Author: WTX News Editor

Cliff Notes Early findings from the Air India crash investigation highlight potential human error, specifically regarding the aircraft’s fuel control switches being moved to the “CUTOFF” position. The preliminary report indicates confusion in the cockpit, with contradictory statements between pilots about the engine shutdowns just before the aircraft crashed. Concerns have been raised about the flight recorders’ survivability and the emergency locator transmitter, with experts questioning whether they malfunctioned during the incident. Backlash as Air…

Notes Sir Keir Starmer and President Macron have established a strong diplomatic relationship, culminating in a new migrant deterrent deal. The agreement entails a “one in, one out” policy, where illegal arrivals are sent back to France in exchange for accepting legitimate asylum seekers. This pilot programme aims to begin with a small number of returns, potentially impacting public sentiment and addressing immigration as a key electoral issue. Migrants deal a win for Starmer -…

Cliff Notes – Firefighters face challenging conditions Firefighters in Northern Ireland dealt with a 154% increase in emergency calls due to multiple bonfires, including one with asbestos, ahead of the 12 July celebrations. Environment Minister Andrew Muir expressed disappointment over a bonfire lit despite warnings at a site containing asbestos, which poses serious health risks. Political and community tensions were highlighted as controversial effigies were burned at bonfires, with significant police presence planned for parades…

When orange-clad Dutch fans marched to the Zurich stadium to play England this week, their rivals were encouraged to join the procession. No need for segregated paths, nor heavy policing. The overall experience at women’s matches is perceived as more positive and friendly, encouraging conversations between fans and fostering a sense of community. Tribalism without toxicity -The reason why this Women’s Euros is so appealing The Women’s European Championship has a different feel from men’s…

Cliff Notes – Large fire breaks out at warehouse A large fire has broken out in Southeast London in an industrial estate London, with approximately 150 firefighters responding to the incident. Emergency services are tackling a blaze at a single-storey warehouse in Erith, involving Twenty-five fire engines are at the scene. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed. The London Fire Brigade received the first call shortly before 11pm, mobilising crews from nearby…

Cliff Notes The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the summer, with temperatures expected to peak above 34°C on Saturday, as confirmed by the Met Office. Amber heat health alerts are in effect for parts of southern and eastern England, raising concerns about increased health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations aged 65 and over. Hosepipe restrictions have been implemented by Yorkshire Water to safeguard supplies amidst ongoing dry conditions, with potential fines for non-compliance.…

Cliff Notes A care worker, known as Meera, reported abuse of an elderly resident and is now facing destitution and potential removal from the UK after being fired for her whistleblowing. Meera alleged she witnessed abuse and was pressured to change her statement before being dismissed; a police investigation is ongoing, leading to multiple arrests. Concerns have been raised about the vulnerability of migrant care workers, who face intimidation from employers, affecting their ability to…

Donald Trump may not address Parliament during his September state visit to the UK, as no formal request has been submitted yet. Concerns regarding his potential address have been raised by MPs, with Labour’s Kate Osborne advocating against it due to Trump’s previous comments on UK governance and international issues. The parliamentary recess in September could present a diplomatic solution, allowing Trump to visit while avoiding a parliamentary address. Donald Trump may be denied privilege…

Cliff Notes A scandal at Heshi Peixin kindergarten involved staff adding lead-laced paint powder to food, resulting in 233 children affected, of whom 201 required hospitalisation. Despite the gravity of the situation, community members express fondness for the principal and critique broader systemic failings beyond just the kindergarten staff. Local families suspect a cover-up regarding the incident, exacerbated by previous food safety scandals in China, leading to widespread distrust in authorities. Fear and mistrust in…

Cliff Notes Preliminary findings indicate that the fuel cutoff switches for both engines of the Air India Boeing 787 transitioned to “CUTOFF” shortly after take-off, leading to a loss of power. Confusion was reported among the pilots, with one asking why the cutoff occurred, while the other denied initiating it; one pilot made a mayday call just before the crash. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with a final report expected within a year;…

Cliff Notes Liverpool FC has retired the number 20 shirt in memory of Diogo Jota, marking a first for the club. The decision, supported by Jota’s family, recognises his significant contributions to the team and the impact he had on those around him. The number 20 will be retired at all club levels, including men’s, women’s, and academy teams. Liverpool retires number 20 shirt at all levels in honour of Diogo Jota | UK News…

Cliff Notes Former Metropolitan Police commissioner Lord Ian Blair has died at the age of 72, having led the force from 2005 to 2008 during a tumultuous period marked by the 7/7 London bombings. His tenure was marred by the controversial shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes, which raised accusations of cover-up and obstructing inquiries, overshadowing some of his contributions to police reform and diversity initiatives. Despite challenges, Blair played a role in improving relations…

Cliff Notes Unite, the largest union donor to Labour, has suspended Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and other Labour councillors for “bringing the union into disrepute” amid the ongoing Birmingham bin strike dispute. There is a conflict regarding Rayner’s union membership status, with her office claiming she had resigned, while Unite asserts she remains a registered member. The general secretary of Unite, Sharon Graham, condemned the actions of the Birmingham Labour council, stating that they…

Cliff Notes The devastating flash floods in Texas have resulted in at least 104 confirmed deaths, with over a dozen still missing, including children from nearby summer camps. The political landscape is contentious, with accusations surrounding emergency response shortcomings, as President Trump plans a visit to assess the situation. Flood risks have escalated, with warnings of further storms anticipated, prompting concerns for ongoing safety in affected regions. Texas flooding latest: Trump to visit disaster area…

Cliff Notes Two elderly women died following a crash involving a stolen BMW at the Highcliffe Care Home during a police pursuit. Eight residents sustained injuries, with all but one discharged from the hospital as of Thursday. Two 21-year-old men have been re-arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and remain in police custody. Two women die after BMW crashed into care home during police chase in Sunderland | UK News . Two women, one in her…

Cliff Notes Police believe aerial search efforts are crucial for locating German backpacker Carolina Wilga, who has been missing in the Karroun Hill Nature Reserve for nearly two weeks. Wilga’s van was found in a remote area with solar panels and drinking water, suggesting she may have attempted to travel on foot after mechanical issues or getting lost. The Western Australian police, supported by local authorities, are intensifying their search efforts, while Wilga’s family appeals…

A Dhaka international crimes tribunal has formally charged ex‑Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in absentia with five counts of crimes against humanity, citing her alleged role in the violent suppression of student‑led protests in July-August 2024, which resulted in up to 1,400 deaths.

President Trump has confirmed a 35% tariff on Canadian imports, set to take effect on 1 August, citing Canada’s failure to curb fentanyl smuggling and persistent trade imbalances.

Most of Friday’s front pages lead with the new migrant agreement between France and the UK. The deal will see a “one in, one out” process. Many of the right-leaning papers pick up on French President Emmanuel Macron’s comments that Brexit was in part to blame for Britain’s spiralling illegal immigration crisis.

The papers feature images of Starmer and Macron, and images of yesterday’s illegal boat crossings.

A few papers find space to report on the BBC’s sacking of presenter Greg Wallace. The former Masterchef host faced allegations of sexual assault, bullying and inappropriate behaviour. He denies the allegations.

Cliff Notes The UK Economy contracted by 0.1% in May, following a 0.3% contraction in April, surprising economists who anticipated a 0.1% growth. Manufacturing and construction faced declines, primarily due to reduced car production and lower oil and gas extraction, despite positive growth in the services sector. The Chancellor expressed disappointment while noting a revised growth figure of 0.4% for March, indicating potential recovery and prompting expectations of an interest rate cut. UK economy unexpectedly…

Friday is heating up across the UK, with a new heatwave in full swing, temperatures are set to creep into the 30s this weekend. Health alerts have been issued for many parts of the country, with the sweltering conditions expected to linger into the start of next week.

The week ends with a big political win for the prime minister after getting his migrant deal with France over the line. The one in, one out deal, though criticised by the opposition parties, will reduce illegal crossings to the UK. The deal is set to come into effect within weeks, and is a nice distraction for Starmer after weeks of chaos over policy.


In some tough news for the chancellor, the UK economy shrank unexpectedly in May, according to the latest official figures, contracting for the second month in a row. It’s a blow for Chancellor Rachel Reeves, with the government having made boosting economic growth its key priority.

Wimbledon and the Lionesses dominate the sports pages, with all Brits out of the Championship and the Lionesses set to face Wales in a must-win match on Sunday!

England is facing its third official heatwave of the summer, with a yellow heat-health alert extended across all regions.

Civilians, many queuing for nutritional supplements and medical care at a clinic in Deir al-Balah, were struck by an Israeli airstrike.

Cliff Notes Donald Trump announced a proposed 35% tariff on goods imported from Canada, citing fentanyl smuggling as a major concern. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney affirmed his government’s commitment to defending Canadian workers and addressing the opioid crisis in collaboration with the US. In addition to Canada, Trump indicated plans for blanket tariffs of 15-20% on most other countries, with the increased rates set to take effect on 1 August. Donald Trump plans to…

Britain and France unveiled a pilot “one in, one out” scheme under which migrants arriving via small boats to the UK will be detained, returned to France and, in exchange, an equivalent number of asylum seekers with UK family ties will be admitted each week, potentially limited to around 50 people.