LIVE German 2025 Election Results as they come in and analysi on who will be the next German Chancellor.

When are the German Elections?

The Elections are on Sunday the 23rd of Feb 2025

Why are they having a snap election?

The German coalition government failed a no confidence vote

Do Germans vote?

Germans vote in big numbers, usually as high 70+ percent voter turnout

Ex-wife conspired to have father-of-two assassinated in acid attack | News UK

Get you up to speed: Ex-wife conspired to have father-of-two assassinated in acid attack | News UK

CRIME INVESTIGATION
Paris Wilson was convicted of manslaughter for orchestrating an acid attack on her ex-husband, Danny Cahalane, at Winchester Crown Court.
LEGAL OUTCOME
Paris Wilson was convicted of manslaughter and attempted kidnapping for conspiring with Ryan Kennedy, also known as Frost, in the fatal attack on Danny Cahalane.
LEGAL STATUS
Paris Wilson was found guilty of manslaughter and attempted kidnapping at Winchester Crown Court, with further investigations led by Detective Superintendent Ben Davies ongoing.

What we know so far

Paris Wilson, 35, has been found guilty of the manslaughter of her ex-husband, Danny Cahalane, following a fatal acid attack orchestrated by a drug dealer known as ‘Frost’. The jury at Winchester Crown Court delivered the verdict on Thursday, marking the culmination of a case that exposed a web of drug-related violence in Plymouth.

Prosecutor Jo Martin KC revealed that Cahalane, 38, was murdered over a debt of approximately £120,000 owed to drug kingpin Ryan Kennedy, who currently operates between Thailand, Spain, and Dubai. Cahalane had indicated that Kennedy had ordered his killing during his last moments in hospital.

Following the jury’s decision, five defendants, including Wilson, were convicted of various roles in the plan that led to Cahalane’s death. Wilson had allegedly provided critical information about her ex-husband’s whereabouts, believing that collaboration with Kennedy would yield financial reward. Sentencing for Wilson and the others will be determined in due course.

Cahalane’s family expressed their grief, describing him as “an outstanding father and son,” emphasizing the love he shared with his mother and relatives.

In addition to Wilson, several co-defendants were convicted of murder and attempted kidnapping, while others were acquitted of the charges, concluding a trial that lasted over a month.

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Ex-wife plotted to have father-of-two killed in acid attack | News UK

Ex-wife conspired to have father-of-two assassinated in acid attack | News UK
Danny Cahalane with his ex, Paris Wilson (Picture: Facebook.com/DannyCahalane)

The ex-wife of a top drug dealer gave him up to be killed in an acid attack believing she would get rich after he was dead.

Danny Cahalane, final words before dying in hospital, were to tell police that he believed his Dubai-based drug boss known as ‘Frost’ had ordered his death.

His former partner Paris Wilson, 35, was found guilty of his manslaughter in Plymouth in February last year, at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday.

Jo Martin KC, prosecuting, told the jury that Mr Cahalane, 38, was targeted because he owed his ‘boss’ in the region of £120,000.

She said this dealer was a man called Ryan Kennedy – with the nickname of Frost – who operated between Thailand, Spain and Dubai and was currently believed to be in Dubai.

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Mr Cahalane had split ‘acrimoniously’ with his ex-wife, Wilson, by 2025, and she became Mr Kennedy’s ‘go-to contact in Plymouth to try to put pressure on Danny to pay up, and then, to get information about Danny’s whereabouts’.

Paris Wilson / re: attack on Danny Cahalane / Source: MoL
Paris Wilson helped provide information and put pressure on her ex to pay up (Picture: LinkedIn)

She added: ‘Paris Wilson was seemingly happy to give up all that information on the understanding Frost would make her wealthy.’

Ms Martin said that Mr Kennedy had sent messages about having 320kg of cannabis in a shipping container which would have a wholesale value of £960,000 but would be worth about £3.2 million if sold in single gram deals.

The prosecutor said that Mr Kennedy became ‘incensed’ at Mr Cahalane’s ‘stalling’ and failure to repay the money and first of all organised an attempted kidnap attempt on him the month before his killing.

Ms Martin said that Mr Cahalane had been able to speak to police from his hospital bed before he died from his injuries and told them that he had built up the debts after one of his junior drug dealers had run off without paying him.

He also said that he had lost more money through gambling.

Ms Martin said: ‘He said that he knew that the man behind the attack on him was called Ryan Kennedy, who had the nickname Frost.’

Danny Cahalane / Detectives investigating reports of a serious assault which happened on Friday 21 February 2025, have been informed that the victim has now died in hospital. The victim has been named as 38-year-old Danny Cahalane [pictured] who was from Plymouth. Officers were notified that Mr Cahalane passed away in hospital on Saturday 3 May. His family have been informed and have shared the following tribute: ?As a family, we are struggling to come to terms with Danny?s passing. Danny was an outstanding father and son. Danny and his mum had so much love for each other. He is well loved by his family and friends and as a family we cherish his love and memories. We ask the family are please given privacy and respect during this time.? Senior investigating officer, Detective Superintendent Ben Davies said: ?Our thoughts are with Danny?s family and friends at this sad time. ?The investigation into the incident, which happened on Lipson Road in Plymouth, remains ongoing. ?Nine people have previously been charged in connection to the incident.?
Danny was described as an outstanding father (Picture: Devon and Cornwall Police)
Pictured: Paris Wilson. A scheming mother was today found guilty of killing her ex-husband for helping plot a fatal acid attack on him. Paris Wilson, 35, faces jail after she was convicted of manslaughter for her part in the murder of fitness instructor Danny Cahalane, 38. Wilson helped orchestrate a hit on Mr Cahalane, who she shares a child with, by feeding information on his whereabouts to a drugs kingpin who Mr Cahalane owed money to. She was also convicted of attempted kidnap after she set him up to be ambushed the month before the fatal attack. SEE OUR COPY FOR DETAILS. Please byline: Devon & Cornwall Police/Solent News ?? Devon & Cornwall Police/Solent News & Photo Agency UK +44 (0) 2380 458800
A mother was today found guilty of killing her ex-husband for helping plot a fatal acid attack on him. (Picture: Devon & Cornwall Police)

Speaking after his death, Mr Cahalane’s family said in a tribute: ‘Danny was an outstanding father and son.’

‘Danny and his mum had so much love for each other. 

‘He is well loved by his family and friends and as a family we cherish his love and memories.’

Wilson was found guilty along with Ramarnee Bakas-Sithole, 23, of London. Abdulrasheed Adedoja, 23, of Neasden, London, and Israel Augustus, 26, of Tottenham, London, were found guilty of murdering Mr Cahalane.

The same five defendants were discharged of an offence of attempted GBH. Meanwhile, Sungum was found guilty of being part of an organised crime gang involved in the supply of drugs including enforcement of drug debts.

Two other defendants, Jude Hill, 43, of Plymouth, and Isanah Sungum, 22, of Edmonton, London, were found not guilty of murder or manslaughter on Thursday. The jury returned the verdicts after 40 hours and 45 minutes of deliberations. Wilson, Jean Mukuna, 24, and Arrone Mukuna, 25, both of Camden, London, were convicted of the attempted kidnapping of Mr Cahalane on January 19 2025, while Bakas-Sithole and Adedoja were cleared of the charge.

Jenna Said, 40, of Plymouth, was discharged of the charge and her part in the case and Brian Kalemba, 23, of Barking, London, was also cleared of the same charge and discharged of charges of murder and manslaughter.

Spain confirms 11 hantavirus cases linked to MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak

Get you up to speed: Spain confirms 11 hantavirus cases linked to MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak

There are now 11 confirmed hantavirus cases following an outbreak aboard the MV Hondius. Three people, including a Dutch couple, have died since the ship’s first passenger began to present with symptoms on April 6.

There are now 11 confirmed hantavirus cases following an outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, with one patient in critical condition being treated at Bichat Hospital in Paris, as stated by Xavier Lescure, an infectious disease specialist. The World Health Organisation, led by Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, indicated that while the public risk remains low, more cases may emerge due to the virus’s long incubation period.

The situation aboard the MV Hondius has resulted in 11 confirmed hantavirus cases, with French authorities actively tracing individuals who may have been exposed. The World Health Organisation has indicated that while the risk to the public is low, more cases could arise in the coming weeks due to the virus’s long incubation period.

Hantavirus patient on artificial lung with ‘severe’ condition | News World

Spain confirms 11 hantavirus cases linked to MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak
MV Hondius, the cruise ship where the outbreak began last month (Picture: REUTERS)

There are now 11 confirmed hantavirus cases following an outbreak of the potentially fatal disease aboard the doomed MV Hondius.

One of them, a French woman who had travelled on the ship, is now being treated with an artificial lung after she became critically ill with the disease.

She has been admitted to the intensive care unit of Paris’ Bichat Hospital and is receiving treatment for what medical professionals have described as ‘the most severe form of the cardiopulmonary presentation’.

French authorities are also reportedly scrambling to trace anyone who may have been exposed.

Xavier Lescure, an infectious disease specialist at Bichat Hospital, said: ‘The patient currently has the most severe form of the cardiopulmonary presentation.

A Spanish passenger is sprayed with disinfectant by Spanish government officials before boarding a plane after disembarking from the hantavirus-stricken cruise ship MV Hondius at Tenerife airport in the Canary Islands, Spain, Sunday, May 10, 2026. (AP Photo)
A passenger is sprayed with disinfectant by Spanish government officials after disembarking from MV Hondius in preparation for their homeward journey (Picture: AP)

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‘She is on an artificial lung, a blood bypass, to allow, we hope, for her to get through this phase, while the lung attacked by the virus and the damage to the vascular wall can recover.’

The replacement lung has been described as being the ‘final stage of supportive care’.

Three people, including a Dutch couple, have died since the ship’s first passenger began to present with symptoms on April 6.

The ship, which departed from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, docked in Saint Helena more than three weeks later, where the body of the first victim – who died on April 11 – was taken aboard and 30 more passengers disembarked.

The first victim’s wife, Mirjam Schilperoord – who was one of them – then travelled by plane to Johannesburg, South Africa, where she died days later of the disease.

After the ship made its way to Tenerife, its remaining passengers were repatriated, including 20 British nationals and two UK residents who were subjected to a 72-hour mandatory quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Merseyside – the same facility that was used to isolate arrivals from Wuhan at the start of the Covid pandemic.

The quarantine period has now ended, and some of the passengers have been released but will continue to isolate at home.

Director-General of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. (Photo by Francesco Militello Mirto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the WHO (Picture: Francesco Militello Mirto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has repeatedly said the risk to the public is low, insisting that the disease will not cause another pandemic like the Covid-19 outbreak which shut down the world in 2020.

However, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the WHO, has warned there will likely be more cases of the disease.

‘Of course, the situation could change,’ he told a press conference earlier this week.

‘And given the long incubation period of the virus, it’s possible we might see more cases in the coming weeks.’

WTX previously reported a British man in his 60s, who was meant to be isolating after he travelled on the same plane as Schilperoord, was detained in a bar in Italy.

He and his travelling companion were apprehended in Milan and taken to Sacco Hospital, where they were told they would need to remain until June 6.

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NATO confirms US troop withdrawal from Germany does not affect defence plans

NATO confirms US troop withdrawal from Germany does not affect defence plans

NATO Troop Withdrawal
Washington’s decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany does not impact NATO’s deterrence and defence plans, according to a senior NATO military official.
Strategic Withdrawal
Washington’s withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany signifies a shift in military presence that could affect NATO’s overall deterrence strategy in Europe.
NATO Official
“Replenishment forces do not factor into NATO’s deterrence and defence plans,” stated a senior NATO military official, confirming the recent troop withdrawal from Germany.

Key developments

NATO has confirmed that replenishment forces will not be included in its deterrence and defence plans, according to a senior military official. This statement follows the United States’ decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany.

This troop withdrawal stems from ongoing tensions between President Trump and German Chancellor Merz. The reduction marks a significant shift in the military posture of the US in Europe.

US cancels planned troop deployment to Poland, EU News confirms

NATO confirms US troop withdrawal from Germany does not affect defence plans
Confirming the development, a senior NATO military official told EU News that replenishment forces “do not factor into NATO’s deterrence and defence plans.” The move relates to Washington’s decision to withdraw 5000 troops from Germany after a feud between President Trump and Chancellor Merz.

Spain’s alleged misuse of post-Covid funds sparks fury in frugal northern EU

Spain’s alleged misuse of post-Covid funds sparks fury in frugal northern EU

EU leaders are set to scrutinise Spain’s alleged misuse of post-Covid recovery funds amounting to €140 billion, igniting a notable backlash from frugal Northern states. Concerns have been raised by officials such as German Finance Minister Christian Lindner and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who argue that the financial integrity of the EU is at stake. They demand accountability from Spain, urging the European Commission to investigate and impose sanctions if warranted.

Markets are bracing for potential volatility as investor confidence could be impacted by these developments. Spain’s ongoing funding controversies may hinder its economic recovery and, subsequently, influence the fiscal policies of the Eurozone. Investors should monitor the European Council’s upcoming discussions on this subject, which will be crucial in shaping the financial landscape for the foreseeable future.

Key developments across Europe

Spain’s alleged misuse of post-Covid funds sparks fury in frugal northern EU

EU POLITICS — Spain faces criticism from northern EU countries over the alleged misuse of post-Covid recovery funds.

This discontent has intensified concerns among the traditionally frugal northern EU states regarding fiscal responsibility within the union. The controversy could have broader implications for Spain’s future funding and cohesion within the EU.

EU to ban Brazilian meat imports from September

EU TRADE — The European Union will implement a ban on Brazilian meat imports starting in September.

This decision stems from ongoing concerns about environmental impacts and inadequate animal welfare standards in Brazil. The move reflects the EU’s commitment to ensuring food safety and sustainability in trade relations.

Montenegro enters the endgame for joining the EU

EU FOREIGN POLICY — Montenegro is nearing the final stages of its negotiations to join the European Union.

The country has progressed significantly in its accession talks, meeting numerous criteria set by the EU. Successful integration would mark a crucial step in the EU’s expansion in the Balkans, enhancing stability in the region.

EU diplomats agree to sanction Hamas leaders and Israeli settlers

EU SANCTIONS — The European Union has reached a consensus to impose sanctions on Hamas leaders and Israeli settlers.

This decision is part of the EU’s efforts to enhance diplomatic pressure in the Middle East conflict. The sanctions seek to address ongoing violence and promote peace negotiations in the region.

China ‘very disappointed’ with Europe’s planned investment restrictions, diplomat says

EU FOREIGN POLICY — China has expressed strong discontent regarding the EU’s intended investment restrictions.

This reaction highlights the growing tension between the EU and China as the latter seeks to protect its economic interests amid increasing scrutiny from European regulators. The diplomatic fallout could have implications for future trade relations between the two blocs.

What to watch — Upcoming discussions on the use of EU funds amid scrutiny from member states regarding fiscal accountability.

Further reading from across European news sources

Politico Europe
Spain’s alleged misuse of post-Covid funds sparks fury in frugal northern EU

Euronews
EU to ban Brazilian meat imports from September

Reuters
China ‘very disappointed’ with Europe’s planned investment restrictions, diplomat says

The Guardian
EU proposes end to ‘five tabs, three apps and a prayer’ for cross-border train bookings

Euronews
Hungary’s Magyar set to outline his red lines over EU funding talks in a letter to von der Leyen

Russia Launches Extensive Missile Strikes on Ukraine, Causing Casualties

Russia Launches Extensive Missile Strikes on Ukraine, Causing Casualties

Russian missile strikes across Ukraine have intensified, leaving one dead and over 40 injured, as the country grapples with the aftermath of a relentless onslaught involving over 700 drones and missiles. Analysts highlight the escalating violence as President Vladimir Putin’s approach signals a broader strategy to destabilise the region amidst failed ceasefires, marking a significant uptick in hostilities since the conflict’s inception. International concern grows regarding the humanitarian impact of such operations, underscoring the need for urgent discussions among global leaders on potential responses. For further updates, see the latest insights into global conflict updates.

In economic implications, energy markets are on high alert as Europe braces for potential supply disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict. The impact on energy prices is expected to extend into winter, raising fears of inflation amid existing economic pressures. Stakeholders are particularly focusing on upcoming sanctions discussions, which may shape the next phase of international economic strategy in response to these developments.

Key developments across the world

Russia pummels Ukraine with missiles and drones as ceasefire collapses

GLOBAL SECURITY — Russia has launched a massive assault on Ukraine, involving more than 700 drones and missiles.

The attacks resulted in one death and at least 40 injuries, demonstrating an escalation in the ongoing conflict. This surge in military activity follows the collapse of a ceasefire agreement, raising concerns over civilian safety and potential further military actions.

Political Tension in Philippines Escalates After Senate Gunfire

WORLD POLITICS — Tensions in the Philippines have intensified following gunfire in the Senate, where a senator is reportedly evading arrest.

The incident has heightened political instability and drawn international attention to ongoing issues around governance and accountability for human rights violations in the country. This escalation highlights the fragile state of Philippine politics and the potential for further unrest.

Gunshots fired in Philippine Senate, where senator wanted by ICC is resisting arrest

GLOBAL MIGRATION — The arrest of a senator sought by the ICC led to gunfire in the Philippine Senate, creating a chaotic scene.

This event reflects the deepening crisis of rule of law in the Philippines and has implications for accountability and justice. It raises significant questions about the future of democratic institutions in the country amid increasing violence.

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Blasts in Kyiv as Putin launches deadly assault with over 700 drones and missiles

GLOBAL SECURITY — Kyiv experienced significant bombing as part of a Russian military assault, marking a severe escalation in the ongoing conflict.

Reports indicate the involvement of over 700 drones targeting various locations, contributing to a loss of civilian life and infrastructure damage. This level of aggression not only disrupts peace efforts but also raises the stakes for international intervention.

Political Tension in Philippines Escalates After Senate Gunfire

GLOBAL MIGRATION — The situation surrounding a senator accused of serious crimes has led to unrest within governmental proceedings.

This tension acts as a flashpoint for deeper societal issues regarding political corruption and accountability in the Philippines. The Standoff over governance may fuel public unrest and further inhibit democratic processes.

What to watch — Observers should monitor reactions to Russia’s military escalation, particularly from NATO and other global actors.

Further reading from global news sources

BBC News
Massive Russian strikes across Ukraine leave one dead, officials say

The Guardian
One dead and 40 injured as intense Russian strikes on Ukraine continue – Europe live

Financial Times
Russia pummels Ukraine with missiles and drones as ceasefire collapses

Politico
Macron allies deny Brigitte slapped French president over texts with Iranian actress

Bloomberg
Political Tension in Philippines Escalates After Senate Gunfire

Dad in mourning claims grim suicide forum ‘thrived on’ son’s death | News UK

Get you up to speed: Dad in mourning claims grim suicide forum ‘thrived on’ son’s death | News UK

ONLINE SAFETY
Ofcom has fined the operators of a notorious suicide forum £950,000 following investigations into its role in normalising suicide-related discussions and contributing to multiple deaths.
ONLINE SAFETY CRISIS
Ofcom is preparing a court application for business disruption measures against the website following its investigation into its role in facilitating suicide.
ONLINE SAFETY UPDATE
Ofcom is preparing a court application for business disruption measures against the forum’s provider if it fails to comply with their regulations.

What we know so far

Ofcom has fined a notorious suicide forum £950,000 after it was linked to multiple deaths, including that of Tom Parfett, who died in October 2021. The forum, which cloaked itself as a supportive space, allowed users to discuss suicide openly and encouraged harmful behaviours.

Tom Parfett, 22, tragically documented his own suicide attempt on the forum while receiving encouragement from other users. His father, David, expressed his horror at the online reactions, stating, “It was just the sickest thing ever reading those comments.” The forum has been identified as having contributed to a growing concern over the normalisation of suicide among vulnerable individuals.

The website has been linked to at least 133 deaths globally and is currently under scrutiny as Ofcom investigates nearly 100 similar platforms. Families affected by such tragedies are calling for stricter regulations and a public inquiry. David Parfett remarked, “We are not going to pretend that this is the end of the story,” affirming the need for continued efforts to address online safety.

A government spokesperson reiterated their commitment to holding online services accountable, stating, “Every family devastated by suicide deserves to know that online services are being held to account.” The spokesperson highlighted that further actions may be taken against platforms failing to comply with regulations established to protect users.

Read in full

Grieving dad says sick suicide forum ‘got a kick out of’ son’s death | News UK

tom parfett 4 5fb9
Tom Parfett killed himself in October 2021 after engaging with the forum (Picture: Provided)

As David’s son lay dying, people online were cheering him on.

Tom Parfett, 22, had taken a poison tablet and documented how it felt to users on the same forum in October 2021 in a hotel in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey.

He said he was starting to lose feeling in his hand, and commenters only ‘egged him on’.

His dad David told WTX: ‘It was just the sickest thing ever reading those comments. No one thought to call an ambulance or help him in any way.

‘They were getting a kick out of my son dying.’

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The website, a notorious suicide forum which disguised itself as a help group, has been investigated by Ofcom, who yesterday fined the operators £950,000.

And it was ‘hiding in plain sight’, even ranking high on Google search.

‘He had struggled with his mental health’

Samaritans are here to listen, day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email [email protected] or visit samaritans.org for more information.

Tom, an ‘academically brilliant’ A* student, had just moved to St Andrews to read philosophy.

Throughout his childhood, he had struggled with anxiety over his schoolwork which could lead to spirals of low mood which involved child mental health services.

David said: ‘But he was a lovely kid to be around. He had a wicked laugh and a brilliant sense of humour.

‘If Tom had a passion, it would stay with him for years,’ David said. ‘This included philosophy, playing football and supporting Manchester United.’

But moving away from home for the first time during Covid-19 lockdowns proved challenging. The isolation, coupled with his anxiety to academically succeed, became difficult for Tom to handle.

tom parfett 2 70dd
Tom’s dad described him as a ‘lovely kid to be around’ (Picture: Provided)

‘He was falling into a black hole’

It was during this time he revealed to David he had suicidal thoughts, but insisted he would never take action on it and just wanted to find the right support which was not easy to get.

‘He seemed to be falling into a big black hole,’ David said. ‘He would speak about his suicidal thoughts quite regularly, but he was somebody who was quite clear who would take no action on them.’

Two months before his death, Tom was sectioned for a night in Scotland.

David was away for the night in Newcastle, barely looking at his phone as he enjoyed his evening when he finally received the call.

tom parfett 5 5c90
Throughout his childhood, he had struggled with anxiety over his schoolwork which could lead to spirals of low mood (Picture: Provided)

David said: ‘He had a breakdown the night before his birthday. It was surprising because things were looking a bit better having started his new academic year.’

Two months later, Tom bought poison from a website for around £50, with what would have been a £40 to the seller.

‘He valued my son’s life at around £40,’ David said ‘No one stopped it, it came like a package on Amazon.’

‘The forum normalised suicide’

It was only after David looked into his son’s death as part of a Times investigation, did he come across the forum.

‘It is an echo chamber, where it was just normal for people to discuss taking their own life and leaving detailed instructions.

‘Tom was insistent he would take no action on his suicidal thoughts. But this normalised it for him.’

Even as David scrolled through, he had to stop himself becoming too drawn into the posts.

‘I was vulnerable at the time,’ he said. ‘And I had to manually remind myself that this is not normal.’

tom parfett 73df e1778687219111
Tom had taken the pill and documented the effects on the website (Picture: Provided)

The National Crime Agency has identified 272 people who bought items from the website between April 2021 and April 2023. Of those, 88 died.

Kenneth Law, a former chef, has been charged with 14 counts of assisting suicide in Canada.

Although a package with Law’s details was found next to Tom’s body, Surrey Police say there was no evidence to suggest any communication between the two.

‘A fine alone is not enough’

The website has been linked to 133 deaths across the world and featured in multiple coroners’ reports.

It became the first website to be investigated by Ofcom under the Online Safety Act, with the watchdog announcing yesterday they were fining the operators £950,000.

The regulator is now investigating nearly 100 sites and has issued 17 fines against seven companies – totalling nearly £5 million.

But families of loved ones who have taken their lives after visiting these websites have demanded more, including a public inquiry.

David said: ‘Ofcom itself has been clear that £950,000 is the full extent of what it can do under the Online Safety Act in this case, and that the forum remains operational.

‘We are not going to pretend that this is the end of the story. It is the moment the case for a statutory public inquiry becomes harder, not easier, for the Government to refuse.’

Adele Walton, whose sister Aimee died in October 2022 after engaging with the forum, said: ‘My sister is dead. Tom Parfett is dead. At least 133 other families in this country are living with the same loss. Today’s fine doesn’t bring any of them back.

‘Why did it take so long and why is the Government still refusing the one mechanism, a statutory public inquiry, capable of answering those questions independently?’

A government spokesperson said: ‘Every family devastated by suicide deserves to know that online services are being held to account, and we are unequivocal about the responsibilities platforms have to keep people safe – tackling illegal content and giving users effective routes to report any concerns.

‘That is why we back Ofcom in using the full extent of its powers under the Online Safety Act. The regulator has also confirmed it is preparing a court application for business disruption measures should the provider fail to comply – powers that could ultimately restrict UK user access entirely.’

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