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Maryam Moshiri, a BBC news presenter, apologizes for a 'silly joke' gone wrong after she was caught giving the middle finger live on air during the noon news bulletin. The incident went viral on social media.
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Benjamin Zephaniah, a pioneering British poet, musician, and actor known for his work on racism and social justice, has passed away at the age of 65.
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Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, has resigned from his position due to strong disagreements with the direction of government policy on immigration. He has been advocating for stricter measures to reduce net migration to the UK, going beyond the stance of No 10. Jenrick's resignation comes after Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor, published new legislation on Rwanda, which Jenrick deemed not tough enough.
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The UK government has accused Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) of engaging in a sustained cyber espionage campaign to interfere in UK political processes. The FSB, through a group known as Star Blizzard or Callisto, targeted high-profile politicians, civil servants, journalists, and NGOs, using spear-phishing attacks and compromising email accounts. The group selectively leaked and amplified sensitive information to undermine trust in politics in the UK. The Russian ambassador to London has been summoned, and sanctions have been imposed on FSB officers involved in the campaign.
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Boris Johnson privately acknowledged poor behavior among his staff as the Downing Street parties scandal broke, according to messages shown to the Covid inquiry. Johnson admitted he should have done more to prevent rule-breaking in No 10 and acknowledged that laws were too confusing. He also urged the inquiry to do more about social care.
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Google has introduced Gemini, its new generative AI model, which is being touted as its most capable and general model yet. Gemini is a multimodal AI system that can process text, code, audio, images, and video to respond to user prompts. It integrates directly into mobile devices and is expected to outperform OpenAI's GPT-4. Gemini will be rolled out in phases, with the Ultra version available next year. However, the initial version, Gemini Pro, can be accessed through Google's chatbot Bard.
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Conservative MPs are concerned about the potential return of Nigel Farage to the political scene as his new party, Reform UK, gains support in the polls.
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Boris Johnson, the former British prime minister, is testifying before an official inquiry into his government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. He is expected to admit mistakes but also highlight successes, such as the fast vaccine rollout and the decision to reopen the economy. The inquiry is examining Britain's response to the pandemic and will continue until 2026.
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Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson acknowledges mistakes in his government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and apologizes for the pain and suffering caused to the victims and their families.
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Former Health Secretary Matt Hancock denies allegations of lying during the pandemic and highlights a toxic culture in government. He calls Dominic Cummings a malign actor and admits that a lockdown should have been implemented earlier.
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Rishi Sunak, the UK Prime Minister, has faced backlash for taking a separate private jet to the COP28 climate summit in Dubai, along with Foreign Secretary David Cameron and King Charles. The decision has been criticized as sending the wrong signals about the UK's climate commitments. Sunak defended the use of separate jets, stating that the government is not anti-flying and is investing in sustainable aviation fuel. The controversy comes amidst concerns over the UK's net-zero targets and its commitment to tackling climate change.
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Andrew Parker Bowles, the Queen's ex-husband, and TV host Anne Robinson are dating.
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The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to change the nature of work, with some jobs being automated. However, it also presents opportunities for new professions. Students are concerned about the impact of AI on their future job prospects, while professionals in the finance and insurance sectors in London are predicted to be the most affected. AI tools like ChatGPT are being used in education to automate tasks, but there are concerns about the reliability and bias of AI-generated content. Overall, AI is seen as a transformative force that will require workers to adapt and develop new skills.
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The ongoing Covid inquiry in the UK is uncovering the failures of the government in dealing with the pandemic, with key figures such as Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak yet to be questioned. The inquiry's report, expected to be published next summer, is likely to be damning. Matt Hancock, the former health secretary, has faced criticism during the hearings. The reputations of politicians and civil servants are being tested, and the final report may still censure key players.
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English local authorities are facing a financial crisis, with a growing risk of bankruptcies due to funding shortfalls and rising demand for services. Nottingham city council recently declared effective insolvency, becoming the fourth authority to do so in the past year. A survey by the Local Government Association (LGA) found that nearly one in five council leaders believe they may have to declare bankruptcy in the next 15 months. The lack of extra funding from the government in the Autumn Statement has exacerbated the situation, with councils estimating a £4 billion funding gap over the next two years.
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Experts and politicians in the UK are urging the government to reduce the amount of antidepressants being prescribed and to explore alternative treatments for mental health conditions.
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The Bank of England is launching a review into the risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in the financial services sector. The review comes as the adoption of AI and machine learning has become more widespread, raising concerns about potential financial stability risks. The Bank's Financial Policy Committee (FPC) will closely examine the impact of AI on financial stability, including the risks of cyber-attacks and herding behavior in financial decision-making. The FPC will work alongside other relevant authorities to ensure the resilience of the UK financial system to the widespread adoption of AI and machine learning.
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The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has proposed new rules to ensure reasonable access to cash for people and businesses in the UK. The rules would require banks and building societies to assess and fill gaps in cash access provision, particularly in areas where branches are closing. The FCA's powers do not prevent branch closures, but aim to address concerns about 'cash deserts' and difficulties accessing free ATMs. Thousands of bank branches have closed in the past decade, and the use of cash has declined as more people use digital payment methods.
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London-based fund management firm Somerset Capital Management, co-founded by Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, is set to close down its wider institutional business in London after losing its largest client, St James's Place. The firm is in advanced discussions to transfer its key UK funds to a new investment adviser. Somerset Capital Management had $10 billion in assets under management at its peak, but the loss of St James's Place has reduced its assets to $1 billion.
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Lianne Gordon, a 42-year-old mother, was shot dead on her doorstep in Hackney, east London. She was trying to protect her children from the gunman. Two others, a 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy, were also injured in the shooting.
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AOG Technics, an aircraft parts supplier, is being investigated for supplying fraudulent engine parts to major airlines. The UK's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has arrested the founder and director of AOG Technics, Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala. The company is accused of selling used parts as new and making false safety certificates. The investigation has led to planes being grounded and has raised concerns about the safety of aircraft parts.
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Samir Shah, a veteran TV executive, is set to become the new chairman of the BBC, replacing Richard Sharp who resigned earlier this year. Shah's appointment is pending approval from the DCMS select committee and the King. The government's choice for the position is seen as significant due to the BBC's role in upholding its independence and navigating the challenges of a changing media landscape.
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This summary covers various news stories related to the whisky industry, including Bob Dylan selling his Highland estate, the history of illicit whisky production in Scotland, strike action in the whisky industry, and the rise in profits for an independent whisky firm.
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The European Commission has proposed a three-year delay on post-Brexit tariffs for electric vehicles traded between the UK and EU. The tariffs, which were set to come into force in January 2024, would have imposed a 10% charge on electric cars that did not meet the rules of origin requirements. The delay aims to address concerns raised by carmakers on both sides of the Channel, who argued that they were not ready for the change and that battery production in Europe had been slower than expected. The proposal is expected to be approved by EU member states.
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The affluent borough of Richmond upon Thames in southwest London has been named the happiest place to live in Great Britain, according to an annual survey conducted by property website Rightmove. The survey, which polled over 26,000 people, found that feelings of pride, belonging, and community were the most important contributors to happiness. Access to green spaces and nature was also crucial for residents to feel happy where they lived. This is the first time a London location has topped Rightmove's 'Happy at Home Index' in the 12 years of the survey.
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Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has faced criticism from the UK government and child safety campaigners after announcing the rollout of automatic encryption for all messages on its Facebook and Messenger platforms. The move to end-to-end encryption means that only the sender and receiver will be able to access the content of the messages, raising concerns about the ability to detect child sexual abuse and other illegal activities on the platforms.
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Samir Shah, a veteran TV executive, has been chosen as the new chairman of the BBC, replacing Richard Sharp who resigned in April. Shah's appointment comes at a crucial time for the BBC, as it faces increased funding pressures and negotiations with the government over the licence fee. The appointment is subject to questioning by lawmakers.
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Junior doctors in England will stage the longest strike in NHS history over the Christmas period and into the new year, after talks between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government broke down. The strikes will take place from December 20 to December 23 and from January 3 to January 9. The BMA claims that the government has not put forward a credible offer to end the pay dispute, while health officials express concerns about the impact on patient safety and the already record-high waiting lists in the NHS.
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UK house prices have increased for the third month in a row, according to the UK's biggest mortgage lender, Halifax. The rise in prices is accompanied by signs of increased activity in the housing market, as mortgage approvals suggest a slight uptick in buyer activity. However, prices are still lower than a year ago, and the market is expected to remain under pressure in 2024. The easing of mortgage rates and a rise in new home listings are providing some relief to the frozen housing market, but a significant drop in prices is not expected in the near future.
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French fashion house Chanel surprises with a luxury fashion show in Manchester's Northern Quarter, known for its gritty vibe and textile heritage.
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The Bank of England warns that millions of UK households will see their mortgage payments rise due to higher interest rates.
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Frasers Group, the parent company of Sports Direct and House of Fraser, has reported a decline in sales in its premium division, which includes luxury brands such as Flannels. The CEO, Michael Murray, attributed the decline to a softer luxury market and the cost of living crisis. Despite the challenging market conditions, Frasers Group remains confident in its unique proposition and plans to continue investing. The company also hinted at potential acquisitions or building stakes in premium and luxury brands.
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The sequel to 'Your Christmas or Mine' brings a cosy, chirpy comedy to the ski slopes, featuring Asa Butterfield and Cora Kirk as a couple navigating culture clashes and sitcommy cock-ups during a festive getaway with their families.
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Everton has managed to move out of the Premier League relegation zone despite being deducted 10 points for breaching Financial Fair Play regulations. The team's recent wins against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle, with Dwight McNeil scoring in both matches, have helped them climb to 17th place. The controversial punishment has been seen as a motivation for the team, showcasing their spirit under manager Sean Dyche.
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Steve Wright, known as the Suffolk Strangler, has been arrested in connection with the murder of Victoria Hall, a 17-year-old girl who went missing in 1999. Wright is currently serving a whole life sentence for the murder of five women in Ipswich in 2006.
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A seven-year-old boy was tragically killed in a hit-and-run crash in Folkestone, Kent. The incident occurred on Sandgate Esplanade, involving two vehicles, a red Citroen car and an unidentified car or van. The unidentified vehicle fled the scene before emergency services arrived. Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage to assist with the investigation.
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People experience anxiety when choosing food from menus, especially during the holiday season.
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A ballet instructor is facing trial for allegedly sexually abusing multiple students at a ballet school in Argyll, Scotland.
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Scotland's new chief constable, Jo Farrell, has apologized for using a police car to travel home to England during Storm Babet when train services were cancelled. The incident has raised concerns about the use of police resources and has been referred to the Scottish Police Authority for investigation.
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UK inflation has dropped to 4.6% for the 12 months to October, its lowest level in almost two years. However, it remains well above the Bank of England's target of 2%, keeping the cost of goods and services high and putting pressure on households as the Christmas season approaches.
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Planting fruit trees in late autumn or early winter ensures strong and vigorous growth for a well-structured tree.
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Sian Doyle, former chief executive of Welsh language channel S4C, has been sacked following allegations of bullying and a toxic culture within the organization.
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The Scottish government is facing an increasingly challenging period to manage its finances, with a projected budget gap of £1.9 billion by 2028. The delivery of public services is not affordable in its current form, according to the auditor general. The government is considering introducing a new tax band to address the budget shortfall.
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Reviews of various musical productions, including Roald Dahl's The Crocodile, Spamalot, Oliver!, Aladdin, and Pinocchio.
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Peru's highest court orders the release of former President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for human rights abuses during his rule in the 1990s.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin visits the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to discuss oil production, Ukraine, and the Israel-Gaza conflict.
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Russia has launched its most intense drone attack on Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion, targeting Kyiv. The attack involved around 75 Iranian-made Shahed drones, of which 71 were destroyed by Ukrainian air defense. The assault lasted for over six hours, causing power outages and damaging buildings in the capital. At least five civilians, including an 11-year-old child, were injured. The attack comes as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate.
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A 14-year-old girl in Bryansk, Russia, shot and killed a classmate and injured five others before committing suicide at a school. The motive for the shooting is still under investigation.
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Kevin McCarthy, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has announced his retirement from Congress at the end of the year. McCarthy's tenure as Speaker was marked by a tumultuous year, including being voted out of office in October. His departure could hamper the Republican party's hopes of retaining the majority next year.
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British American Tobacco (BAT) has written off £25 billion ($31.5 billion) in value due to the declining smoking business in the US. The company's share price fell more than 8% as a result. BAT's cigarette sales have struggled as US smoking rates fall and buyers turn to vapes and other alternatives. The company hopes to have 50% of its revenue from non-combustible products by 2035.
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The National Christmas Tree outside the White House fell over two days before the lighting ceremony, causing speculation about the event's fate.
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Israel has escalated its offensive in southern Gaza, targeting the city of Khan Younis and ordering residents to evacuate. The renewed fighting comes after a week-long ceasefire ended, leading to a surge in civilian casualties and displacement. The Israeli military aims to destroy Hamas and has focused its ground operation on southern Gaza, where the group's leaders are believed to be hiding. The situation in Gaza is dire, with limited access to essential supplies and a growing humanitarian crisis. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence and called for a ceasefire to protect civilians.
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The presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and MIT faced questioning from the House Committee on Education and the Workforce regarding the rise of anti-Semitism on their campuses. Jewish students have reported incidents of anti-Semitic behavior, including threats and derogatory remarks. The universities have been accused of failing to address the issue adequately, leading to investigations by the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights. The presidents defended their institutions' commitment to free speech while acknowledging the need to combat prejudice.
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Henry Kissinger, the former US Secretary of State, has died at the age of 100. Kissinger was known for his role in establishing diplomatic relations between the US and China in the 1970s. While he was respected for his achievements in advancing peace, critics argue that he profited from controversial US actions during his time in office. Kissinger maintained a special relationship with China throughout his life, and his recent visit to Beijing in July 2023 was seen as a symbol of his ability to connect with centers of power.
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Tesla is facing a growing labor dispute in Sweden as unions demand a collective labor agreement for its mechanics. The strike, led by IF Metall, has spread to other industries, with dockworkers, electricians, and postal workers joining in solidarity. The unions are pressuring Tesla to sign a collective bargaining agreement, which is common in Sweden. The strike has resulted in blocked deliveries of license plates and unloading of Tesla vehicles, impacting the company's operations in the country.
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Prominent pro-democracy activist Agnes Chow has announced that she will not return to Hong Kong, citing concerns for her safety. Chow, who was arrested in 2020 under the national security law, was released on bail but had to meet certain conditions, including reporting to the police. She left for Canada to pursue further studies and has decided not to return despite the bail conditions. Chow expressed fears of being under surveillance and stated that her decision was based on the situation in Hong Kong and her personal safety.
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Rebel groups with alleged links to extremist organizations have carried out attacks in eastern Congo, resulting in the deaths of dozens of villagers.
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A US military Osprey aircraft crashed off the coast of Japan, sparking safety concerns and grounding of the aircraft.
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President Joe Biden has decided not to attend the COP28 climate summit in Dubai, citing other global crises as the reason for his absence.
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A taxi driver in Tokyo has been arrested for deliberately driving his car into a flock of pigeons, killing one of them. The incident occurred in Shinjuku City last month, and the driver, Atsushi Ozawa, was arrested on Sunday for violating wildlife protection laws. The autopsy report confirmed that the pigeon died due to traumatic shock. The driver claimed that he was angry that the birds were occupying the road.
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Tui, Europe's largest package holiday operator, is considering delisting from the London Stock Exchange and moving its stock exchange listing to Frankfurt. Shareholders have raised concerns about the current listing and Tui believes the move could lower costs and provide potential benefits to European Union airline ownership and control requirements. The decision will be put to a shareholder vote at the annual general meeting in February.
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The US Air Force is conducting a study to determine if service members who worked with nuclear missiles have higher rates of cancer. The initial review prompted further examination, and the findings will be released in about a month. The study was initiated in response to reports of illness among missile launch officers. The Air Force conducted tests at nuclear missile bases in Montana and Wyoming, but found no harmful levels of contamination.
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Former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales has been accused of inappropriate behavior at the Women's World Cup final, including forcefully kissing an England player and cupping and stroking another player's face. Rubiales was handed a three-year ban from football in October for his actions. The allegations have emerged in a FIFA disciplinary report, with the English Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt providing evidence. Rubiales has denied the allegations and accused Hewitt of hypocrisy.
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Venezuela's attorney general has accused top opposition figures of accepting money from ExxonMobil to sabotage President Maduro's referendum on annexing a region in Guyana.