Unprecedented plans for asylum system sees government walk tightrope

For the past two decades, the Home Office has struggled with recurring and well-documented shortcomings in managing asylum seekers effectively. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has unveiled a sweeping and unprecedented plan that represents a significant shift in the legal and policy approach to the asylum system. Instead of focusing solely on the “duties” that the… Continue reading Unprecedented plans for asylum system sees government walk tightrope

Record Monmouthshire floods spark renewed call for defences

A significant cleanup effort is currently underway in Monmouth, a town in south Wales, following severe flooding caused by Storm Claudia. The storm unleashed a month’s worth of rainfall in just one day, causing the River Monnow to rise to unprecedented levels and leaving many areas submerged. A fundraiser established to support those affected has… Continue reading Record Monmouthshire floods spark renewed call for defences

Scottish ministers 'deeply concerned' about new UK asylum plans

The Scottish government has expressed serious concerns regarding new asylum policy reforms recently proposed by the UK home secretary. These reforms, outlined in the latest government statement, include a significant increase in the waiting period before most asylum seekers can apply for permanent settlement—from five years under current regulations to 20 years. The plans also… Continue reading Scottish ministers 'deeply concerned' about new UK asylum plans

Shabhana Mahmood announces big changes to 'unfair' asylum system

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has defended comprehensive reforms to the UK’s asylum system, describing the current situation as both “out of control and unfair” during her address to MPs in the House of Commons. Mahmood warned, “If we fail to deal with this crisis, we will draw more people down a path that starts with… Continue reading Shabhana Mahmood announces big changes to 'unfair' asylum system

Moment Bridget Jones statue is unveiled in London

A new statue honoring the beloved character Bridget Jones was recently revealed in Leicester Square, London. This tribute celebrates the iconic figure who has entertained audiences for over two decades. Renée Zellweger, the actress who has portrayed Bridget Jones since the beginning, described the statue as “adorable,” and humorously remarked, “I think she’s much cuter… Continue reading Moment Bridget Jones statue is unveiled in London

WW2 veteran Norman Irwin celebrates 107th birthday and is NI's oldest man

A remarkable celebration recently took place for Norman Irwin, a World War Two veteran who has reached the impressive age of 107. Considered likely to be the oldest man in Northern Ireland, Mr Irwin marked his birthday at his care home near Coleraine, County Londonderry, surrounded by family, friends, and military representatives. Despite the attention,… Continue reading WW2 veteran Norman Irwin celebrates 107th birthday and is NI's oldest man

Presbyterian Church: Criminal investigation launched over safeguarding issues

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has announced the commencement of a criminal investigation in response to safeguarding concerns raised within the Presbyterian Church of Ireland (PCI). This followed the recent resignation of the church’s moderator, Reverend Trevor Gribben, who stepped down amid revelations of “serious and significant failings” related to safeguarding practices spanning… Continue reading Presbyterian Church: Criminal investigation launched over safeguarding issues

UK weather: Snow and ice warnings issued by Met Office as -12C forecast

The United Kingdom is currently experiencing a blast of Arctic air, resulting in a significant drop in temperatures and prompting warnings for snow and ice. The Met Office has issued yellow severe weather alerts covering Scotland and northern England for Tuesday, highlighting concerns about icy conditions and snowfall. Alongside these, the UK Health Security Agency… Continue reading UK weather: Snow and ice warnings issued by Met Office as -12C forecast

John Whaite: Strictly contestant and Bake Off winner reveals steroid addiction

John Whaite, the television chef widely recognized for winning The Great British Bake Off in 2012 and for finishing as runner-up on Strictly Come Dancing in 2021, has opened up about his difficult experience with steroid addiction. In a heartfelt Instagram video, the 36-year-old revealed that he had been using anabolic steroids illegally for five… Continue reading John Whaite: Strictly contestant and Bake Off winner reveals steroid addiction