Category: UK News

The agony and ecstasy of the 2014 Scottish independence referendum

On the morning of 18 September 2014, Jane Phillips, a teacher from Dundee, was among the first people to vote in the Scottish independence referendum. At 58 years old, she was dreaming of a Yes victory that had seemed almost inconceivable for months. Looking back a decade later, she recalls the tension and excitement, and… Continue reading The agony and ecstasy of the 2014 Scottish independence referendum

Sturgeon predicts independence and united Ireland in UK 'shake-up'

Scotland will become independent as part of a “wider shake-up” of UK governance, according to former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. She also predicted Irish reunification and suggested more devolution for Wales in the coming years, describing it as a “very healthy realignment of how the nations of the British Isles are governed and co-operate together.”… Continue reading Sturgeon predicts independence and united Ireland in UK 'shake-up'

New bank hubs to open but the printers are missing

Banks across the United Kingdom are implementing new rules prompted by stricter regulations over branch closures and accessibility to cash. The rules that were enacted on Wednesday permit banks to establish “hub” spaces shared by different banks, with which they will operate standard personal and business banking services. The construction of fifteen such hubs is… Continue reading New bank hubs to open but the printers are missing

UK aid spending may hit 17-year low, charities warn

Over 120 international charities have expressed concern that UK aid spending will decrease to its lowest level since 2007, unless immediate action is taken in next month’s Budget. These charities are fearful that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will make cuts to overseas development assistance (ODA) spending, potentially by more than £2bn. This is expected to occur… Continue reading UK aid spending may hit 17-year low, charities warn

Ex-Bradford student's meningitis warning to undergraduates

A student from Bradford University has publicly urged first-time university students to check if they have been vaccinated against meningitis. Manolo Niembro, a 21-year-old student, stated he almost died a few weeks after starting university when he began experiencing hallucinations, high fever, and other signs of illness which were missed by doctors at Bradford Royal… Continue reading Ex-Bradford student's meningitis warning to undergraduates

From the archive: How the Scottish indyref campaign unfolded

On September 18th, 2014, Scottish voters were asked a crucial question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?” After months of campaigning, rallies, and debates, the results showed a majority of 55% voted against independence, while 45% voted in favour. As it’s now been a decade since the historic referendum, let’s take a moment to reflect… Continue reading From the archive: How the Scottish indyref campaign unfolded

What will happen when VAT is added to private school fees?

In January 2022, the UK’s private schools will no longer be exempt from paying 20% VAT, and the 80% business rate discount will also be eliminated for independent schools in England and Wales that operate as charities. The question is how much it will impact the number of children attending private schools, and whether the… Continue reading What will happen when VAT is added to private school fees?