Interest rates: Cut expected by the Bank of England

In line with expectations, interest rates are anticipated to be lowered on Thursday, with further decreases projected later in the year. The Bank of England is likely to make a cut to 4.25% from 4.5%, though the possibility of no change or a larger reduction still exists. If the reduction is confirmed, it would mark… Continue reading Interest rates: Cut expected by the Bank of England

Secondary school behaviour declines in Wales, with call for action

Parents are voicing their “defiance” over the issue of bad behavior in schools, according to a recent report from Wales’ schools inspectorate, Estyn. There has been a noticeable decline in behavior in secondary schools since the pandemic, with troublesome students becoming increasingly difficult to handle. As a result, there has been a rise in fixed-term… Continue reading Secondary school behaviour declines in Wales, with call for action

The choppy waters between North Sea oil and green energy revolution

Written by Douglas Fraser, the Business and economy editor for Scotland, the ongoing Great Energy Transition signals a defining era that is not without its challenges. Harbour Energy, a major operator, recently made a significant move by axing 250 jobs in Aberdeen – a clear indication of the sector’s decline, both in the long term… Continue reading The choppy waters between North Sea oil and green energy revolution

Israeli embassy in London was suspected terror plot target, BBC understands

The news of five Iranian men being arrested on suspicion of preparing an act of terrorism in London has raised concerns around the country. While police have not officially confirmed the target of the alleged plot, reports suggest that the Israeli embassy in Kensington was the intended location. The Metropolitan Police counter-terrorism command is leading… Continue reading Israeli embassy in London was suspected terror plot target, BBC understands

Nine arrested over 'Hitler birthday party' in Oldham pub

A group of nine individuals were recently apprehended after partaking in a disturbing celebration for Adolf Hitler’s birthday at a pub in Oldham. The far-right group known as British Movement North West caused a stir by sharing images online of themselves indulging in a cake adorned with a swastika symbol and brandishing Nazi flags at… Continue reading Nine arrested over 'Hitler birthday party' in Oldham pub

PMQs: Keir Starmer defends winter fuel cuts in face of calls for U-turn

Political reporter Becky Morton writes that Sir Keir Starmer has faced criticism for the decision to cut winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners. This move has sparked calls for a policy reversal, with around 45 Labour MPs representing seats in northern England and the Midlands also urging the government to reconsider. The Conservative leader,… Continue reading PMQs: Keir Starmer defends winter fuel cuts in face of calls for U-turn

Sycamore Gap felling 'bit of a laugh' to accused, says prosecutor

Daniel Michael Graham, 39, from Carlisle, and Adam Carruthers, 32, from Wigton in Cumbria, are currently facing trial after being accused of chopping down the world-famous Sycamore Gap tree. The prosecutors have alleged that the tree was felled in a “moronic mission” in the early hours of 28 September 2023 as a “bit of a… Continue reading Sycamore Gap felling 'bit of a laugh' to accused, says prosecutor