David Lammy suggests UK would benefit from rejoining an EU customs union

The European Union has imposed a landmark fine of approximately $140 million on Elon Musk's social media platform, X, for deceptive practices related to user verification and insufficient transparency in advertising. This penalty marks the EU's first significant enforcement action under its new digital regulations, highlighting the bloc's commitment to ensuring accountability in the digital space.

Reform UK has revoked the membership of Ian Cooper, the leader of Staffordshire County Council, following allegations of racist remarks made online against public figures including Sadiq Khan and David Lammy. Cooper reportedly referred to Khan as a 'narcissistic Pakistani' and made derogatory comments about migrants. This decision was made by Nigel Farage, the party leader, amid growing scrutiny over Cooper's conduct.

The UK's data protection watchdog has requested urgent clarity from the Home Office regarding racial bias in police facial recognition technology, following tests indicating that the technology disproportionately misidentifies black and Asian individuals. The Home Office acknowledged that certain demographic groups are more likely to be incorrectly included in search results.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected the idea of the UK joining a customs union with the EU, following comments from Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, who suggested that countries in such unions benefit economically. Starmer's stance indicates a firm position against closer ties with the EU in this regard.

The European Commission has imposed a fine of approximately $140 million on Elon Musk's social media platform, X, due to misleading practices related to user verification and insufficient transparency regarding advertisements and data access for researchers. This penalty highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny of digital platforms under EU laws.

Former EU Commissioner Pierre Moscovici emphasized that peace in Ukraine cannot be achieved solely through negotiations with Russia, amidst ongoing US-led talks. He highlighted the instability in France and the broader European context as critical factors influencing diplomatic efforts.

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have stalled, with U.S. negotiations in Moscow yielding no significant compromises on key territorial issues. The European Union's role has diminished, primarily reacting to U.S. proposals while continuing to support Ukraine through coalition meetings.

Russia's ambassador to the UK has dismissed the findings of an official investigation that concluded the country was responsible for the death of Dawn Sturgess, who died following the 2018 Salisbury poisoning incident. The ambassador's comments come amid heightened tensions between Russia and the UK, with warnings of potential conflict in Europe.