British Isles
UK sanctions, Chinese response
The UK has imposed new sanctions on several Chinese firms, accusing them of aiding Russia's military actions in Ukraine. China, strongly opposing these measures, has warned of a 'firm response' to any actions…
Section 114 fear for 1 in 5 councils
A Local Government Association (LGA) survey reveals that about 20% of council leaders and executives in England anticipate possibly issuing Section 114 notices, reflecting an inability to balance budgets due to funding shortfalls.…
Met Office’s severe weather warnings as further rain expected
The UK faces severe weather challenges as the Met Office issues warnings for continued heavy rain, leading to potential flooding and travel disruptions. Chief forecaster Neil Armstrong anticipates several days of unsettled weather,…
Salvation Army urging Christians to reach out as deprivation rises
In the UK, 64% of people have noticed an increase in deprivation in their communities this year. This surge, linked to cost of living concerns and the global situation, is dampening Christmas spirits…
Asylum seekers: Home Office says more than 17,000 missing
The UK Home Office has lost track of over 17,000 asylum seekers after their claims were discontinued, a concern raised during a discussion about Rishi Sunak's goal to clear the asylum backlog by…
Interest rates: why there is more pain still to come
The UK has experienced 14 consecutive interest rate rises, affecting both mortgage holders and savers. According to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), in 2023 the gains from higher savings returns have surpassed…
Nottingham: council declares itself bankrupt
Nottingham City Council has effectively declared bankruptcy by issuing a Section 114 notice, indicating it cannot cover its expenses within the current financial year. The notice does not affect the council's ability to…
Parents in England urged to sign up for free childcare in 2024
In England, working parents are being encouraged to apply for 15 hours of free childcare per week for their toddlers starting in the new year. This initiative is part of a broader reform…
New strain of swine flu detected
A new strain of swine flu, influenza A(H1N2)v, has been detected in a human in the UK for the first time. The patient, who had not worked with pigs, visited their GP in…
Don’t bother with a funeral, say most poll respondents
A poll commissioned by Theos and conducted by YouGov reveals that less than half (47%) of the 2,569 respondents desire a funeral. The report highlights a significant shift in British grieving practices and…
