Ministers to crack down on ‘for-profit’ litter enforcers in England

The UK energy minister, Michael Shanks, emphasized the urgent need for the country to take decisive action to prevent a potential gas supply crisis, which could leave homes and businesses without gas during the coldest days of the year. Advisers have warned that without adequate planning, the UK may face significant shortages by the end of the decade.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves's recent budget includes a tax break for wealthy former non-domiciled individuals, significantly reducing their inheritance tax liabilities. Experts indicate that this benefit primarily favors those with assets exceeding £83 million, raising concerns about equity in tax policy.

Campbell's has dismissed Martin Bally, a senior executive, following allegations that he made derogatory comments about the company's products, referring to them as being for 'poor people,' and made disparaging remarks about Indian employees. The comments were reportedly recorded by another employee, prompting immediate action from the company.

Shellfish exports from the Menai Strait have significantly declined post-Brexit, impacting Welsh mussel farmers who are now focusing on the future. The mussels, freshly harvested from the waters, are being processed in hopes of revitalizing their business amidst challenging market conditions.

Romania has successfully implemented the largest deposit return scheme in the world, leading to a remarkable 94% increase in beverage-packaging collection and recycling within two years of its launch. Residents like Dana Chitucescu from the village of Pianu de Jos actively participate in this initiative by returning empty PET bottles, aluminum cans, and glass to local shops weekly.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a freeze on income tax thresholds until the 2030-31 tax year, a decision that experts from the Resolution Foundation and other thinktanks warn will disproportionately affect poorer households, exacerbating existing inequalities in living standards.

Properties in England valued over £2 million will now be subject to a mansion tax, with a surcharge starting at £2,500 and increasing to £7,500 for those exceeding £5 million. This tax is part of the government's broader fiscal strategy aimed at addressing budgetary needs.

A new feature on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, has revealed the locations of popular accounts, leading to significant backlash as many pro-Trump accounts were found to be based overseas. This move, initiated by X's head of product Nikita Bier, aimed to enhance transparency and combat disinformation but has resulted in users turning against each other over the findings.