Cliff Notes As of today, drivers using London’s Blackwall Tunnel must pay a toll, coinciding with the opening of the new Silvertown Tunnel that connects east and southeast London. Peak tolls are set at £8 for cars and £13 for large vans, with charges varying based on vehicle type and time of day. The Silvertown Tunnel, costing £2.2 billion, aims to alleviate congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel, improve air quality, and enhance public transport routes…
Global stock markets plummeted overnight, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 falling nearly 8% and US stock market futures indicating further declines, as fears of a trade war escalate following President Trump’s new tariffs.
Arturo Suarez, a Venezuelan singer awaiting asylum in the US, was deported to a notorious prison in El Salvador, labelled as a gang member without evidence, as part of Trump’s anti-immigration policies.
White House aides expressed mixed signals about Donald Trump’s tariff policies, with some suggesting room for negotiation while others dismissed the prospect.
Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to relax electric vehicle manufacturing rules in response to US tariffs that affect carmakers, particularly Jaguar Land Rover, which will “pause” shipments to the US.
An elderly British couple, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, have been detained in a high-security prison in Afghanistan since 1 February, with their son stating they have “never heard one accusation or one charge.”
Izaiah Smith, a 15-year-old boy, died after an incident in a lake at Beckenham Place Park in Lewisham, with emergency teams recovering him late on Friday evening.
Southampton makes Premier League history by becoming the first team to be relegated with seven games remaining, following a 3-1 loss to Tottenham.
Jordan Bardella criticises the judicial system following Marine Le Pen’s conviction, referring to it as a “dark day” for France and a wound to patriotic citizens.
A man in his 50s was shot and killed in Stanley, County Durham, following reports of a disturbance on Elm Street.
US correspondents Mark Stone and David Blevins addressed various topics, including the implications of Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs on American consumers.
Sir Keir Starmer has said his government stands ready to use industrial policy to “shelter British business from the storm” after Donald Trump’s new 10% tariff kicked in.
Cliff Notes The recent increase in the national insurance contribution rate from 13.8% to 15% and the lowering of the employer payment threshold is anticipated to significantly raise staffing costs across various sectors. Nurseries, hospitality, retail, small businesses, and care homes have reported that the rise will likely lead to increased fees for consumers, potential closures, and reduced staff numbers. Industry leaders are expressing concerns about how these financial pressures will exacerbate the current cost…
A major incident has been declared in Northern Ireland due to a “significant” wildfire on Sandbank Road, which has prompted over 100 firefighters to respond to the scene.
Cliff Notes The artist Sarah Boardman claims her business is at risk after Donald Trump publicly criticised her official portrait of him, stating it is “in danger of not recovering.” Trump described the portrait as “truly the worst” while praising Boardman’s prior work of Barack Obama, leading to its removal from the Colorado State Capitol. Boardman, who has been painting for over 41 years, argues that Trump’s comments have negatively impacted the previously well-received portrait…
Cliff Notes Thousands participated in nationwide “Hands Off!” protests against Donald Trump and Elon Musk, with around 1,200 demonstrations organised across all 50 states, including major cities like Washington DC and New York City. Protesters voiced concerns over various issues, including the Trump administration’s policies on government downsizing, human rights, and economic management, with some carrying signs that read messages such as “Make democracy great again.” Alongside anti-Trump sentiments, many demonstrators expressed solidarity with Ukraine…
Cliff Notes – Two Labour MPs have been denied entry to Israel and deported Two Labour MPs, Yuan Yang and Abtisam Mohamed, were denied entry to Israel and subsequently deported, accused of planning to document Israeli war crimes which Israel called a security risk. Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the Israeli authorities’ actions, calling them unacceptable and expressing support for the detained MPs. Two Labour MPs have been denied entry to Israel and deported Two…
Cliff Notes – Defence chiefs meet in Kyiv Defence chiefs from the UK, Ukraine, and France convened in Kyiv to strategise the structure and composition of a proposed international “reassurance force” intended to support a future peace agreement in Ukraine. The UK’s chief of the defence staff emphasised the UK’s unwavering commitment to assist Ukraine and enhance its military capabilities to deter further Russian aggression. Upcoming meetings in Brussels will involve 30 countries aimed at…
Cliff Notes – Labour MP Dan Norris arrested Labour MP Dan Norris has been arrested on suspicion of rape, child sex offences, and misconduct in a public office, leading to his immediate suspension from the party. The investigation, linked to alleged non-recent child sex offences, is being conducted by Avon and Somerset Police’s Operation Bluestone team, with ongoing support for the victim. Norris, who won his seat in the last general election, has also lost…
Cliff Notes A 31-year-old man from Bognor Regis has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a 20-year-old near the pier. The victim, a local man, succumbed to his injuries early the following morning after being taken to hospital in Brighton. Sussex Police are appealing for witnesses and will increase police presence in the area as they investigate the incident. Man arrested on suspicion of murder after stabbing near Bognor Regis…
Cliff Notes Scotland is currently battling its fourth wildfire this week, primarily in Galloway, with helicopters deployed to control the flames that have spread across multiple areas. The recent warm weather has led to a "severe" wildfire rating across parts of the UK, triggering warnings against barbecues in parks to prevent fire spread. The UK has reported 286 wildfires in 2023, significantly more than the same period last year, prompting calls for increased resources to…
Cliff Notes – XL bully on the loose after being shot at by police An XL bully escaped in Sheffield following police shots fired at the aggressive dog during a disturbance. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and to refrain from approaching the animal due to its potential aggressive behaviour. New legislation prohibiting ownership of XL bullies without a valid exemption certificate has been in effect since February 1, 2024. XL bully on…
Cliff Notes Ed Sheeran performed an impromptu street gig outside King’s Cross station, showcasing new track "Azizam" and popular hits like "Perfect" and "Bad Habits". Spectators described the atmosphere as "amazing", with some feeling fortunate to see Sheeran perform in such an intimate setting unexpectedly. Fans from both the UK and abroad, including Australia and Germany, flocked to the location, with some aware of the performance through social media channels. Onlookers ‘strike gold’ after seeing…
Cliff Notes – Man charged with murder of 16-year-old boy in Huddersfield A 20-year-old man, Alfie Franco, has been charged with the murder of a 16-year-old boy following a stabbing incident in Huddersfield. The suspect faces additional charges for possessing a knife in a public place and is set to appear in court on Saturday. Ongoing police enquiries have led to the arrest of two individuals on suspicion of assisting an offender, who have since…
Cliff Notes Donald Trump’s 10% baseline tariff on imports took effect, causing significant declines in global stock markets as fears of a trade war escalated. Higher tariffs targeting specific nations—20% for the EU and 34% for China—are set to begin on 9 April, with a 25% tariff on foreign cars already applied. The UK government is preparing for potential economic impacts, signalling a cautious response to the tariffs while prioritising national interests. Trump’s 10% worldwide…
