In the first quarter of 2026, around two British pubs closed every day, industry data reveal. The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) reported that 161 pubs across England, Scotland, and Wales shut down during the first three months of the year, resulting in the loss of approximately 2,400 jobs. This trend follows on from… Continue reading British pubs closing at a rate of almost two per day in 2026
Author: Dave Carter
Poverty and technology fueling record levels of slavery in UK
The independent anti-slavery commissioner (IASC) has issued a warning that exploitation in the UK has reached unprecedented levels, driven in large part by increasing living costs and technological advances. In 2025, over 23,000 individuals identified as potential victims of modern slavery were reported to the monitoring body. This figure marks a 22% rise compared to… Continue reading Poverty and technology fueling record levels of slavery in UK
Keir Starmer to host Downing Street summit to address antisemitism
Sir Keir Starmer is set to bring together prominent leaders from business, culture, and law enforcement at Downing Street on Tuesday as part of a comprehensive strategy to combat antisemitism throughout society. This coordinated initiative highlights the prime minister’s emphasis on collective responsibility, stressing that simply expressing solidarity with Jewish communities is insufficient without active… Continue reading Keir Starmer to host Downing Street summit to address antisemitism
Newspaper headlines: 'Rivals circle Starmer' and bid to reopen Hormuz pushes region 'to the brink'
Several newspapers have highlighted questions surrounding Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership following disappointing local election results. The Times reports that dissatisfied Labour backbench MPs are planning a coordinated effort to pressure Starmer into announcing a timetable for his departure, drawing parallels to Gordon Brown’s challenge to Tony Blair in 2006. This reported rebellion is said to… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'Rivals circle Starmer' and bid to reopen Hormuz pushes region 'to the brink'
Potholes fuel voter frustration before elections – so what can be done?
As voters prepare to cast their ballots in the upcoming English local elections this Thursday, the condition of local roads is emerging as a significant issue for many. Opinion polls indicate that potholes rank alongside cost of living, healthcare, and crime as a major factor influencing how people decide their vote. The presence of potholes… Continue reading Potholes fuel voter frustration before elections – so what can be done?
West Belfast: Police attacked with masonry and bottles by young people
During Monday night in west Belfast, police officers came under attack amid episodes of disorder. The unrest took place following reports of large groups of people and numerous vehicles congregating and engaging in dangerous driving behavior along Blacks Road, Bell Steele Road, and Dairy Farm areas. The responding officers were subjected to assaults, with young… Continue reading West Belfast: Police attacked with masonry and bottles by young people
Greenock is Scotland's vape capital – but what's behind the boom?
A hardware shop owner in Greenock, Sofy Saleem, made a notable change to his product range a few years ago by introducing vaping products alongside traditional DIY items. While screws, nails, and tools remain on sale, the vape section has expanded significantly from a small corner to becoming the primary source of his shop’s income.… Continue reading Greenock is Scotland's vape capital – but what's behind the boom?
AI firms should pay tax on robots to limit job cuts, says tech boss
A leading figure in the technology sector has expressed concerns that governments are ill-equipped to handle the rapid effects artificial intelligence (AI) is having on the workplace. Charles Radclyffe, the founder of a software company based in Wales that automates office functions in mere seconds, argues that introducing a form of taxation on AI usage… Continue reading AI firms should pay tax on robots to limit job cuts, says tech boss
Police probe over 'antisemitic' post of Jewish actress Maureen Lipman with devil horns
Police are currently looking into a social media post published by a pro-Palestinian group that featured Jewish actress Maureen Lipman depicted with devil horns and a pitchfork. The image appeared on a page managed by the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign as part of their petition aiming to cancel Lipman’s forthcoming performance in the play *Allegra*… Continue reading Police probe over 'antisemitic' post of Jewish actress Maureen Lipman with devil horns
Urgent warning after squishy toy trend caused 'traumatising' burns
A worrying social media challenge involving the microwaving of squishy toys has resulted in a young girl suffering severe facial burns. Charlotte, a mother from Hartcliffe in Bristol, revealed that her 10-year-old daughter, Bella, endured potentially permanent scars after imitating this viral trend. The dangerous practice is being widely shared on platforms such as TikTok,… Continue reading Urgent warning after squishy toy trend caused 'traumatising' burns