Browsing: London

Apple has partnered with the Metropolitan Police to make stolen mobile phones inoperable, following an agreement that prevents reactivation once marked as stolen. Samsung and Google will also implement measures to track devices, aiming to disrupt criminal networks behind phone theft.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concern over Reform UK’s decision to remove Ukrainian flags from town halls in England. He urged the party to reconsider, noting that “small mistakes can break big friendships.” Zelensky made these comments after a meeting in London with UK and European leaders.

Leaders from France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have backed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s call for direct ceasefire talks with Russia, following discussions in London. They emphasised the necessity of a dialogue involving US and European participation to establish a ceasefire and facilitate negotiations.

Kingston Council in south London has apologised for wording in an equalities report regarding e-bikes that residents deemed sexist. The report suggested e-bikes assist women in fulfilling traditional domestic roles. Following backlash, the council issued a revised report acknowledging the language was “outdated and inappropriate.”

During the EU-Western Balkans summit, momentum for EU enlargement was underscored by Hungary’s decision to lift its veto on Ukraine’s accession negotiations. António Costa noted that upcoming talks will showcase renewed European unity, particularly ahead of the June summit, despite ongoing challenges in the accession process.

Charing Cross and Waterloo East stations in London will close for 22 days from 26 July to 16 August for essential upgrades, alongside several weekends before and after. The £20 million project includes track replacement and structural repairs, affecting rail services diverted to alternative stations.

Liverpool Street station is experiencing calm ahead of rush hour, despite the first day of a strike. Transport for London staff reported that crowds are manageable. Commuter Ashley, 34, travelling from Durham, noted no disruption and plans to reassess travel arrangements for Thursday.

UK Athletics was fined £350,000 for the “wholly avoidable” death of UAE Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei caused by a collapsed practice cage.

Jeremy Corbyn addressed a crowd at SXSW in London, asserting that Jeffrey Epstein’s influence on British politics remains significant. Discussing the imminent release of files related to Peter Mandelson, Corbyn characterised this moment as a potential turning point, calling for a comprehensive public inquiry into the connections involved.

Denis Horton sought medical advice for his wife Penny after she exhibited signs of early onset Alzheimer’s, including memory loss. Following extensive testing, she was diagnosed and is participating in a pioneering clinical trial at University College Hospital focusing on brain inflammation’s role in Alzheimer’s progression.