-
Former Edinburgh Academy teacher John Brownlee, now 89, was found guilty of physically and emotionally abusing boys as young as eight between 1967 and 1991. The abuse included beatings, choking, and other forms of torture. Brownlee was deemed medically unfit to stand trial, and an examination of facts hearing found him guilty of 31 charges of assault and assault to injury, as well as cruel and unnatural treatment.
-
Keir Starmer has criticized the Conservatives for their failure to deliver on levelling up promises, launching Labour's local election campaign in Dudley. He accused the Tories of preying on people's hopes and failing to address regional inequalities, promising to give extra powers to local leaders to effectively level up regions.
-
Angela Rayner faces scrutiny over her council house sale tax advice as police reassess allegations of false information. She denies any wrongdoing and refuses to make the advice public, challenging Conservatives to do the same. Sir Keir Starmer supports her decision, emphasizing confidence in her actions.
-
George Gilbey, star of Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother, tragically passed away at the age of 40 after a fatal fall at work in Shoeburyness. A man has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with his death.
-
Christopher Nolan and his wife Emma Thomas are set to receive knighthood and damehood, respectively, for their outstanding services to film. The honors come after their film 'Oppenheimer' won seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, earlier this month.
-
Public satisfaction with the NHS has plummeted to a record low of 24% in 2023, with poor access to GPs and long wait times for hospital treatment cited as major concerns. This marks a significant drop from the 70% satisfaction level in 2010. Despite the dissatisfaction, the majority of the public continue to believe in the core principles of the NHS, such as being free at the point of use and primarily funded through taxes.
-
Discover how scent can evoke powerful memories and emotions, influencing our well-being and perception of the world. Artists and researchers explore the transformative nature of fragrance, from triggering memories of childhood homes to creating wearable scents that provoke visceral reactions.
-
The UK government is facing criticism for watering down the Renters' Reform Bill, including delaying the ban on no-fault evictions and preventing tenants from ending contracts in the first six months.
-
Tottenham Hotspur striker Richarlison has spoken out about his battle with depression following the 2022 World Cup, revealing that he considered giving up after the tournament. The Brazil star, who was his country's top scorer in Qatar, credits therapy and a psychologist with helping him through his struggles.
-
Dame Esther Rantzen and Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur push for assisted dying legislation in Scotland, allowing terminally ill individuals the right to choose. Former nurse Patricia Donoghue also supports the bill, emphasizing the importance of providing options for those facing terminal illnesses.
-
A controversial statue of Prince Philip, titled 'The Don', is set to be removed in Cambridge after ten years due to lack of planning permission, sparking debate over its artistic merit and appropriateness.
-
Stephen Colbert has apologized for making jokes about Kate Middleton's absence on his talk show, after it was revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer. Colbert had previously alluded to conspiracy theories surrounding Kate's absence, which were fueled by rumors of an affair between Prince William and British noblewoman Sarah Rose Hanbury.
-
Rishi Sunak faces scrutiny over his economic strategy during a liaison committee meeting, with questions raised about the UK's economic progress and inflation. Speculation on a potential general election arises as the Prime Minister rules out a May election. Sunak projects a turnaround in the UK economy, highlighting falling inflation rates and expressing optimism about economic recovery.
-
Cocoa prices have surged to record highs, doubling in the past six weeks, impacting chocolate lovers as popular Easter treats become significantly more expensive.
-
King Charles III delivers a personal Easter message during the Royal Maundy Service at Worcester Cathedral, stressing the significance of friendship and support, especially during times of need. The monarch expresses sadness at not being able to attend in person due to ongoing cancer treatment. Queen Camilla represents King Charles at the service, where she hands out ceremonial coins to honorees for public service.
-
Israeli brothers who survived the Hamas attack at the Supernova music festival faced alleged discrimination and aggressive questioning by UK Border Force officials at Manchester Airport. The survivors, who were in the UK to share their experiences and raise awareness, were detained for hours, sparking an investigation by the UK government.
-
A criminal hacking group, INC RANSOM, claims to have three terabytes of NHS Scotland data and is threatening to release it unless their demands are met. NHS Dumfries and Galloway has confirmed the attack and compromised data, including patient and staff information.
-
BBC director-general Tim Davie is exploring the possibility of a more progressive TV licence fee, potentially means-tested for wealthier households. He aims to reform the fee post-2028, seeking public input on its future. Davie also warns against a commercial model, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the BBC's unique role in the UK media landscape.
-
Abdul Ezedi, the Clapham chemical attacker, was granted asylum in the UK after claiming to have converted to Christianity, despite concerns about his honesty and criminal record. The decision has sparked controversy and criticism from Christian organizations and government officials.
-
Scotland is considering becoming the first part of the UK to offer terminally ill adults assistance to end their lives through a bill introduced by Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur. The bill, if passed, would allow terminally ill adults in Scotland to have the option to end their lives, subject to certain criteria and safeguards.
-
A report recommends compensation for women affected by state pension age changes, with campaigners pushing for fair and fast payouts. The government has yet to confirm compensation, prompting calls for action from MPs.
-
The UK has seen a record number of small boat arrivals in the first three months of 2024, with 4,644 migrants crossing the Channel. Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick criticized the government's immigration policy, calling it 'the triumph of hope over experience'. Legislation to address the migration emergency has been delayed until after Easter following defeats by peers.
-
The Independent is set to take control of BuzzFeed and HuffPost in the UK and Ireland, creating a major publisher network targeting gen Z and millennial audiences. This acquisition marks a shift in the youth media field, with BuzzFeed's star fading due to financial losses. The move comes amidst criticism of the BBC's aggressive expansion into local news and plans to introduce advertisements for audio content outside its platforms.
-
Jeremy Allen White is lined up to portray Bruce Springsteen in a biopic focusing on the making of the album Nebraska. Meanwhile, Bruce Springsteen has been named the first international songwriter to be inducted as a fellow of the UK's Ivors Academy, recognizing his impact on the cultural landscape.
-
The UK's defence capability is questioned amid tensions with Russia, as Lt Gen Macgowan admits to a lack of equipment. Meanwhile, Labour leader Starmer prioritizes floating offshore wind as a key focus for a publicly-owned clean energy company, aiming to lead the world in this sector.
-
Scotland's new hate crime legislation, set to come into force on April 1, has sparked fears among senior police officers and activists about potential misuse and targeting of innocent individuals.
-
After an 18-year struggle, Dearbhail Ormond was diagnosed with endometriosis at age 34. She founded a company to support other sufferers, gave birth to a baby girl against medical odds, and had a hysterectomy to manage her symptoms.
-
High levels of E.coli have been found in the River Thames ahead of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, prompting warnings for rowers not to enter the water. The pollution is attributed to sewage discharge from Thames Water, posing health risks to participants and spectators.
-
Rishi Sunak has expressed frustration at inheriting what he described as the 'worst hospital pass' as Prime Minister, following Liz Truss's tenure. Despite acknowledging the country's challenges, Sunak remains confident in his ability to lead and is optimistic about the future.
-
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer reaffirms the party's commitment to implementing a new workers' rights package, including banning zero hours contracts and enhancing protections for workers. This comes in response to concerns raised by Labour peer Peter Mandelson about the pace of reforms.
-
Stone tools dating back over 1 million years have been unearthed in Ukraine, revealing the oldest evidence of early human presence in Europe.
-
Rent prices in the UK surged by 9% annually, outpacing inflation, with the average monthly rent now at £1,276. In the US, households spend 34% of their income on the top 10 bills, up 4% from last year.
-
Energy bills are projected to fall by less than expected this summer and autumn due to an increase in wholesale prices. Ofgem's price cap is expected to be higher than previously thought, with households urged to submit meter readings to avoid overpaying.
-
The music scene is buzzing with announcements of upcoming tours and concerts by artists like Twenty One Pilots, Pendulum, Simple Minds, John Mayer, Yungblud, and performers at Radio 1's Big Weekend.
-
A Banksy mural in north London, featuring a tree and a figure with a pressure hose, has been defaced with white paint and subsequently covered with plastic sheeting and wooden boards for protection.
-
Revised figures from the Office for National Statistics show the UK economy entered a recession in late 2023, with a contraction of 0.3% in the final quarter and 0.1% in the third quarter. The recession was driven by consumers saving more in response to higher interest rates and economic concerns.
-
Sean 'Diddy' Combs is facing a series of civil lawsuits alleging sex trafficking, sexual abuse, and rape. Federal agents raided his properties in Los Angeles and Miami as part of a sex trafficking investigation. The Duke of Sussex has been named in one of the lawsuits against Combs, who denies all allegations.
-
Microsoft has hired Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of DeepMind, to lead its consumer AI division, overseeing products like Copilot chatbot and Bing search engine. Suleyman's hiring is part of Microsoft's strategy to strengthen its position in the AI market.
-
Conservative Ministers Robert Halfon and James Heappey have resigned from the UK government, with Halfon citing the need for change and Heappey prioritizing family and a new career. Their departures mark a growing trend of Tory MPs stepping down ahead of the next election.
-
Recent incidents at schools in Morpeth, Portishead, and Carlisle have raised safety concerns, including a lockdown due to a mistaken report of a firearm, students injured in a crush, protests over a teacher showing a controversial cartoon, and a black student being racially abused.
-
The UK aviation industry is making strides towards greener air travel with Boom Supersonic's successful flight of the XB-1 prototype jet, Hybrid Air Vehicles' plans for an Airlander 10 production center in Doncaster, and the UK government's significant investment in advanced manufacturing for cleaner air travel technologies.
-
In 2023, privatised water companies in the UK dumped a record amount of raw sewage into rivers and seas, triggering a political battle. The Environment Agency reported a 54% increase in sewage spills compared to the previous year, with a total of 464,000 spills. The Liberal Democrats are leading the charge to address the issue, calling for urgent action and declaring a national environmental emergency.
-
Celebrities Joanna Page, Sydney Sweeney, Vicky Pattison, and Matthew Duliba have recently shared their experiences with online abuse and reality TV show controversies, sparking conversations about the impact of public scrutiny on individuals.
-
The German Football Association has decided to switch the national team's kit supplier from Adidas to Nike starting in 2027. Nike offered €100m per year, double the amount Adidas was paying. The decision has sparked emotional reactions from politicians, with some lamenting the end of a 77-year partnership.
-
The UK government's Rwanda asylum plan faces opposition as Science Minister Andrew Griffith accuses 'loophole lawyers' of exploiting the system, while Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's setbacks in Parliament delay the plan. The Independent Commission on the Integration of Refugees proposes solutions to enhance the asylum system, and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby supports a report advocating for asylum seekers to work from day one in the UK.
-
Left-wing activist Owen Jones has left the Labour Party, urging voters to support Green or independent candidates. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has called for cross-party talks on social care in election manifestos.
-
A record number of migrants have crossed the English Channel into the UK, with over 4,600 arrivals in the first three months of 2024. The arrivals include children and individuals with injuries, highlighting the risks involved in the journey. The UK government is facing a migration emergency, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's plan to 'stop the boats' being challenged by the increasing numbers of arrivals. Meanwhile, the EU has signed a deal with Egypt to limit access to Libya for migrants, amidst a surge in irregular migration to the bloc.
-
Record levels of raw sewage were discharged into rivers and seas in England in 2023, with over 3.6 million hours of spills reported, more than doubling from the previous year. Water companies are facing criticism for the significant increase in untreated waste released into waterways, prompting calls for urgent action to address the environmental impact.
-
The UK Court of Appeal has upheld the convictions of former traders Tom Hayes and Carlo Palombo for interest rate rigging, stemming from the 2008 financial crisis. Hayes, the first banker convicted in the scandal, and Palombo had their appeals rejected, with Hayes vowing to continue his battle to clear his name. The case highlights the fallout from the 2008 crisis and the scrutiny faced by bankers involved in manipulating key interest rates.
-
A drunk father and son drove a stolen Land Rover through corn fields in Norfolk, causing a fatal crash with a Nissan Juke, resulting in the death of a woman. Marcin Jablonski and Thomas Urbaniak were sentenced to a total of 14 years in jail for their roles in the incident.
-
Three UK fashion brands, Boohoo, ASOS, and George by Asda, commit to providing clear and accurate environmental information on their products following concerns of greenwashing. The Competition and Markets Authority initiated an investigation into the firms over misleading eco-friendly claims, leading to the brands pledging to use specific terms like 'organic' or 'recycled' and avoid vague terms like 'eco' or 'sustainable.'
-
Storm Nelson is causing heavy rain and strong winds in southern England, with gusts of up to 70mph expected in coastal areas. Yellow weather warnings have been issued, impacting travel and potentially causing hazardous conditions. The unsettled weather is forecasted to continue into the Easter weekend, affecting many parts of the country.
-
NHS doctor Dr. Andrew Kelso warns against overindulging in Easter chocolate due to health risks, prompting Nigel Farage to publicly reject the advice and declare his intention to enjoy chocolate despite the warnings.
-
Oxford's rowing coach has criticized the pollution in the River Thames ahead of the Boat Race, with high levels of E.coli found along the race course. The pollution has raised health concerns for rowers, prompting warnings to avoid entering the water. The sewage spills in England's rivers and seas have reached record levels, highlighting the environmental challenges faced. Despite the pollution, the Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge is set to proceed, but precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of participants.
-
Vets are cautioning pet owners about the dangers of chocolate poisoning in pets, particularly dogs, during Easter festivities. The surge in cases during holidays like Easter underscores the importance of keeping pets away from harmful substances. Experts are also highlighting other hidden household hazards that can endanger pets, urging owners to be vigilant with flowers, food, and decorations to prevent potential harm.
-
Today marks the 10-year anniversary since the first same-sex marriages took place in England and Wales, following the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2014. The milestone has brought about a celebration of love and unity for LGBTQ+ couples, with many sharing their stories and experiences in the wake of this historic change.
-
British football fans heading to the Euros in Germany have been cautioned by the Foreign Office about the higher alcohol content in German beer compared to the UK. Fans are advised to drink responsibly to avoid being barred from stadiums due to excessive drinking.
-
Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull is under police investigation for significant unpaid council debt, with 35 bodies and suspected human ashes found at their premises. The families of the deceased are left in turmoil, seeking clarity and closure amidst the ongoing police inquiry.
-
Save big on high-quality mattresses from top brands like Emma, Simba, Eve, and Nectar. Additionally, find comfort and support with the recommended Coop Home Goods Body Pillow and discounted Silentnight pillows on Amazon.
-
The Garrick Club, a prestigious London gentlemen's club, faced backlash and resignations from high-profile members, including the head of MI6 and the Cabinet Secretary, for its policy of excluding women from membership.
-
The first International Brewing and Cider Festival in Manchester faced criticism from attendees for offering poor quality drinks at high prices, leading to comparisons with the disastrous Willy Wonka experience in Glasgow. Guests complained of rude staff, cold conditions, and a lackluster atmosphere at the event held at the Depot Mayfield Manchester.
-
The EU is set to raise tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) from China, potentially making medium-sized sedans and SUVs more expensive than European models. Chinese car brands are expected to gain a significant market share in Europe by 2027.
-
The Office for Nuclear Regulation has notified Sellafield of prosecution for alleged IT security offences between 2019 and early 2023. This follows revelations of cybersecurity failings and a toxic workplace culture at the nuclear waste site. Sellafield's chief information security officer is set to depart amidst safety and cybersecurity failings.
-
Laurence Fox has been barred from standing in the London Mayoral elections due to incomplete paperwork, accusing the process of being 'pure political corruption'. Incumbent Mayor Sadiq Khan is seeking a third term in office.
-
Olympic athletes in the UK are gearing up for Paris 2024, with Katie Archibald stepping into the spotlight following Dame Laura Kenny's retirement, Max Whitlock aiming to make history in gymnastics, and Katarina Johnson-Thompson seeking her first Olympic medal after overcoming past setbacks.
-
Property experts Lucy Alexander and Kirstie Allsopp share tips on finding hidden gem properties, while a lonely house on an isolated island off Norway's coast is sold to a couple who appreciate the peace and quiet.
-
Princess Kate, the Princess of Wales, has announced she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy for cancer, following major abdominal surgery. The public, including global figures like U.S. President Joe Biden, has shown overwhelming support. King Charles III is also undergoing cancer treatment. The royal family is grateful for the outpouring of warmth and understanding during this difficult period.
-
Nick Cave opens up about the deaths of his sons, Arthur and Jethro, expressing feelings of culpability. Meanwhile, Gwyneth Paltrow shares her struggle with impending grief as her son Moses prepares to leave for university.
-
Sheridan Smith stars in the musical Opening Night, drawing on her personal experiences to portray a character grappling with mental health challenges on stage. The parallels between Smith's past struggles and her character's journey add depth to the performance.
-
Tata Steel's decision to close its coke ovens in Port Talbot, leading to the shutdown of blast furnaces and the loss of 2,800 jobs, has sent shockwaves through the community. Despite promises of subsidies from Labour, the company plans to proceed with the job cuts, raising concerns about the economic impact on the region.
-
The UK is facing a surge in deaths from synthetic opioids, with arrests made in connection to inmate deaths at HMP Parc and warnings issued about super-strength street drugs. The government has delayed implementing controls on synthetic opioids despite warnings, while a doctor criticizes the UK government for lagging in tracking the spread of new super-strength drugs.
-
Rishi Sunak has laughed off Liz Truss's claims of being undermined by the 'deep state', highlighting a shift away from conspiracy theories in British politics.
-
AI chatbots like Earkick are being used for stress management and mental health support, offering tools such as guided breathing exercises and stress-management tips. The debate surrounds whether these chatbots are providing a mental health service or simply a form of self-help, impacting the emerging digital health industry.
-
Scotland's captain Andy Robertson sustained an ankle injury during the match against Northern Ireland, causing him to be substituted in the first half. Initial concerns over possible ligament damage have been alleviated by scan results, indicating a more positive outlook. Robertson's absence may impact Liverpool's upcoming games, but his injury is not expected to be long-term.
-
Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has called for the creation of a multibillion-pound national poverty programme to address destitution and hardship in the country. The proposal involves using interest levied on bank reserve funds to provide short-term relief to struggling families, alongside an overhaul of the welfare safety net.
-
Pollster predicts a 99% chance of Labour forming the next government, while Rishi Sunak criticizes Keir Starmer for lacking a plan. Boris Johnson's involvement in the campaign is unlikely to help the Tories retain Red Wall seats.
-
STV journalists in Scotland have gone on a 24-hour strike over a pay dispute, seeking a 6% pay rise to match inflation. The strike has led to the replacement of STV's flagship news programme with an outdoors show. STV offered a 6% pay increase for the bottom 3% of earners, which the union rejected.
-
Steph Houghton, former England captain and Manchester City defender, has announced her retirement from football at the end of the current Women's Super League season. Houghton, who won 121 caps for England and played for clubs like Sunderland, Leeds, Arsenal, and Manchester City, is considered an icon of the game. Her decision to retire marks the end of a remarkable career that has spanned two decades and witnessed the professionalization and growth of women's football.
-
A mother, Jackie Leonard, is calling for a public inquiry into the deaths of her son Ben and three other boys on Scout trips in the late 1990s. Ben Leonard died after falling off a cliff in North Wales in 2018, with an inquest finding he was unlawfully killed. Jackie Leonard, along with other grieving families, is demanding action to ensure the safety of children on Scout expeditions.
-
As Easter approaches, individuals in the UK are preparing for the holiday weekend, with stores like Asda and Tesco adjusting their hours. Most supermarkets in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will be closed on Easter Sunday, while Tesco stores will have varying opening hours. It's a time for families to come together, celebrate, and enjoy the long weekend.
-
Boots and Pharmadoctor are offering private Covid vaccinations at prices ranging from \
75 to almost \
100 per shot, raising worries about widening health inequalities and leaving vulnerable groups without access to vital protection.
-
Top streamer Ninja, known for his Fortnite gaming success, has been diagnosed with melanoma after a mole removal. The 32-year-old's revelation has sparked discussions about skin cancer awareness and the significance of routine health screenings.
-
Billie Piper, in a rare interview, reveals the difficulties of co-parenting her two children with Laurence Fox following their divorce in 2016. Piper's comments come amidst controversies surrounding Fox's public statements, shedding light on the personal struggles faced by separated couples.
-
A study reveals that diabetes medicines are priced significantly higher than necessary, hindering access for millions globally. Meanwhile, new obesity drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound are showing high patient adherence rates, potentially addressing the issue of nonadherence in medical treatment.
-
Jamie George has helped preparations for England’s Women’s Six Nations clash with Wales
-
Nottingham Forest mourns the passing of Larry Lloyd, a pivotal figure in the club's European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980. Lloyd, who also achieved success with Liverpool, passed away at the age of 75.
-
VisitScotland will close its network of 25 information centres over the next two years, shifting focus to digital online guides due to changing travel planning habits. The move follows a trend of tourists using online resources and specialists for trip planning, impacting 170 staff members.
-
UK house sales showed signs of recovery in February, with a slight increase in sales compared to the previous month. Property developers and homebuilders are cautiously optimistic about the future, despite challenges such as declining profits and subdued market conditions.
-
Aldi is embarking on a significant expansion project, opening new stores in the UK and planning to add 800 more locations in the US over the next four years. The supermarket chain aims to provide more affordable options for consumers and increase its market presence in both countries.
-
From Seth Meyers receiving a 'lesbian makeover' from Kristen Stewart to Tanya Bella seeking opinions on a wedding dress, and Kristen Stewart reminiscing about her Twilight wedding dress, celebrity fashion moments take the spotlight.
-
Actress Helen Flanagan, known for her role in Coronation Street, revealed experiencing psychosis after a bad reaction to ADHD medication. She shared her mental health struggles following a split with her partner. Meanwhile, Christine McGuinness opened up about living with her ex during their separation.
-
A new test, the TDP-43 aptamer, can identify damaged cell proteins in brain tissue samples, serving as an early indicator of motor neurone disease before symptoms manifest. This breakthrough could lead to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatments for the incurable condition, benefiting around 5,000 people in the UK.
-
MJ the Musical, a stage production set during Michael Jackson's 1992 Dangerous world tour, has opened in London's Prince Edward theatre. The musical has received mixed reviews, with praise for its entertainment value and portrayal of Jackson's late career, but criticism for glossing over the singer's controversial legacy.
-
Louis Rees-Zammit, the former Welsh rugby union star, is on the verge of signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, the back-to-back Super Bowl champions. He is expected to join the team for their training camp and potentially secure a spot on their practice squad, showcasing his talent and determination to transition from rugby to American football.
-
Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman, known for his groundbreaking work in behavioral economics, died at the age of 90. Kahneman, along with his collaborator Amos Tversky, challenged the traditional economic assumption of human rationality, shedding light on mental biases that affect decision-making. His research, detailed in the best-selling book 'Thinking, Fast and Slow,' revolutionized the field of economics by revealing the impact of subconscious quirks on human choices.
-
Former U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman, who made history as the first Jewish vice-presidential candidate for a major US party, died at 82 in New York City due to complications from a fall. Lieberman was a prominent centrist in Congress and had a significant impact on US politics.
-
Elon Musk's company, Neuralink, has successfully implanted brain chips in humans, allowing paralyzed patients like Noland Arbaugh to control computers and play games using their thoughts.
-
Ukraine launched devastating missile strikes on Russian military targets in Crimea, severely damaging the Black Sea Fleet. The strikes targeted landing ships, a communications center, and other infrastructure, significantly reducing Russia's naval strength in the region.
-
Japanese diaper company Oji Holdings is ceasing production of baby diapers to cater to the country's aging population by focusing on adult diapers due to declining birth rates. This move reflects Japan's demographic shift towards an older population.
-
Nickelodeon faces backlash after reports reveal the network employed convicted child predators and pedophiles who worked on popular kids' shows. Former child star Drake Bell alleges he was sexually abused by a dialogue coach, Brian Peck, while working on Nickelodeon shows. Nickelodeon's response to the allegations has been criticized, raising concerns about child safety in the entertainment industry.
-
Russia has escalated its crackdown on the LGBTQ+ community, with arrests, fines, and closures of queer establishments, following the Supreme Court's extremist designation of the international LGBTQ public movement.
-
Russian mercenaries from the Wagner group are reportedly assisting government forces in Mali, leading to civilian deaths. A militant attack in Niger near the Mali border resulted in the deaths of 23 soldiers. Additionally, Niger has revoked its military cooperation with the US, requiring American troops to leave the country.
-
American journalist Evan Gershkovich remains detained in Russia on espionage charges, with his pretrial detention extended until late June. The Kremlin is in discussions regarding a potential prisoner exchange involving Gershkovich.
-
The Los Angeles Dodgers have fired Shohei Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, over allegations of illegal gambling and theft. Mizuhara is accused of using funds from Ohtani's bank account to cover gambling debts, leading to his dismissal. Ohtani's lawyers stated that Mizuhara placed bets with an illegal bookmaker, with wire transfers totaling at least $4.5 million. The incident has raised concerns about the integrity of sports betting and the consequences of illegal gambling within professional sports.
-
India is buying more American crude oil as it reduces imports of Russian oil due to Western sanctions. The country's state-owned and private refiners have purchased nearly 7 million barrels of US crude in March, the largest monthly inflow since last May.
-
Multiple regions in India and Africa are grappling with severe water shortages and pollution issues. Bengaluru faces its worst water crisis in decades due to low rainfall and groundwater depletion, leading to high costs and scarcity, especially in low-income areas. In Morocco, residents in Figuig are protesting a water management plan transition, fearing impacts on their livelihoods. Meanwhile, communities in Kenya are building sand dams to harvest water from seasonal rivers, aiming to minimize water loss and ensure a reliable water source.
-
Richard Taylor, father of Damilola Taylor who was murdered at the age of 10, has passed away at 75 after a battle with prostate cancer. He spent years campaigning against knife crime and working to improve the lives of underprivileged children.
-
Four major school boards in Canada have filed lawsuits against social media giants, alleging that the platforms have disrupted students' learning and are highly addictive for children. The school boards are seeking about $2.9 billion in damages, claiming that social media products have led to attention, learning, and mental health crises among students.
-
Haiti has been rocked by violence and turmoil as gangs demand the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, leading to clashes and a surge in violence. The newly formed Transitional Council pledges to restore public and democratic order in the country amidst ongoing challenges.
-
The Indian Navy has rescued a hijacked cargo ship, the MV Ruen, from Somali pirates off the Indian coast. The pirates surrendered after a 40-hour operation, with all 35 pirates arrested and 17 crew members rescued. The navy's actions demonstrate their dedication to combating piracy and ensuring the safety of seafarers.
-
Alessandro Michele, former Gucci designer known for his maximalist and gender-fluid designs, has been appointed as the new Creative Director at Valentino, replacing Pierpaolo Piccioli who departed after 25 years. Michele's appointment marks a significant shift in the fashion world, with his debut collection set to be unveiled at Paris Fashion Week in September.
-
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida seeks a summit with North Korea's Kim Jong Un to address the abduction issue and improve bilateral relations. However, North Korea's Kim Yo Jong rejects any future contact or negotiations with Japan, casting doubt on the prospects of a summit.
-
Kwena Maphaka, a 17-year-old cricketer, made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians against Sunrisers Hyderabad in a high-scoring match. Sunrisers set a new IPL record of 277-3, with Mumbai Indians scoring 246-5, making it the highest-scoring T20 match. Additionally, Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim have been included in training squads for upcoming cricket tournaments.
-
Chinese property developers, including Country Garden, Shimao, and Vanke, are implementing strategies to address debt and liquidity challenges amidst the ongoing financial crisis.
-
A bus carrying 46 people in South Africa plunged off a bridge, killing 45 passengers. The only survivor, an eight-year-old child, was seriously injured and taken to the hospital. The driver lost control, causing the bus to collide with barriers, fall off the bridge, and catch fire. Rescue operations were challenging due to bodies burned beyond recognition and others trapped in the debris. The accident occurred near Mmamatlakala in the Limpopo province.
-
China has announced the removal of steep tariffs on Australian wine, imposed over three years ago during a diplomatic feud. This decision comes as ties between the two countries have significantly improved, leading to the lifting of trade barriers on various Australian goods. Additionally, China has won a nearly three-year-long dispute with Australia at the World Trade Organization over tariffs on steel products.
-
French Parliament has approved legislation to outlaw discrimination against dreadlocks, braids, afros, and any other hair style, color, or texture. The bill, proposed by Olivier Serva, aims to ban all discrimination against hair texture or haircuts, protecting individuals from such biases in the workplace.
-
Carles Puigdemont announces his candidacy for Catalonia's regional elections in May, expressing confidence in the Catalan amnesty bill allowing his return. Catalonia's president, Pere Aragonès, calls for early regional elections on May 12.
-
French President Emmanuel Macron's hawkish new stance on foreign policy, including hints at sending troops to Ukraine, has sparked controversy among allies and admiration from supporters. Official photos of Macron hitting a punching bag have added to the buzz surrounding his tough rhetoric on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
-
Israel has asked the White House to reschedule a high-level meeting on military plans for Gaza's southern city of Rafah after Prime Minister Netanyahu canceled a visit to Washington in protest over a UN resolution on a Gaza ceasefire.