Ministers briefed on major curbs to jury service, Sky News understands

The Chancellor is set to announce a comprehensive budget today, which is expected to include a range of tax increases aimed at stabilizing public finances while fostering economic growth. This comes amid rising concerns about the UK's financial outlook and the need for fiscal adjustments.

Multiple London councils have experienced a cyber attack, raising concerns about the potential compromise of residents' personal data. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in local government cybersecurity measures and the increasing frequency of such attacks.

The children of Muriel McKay, a murder victim, have been denied permission to scan a garden where they believe her remains may be buried. This decision follows ongoing efforts to locate her remains, which have been a source of distress for the family since her disappearance.

Graham Thorpe's widow has stated that her husband would still be alive if he had received more support from the governing body of English cricket. This comment follows the tragic passing of the former cricketer, highlighting concerns about mental health support within the sport.

A primary school has canceled its Christmas show following incidents of racist abuse directed at students. This decision reflects the school's commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students, highlighting the serious implications of such behavior on community events.

A recent report indicates that one in four general practitioners (GPs) are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in their work, despite a significant majority lacking formal training in this technology. This trend highlights the growing integration of AI tools in healthcare settings, reflecting a shift in how medical professionals approach patient care and administrative tasks.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced that milkshakes and lattes will be subject to a sugar tax for the first time, as part of efforts to combat obesity. This measure is aimed at reducing sugar consumption among the population.

The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia's Afar region has erupted for the first time in recorded history, leading to significant ash clouds that have disrupted air travel, resulting in flight cancellations. This eruption marks a notable geological event, as it is the first in nearly 12,000 years, with ash reaching heights of up to 9 miles (14 km) and drifting towards neighboring regions, including Yemen and Oman.