Cliff Notes Neil Platt was sentenced to 10 years in prison for causing the death of Danny Aitchison while driving a heavy goods vehicle, due to heavy distraction from his phone. The collision occurred as Aitchison waited in stationary traffic, leading to his car being pushed into another vehicle and subsequently igniting. Platt’s driving was described as “arrogant and selfish,” with persistent phone use during a three-hour journey highlighted as a critical factor in the…
Cliff Notes On 10 September, Israeli airstrikes on newspaper offices in Sanaa, Yemen, resulted in the deaths of 31 journalists and media support workers, marking the deadliest attack on the press since 2009 according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The strike disproportionately affected civilian journalists with no military ties, prompting strong condemnation from Nasser al Khadri, editor-in-chief of the affected publication, who described it as an “unprecedented massacre of journalists.” The Israeli Defence…
Cliff Notes Oxford Street will close to traffic on Sunday, featuring music, arts, and activities as part of the ‘This Is Oxford Street’ event, showcasing a vision for pedestrianisation. Mayor Sadiq Khan aims for permanent pedestrianisation by January 2026, with 66% of locals supporting the plans according to recent surveys. Key retailers will host interactive activities, yet public transport will be affected, with bus diversions and increased foot traffic at nearby stations. Oxford Street to…
Cliff Notes Government borrowing reached its highest level in five years last month, with an £18bn deficit, exceeding economists’ predictions by £5.25bn. While tax and national insurance receipts increased, they were overshadowed by rising expenditures on public services, benefits, and debt interest payments. Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces heightened fiscal challenges as she approaches her November budget, aiming to reduce government debt and balance the budget by 2030. Politics latest: Second migrant deported to France under…
Cliff Notes Historic Induction: Penn & Teller have been inducted into the Magic Circle after a 50-year ban for exposing magic secrets during their performances. Controversial Legacy: The duo, notable for their mid-1980s fame, faced criticism for their approach to magic, yet have maintained a loyal following, including royal fans. Current Celebrations: Their induction was celebrated at The London Palladium, coinciding with their 50th Anniversary Tour, highlighting their significant contributions to the art of magic.…
Cliff Notes Government borrowing in August reached its highest level in five years, marking a £18bn gap between spending and income. The increase in tax and national insurance receipts was countered by rising public service costs, benefits, and debt interest payments. Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces mounting pressure for potential tax rises and spending cuts ahead of the November budget to address fiscal challenges. Taxes rises expected as government borrowing the highest in five years -…
Cliff Notes Harriet Harman argues that Peter Mandelson should be barred from returning to the House of Lords, citing potential damage to its reputation after his dismissal as UK ambassador to the US due to his ties with Jeffrey Epstein. Mandelson’s recent sacking by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer followed revelations that his relationship with Epstein was not as initially disclosed, raising concerns over his past vetting for the peerage in 2008. Despite Mandelson’s history…
Cliff Notes The UK is poised to officially recognise the state of Palestine, reaffirming the Labour party’s commitment while highlighting its evolving stance since gaining power. Internal party dissatisfaction has led to significant electoral losses for Labour, with pressure from backbenchers contributing to a push for stronger government action regarding Palestine. The UK government has implemented new sanctions against Israeli leaders while acknowledging its obligations under international law, marking a notable policy shift since the…
Cliff Notes Two major Labour-affiliated unions, Unison and GMB, will nominate candidates to replace Angela Rayner as deputy leader on 25 September, amid heightened internal party tensions. Bridget Phillipson is deemed the government’s preferred choice, while Lucy Powell appeals to discontented members after a challenging government year. Union backing remains uncertain due to election timing and dissatisfaction with the current leadership, raising questions about Labour’s future direction and effectiveness. Trade unions gear up to nominate…
Cliff Notes The High Court ruled that an Eritrean man can be deported to France under the UK government’s ‘one in, one out’ policy, despite legal challenges regarding his medical needs and trafficking claims. This case follows a temporary block on another man’s deportation, highlighting ongoing legal disputes surrounding the government’s immigration policies in the context of claims of modern slavery. The government argues that deportations are in the public interest and that conditions in…
Cliff Notes Donald Trump’s second state visit to the UK has been marked by a lavish royal display, including a carriage procession and state banquet, amidst protests that highlight a mixed reception from the public. During the visit, Trump was noted for breaching royal protocol by initiating physical contact with King Charles, which did not seem to offend the royal family. Key moments included Trump’s humorous remark about being the last US president to receive…
Cliff Notes Jimmy Kimmel’s talk show was suspended indefinitely following his controversial monologue about Charlie Kirk’s death, wherein he accused the “MAGA gang” of exploiting the tragedy for political gain. The decision came after backlash from right-wing politicians and influential figures, prompting regulatory threats against ABC by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. The suspension has sparked widespread reactions, with support from Republicans and criticism from Democrats and various celebrities, who have labelled it an attack on…
Cliff Notes Sally Rooney has stated she cannot enter the UK safely due to the risk of arrest after pledging royalties to Palestine Action, a group recently designated as a terrorist organisation. Rooney was awarded a Sky Arts Award for her novel Intermezzo, but was represented by her editor at the ceremony, where she expressed gratitude and solidarity with Palestine. More than 700 individuals have been arrested related to support for Palestine Action since its…
Cliff Notes Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich described Gaza as a potential “real estate bonanza” and stated that a redevelopment plan had been presented to the US president. His comments align with former President Trump’s earlier statements envisioning Gaza’s transformation into a luxury tourist destination. The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza has led to widespread condemnation, with rising civilian casualties and discussions of Palestinian state recognition intensifying. Gaza could be ‘real estate bonanza’, Israeli minister Bezalel…
Cliff Notes A man in his 40s died and a woman, also in her 40s, sustained gunshot wounds following a shooting at Clissold Park in Hackney, London. A firearm has been recovered from the scene, and forensic teams are collecting evidence while the police maintain a cordon around the area. Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter indicated that the pair were known to each other and described the incident as isolated, assuring no wider risk to the…
Cliff Notes London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan labels the situation in Gaza a “genocide,” contradicting the UK government’s stance amid rising political tensions. The UN has reported that a genocide is occurring in Gaza, which Israel continues to deny; the UK government insists it has not found evidence of genocidal intent. PM Rishi Sunak is reportedly delaying formal recognition of a Palestinian state until after Donald Trump’s visit, amid concerns the topic may overshadow their discussions.…
Cliff Notes Jimmy Kimmel’s show has been indefinitely pulled from air due to “offensive and insensitive” remarks regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination, prompting criticism from network Nexstar. Kimmel’s comments were aimed at Republican responses to the incident, leading to backlash, including a statement from the Federal Communications Commission chairman threatening action against Disney and ABC. This cancellation follows a pattern in late-night television, mirroring the recent removal of Stephen Colbert’s show, with both hosts facing criticism…
Cliff Notes A nine-year-old girl was shot with an airgun in a racially aggravated assault in Bristol, leaving her feeling sore but not seriously injured. Police are seeking a white male suspect, aged 17 or 18, and another unidentified offender, urging witnesses with relevant footage to come forward. The victim’s family has received support from Stand Against Racism and Inequality (SARI), with increased police patrols in the area to reassure the community. ‘Traumatised’ girl, nine,…
Cliff Notes An air traffic controller had to repeatedly instruct a Spirit Airlines flight to turn away to avoid colliding with Air Force One, carrying Donald and Melania Trump, over New York. The controller expressed frustration, urging the pilot to “get off the iPad,” while maintaining that both aircraft kept the required safety separation. Spirit Airlines confirmed compliance with air traffic control procedures, emphasizing that safety remains their top priority during the flight to Boston.…
Cliff Notes MSPs have voted to abolish Scotland’s not proven verdict, part of the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill, aiming to modernise the justice system. The new legislation also establishes a specialist sexual offences court and redefines jury conviction requirements to a two-thirds majority, alongside implementing Suzanne’s Law regarding parole decisions. While the Scottish Conservatives and Labour opposed the bill, citing a lack of amendments addressing victims’ needs, they supported the abolition of…
Cliff Notes Prosecutors have revealed incriminating text messages from Tyler Robinson to his roommate, where he admitted to planning the shooting of Charlie Kirk for over a week. The shooting occurred at a rally, with children present; Robinson faces multiple charges, including one for committing a violent offence in their presence. Evidence from Robinson’s home, including targets with bullet holes and matching shell casings, links him to the weapon used in the crime. What we…
Cliff Notes A second 16-year-old boy has been charged with attempted murder linked to an arson attack at Indian Aroma restaurant in Gants Hill, resulting in six injuries. Two victims remain in hospital with life-changing injuries following the fire, which occurred on 22 August. The suspect is set to appear in court, while another teenager faced similar charges and inquiries by the Metropolitan Police continue. Second boy, 16, charged with attempted murder over Gants Hill…
Cliff Notes The UK’s most extensive security operation since the King’s coronation is underway for a high-profile state visit, with Thames Valley Police at the helm and support from forces across the UK. Authorities are employing ground, air, and water patrols, including drones and mounted units, while a section of the River Thames and the Long Walk near Windsor Castle are cordoned off for safety. Protests against the president’s visit are anticipated, with demonstrations planned…
Cliff Notes Inflation remains high at 3.8% in August, unchanged from July, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The Bank of England anticipates an increase to 4% in September, exceeding its 2% target, suggesting prolonged higher interest rates. Core inflation, excluding volatile food and energy prices, has decreased to 3.6%, down from 3.8% the previous month. New inflation figure announced – and experts predict worse to come | Money News . Inflation has…
Cliff Notes Bob Geldof has confirmed he will not run for the Irish presidency, citing personal ties to London, including family and his band. He briefly discussed the possibility with Prime Minister Micheal Martin, who indicated the Fianna Fail Party had already chosen another candidate. Geldof expressed relief over Conor McGregor’s withdrawal from the race and voiced concern over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, condemning actions that harm civilians. Bob Geldof reveals why he won’t run…
