Third of women report facing sexual harassment at university in England, survey finds

Canada's rugby team is gearing up for a thrilling World Cup final against England, aiming to shatter their unbeaten streak. With confidence high and the same starting lineup that has brought them success in the knockout stages, the team believes they have what it takes to pull off an upset. This match is significant not just for the championship but also for challenging England's dominance in the sport, making it a must-watch event for rugby fans.

The crown court backlog in England and Wales has reached a staggering new high of nearly 80,000 cases, marking a 10% increase. This surge in open cases is causing trial wait times to balloon to as long as four years. This situation is concerning as it highlights significant delays in the justice system, affecting countless individuals awaiting their day in court. The implications of such a backlog are profound, potentially undermining public confidence in legal processes and prompting calls for urgent reforms.

Labour is under fire as a high court judge has permitted a legal challenge against the recent legislation allowing chickens to be carried by their legs, a practice previously banned under EU law. This decision raises serious concerns about animal welfare and the government's commitment to protecting animals. The scrutiny comes at a time when Labour is already facing criticism for not fulfilling its animal welfare pledges, making this issue particularly significant for voters who prioritize humane treatment of animals.

United Utilities has come under fire for underspending over £52 million on essential work in Windermere, England, aimed at connecting private septic tanks to the mains and reducing pollution. This shortfall raises concerns about the company's commitment to environmental protection and public health, especially in a region known for its natural beauty. The failure to invest adequately in infrastructure could have long-term implications for the local ecosystem and community well-being.

Wayne Rooney, the former England and Manchester United striker, credits his wife Coleen with saving his life amid his struggles with alcohol. He revealed that during his playing career, he often drank for two days straight and felt he was 'struggling massively.' Rooney believes that without Coleen's support, he might not have survived his battles with addiction. This story highlights the importance of support systems in overcoming personal challenges and the impact of loved ones in the journey to recovery.

A massive explosion rocked the town of Swindon in South West England, leading to a significant fire that fire crews are currently battling. This incident is alarming as it raises concerns about safety and emergency response in the area, highlighting the potential dangers associated with industrial sites. The community is understandably shaken, and the situation is still developing as authorities work to manage the aftermath.

Ben Youngs, England's most-capped rugby player, opens up about the personal challenges he faced due to family illnesses, which made it hard for him to fully appreciate his record of 127 caps. He reflects on his experiences under different coaches, expressing disappointment in not receiving empathy from Steve Borthwick while highlighting his respect for Eddie Jones. This insight into Youngs' emotional journey sheds light on the pressures athletes face beyond the field, making it a significant discussion in the world of sports.

A recent study reveals that England's declining birthrates could result in the closure of up to 800 primary schools by 2029, as pupil numbers are expected to drop by 4% over the next five years. This significant reduction, amounting to around 162,000 fewer students, raises concerns about the future of education in the country. The implications of such closures could affect local communities, educational resources, and the overall landscape of primary education in England.

Recent data reveals that England's Environment Agency has failed to adequately monitor serious pollution incidents, raising concerns about environmental protection and public health. This oversight is alarming as it highlights the agency's struggles in fulfilling its responsibilities, potentially allowing harmful pollutants to go unchecked. The implications of this failure could affect ecosystems and communities, making it a critical issue that demands immediate attention.

A recent survey by the Law Society has revealed alarming conditions in courts across England and Wales, highlighting issues like asbestos, flooding, and deteriorating infrastructure. These problems are not just about discomfort; they are contributing to a significant backlog in cases, which undermines public trust in the justice system. This situation matters because it affects the timely delivery of justice and the overall integrity of legal proceedings, raising concerns about the rights of individuals awaiting their day in court.

The UK government has allocated £6 million to consultants and lawyers to explore public-private partnerships for new NHS clinics, raising concerns about a potential repeat of past funding disasters. With £3 million contracts awarded to Deloitte and Addleshaw Goddard, critics worry that this approach could lead to inefficiencies and financial pitfalls similar to those seen in previous private finance initiatives. This move is significant as it reflects ongoing debates about the best ways to fund and manage healthcare services in England, especially in light of the NHS's current challenges.

A new report from CPRE reveals that nearly 1.5 million homes could be constructed on brownfield sites in England, which would help meet housing targets without sacrificing green belt land. This is significant because it highlights a sustainable approach to housing development, addressing the urgent need for more homes while preserving vital green spaces. The findings challenge developers who often prefer green land for new projects, suggesting a shift towards utilizing available brownfield areas instead.

A recent hack of a nursery chain has led to the theft of children's names, pictures, and addresses, prompting experts to label it as an 'absolute new low' for cyber-crime. This incident raises serious concerns about the safety and privacy of vulnerable populations, particularly children, and highlights the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in institutions that handle sensitive information.

Canada Post is facing significant changes as Ottawa has announced it can end door-to-door delivery and close rural offices. Joël Lightbound, the minister responsible for Canada Post, emphasized that these measures are essential for the survival of the struggling national mail carrier. This decision raises concerns about accessibility for rural communities and the future of postal services in Canada.

A recent study in Nova Scotia revealed that 80% of car and booster seats for children are being used incorrectly, highlighting a significant safety concern for young passengers. Conducted across 33 communities with 1,005 child passengers surveyed, the findings stress the importance of proper seat usage to ensure children's safety during travel. This issue matters because it underscores the need for increased awareness and education among parents and caregivers about the correct installation and use of these essential safety devices.

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, once seen as a resilient figure in politics, is now facing a significant legal challenge with a five-year prison sentence looming over him. Despite his past ability to navigate controversies, this situation marks a critical moment in his career and raises questions about his lasting influence in French public life. As discussions about his legacy unfold, the implications of his potential imprisonment could reshape the political landscape in France.

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has been found guilty of criminal conspiracy for accepting millions from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Despite his claims of innocence, Sarkozy faces time in prison, even if he chooses to appeal the verdict. This case is significant as it highlights the ongoing scrutiny of political financing and the legal repercussions that can arise from past actions, especially involving controversial figures like Gaddafi.

Bryson DeChambeau has urged Donald Trump to motivate the US team as they compete for Ryder Cup glory at Bethpage Black. With Trump set to attend the first day of the competition, DeChambeau believes his presence could be a significant boost for the team. This call for inspiration highlights the intersection of sports and politics, showing how influential figures can rally support and potentially impact the outcome of major sporting events.