Author: WTX News Editor

Cliff Notes Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana’s new party promises “unapologetically socialist” policies, with a focus on public ownership, childcare access, and housing justice. Their first conference is slated for autumn, wherein paid members will define the party’s structure and policy direction following extensive nationwide community engagement. Amid polling indicating potential vote share impact, there are concerns that the party could hinder Labour’s electoral prospects, particularly with the rise of right-wing alternatives. How Corbyn’s new…

Cliff Notes Man in court over disturbance on easyJet flight was an Indian pretending to be a Muslim A 41-year-old man, Abhay Nayak, was arrested following an alleged disturbance on an easyJet flight from London Luton to Glasgow, landing around 8.20am on Sunday. At Paisley Sheriff Court, Nayak faced charges of assault and endangering aircraft safety but did not enter pleas; he remains in custody until his next court appearance. Man in court over disturbance…

Cliff Notes Spain took an early lead with Mariona Caldentey’s header in the 25th minute, followed by an injury to England’s Lauren James before half-time. England equalised in the 57th minute through Alessia Russo’s header, assisted by Chloe Kelly’s impressive cross, as they forced the match into extra time. The penalty shootout saw Hannah Hampton make crucial saves, while Kelly netted the decisive penalty, leading England to a 3-1 victory. Lionesses live: enjoy Downing Street…

Cliff Notes Heavy rainfall in Beijing has resulted in at least 30 deaths and the evacuation of over 80,000 people due to flooding and landslides. President Xi Jinping has ordered “all-out” rescue efforts as severe weather continues to affect the region, with more heavy rain forecasted. The Chinese government is providing significant financial aid and emergency assistance to help affected areas in Beijing and neighbouring provinces. China floods: At least 30 killed in Beijing and…

Cliff Notes A Sky News investigation reveals that “de minimis” imports into the UK reached £5.9bn in the last fiscal year, marking a 53% rise from the previous year. Economists warn that removing the tariff-exempt threshold could adversely impact lower-income families, despite UK manufacturers struggling to compete with Chinese e-commerce firms. The UK government has launched an inquiry into the de minimis rules amid changing regulations in the EU and US, with significant implications for…

Cliff Notes Five people, including a police officer, have died in a shooting at a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper; the suspected gunman, identified as Shane Devon Tamura, took his own life after the attack. The incident occurred at 345 Park Avenue, home to several major firms and the NFL; details about the motive for the shooting remain unclear. The NYPD has confirmed the scene is contained and urged the public to avoid the area while they…

Cliff Notes Matty Healy emphasises the importance of grassroots venues in nurturing new talent, warning their decline could lead to a cultural “silence” in the UK music scene. The Seed Sounds Weekender, taking place from 26-28 September, aims to support over 2,000 gigs across more than 1,000 small venues, highlighting their role in launching musical careers. Recent venue closures and funding challenges have underscored the need for better support for local stages, with initiatives like…

Cliff Notes The Royal Jordanian Air Force conducted one of the first aid drop flights into Gaza, delivering eight tonnes of food and baby formula as the region faces a severe humanitarian crisis. Airdrop methods are deemed flawed; chaotic scenes on the ground saw individuals fighting for limited aid, raising concerns that it fails to reach those most in need. Despite calls for increased road aid distribution during temporary humanitarian pauses in fighting, the situation…

Cliff Notes Sir Keir Starmer faced Donald Trump during a televised encounter, navigating significant political differences while managing awkward moments, including Trump’s remarks about London mayor Sadiq Khan. Trump announced pressure on Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire and addressed concerns regarding Gaza, giving Starmer some policy wins despite the tension. The meeting highlighted the power dynamics, with Starmer appearing to endure the encounter for the potential benefits of being associated with the U.S. president. Starmer…

Cliff Notes Thailand and Cambodia have established an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire following deadly border clashes resulting in at least 35 fatalities and the displacement of over 260,000 individuals. Tensions escalated after a May confrontation that killed a Cambodian soldier, leading to military skirmishes near the Ta Muen Thom temple and mutual accusations of artillery attacks on civilian areas. Peace talks facilitated by Malaysia were prompted by international calls for resolution, with both nations agreeing…

Cliff Notes Economic abuse, exemplified by Amy’s experience, restricts victims’ access to finances, leaving them powerless and unable to escape abusive relationships. A survey indicates that 15% of women in the UK have experienced economic abuse within the last year, underscoring the widespread nature of this issue. Government officials acknowledge the urgency of tackling economic abuse, with plans for a new strategy to improve support for victims and prevent further violence against women and girls.…

Cliff Notes Thailand and Cambodia have mutually agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire effective from midnight on 28 July, following several days of deadly border clashes. The ceasefire agreement, reached during discussions mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, aims to restore trust and cooperation between the two nations after intense fighting resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement. Both leaders, Thailand’s Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia’s Hun Manet, expressed hope that this agreement would…

Cliff Notes -Police arrest man on a easyJet flight from Luton A 41-year-old man has been charged following a disturbance on an easyJet flight from London to Glasgow that occurred on Sunday morning. Police Scotland responded to the incident around 8.20 am, confirming the situation was contained without further involvement from other passengers. The man is scheduled to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court today, while counter-terrorism officers are reviewing online videos related to the incident.…

Cliff Notes Shi Yongxin, abbot of the Shaolin Temple, is under investigation for alleged embezzlement and maintaining improper relationships with women, including fathering at least one child. The Buddhist Association of China has revoked his ordination certificate amid claims of violating Buddhist principles and misappropriating temple assets. Shi previously faced similar allegations in 2015 but was exonerated in 2016; he has been a controversial figure, known for commercialising the temple. China’s Shaolin Temple’s ‘CEO monk’…

Cliff Notes – Israel backs down and pauses onslaught in parts of Gaza Gaza latest: Israel pauses fighting in parts of Gaza to allow aid in; Trump complains he got ‘no thanks’ for sending food Close to 100 people were killed while seeking aid in Gaza yesterday, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the enclave. It comes as Israel announced a “one-week scale-up of aid” and declared military operations in three areas of Gaza…

Cliff Notes Firefighters are battling a significant blaze involving 20 tonnes of tyres at multiple factory units in West Bromwich, leading to nearby home evacuations as a precaution. No injuries have been reported, but structural concerns have prompted the presence of a structural engineer at the scene. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with local residents advised to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke. Firefighters tackle huge blaze involving 20…

Cliff Notes The Lionesses emerged as back-to-back European champions, defeating world champions Spain on penalties and avenging their previous World Cup final loss to Spain two years ago. Despite initial doubts and near elimination, the team demonstrated resilience, notably with Michelle Agyemang’s critical contributions in key matches. Lucy Bronze, hindered by injury, and Chloe Kelly, overcoming personal challenges, were instrumental in the team’s success, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad. England started the…

Cliff Notes England’s Lionesses won their second consecutive Euros trophy, defeating Spain 3-1 on penalties, with Chloe Kelly scoring the decisive spot-kick. An open-top bus parade will take place on Tuesday in London, culminating in a stage ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The team’s victory has sparked widespread celebrations, with notable accolades from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and members of the Royal Family, who called for success at the World Cup in 2027. Lionesses praised…

Cliff Notes Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer will focus on Gaza and transatlantic trade during their meeting in Scotland on Monday, with discussions on securing a ceasefire in the Middle East. Trump attributed the failure of ceasefire negotiations to Hamas, while Starmer aims to strengthen UK-US trade ties, seeking to lower tariffs on imports like steel. Facing pressure to align with France on Palestine recognition, Starmer is navigating a diplomatic path between the UK’s…

Cliff Notes A 31-year-old man, Majid Masoud Saad, has been charged following a police chase in Essex, where he allegedly drove at speeds exceeding 150mph. Charges against Saad include drink driving, dangerous driving, and failing to stop for police; he is due to appear in court on 4 September. The chase began with London’s Metropolitan Police and involved various tactics by Essex Police to eventually stop Saad’s vehicle. Man charged after 150mph police chase on…

Cliff Notes The US and EU have finalised a significant trade deal, with President Trump declaring it the “biggest deal ever made,” expected to benefit the automotive and agricultural sectors. The agreement includes a 15% tariff on EU goods entering the US, a reduction from the previously threatened 30%, alongside substantial EU investments in the US Economy. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen stated that the deal will enhance stability and predictability for businesses…

Cliff Notes Islamic State-backed militants, suspected to be from the Allied Democratic Forces, attacked a Catholic church in eastern Congo, resulting in a death toll of at least 34, with numerous others wounded or missing. Local officials condemned the violence, highlighting the presence of security forces in the area and calling for urgent military intervention to prevent further attacks. The ADF, which has historical ties to the Islamic State, has been responsible for thousands of…

Cliff Notes Thai and Cambodian leaders will meet in Malaysia to negotiate a ceasefire following intense cross-border fighting, supported by US diplomatic intervention from Donald Trump and Marco Rubio. The conflict has resulted in at least 34 fatalities, including civilians, and has displaced over 200,000 people, raising urgent calls for immediate de-escalation from both sides. Despite the agreement for talks, accusations of ongoing shelling indicate persistent tensions as historical disputes over border regions remain unresolved.…

Cliff Notes Donald Trump assessed the likelihood of a new trading relationship with the EU as “50-50” during a golf outing at his Turnberry resort in Scotland. The US is set to impose significant tariffs on EU exports, including increases of up to 30% on various goods starting 1 August. Trump is scheduled to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for discussions on trade, following which he will engage with UK Labour leader…

Cliff Notes Parts of Athens, particularly Kryoneri, have been evacuated due to over 50 wildfires igniting within 24 hours, exacerbated by extreme temperatures of up to 44°C and strong winds. At least five individuals have required hospital treatment for burns or smoke inhalation, while almost 150 firefighters are deployed, supported by aerial firefighting resources. Wildfires are becoming increasingly common in Greece, with recent reports of damaging blazes also affecting neighbouring countries like Albania and Turkey.…