'Huge vote of confidence' as data centre giant announces £4bn British investment

Rachel Reeves, the UK Chancellor, is facing scrutiny just weeks before her budget presentation after admitting to failing to obtain a rental license, raising questions about her leadership and judgment. This revelation comes at a critical time for the Labour Party, as they seek to maintain public trust and support. The timing of this issue could have significant implications for her political future and the party's credibility.

PC Marie Thompson, a police officer from South Yorkshire, has been sentenced to 40 months in prison for blackmailing a suspect in an indecent images case. Posing as a 'paedophile hunter,' she extorted £3,500 to fund her gambling addiction. This case highlights serious issues of corruption within law enforcement, raising concerns about trust and accountability in the police force.

Recent findings show that over 98% of fish and mussels in English waters contain mercury levels exceeding EU safety limits, prompting urgent calls for the UK to ban mercury dental fillings. This is significant because mercury is a harmful neurotoxin that poses serious health risks, affecting various bodily systems even at low exposure levels. As one of the few countries still allowing these fillings, the UK faces increasing pressure to protect public health and align with safety standards.

Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative MP, clarified that the party does not intend to deport legally settled individuals, countering previous statements made by Katie Lam. This clarification is significant as it reassures many families who have made the UK their home, emphasizing the party's commitment to stability and support for settled communities amidst ongoing political discussions about immigration.

Hurricane Melissa has caused unprecedented destruction in Jamaica, making landfall on October 29 as a Category 5 storm with winds exceeding 300 kph. The aftermath has left over half a million residents without electricity, highlighting the severe impact on the island. In response, both the UK and US have pledged to provide aid, underscoring the international community's support during this crisis.

Lily Allen is set to embark on a UK theatre tour in March 2026, showcasing her new break-up album, 'West End Girl.' This tour is significant as it marks a personal and artistic evolution for Allen, allowing her to connect with fans through her latest work and share her experiences in a more intimate setting.

Virgin Media O2 has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Elon Musk's Starlink to enhance mobile coverage in rural areas of the UK. Set to launch in 2026, this initiative will be the first in Britain to leverage Starlink's satellite technology, providing a significant boost to connectivity for underserved regions. This collaboration is crucial as it addresses the long-standing issue of poor mobile service in rural communities, ensuring that more people can access reliable communication and internet services.

Critics are raising alarms as insurers advocate for the removal of ancient trees to address subsidence issues, a move that could threaten some of the UK's most cherished natural landmarks. Campaigners highlight that this approach is not only a quick fix but also jeopardizes irreplaceable ecosystems. The story of Linda Taylor Cantrill, who chose her home in Exmouth for its beautiful 200-year-old oak tree, underscores the emotional and environmental significance of these trees. This situation matters because it reflects a broader conflict between development and conservation, urging us to reconsider how we address environmental challenges.

A letting agent has issued an apology for failing to secure a necessary rental licence for a property managed by them. The oversight occurred when the property manager promised to apply for the licence but ultimately did not follow through. This situation highlights the importance of compliance in the rental market, as such oversights can lead to legal issues and affect tenants' rights.

President Trump's decision to cap refugee admissions at a record low of 7,500 for the upcoming year marks a significant reduction from the previous limit of 125,000. This policy shift has raised concerns about the implications for vulnerable populations seeking asylum, particularly as the majority of the new admissions will be white South Africans. This move is seen as controversial and may affect the U.S.'s global standing on humanitarian issues.

The Senate has passed a bill to nullify former President Trump's extensive global tariffs affecting over 100 nations, with a vote of 51-47. This bipartisan effort follows earlier resolutions aimed at repealing tariffs on Canada and Brazil. The move is significant as it reflects a shift in U.S. trade policy and could enhance international relations, potentially benefiting American consumers and businesses by lowering prices on imported goods.

Rachel Reeves has acknowledged that she should have verified whether a rental license was obtained, following an apology from the letting agent involved. This situation has sparked discussions in UK politics, particularly with No 10 releasing redacted emails related to the matter. ITV's political editor, Robert Peston, argues that it is unwise for the Conservatives to demand Reeves' resignation over this issue. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of political figures and the importance of transparency in their dealings.

The Trump administration has set the lowest cap on refugee admissions to the U.S. since the program began in 1980, focusing primarily on resettling Afrikaners from South Africa. This decision is significant as it reflects a shift in U.S. immigration policy, potentially limiting opportunities for many vulnerable populations seeking asylum and safety in America.

A man has been sentenced to prison after breaking into the studio of renowned artist Damien Hirst while wearing a GPS tag. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of art theft and security, especially concerning high-profile artists. The case serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that even the most famous figures face in protecting their creative spaces.