, leading to a dialing back of planned counterstrikes.
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Turkey has suspended all imports and exports to Israel in response to the ongoing military action in Gaza. The Turkish Trade Ministry stated that the suspension will continue until Israel allows the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israel's Foreign Minister accused Turkish President Erdogan of acting like a 'dictator' and disregarding international trade agreements.
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A section of the Meizhou-Dabu highway in Guangdong province collapsed, causing dozens of deaths and injuries. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered a full-scale rescue operation to save lives and maintain social stability.
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Colombian President Gustavo Petro announces the severance of diplomatic ties with Israel, citing Israel's 'genocidal' government and actions in the Gaza war. This decision follows Petro's strong condemnation of the war and his assertion that 'If Palestine dies, humanity dies.' Israel's Foreign Minister criticizes Petro's move, accusing him of antisemitism.
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Retailers like Walmart and rue21 are closing stores across the U.S. due to financial challenges. Walmart is shutting down 51 health clinics and a virtual care service, while rue21 plans to close all 540 stores after filing for bankruptcy.
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The Israeli army is reinforcing its positions in the Gaza Strip, preparing for a potential ground assault on Rafah and the Hamas brigades. This move has raised global alarm due to the risk it poses to over a million Palestinian civilians seeking shelter in the area.
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Yemen's Houthi rebels continue their campaign against international shipping, targeting vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden in solidarity with Gaza. The attacks, including drone strikes and missile launches, have caused damage to ships but no reported injuries, as tensions rise in the region.
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Indian intelligence officials, including senior members, have been linked to assassination plots targeting Sikh activists abroad, raising diplomatic tensions with the US. The reports implicate the Indian government in failed and foiled assassination attempts in the US and Canada.
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Ukraine has received a longer-range version of the Army Tactical Missile Systems from the US, enabling them to target Russian forces in occupied Crimea more effectively. The delivery was made secretly to avoid alerting Russia, as part of a $300 million aid package announced in March.
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Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt star in the action comedy film 'The Fall Guy', where Gosling plays a stuntman trying to win back his ex-girlfriend, who is now a film director. The movie is a blend of action, comedy, and romance, with early reviews praising the chemistry between the lead actors.
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Former Indian Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda's grandson, Prajwal Revanna, is embroiled in a scandal after being accused of sexually abusing hundreds of women in Karnataka. The scandal erupted during the national elections, with videos allegedly showing Revanna's crimes. Meanwhile, PM Narendra Modi faced backlash for making divisive comments against Muslims during his campaign rally.
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A massive explosion at a military base in southwestern Cambodia killed 20 soldiers due to a mishandling of ammunition. In a separate incident, a tornado in south China claimed the lives of five people and caused significant damage to property.
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The Philippines summoned a Chinese diplomat after Chinese Coast Guard vessels used water cannons against Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, causing damage. This incident marked the 20th protest by the Philippines against Chinese actions in the sea this year.
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A United Nations report reveals that rebuilding the homes destroyed in Gaza could take until 2040, with costs estimated in the billions. The level of destruction is unprecedented, impacting the lives of Palestinians significantly.
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Russia has vetoed two separate UN resolutions aimed at preventing a nuclear arms race in outer space. The resolutions called for efforts to stop weapons from being deployed in space and prevent the threat or use of force in outer space. The U.S. and Japan have been pushing for these measures, while Russia's actions have raised concerns about its intentions regarding weapons in space.
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French President Emmanuel Macron warns of Europe's mortality and outlines priorities for the EU's future in a speech at Sorbonne University in Paris.
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Haiti's transitional council has nominated Fritz Belizaire as the new prime minister, succeeding interim PM Michel Patrick Boisvert. Belizaire faces the daunting challenge of stabilizing the country amidst violent armed gangs controlling many areas. The council is also tasked with appointing a cabinet and electoral council to pave the way for Haiti's first general elections since 2016.
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US universities, including the University of California and the University of Southern California, have adjusted their graduation plans due to protests over the Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to cancellations of main ceremonies and speeches.
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Rory McIlroy is set to return to the PGA Tour's policy board, Ludvig Aberg will join Rory McIlroy in the Genesis Scottish Open, Scottie Scheffler wins the RBC Heritage, and Connor Graham sits out the Lytham Trophy due to a hand issue.
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President Joe Biden criticizes Japan and India for their xenophobic immigration policies, attributing their economic struggles to a lack of openness to immigrants. His comments were made at a campaign fundraising event in Washington, where he highlighted the importance of welcoming immigrants for economic growth.
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Secretary of State Antony Blinken is actively engaging with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to urge a cease-fire deal in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Netanyahu has vowed to invade Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, regardless of truce talks, escalating tensions. President Biden is also involved in discussions to secure the release of hostages held since the Hamas-led attack in October.
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Retailers in the US, including Walmart, Dollar Tree, and Subway, are closing stores due to unsustainable business models and challenges such as increased minimum wage. Sam's Club introduces AI-powered scan of shoppers' carts to speed up checkout process.
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Celebrity stylist Law Roach abruptly quits, sparking controversy with rumors of inappropriate behavior. Zendaya continues to make fashion statements, sporting a bedazzled poster board dress for her movie premiere and embracing '90s fashion for the Met Gala.
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Bayer Leverkusen secured a 2-0 victory over Roma in the Europa League semi-final first leg, extending their unbeaten run to 47 games. Roma, under new management, had to settle for a draw against Napoli in Serie A, highlighting their recent struggles.
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Dave & Buster's is set to launch a feature on their app that will allow customers to place bets on arcade games, such as Skee-Ball and Hot Shots basketball, through a partnership with Lucra. The new betting initiative aims to provide a unique and interactive gaming experience for customers.
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NATO countries express deep concern over Russian hybrid activities on alliance's soil, with warnings of Russia's inevitable defeat in a war with NATO. 90,000 NATO troops are training in Europe for potential conflict with Russia, while an analyst warns of an emboldened Russian army and potential threat to NATO if Ukraine loses to Russia.
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Roger Ver, known as 'Bitcoin Jesus,' has been arrested in Spain for allegedly evading at least $48 million in taxes by not reporting the sale of $240 million worth of bitcoins. Ver, who renounced his US citizenship in 2014, faces charges of mail fraud and tax evasion. He is accused of concealing bitcoin sales from his accountant and not paying taxes due to the IRS.
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Airbnb has launched 'Icons,' a series of unique travel experiences including stays in a Paris museum, movie-themed houses, and celebrity hangouts. The company aims to provide customers with unforgettable experiences beyond traditional hotel stays.
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Violent clashes erupted at UCLA between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups, leading to cancellations of classes and a scramble to address the overnight violence. The clashes involved physical fights, barricades being thrown, and pepper spray being used, with some participants not appearing to be students. The campus police eventually intervened to separate the groups, quelling the violence.
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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron will meet in Paris to discuss EU-China relations, ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Europe.
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Amazon's TV adaptation of the 'Fallout' video game series has been renewed for a second season, following the story of Lucy MacLean in a post-apocalyptic world. The show has garnered positive critical reception and marks Amazon's first adaptation of a video game into a series.
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Tesla has fired its Supercharger team, including over 500 employees, as part of cost-cutting measures. CEO Elon Musk reassured that the Supercharger network will continue to grow, albeit at a slower pace. The decision has sparked outrage among drivers who rely on the network for charging their vehicles.
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Armed groups linked to Islamic State have besieged major towns in northeastern Mali, leaving 80,000 children vulnerable to malnutrition. In a separate incident, a senior Islamic State commander was killed by Mali's security forces. Meanwhile, military forces in Burkina Faso massacred 223 civilians in attacks on villages accused of collaborating with militants.
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The US government is considering reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, recognizing its medical uses and lower potential for abuse. This move could ease access for patients and researchers without legalizing recreational use.
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President Biden denounces the violence and antisemitism at US universities, emphasizing the right to protest without causing chaos. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticizes Biden's handling of the protests, calling for more intervention. Biden's comments come after days of silence on the demonstrations, as tensions rise on campuses across the country.
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President Biden condemns the violence and chaos that have erupted on college campuses during anti-Israel protests, emphasizing the importance of peaceful dissent and maintaining order.
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Google's landmark antitrust trial is concluding in Washington, DC, with closing arguments being presented. Newly disclosed court documents reveal Google paid over $20 billion in 2022 to secure its position as the default search engine on Apple's Safari browser.
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The Manhattan District Attorney's Office plans to retry film producer Harvey Weinstein on sexual assault charges after his 2020 rape conviction was overturned by the New York Court of Appeals. Weinstein, who remains in jail after a separate rape conviction in Los Angeles, was hospitalized in New York City for tests following the court's decision.
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Changpeng Zhao, founder of Binance, has been sentenced to four months in prison for failing to implement an effective anti-money laundering program at the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange.
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Millions of Americans using obesity drugs like Wegovy face uncertainty about weight maintenance after stopping the medication. High drug prices and concerns about weight regain are key issues in the debate surrounding these medications.
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Three women in New Mexico were diagnosed with HIV after receiving 'vampire facial' procedures at an unlicensed spa. The CDC's investigation revealed that the spa reused disposable equipment, leading to HIV transmission. This marks the first documented cases of HIV transmission through cosmetic services using needles.
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The US economy grew at a slower rate of 1.6% in the first quarter of 2024, below expectations, while inflation rose more quickly than anticipated, with the core PCE price index up 2.8% year-over-year.
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Donald Trump faces potential sanctions over violating a gag order in his hush money trial, with Judge Juan M. Merchan holding a hearing on new online posts. Trump was fined $9,000 for previous violations and continues campaigning while facing felony charges.
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Bumble, the popular dating app, is changing its dynamic by allowing men to make the first move with a new feature called 'Opening Moves.' This shift comes in response to user feedback and a desire for more authentic connections in the online dating world.
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Joshua Dean, a former quality auditor at Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems, has died after raising safety concerns about the 737 Max. Dean was fired in 2023 after complaining about manufacturing defects and filed a complaint alleging retaliation. He passed away after a short illness, sparking questions about the treatment of whistleblowers in the aviation industry.
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The US Federal Reserve has decided to keep interest rates at a 23-year high of 5.25-5.50% as inflation persists above the 2% target. Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the need for greater confidence in inflation reduction before considering rate cuts.
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The US Federal Reserve has decided to keep interest rates unchanged at 5.25%-5.5% due to concerns over stubborn inflation. Despite expectations of rate cuts, the Fed is delaying any reductions until there is greater confidence in inflation easing.
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Four police officers were killed in a shootout in Charlotte, North Carolina, as they attempted to serve a warrant. The suspect, Terry Clark Hughes Jr, opened fire on the officers, resulting in the deaths of four officers and injuries to four others.
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Former President Trump continues to refuse to commit to accepting the results of the 2024 election, echoing false claims of election fraud in 2020 and sparking concerns about the future of democracy.
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American and Southwest Airlines are facing financial losses and service cuts due to delayed deliveries of Boeing aircraft, impacting operations at multiple airports.
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Renowned chefs Masaharu Morimoto, Samuel Kim, and Biubiu Xu share their perspectives on sushi quality, Korean cuisine, and upscale Chinese dining in New York City.
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Activist investors are making a push to gain control of Norfolk Southern's board, backed by shareholder advisers and key supporters. The railway company's CEO is facing pressure amidst accusations of underperformance and poor communication with investors.
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The 150th Kentucky Derby faces challenges following multiple horse deaths in recent races, prompting enhanced safety measures. Zedan Racing Stables' request for their Bob Baffert-trained horse to run in the Derby was denied, leading to an appeal that was also rejected.
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Organic walnuts and apple juice contaminated with E. coli and inorganic arsenic, respectively, have led to recalls by Gibson Farms and Martinelli's. Additionally, frozen meat pizzas from 802 VT Frozen were recalled due to misbranding and undeclared allergens.
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The Biden administration has introduced new regulations requiring coal-fired power plants to drastically cut carbon emissions by 2039 or face closure, accelerating the decline of coal in the US power sector.
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The Department of Energy is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance the productivity and efficiency of the electrical grid, aiming to meet the growing energy demand for AI data centers. Through the establishment of a working group and issuing a report, the DOE is taking proactive steps to address the energy needs of the future.