A5: Judge to rule on future of road scheme

Niall McCracken reports for BBC News NI as a Mid Ulster Reporter. A crucial decision regarding the future of the A5 road scheme is anticipated to be delivered today by a judge. This £1.2bn project received approval from Stormont ministers back in October of the previous year. Nonetheless, a group of residents and landowners initiated… Continue reading A5: Judge to rule on future of road scheme

Lower energy costs part of government's 10-year plan for industry

A significant shift in energy costs for numerous businesses through the elimination of green levies is at the core of the government’s forthcoming 10-year industrial strategy. Expected to be disclosed on Monday, this plan could lead to a potential reduction of up to 25% in energy bills for over 7,000 businesses in the UK. Prime… Continue reading Lower energy costs part of government's 10-year plan for industry

Met Police chief 'shocked' by planned Palestine Action protest in London

BBC News writer Jacqueline Howard reported that the Metropolitan Police chief has expressed his astonishment and disappointment over a scheduled demonstration in support of Palestine Action in London. Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley emphasized the importance of the right to protest while noting that actions taken in support of the group exceed the boundaries of legitimate… Continue reading Met Police chief 'shocked' by planned Palestine Action protest in London

Is surveillance culture fuelling child cyberstalking?

The issue of cyberstalking involving children has become a growing concern, with reports of children as young as 10 and 11 being reported to police forces in England for suspected cyberstalking offences. Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips emphasized the need for educating young individuals about healthy relationships in the digital age. She highlighted the importance of… Continue reading Is surveillance culture fuelling child cyberstalking?

Mounjaro weight loss jab available at GPs – to select few

GPs across England are now able to prescribe weight loss injections like Mounjaro, although strict criteria must be met in order to receive them. The aim is for these jabs to eventually be more widely accessible, but for now, priority will be given to those in most need. Concerns have been raised by pharmacy trade… Continue reading Mounjaro weight loss jab available at GPs – to select few

Chris Mason: The UK's position on Iran is clear but will the US listen?

Following America’s attacks on Iran, the British Prime Minister engaged in a conversation with President Trump. Despite previous warnings of a pending decision, the call requiring a definitive answer did not materialize. Speculation lingers on the possibility of such a request arising in the near future. The UK government clarifies that while briefed in advance… Continue reading Chris Mason: The UK's position on Iran is clear but will the US listen?

Hopes to open NHS ketamine clinic for treatment resistant depression

Ketamine, often associated with its use as a recreational drug that can lead to serious health complications and even fatalities, is gaining attention in Scotland for its potential in treating severe depression. A psychiatrist from NHS Lothian is aiming to establish a clinic by the end of the year that would offer ketamine as an… Continue reading Hopes to open NHS ketamine clinic for treatment resistant depression

£20m bridge investment to secure Fishguard ferry port's future

Stena Line has unveiled plans for a major investment of up to £20m to revamp Fishguard port, signaling a commitment to the site for the next few decades. The highlight of this upgrade would be a new linkspan, a type of drawbridge essential for ferry operations. Construction is expected to kick off in 2026, with… Continue reading £20m bridge investment to secure Fishguard ferry port's future

No budget for assisted dying service, health secretary says

Health Secretary Wes Streeting recently expressed concerns about the lack of budget for an assisted dying service following a close vote by MPs in favor of the legislation. Streeting, a prominent opponent of the bill, highlighted the existing challenges in accessing high-quality end-of-life care and the financial constraints within the NHS, which could further burden… Continue reading No budget for assisted dying service, health secretary says

Former Pembrokeshire councillor banned after racist voice note

Andrew Edwards, a former councilor, has been disqualified from holding any position in authority for four years after being involved in a racist messaging incident. The incident involved Edwards sending a WhatsApp voice note suggesting that white men should have black slaves, as previously ruled by an ombudsman investigation. This led to the case being… Continue reading Former Pembrokeshire councillor banned after racist voice note