Cocktail of the week: Courtyard Wine Cellar’s pear and white wine fizz – recipe

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including protests in Milan, Israeli strikes on Gaza, and the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa in China, alongside lighter moments like a pelican relaxing in London. These images not only capture the diversity of human experiences but also highlight the pressing issues facing different regions, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our world.

Keir Starmer's recent speech at the Global Progress Action Summit in London aimed to address the rising politics of hate and division, but many critics argue that his approach lacks clarity and substance. His call for 'patriotic renewal' has left many wondering what it truly means, and whether it will resonate with voters. As the next election approaches, Starmer's strategy may need to evolve significantly if he hopes to effectively counter the growing influence of Reform and connect with the electorate.

Roksana Lecka, a 22-year-old nursery worker from Hounslow, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the horrific abuse of 21 babies at London nurseries. Her actions included pinching, scratching, and even kicking a child in the face, which has shocked the community and raised serious concerns about child safety in care facilities. This case highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations and oversight in childcare settings to protect vulnerable children from such cruel treatment.

At the Global Progress Action summit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for progressive politicians to tackle the false narratives propagated by populists. He criticized the negative portrayal of London as 'decaying and lawless' and called for a united front to challenge the 'industrialised infrastructure of grievance' that fuels such rhetoric. This matters because confronting misinformation is crucial for maintaining public trust and fostering a more informed political discourse.

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has addressed the recent criticisms made by Andy Burnham regarding the Prime Minister. This discussion highlights the ongoing political dynamics and the importance of holding leaders accountable, especially in times of public concern. It matters because it reflects the voices of local leaders advocating for their communities.

A UK court has dismissed a terror charge against Irish rapper Kneecap, who was accused of displaying a Hezbollah flag during a concert in London last year. This ruling highlights the complexities of legal definitions surrounding terrorism and free expression, raising questions about the implications for artists and their rights to political expression in performances.

The Thames Water desalination plant in Beckton has been a costly venture, having operated only five times in 15 years and providing just seven days' worth of water for London. This raises concerns about its effectiveness and the management of water resources in the capital. As Thames Water plans a new £500m project to address drought issues, the past performance of the plant highlights the challenges faced in ensuring a reliable water supply for the city.

Luke Combs, a megastar in the country music scene, is playing a pivotal role in introducing British audiences to the genre. His excitement about the Grand Ole Opry's upcoming relocation from Nashville to London highlights the growing popularity of country music in the UK. This move not only signifies a cultural exchange but also opens doors for more artists and fans to connect, making it an exciting time for music lovers on both sides of the Atlantic.

In London, police are taking serious action against the alarming trend of vape-spiking, which has led to several teenagers as young as 14 being admitted to hospitals. This crackdown is crucial as it highlights the dangers associated with vaping and the need for increased awareness and safety measures to protect young people from harmful substances.

Noel Clarke, the former Doctor Who star, has been arrested at his family home in London, raising concerns among fans and the entertainment community. Police conducted a search of his property in Kensington, taking away boxes that reportedly contained a laptop and documents. This incident is significant as it highlights ongoing issues surrounding public figures and legal troubles, potentially impacting Clarke's career and public image.

In a troubling incident, hackers have reportedly stolen the personal information, including pictures and addresses, of around 8,000 children from the Kido nursery chain. This breach has raised significant concerns about the safety and privacy of children in educational settings. Kido, which operates 18 locations in London and additional sites in the US, India, and China, is now facing a ransom demand from the cybercriminals. This situation highlights the growing threat of cybercrime and the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect sensitive information.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has responded to US President Donald Trump's recent criticism, labeling him as 'racist, sexist, and Islamophobic.' This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between the two leaders, particularly regarding immigration policies. Khan's remarks are significant as they reflect broader concerns about Trump's rhetoric and its impact on international relations, especially in a diverse city like London.

Assata Shakur, a prominent figure in the Black Liberation Army and a symbol of resistance, has passed away at the age of 78 in Havana, Cuba. Her life was marked by her activism and her controversial escape from the U.S. after being convicted of killing a New Jersey state trooper. Shakur's death is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions around race, justice, and the legacy of political activism in America.

A recent forensic audit of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations has raised serious concerns, revealing that over $34 million of its expenditures from April 2019 to March 2024 were deemed questionable, unsupported, or ineligible. This finding is significant as it highlights potential mismanagement of funds within an organization that plays a crucial role in representing Indigenous interests, raising questions about accountability and transparency in financial practices.

Keir Starmer's proposal for mandatory digital IDs in the UK has sparked significant criticism from rivals and civil liberties groups. Concerns are rising about the potential risks, including the creation of a major hacking target and the exclusion of individuals without smartphones. This initiative, aimed for implementation by mid-2029, raises important questions about privacy and accessibility in an increasingly digital world.

The Ryder Cup 2025 kicked off with an exciting day of foursomes at Bethpage Black, where the USA trails Europe 1-3 after the first round. This event is significant as it showcases top golfers from both sides competing for national pride and glory. With players like Bryson DeChambeau aiming to ignite the American team, fans are eager to see how the competition unfolds in the coming days.

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including protests in Milan, Israeli strikes on Gaza, and the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa in China, alongside lighter moments like a pelican relaxing in London. These images not only capture the diversity of human experiences but also highlight the pressing issues facing different regions, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our world.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting they could ignite further conflict in the Middle East. He also reflected on a personal injury from the recent war with Israel and expressed openness to international nuclear inspectors visiting Iran. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the delicate balance of international relations, making it crucial for global leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent escalation.