Now we know what patriotism means to Shabana Mahmood – can she harness that to unite rather than divide us? | Gaby Hinsliff

Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, has made strong accusations against Nigel Farage, labeling his political tactics as 'worse than racist' due to their dog-whistle nature. This statement comes in light of recent racial abuse faced by her family, highlighting the ongoing issues of racism and discrimination in the UK. Mahmood's remarks at a Labour conference fringe event underscore the urgent need for political leaders to address and combat such harmful rhetoric, making this a significant moment in the discourse around race and politics.

GPs in England are raising alarms over a government initiative to enhance online appointment booking, warning that it could lead to an overwhelming surge in patient demand. The doctors' union has given ministers a tight deadline of 48 hours to implement measures to prevent what they describe as a 'triage tsunami.' This situation is critical as the new system is set to launch soon, aiming to ease the morning rush for appointments, but GPs fear it may backfire and strain their resources.

Chris Woakes, the Warwickshire all-rounder, has left a remarkable legacy in cricket, highlighted by his commitment to the team and his impressive achievements, including two World Cup victories. His final appearance for England at the Oval, where he bravely batted despite a dislocated shoulder, showcased his dedication and resilience. Woakes' contributions to the sport will be remembered fondly, making his farewell a significant moment for fans and players alike.

Alan Gilpin, the head of World Rugby, has praised the Women's World Cup as 'the greatest of all-time,' highlighting its historic and special nature. He emphasized that the men's tournament could learn valuable lessons from how the women showcased the sport. This recognition not only celebrates the achievements of female athletes but also signals a shift in how women's sports are perceived, potentially leading to greater investment and interest in women's rugby.

The Women's Cricket World Cup is making a return to India, bringing with it increased prize money and high expectations, especially with the host nation potentially facing Australia in the final. However, late ticket sales could undermine this opportunity, reflecting ongoing challenges in promoting women's cricket. This event is significant as it highlights the growth of women's sports and the need for better support and visibility, ensuring that the excitement on the field translates into fan engagement off it.

Labour is set to consult on the use of live facial recognition technology before its broader implementation across England. This move comes from the new policing minister, who emphasized the need to establish clear parameters for its deployment. This consultation is significant as it reflects the party's cautious approach to balancing technological advancements in policing with public concerns about privacy and civil liberties.

Chris Woakes has officially retired from international cricket, marking the end of a remarkable 15-year career with England. Known as 'the nicest man in cricket,' Woakes leaves behind a legacy that includes two World Cup victories and countless memorable performances in Test matches. His retirement comes after a dislocated shoulder prevented him from participating in the upcoming Ashes tour, but his contributions to the sport will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike.

Moldovan newspapers are reflecting on the recent parliamentary election results, highlighting the significance of these outcomes for the country's political landscape. Meanwhile, New York is gearing up for the final stretch of its mayoral race following Eric Adams' withdrawal, which adds an unexpected twist to the competition. In Saudi Arabia, a comedy festival is stirring controversy, indicating that not all events are taken lightly. Lastly, England's Red Roses are celebrating a unique victory as Australia announces its cow-pat discus champions, showcasing the quirky side of sports. These stories matter as they illustrate the diverse political and cultural dynamics shaping our world.

Over 100 charities have united to urge UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to stop blaming migrants for the country's issues, particularly in housing and the NHS. This collective letter emphasizes that scapegoating refugees won't solve these pressing problems. It highlights the need for a more compassionate approach to migration, reminding us that addressing the root causes of these challenges is essential for a healthier society.

In a move that could significantly impact many, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to announce stricter requirements for those seeking indefinite leave to remain in the UK. Under the proposed changes, individuals will need to demonstrate a high standard of English and maintain a spotless criminal record, while also being ineligible for benefits. This announcement comes as a response to the rising political pressure from Reform UK, highlighting the government's focus on tightening immigration policies. Such measures could affect countless individuals hoping to settle in the UK, raising concerns about inclusivity and fairness in the immigration process.

Rachel Reeves has announced an ambitious plan to establish a library in every primary school in England, aiming to provide all children with equal access to educational resources. This initiative will particularly benefit the 1,700 primary schools currently lacking libraries, funded by £132.5 million from dormant assets. This move is significant as it not only enhances literacy and learning opportunities for young students but also reflects Labour's commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the best start in life.

England's women's rugby team has made history by winning the Women's World Cup against Canada in front of a record crowd. The victory is not just a personal achievement but a source of inspiration for future generations of female athletes, as the team celebrated their success at Battersea Power Station. This triumph highlights the growing popularity of women's sports and the importance of role models in encouraging young girls to pursue their dreams in athletics.

Tragically, the Irish police have reported the violent deaths of a family consisting of Louise, Mark, and their son Evan O'Connor, labeling it a homicide incident. This heartbreaking event highlights the urgent need for community support and mental health resources, especially for families facing challenges like autism. The loss of three lives in such a manner raises serious concerns about safety and well-being in society.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has emphasized the need for a strong and united response from Europe to recent Russian drone incursions. This call comes as key European nations, including the UK, France, Germany, and Sweden, pledge to bolster Denmark's security ahead of important summits in Copenhagen. This collaboration highlights Europe's commitment to collective defense and stability in the face of external threats, reinforcing the importance of unity among member states.

Andrew Tate will not face criminal charges regarding serious allegations made by four women in a civil case at London's high court. The Crown Prosecution Service determined that the legal criteria for a criminal prosecution were not met, despite the women's claims of sexual violence and abuse. This decision raises significant concerns about accountability and the legal system's response to allegations of such serious nature, especially in the context of ongoing discussions about violence against women.

In Rio de Janeiro, wildlife is suffering due to rampant gun violence, with organizations like Instituto Vida Livre treating numerous animals injured by gunfire. A recent case involved a capuchin monkey named Maria, who was found shot and unable to move. This alarming trend highlights the broader impact of crime on both human and animal lives, raising awareness about the urgent need for solutions to protect vulnerable species in urban environments.

US lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene has raised concerns about attempts by 'powerful people' to silence her as she advocates for the unsealing of Jeffrey Epstein's records. This push for transparency is significant as it highlights the ongoing struggle for accountability in high-profile cases involving sexual misconduct. Greene's determination to bring these issues to light resonates with many who seek justice and transparency in the face of powerful interests.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has clarified that he did not agree to a Palestinian state as part of Trump's Gaza plan, emphasizing that the IDF will maintain a presence in most of the territory. This statement comes amid alarming reports from the Gaza health ministry, which revealed that 453 individuals, including 150 children, have succumbed to famine and malnutrition. The situation highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and raises questions about the viability of peace efforts in the region.