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George Mallory's final letter to his wife before disappearing on Mount Everest in 1924 has been digitized and published online by Magdalene College, Cambridge. The letters offer a glimpse into Mallory's optimism and exhaustion during his quest to conquer Everest, with his body found 75 years later. The publication marks the centenary of his disappearance, shedding light on his life, marriage, and experiences during World War I.
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Grindr, the popular LGBTQ+ dating app, is facing a lawsuit for allegedly sharing users' private information, including HIV status, with third parties without consent. Law firm Austen Hays has filed the lawsuit at London's High Court, with around 670 people signing up over breaches said to have occurred between 2018 and 2020.
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Dr. Hilary Cass faces backlash and security concerns after releasing a review on gender identity services for children, with online abuse and disinformation circulating about her work.
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BBC newsreader Huw Edwards, known for his coverage of significant national events, has resigned from the broadcaster following allegations of paying for explicit images. His resignation comes after being off-air since July 2023 due to medical reasons.
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Metropolitan Police chief faces calls to resign after an officer made antisemitic remarks towards an antisemitism campaigner at a pro-Palestine protest. The incident has sparked backlash and calls for the chief's resignation.
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Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley faces calls to resign after an officer threatened to arrest an 'openly Jewish' man during a pro-Palestine march in London. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has criticized the incident, emphasizing the need to rebuild trust with the Jewish community.
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Victoria Beckham celebrated her 50th birthday in style with a lavish party at a private members club in Mayfair, attended by family, friends, and celebrities. The highlight of the event was a reunion performance by the Spice Girls, singing their hit song 'Stop'. David Beckham sweetly carried Victoria out of the party on his back, adding a heartwarming touch to the celebration.
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As UN talks commence in Ottawa to establish the first global treaty aimed at reducing plastic waste, negotiators from 175 countries are gathering to address the escalating problem of plastic pollution, with a focus on human health and the environment. The negotiations aim to streamline a draft treaty and determine its scope, potentially focusing on limiting plastic production, restricting certain chemicals in plastics, and enhancing recycling efforts.
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Two British men, Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, have been charged with spying for China after an investigation by counter-terrorism police. Cash, a former parliamentary researcher for Conservative Alicia Kearns, and Berry are accused of offences under the Official Secrets Act. They are alleged to have provided prejudicial information to China between 2021 and 2023. Both men will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday, 26 April.
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Gogglebox star George Gilbey tragically passed away after falling from a roof at work in Shoeburyness, Essex. The 40-year-old suffered traumatic injuries to his head and torso, leading to his death at the scene. An inquest into his death was opened and closed pending the outcome of a criminal investigation. A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the incident.
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The Metropolitan Police is under review for its handling of new evidence in the Stephen Lawrence murder case, 30 years after his death. The police have apologised to Lawrence's mother for failing to provide information on a suspect believed to be involved in the murder. The case, marred by institutional racism and past failures, has only seen two of the killers brought to justice.
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Former BBC news presenter Emily Maitlis, known for her infamous Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew, will co-host Channel 4's general election coverage alongside Krishnan Guru-Murthy. Meanwhile, Martine Croxall is taking legal action against the BBC for age and sex discrimination.
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Actresses Sydney Sweeney and Megan Fox respond to online criticism about their appearance, while Hannah Waddingham addresses a photographer's inappropriate comment at the Olivier Awards.
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Lloyd Martin, a 19-year-old with Down syndrome, made history by completing the London Marathon with his mother as his guide. Meanwhile, Russ Cook, known as the 'Hardest Geezer', completed a 9,940-mile run along the entire length of Africa after 352 days.
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Labour's Angela Rayner is under investigation by Greater Manchester Police over the sale of her former council house, with allegations of potential tax evasion and incorrect address registration. The investigation has sparked a political row, with Conservative MP James Daly reporting Rayner to the police, leading to a public defense of Rayner by former Tory minister and other prominent figures.
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Music giant Hipgnosis Songs Fund is facing a takeover battle as BMG, Blackstone, and Concord Music compete to acquire the company, which owns song catalogues from renowned artists. Blackstone's proposed bid of $1.5 billion has put pressure on the previously agreed deal with Concord Music, leading to uncertainty and potential changes in ownership.
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The world witnesses the emergence of AI beauty pageants with the announcement of Miss AI, a competition where AI-generated women compete for a $20,000 prize. The event highlights the fusion of technology and beauty, raising questions about the impact of AI on societal beauty standards.
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The UK has pledged $620 million in new military supplies for Ukraine, including long-range missiles and ammunition, as British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak warns of Putin's expansionist ambitions. Sunak is set to meet with Polish and NATO officials to discuss further aid for Ukraine.
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A London school, Michaela Community School, has successfully defended its ban on prayer rituals, with a Muslim student losing a legal challenge against the ban.
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The SNP's leadership under Humza Yousaf is under scrutiny as he grapples with declining support and challenges to his authority. Meanwhile, Nicola Sturgeon's legacy is tarnished by financial scandals and policy failures, raising questions about the party's future. The Conservative Party faces criticism for a misleading social media post, adding to the political turmoil in the UK.
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Former diplomats and officials are advocating for the reform of the UK Foreign Office to adapt to the country's changing role in the world.
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UK government borrowing for the 2023-24 financial year exceeded forecasts, reaching \\[120.7 billion, potentially impacting Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's plans for tax cuts ahead of the general election.
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Squatters who had taken over Gordon Ramsay's pub in London have left the building after a High Court order was obtained for possession. The group had occupied the Grade II-listed York & Albany near Regent's Park, running an 'autonomous cafe' and arts space.
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Train drivers in England, represented by the Aslef union, are staging rolling strikes and overtime bans at various rail companies over pay disputes, causing significant disruptions to rail services.
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An anonymous man in Sheffield has left a note on a park bench inviting women for a casual encounter at 8:20 am on a Saturday. The note specifies 'FEMALE ONLY' and instructs interested individuals to sit on the bench and engage if they like what they see.
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An investigation has uncovered frequent failures of safety equipment on smart motorways in England, with technology outages occurring at an alarming rate. The failures have raised concerns about the safety of drivers and the effectiveness of smart motorways in regulating traffic flow and preventing accidents.
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Scotland's MSPs have voted to increase the minimum unit price of alcohol by 30%, from 50p to 65p per unit, in an effort to tackle alcohol-related deaths and hospital admissions. This decision comes after Scotland became the first country to implement a minimum unit price for alcohol in 2018.
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Christopher Cash, a former parliamentary aide for the Conservative Party, has been charged with espionage offences for allegedly spying for China. He, along with another man, Christopher Berry, will appear in court on Friday, 26 April.
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UK grocery price inflation dropped to 3.2% in April, the lowest since November 2021, driven by supermarkets offering more promotions. Shoppers saved an estimated
£1.3 billion through discounted items, equating to
£46 per household. Items on offer made up 29% of supermarket sales, the highest level outside Christmas since June 2021.
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Dan Stevens stars in a gory botched kidnap horror film, alongside child actor Alisha Weir, in a tale of a criminal gang regretting kidnapping a gangster's daughter.
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Mexico experiences a heatwave, while the UK transitions from a dry weekend to a rainy spell. Strong winds, lightning strikes, and a possible tornado hit England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
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Londoners prepare to elect a new mayor and Assembly members on May 2, with Sadiq Khan and Susan Hall emerging as key contenders. Khan focuses on ending rough sleeping and climate action, while Hall aims to block his third term, criticizing his policies.
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The Jinx sequel revisits Robert Durst's murder confessions, investigations, and escape attempts, shedding new light on the crimes that shocked the nation.
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Taylor Swift's song 'The Black Dog' from her latest album has put a London pub, The Black Dog in Vauxhall, at the center of attention. Fans have flocked to the pub after realizing it was the subject of the song, leading to a surge in visitors and overwhelming positive reactions from both fans and staff.
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Donna Marie Brand, along with Robert O'Brien and Andrew Kelly, has been sentenced for the murder of 14-year-old Caroline Glachan in 1996. Brand received a life sentence with a minimum of 17 years in prison. O'Brien and Kelly were previously jailed for life with minimum sentences of 22 and 18 years. The trio brutally attacked Caroline, leading to her tragic death by drowning in the River Leven.
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Speculation is rife that Rishi Sunak may call a summer general election to avoid a potential leadership challenge within the Conservative Party. The upcoming local elections on May 2 are seen as a crucial moment for Sunak, with the possibility of significant losses for the Tories. A poll showing a Labour candidate leading in a key mayoral contest adds to the pressure on Sunak's leadership.
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Warwick Davis, known for his roles in Harry Potter and Star Wars, faced concern from fans after posting a cryptic message on social media following the death of his wife, Samantha Davis. His children, Annabelle and Harrison, reassured fans that he was taking a break from social media. Samantha, a co-founder of Little People UK, passed away at 53, leaving a void in the family. Warwick's heartfelt tribute to his wife highlighted her positive outlook on life and their enduring love.
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Police warn about the use of pink cocaine, a deadly mix of ketamine and ecstasy, in party destinations like Ibiza and the UK. Meanwhile, a BBC investigation uncovers thousands of posts on SoundCloud and X advertising nitazenes, synthetic opioids more potent than heroin.
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The UK's last coal-fired power station, Ratcliffe-on-Soar, is set to close by the end of September, marking the end of an era for the country's coal industry. Meanwhile, private equity firm Blackstone Group has purchased the former Britishvolt site in Northumberland to build one of Europe's largest data centres.
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The UK economy exhibited growth in February, expanding by 0.1% following a 0.3% growth in January. The production sector saw a notable rise in output, while construction output declined. This growth marks the first positive three-month period since the previous summer.
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Thames Water has proposed a significant increase in spending, with a potential 44% rise in customer bills, to address environmental issues and invest in its network over the next five years.
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Steve Dymond, a guest on the Jeremy Kyle Show, died by overdose after failing a lie detector test on the show. He was found dead at his home in Portsmouth, Hampshire, a week after the show. The inquest into his death has begun, with Jeremy Kyle expected to provide evidence.
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BP and Citi are undergoing leadership changes, with top executives leaving and new leaders stepping in. At BP, Leigh-Ann Russell and Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath are departing, leading to a restructuring of the management team. Meanwhile, Citi's wealth unit has seen significant turnover under Andy Sieg's leadership, with at least 11 senior executives leaving. Additionally, Stats Group is transitioning leadership as Leigh Howarth steps down and Stephen Rawlinson takes over.
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Prince Harry has lost his bid to appeal against a High Court ruling on his personal security in the UK. The Duke of Sussex alleges he was targeted by journalists and private investigators over nearly two decades. Despite the legal setbacks, he remains determined to challenge decisions affecting his security arrangements.
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Prince Harry has won multiple legal battles against The Sun publisher, with the High Court rejecting delays in his trials and upholding decisions related to his security arrangements.
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Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) has spread to US dairy cows in multiple states, raising concerns about the impact on food supply and public health. Health officials are working to contain the outbreak and reassure the public of the safety of the food chain.
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Measles and whooping cough outbreaks are on the rise in various countries, with England, the US, and Greece reporting significant increases in cases. The resurgence of these highly contagious diseases is causing concern among health officials and underscores the importance of vaccination and public health interventions.
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A survey in the UK found that 36% of girls miss school due to period pains, with many experiencing severe symptoms. Health campaigners are calling for routine period discussions during GP appointments to enhance treatment and support for affected individuals.
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Rick Astley fans were left disappointed after tickets for his concert at Co-op Live arena in Manchester were cancelled just before the show, with organisers citing the need to test the venue effectively. Fans expressed their frustration on social media over the sudden cancellations.
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Wales's transport minister, Ken Skates, has announced plans to correct the guidance on the 20mph speed limits in built-up areas following a petition signed by nearly half a million people. The Welsh government introduced the 20mph limit to improve road safety, but concerns were raised about inappropriate routes being included. Skates aims to give local communities the power to decide on speed limits, with some roads set to revert to a 30mph limit. The changes are expected to be discussed further in the Senedd.
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The London Marathon 2024 is set to take place on Sunday, April 21, with thousands of runners and spectators expected to participate. In addition to the traditional race, a pub crawl alternative has been mapped out, featuring 26 pubs along the route for supporters to enjoy.
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Emma Raducanu has climbed 82 places in the WTA rankings following recent successes at the Billie Jean Cup and Stuttgart Open. Despite her impressive performances, she faces challenges in securing a spot at the French Open, being placed fifth on the alternates list. Meanwhile, Andy Murray, dealing with injury struggles, has been included in the French Open entry list but may require a wild card entry.
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UK retailers Primark, Asda, and B&M have reported significant increases in earnings and sales, with Associated British Foods seeing a 37% rise in pre-tax profit to \\(pound)881 million, Asda's pre-tax profit growing by 24% to over \\(pound)1 billion, and B&M's sales jumping 10.1% to \\(pound)5.5 billion.
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The UK government is facing a shortage of nursery places for young children, with estimates suggesting the need for 85,000 additional childcare places by September 2025. The Department for Education plans to hire 40,000 more staff to support the expansion of funded childcare for working parents in England.
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Willie Mullins edges closer to winning the UK jump trainers' title after Macdermott, an 18-1 shot, wins the Coral Scottish Grand National by a nose at Ayr, beating Surrey Quest. Mullins is now leading the championship race, more than £150,000 clear of his nearest competitor, Dan Skelton.
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A new trailer for Deadpool & Wolverine hints at a surprising twist involving Ant-Man's helmet, leading fans to speculate about the storyline's connection to the comics. The teaser, narrated by Deadpool, features old X-Men footage and sets the stage for the film's release on July 25, 2024.
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King Charles III is battling cancer and has postponed public duties, while the line of succession to the British throne is under scrutiny. Meanwhile, Europe's oldest monarch, King Harald V of Norway, has returned to work after a period of sick leave following pacemaker surgeries.
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Manchester City players, fatigued from back-to-back matches, including a draining penalty shootout loss to Real Madrid, secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final. Manager Pep Guardiola criticized the scheduling, planning to give his squad a break before their next game. Bernardo Silva echoed Guardiola's sentiments, expressing frustration at the lack of recovery time between matches.
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Children as young as three are being coerced into performing sexual acts online, with predators using AI-generated 'deepfakes' to blackmail victims into further abuse. The Internet Watch Foundation has discovered thousands of images and videos of children aged three to six being groomed and manipulated into sexual abuse, highlighting the urgent need for online protections and parental awareness.
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Comedian Peter Kay has been forced to reschedule two sold-out Manchester shows at the new Co-op Live arena due to technical issues. The venue faced complications during a test event, leading to a delay in completing the power supply. Kay expressed disappointment but emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe and finished venue for the audience. The shows have been moved to next week to allow for thorough testing.
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Viewers of the new ITV drama Red Eye have called out enormous plot holes and a lack of attention to detail. The series follows Dr Matthew Nolan, played by Richard Armitage, who is extradited from the UK to Beijing to answer for a woman's death. Chinese-British police officer Hana Li, played by Jing Lusi, is ordered to escort Nolan back on the 'red eye' flight, leading to a part whodunnit, part conspiracy thriller.
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Liz Truss's short-lived premiership in the UK, marked by economic chaos and a swift resignation, is now followed by her release of a new book 'Ten Years to Save the West'. The book serves as a memoir and a platform for Truss to engage with the American right, showcasing her political transformation and resilience.
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Stargazers in the UK are currently enjoying the annual Lyrid meteor shower, known for its fast and bright meteors. The shower peaks during late April and produces around 18 meteors per hour. The best time to watch is around 5am, after the moon has set and before sunrise. However, cloudy conditions may hinder visibility in some parts of the UK.
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Scottish Green Party members are set to vote on the continuation of the power-sharing agreement with the SNP, following the SNP's decision to scrap key climate change targets. Co-leader Patrick Harvie has expressed uncertainty about the future of the agreement, with implications for potential minority government formation.
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Richard Branson surprises Londoners with free Mediterranean cruise tickets aboard Scarlet Lady, launching Virgin Voyages 'Med Season' and promoting his audiobook 'Losing and Finding My Virginity'. Lucky recipients, including a couple celebrating their wedding anniversary and a marathon runner, are gifted free voyages, spreading joy and excitement.
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Leaked images of the Google Pixel 9 Pro reveal a new camera bump design, while rumors surrounding the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro suggest they will be the most advanced iPhones to date, set to launch in September.
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UK-based tech firm Nothing announces the integration of ChatGPT into its smartphones and earbuds, while tech reviewer Marques Brownlee criticizes Humane's AI Pin as 'The Worst Product I've Ever Reviewed'. Former Apple executives' AI Pin receives poor reviews for its performance.
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Liz Truss, the former Prime Minister of Britain, resigned after a short tenure marked by a failed tax cut plan and the death of Queen Elizabeth II. She has now released a book, 'Ten Years to Save the West', blending memoir and political commentary. Truss's transformation from a centrist to a Brexit champion is highlighted, showcasing her evolving political ideologies.
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The Championship is witnessing intense battles for promotion and relegation, with teams vying for a spot in the Premier League. Meanwhile, England's hopes for an extra Champions League spot are diminishing after Manchester City and Arsenal's eliminations.
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Karen, a beloved ostrich at Topeka Zoo, tragically died after swallowing a zoo worker's keys. Despite efforts to save her, Karen was euthanized, leaving the staff and community devastated.
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Liz Truss, Britain's shortest-serving prime minister, endorses Donald Trump for the US presidency, warning of 'dark forces' that may undermine him if re-elected. Truss criticizes Joe Biden, praising Trump's economic policies and foreign affairs decisions.
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The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival for 2024 featured headliners Lana Del Rey, Tyler the Creator, and Doja Cat, with celebrities like Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce showcasing daring fashion looks. The event, known for its influence on festival fashion trends, concluded its first weekend with a diverse display of styles, setting the stage for the second weekend and influencing fashion choices for the year.
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US companies continue their trend of acquiring British firms as Tyman and DS Smith are bought out by American rivals, while London's junior stock market, AIM, sees a significant rise in delistings.
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The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2024, including Cher, Ozzy Osbourne, Mary J Blige, and A Tribe Called Quest. The induction ceremony is scheduled for October 19 at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio.
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Comedian Bill Maher and actress Mayim Bialik have spoken out against the abuse claims made by former child stars against Nickelodeon in the documentary 'Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV'. Maher criticized the network for sexualizing children, while Bialik highlighted the toxic culture of abuse, harassment, racism, and sexism on the sets of shows led by TV executive Dan Schneider.
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Google Maps is rolling out updates to provide EV drivers with real-time information on nearby chargers, charging speeds, and availability. The platform will also suggest charging stops based on battery charge levels, benefiting both EV owners with Google built-in technology and those without. Additionally, Google Maps can now calculate an EV's range on arrival by querying its state of charge, offering a more seamless navigation experience for drivers.
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Stars from various industries will gather at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 6 for the Met Gala, celebrating the theme 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion'. The event raises funds for the Met's Costume Institute and launches an annual exhibit, drawing attention to historically significant fashion pieces.
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Liz Truss, in promoting her new book 'Ten Years to Save the West', has endorsed Donald Trump for a potential return to the White House. She warns of 'dark forces' that could undermine Trump's presidency if he wins the election. Meanwhile, Trump faces a hush money trial where he is barred from publicly responding to disparaging witnesses, a situation described as his 'worst nightmare' by a biographer.
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Anti-Tory campaigners in the UK gear up for the general election, aiming to encourage tactical voting to unseat Conservatives. Meanwhile, in the US, voters with disabilities face accessibility challenges, such as lack of accessible voting options for blind and wheelchair users.
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Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's pro-China party, the People's National Congress, won a landslide majority in the parliamentary election, shifting the country's focus away from traditional ally India. The election results indicate a significant move towards closer economic cooperation with China.
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Inter Milan secured their 20th Serie A title by defeating AC Milan 2-1 in a heated derby, with three red cards shown in stoppage time. The victory marked Inter's second consecutive league title, with a 17-point lead over Milan. Inter's triumph is significant as they overtake AC Milan in total league wins and will now have two stars above their club logo.
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Ecuadorians have voted overwhelmingly in a referendum to approve tough new security measures proposed by President Daniel Noboa to combat gang-related crime amid rising violence in the country.
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Tesla announces layoffs impacting over 10% of its global workforce, with CEO Elon Musk citing the need for cost reductions and increased productivity following a drop in vehicle deliveries.
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's controversial remarks targeting Muslims at an election rally have sparked outrage, while concerns arise over the impact of abnormally hot weather on the ongoing general election.
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Israeli military intelligence chief Aharon Haliva resigns over failures to prevent the October 7 Hamas attack, marking a significant step towards accountability and potential reforms in Israeli security.
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Tesla has slashed prices of its Model Y, Model S, and Model X by $2,000 in the US, as part of a global effort to combat falling sales and increased competition. The company also reduced the price of its Full Self-Driving software and made similar price cuts in China and Germany.
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Astronomers have discovered Gaia-BH3, the most massive stellar black hole in the Milky Way, providing new insights into black holes and stellar evolution. Additionally, a study suggests using planets' magnetospheres to detect high-frequency gravitational waves, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.
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An independent review commissioned by the United Nations has found no evidence to support Israel's claims that UNRWA staff are members of terrorist organizations. The review highlighted the agency's robust policies to ensure staff neutrality and dismissed Israel's accusations as unsubstantiated.
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NATO allies are evaluating the possibility of supplying air defense systems to Ukraine following repeated appeals from Ukrainian President Zelenskyy for more Western air defense equipment.
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The European Commission has launched an investigation into TikTok Lite's rewards program, expressing concerns over its addictive nature and potential impact on users' mental health. The Commission has threatened to suspend the rewards program pending a safety assessment.
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A stabbing attack at a shopping centre in Sydney leaves six dead, including a nine-month-old baby injured. The attacker, Joel Cauchi, was shot dead by police. The victims, including Ashlee Good and security guard Faraz Tahir, were identified. The baby, Harriet, is in a serious but stable condition after surgery.
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23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance before the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, but were cleared of doping allegations by Chinese authorities and the World Anti-Doping Agency. The swimmers were allowed to compete and some went on to win medals, sparking controversy and accusations of a cover-up.
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Severe flooding caused by heavy rain in Guangdong province, China, has led to the evacuation of over 100,000 people. The region is experiencing record-breaking rainfall, with rivers swelling and threatening dangerous floods. The situation remains critical as authorities work to protect residents and mitigate the impact of the ongoing storms.
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Israel is intensifying its military operations in Gaza, with plans to invade Rafah, the last stronghold of Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to increase pressure on Hamas, despite international concerns for civilians in the region.
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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Elon Musk clash over the removal of a violent video from the X platform, with Musk accusing Australia of censorship and the PM criticizing Musk's defiance. The court ruling orders X to block the video globally, leading to a heated exchange between the tech billionaire and the Australian government.
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The United States is set to announce sanctions against the Israeli military unit 'Netzah Yehuda' for alleged human rights violations in the occupied West Bank. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to make the announcement following a recommendation by a State Department panel.
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President Biden and Vice President Harris are focusing on abortion rights and foreign policy in their 2024 campaign, contrasting their positions with those of former President Trump.
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Japan and the U.S. have agreed to collaborate on developing a new jet trainer to replace Japan's existing fleet, showcasing a strengthening defense partnership between the two countries.
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A West Bank Palestinian, Ahmed Dawabsha, was arrested for the murder of Israeli teen Benjamin Achimeir in a terror attack near an illegal outpost. Clashes erupted in Palestinian villages after settlers allegedly attacked, leaving several injured. Israeli soldiers shot dead three Palestinians in separate incidents, and an ambulance driver was killed in violent clashes between settlers and Palestinians.
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Solomon Islands' upcoming elections hold significance as China and the US compete for influence. Prime Minister Sogavare's alignment with Beijing, including a security pact and alleged bribery, has raised concerns and could shape the nation's future.
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Multiple attacks have targeted military bases in Iraq, including a rocket attack on a US military base in Syria from Iraq, and explosions at bases used by Iranian-backed armed groups and the Popular Mobilisation Forces in Iraq. Casualties and damage have been reported, prompting investigations into the incidents.
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Global military spending hit a record high of $2.4 trillion in 2023, driven by the war in Ukraine, rising tensions in Asia and the Middle East. The United States led the spending, allocating $916 billion, more than one-third of the total. The report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute highlighted an increasingly volatile geopolitical and security landscape.
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Pro-Palestinian protests at US universities, including Yale and New York University, lead to arrests as demonstrators call for divestment from military weapons manufacturers.
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Foreign carriers, including EasyJet and Wizz Air, have suspended flights to Tel Aviv due to security concerns following Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel. The attack led to flight disruptions and cancellations, impacting travel to and from Israel.
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The 60th Venice Biennale is embroiled in controversy as Israeli artist Ruth Patir delays the opening of her exhibition until a ceasefire and hostage release agreement is reached in Gaza, sparking discussions about art, politics, and solidarity.
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PEN America has cancelled its annual award ceremony after a significant number of nominated writers withdrew their work in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. The writers accused PEN of not adequately supporting Palestinian writers, leading to the cancellation of the event.
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President Biden has criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's approach to the war in Gaza, calling it a mistake and urging Israel to propose a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid into the region.
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Hudson Yards, once considered a failed project, has now become the dominant office market in NYC, attracting major companies. Plans for a $12 billion casino at Hudson Yards face criticism, while a new 62-story skyscraper is set to revitalize Midtown Manhattan. In contrast, a vacant office building in St. Louis was sold at a significant discount, reflecting challenges in the city's real estate market. Controversy surrounds plans for a 200-meter-high tower in Jerusalem, and residents oppose a police complex on a scenic hill in South Jerusalem.
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Two Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopters crash during a nighttime training exercise off the Izu Islands in the Pacific Ocean. One crew member is found dead, and seven others are missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing with multiple ships and aircraft involved.
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The US Federal Trade Commission has sued to block Tapestry's $8.5bn takeover of rival Capri, citing concerns about eliminating competition between their brands. Tapestry owns Coach and Kate Spade, while Capri owns Michael Kors. The FTC argues the deal could reduce wages and benefits for the 33,000 employees of the combined firms.
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Bogotá, Colombia's capital, is facing severe water shortages due to a prolonged drought, leading to the implementation of water rationing measures. Residents are asked to conserve water by showering together and adjusting their daily habits. The city has divided the region into zones for rationing, with hospitals and schools exempt from the restrictions.
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German authorities have arrested an aide to a far-right Member of the European Parliament on suspicion of spying for China. The aide, identified as Jian G, allegedly passed information on the workings of the European Parliament to China's Ministry of State Security. This arrest comes amidst heightened concerns about espionage activities and foreign interference in democratic institutions.
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Electric car sales have surged in recent years, but signs of a slowdown are emerging. Ford, Tesla, Hertz, and Audi are all scaling back their electric vehicle plans, citing various challenges such as cost, range, and charging infrastructure. This shift marks a critical moment in the transition to electric vehicles, highlighting the complexities and uncertainties of the market.
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Chinese demand for gold has surged, driving prices to all-time highs above $2,400 an ounce. Economic struggles and a weak yuan have led consumers and investors to seek the stability of gold as a safe-haven asset.
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Sydney Sweeney, a rising Hollywood actress, faced harsh criticism from veteran producer Carol Baum, who questioned her talent and looks. Baum's comments sparked backlash, with Sweeney responding by condemning the attack as 'sad' and 'shameful'. The incident sheds light on the challenges women in the entertainment industry face, emphasizing the need for solidarity and support.
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Indigenous artists Archie Moore and the Mataaho Collective have made history at the Venice Biennale, winning the prestigious Golden Lion awards for their exceptional artworks 'kith and kin' and 'Takapau'. Moore's intricate family tree installation and Mataaho's reflective strap canopy have captivated audiences, highlighting the rich cultural narratives of Indigenous communities.
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is facing backlash for referring to Muslims as 'infiltrators' during a campaign speech, sparking accusations of hate speech and violating election rules.
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A 16-year-old boy was arrested for stabbing a bishop and priest during a church service in Sydney, leading to the declaration of the incident as an act of terrorism. A memorial was held for the victims of the attack, which left six people dead and several injured.
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Several rockets were fired from Iraq towards a US military base in northeastern Syria, marking the first attack on US troops since early February. The incident occurred shortly after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's visit to the United States.
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The surge in the US dollar against major currencies is causing economic complications worldwide, with the Federal Reserve's hawkish stance contrasting with other central banks' plans for rate cuts.
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Donald Trump's media company, Trump Media & Technology Group, has seen a significant drop in its stock value, leading to a substantial decrease in Trump's wealth. The stock has fallen by over 60% since its peak, impacting both the company's market capitalization and Trump's personal stake.
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Tech giants like Google and Snap are making strategic moves in response to economic uncertainty, with Google announcing layoffs in real estate and finance departments, while Snap is hiring in key areas after recent layoffs.
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The US House of Representatives has passed a bill that could lead to a ban on TikTok if its Chinese owner, ByteDance, does not sell its stake. The legislation is part of a broader foreign aid package and is expected to be signed into law by President Joe Biden after Senate approval.
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NASA has approved the Dragonfly mission to explore Saturn's moon Titan with a drone, while facing challenges with the cost and schedule of the Mars Sample Return mission, delaying it until at least 2030.
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Gogglebox stars Stephen and Daniel Lustig-Webb have filed for divorce after six years of marriage. The couple, who appeared on the show since 2018, announced their split with a commitment to remain 'forever friends'.
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The US House of Representatives has passed legislation requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok within 12 months, linking it to an aid package for Ukraine and Israel. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law, increasing the odds of a forced sale of TikTok. TikTok plans to challenge the law in court, emphasizing concerns about free speech rights.
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The Supreme Court is deliberating on whether cities can penalize individuals for sleeping outside on public property, a case with significant implications for addressing homelessness in the US.
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NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft, the most distant human-made object, has reestablished communication with Earth after months of silence. Launched in 1977, Voyager 1 crossed into interstellar space in 2012 and is now sending usable data about its engineering systems.