Year 8 state school pupils in England could face mandatory reading tests

Postal workers in Canada have initiated a strike in response to the government's controversial decision to end door-to-door delivery within the next decade. The union has expressed outrage, labeling the government's sweeping changes as an attack on workers' rights. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions between labor unions and government policies, raising concerns about the future of postal services in Canada and the impact on employees and communities reliant on these services.

The upcoming World Cup final between England and Canada is generating excitement, especially with the presence of Meg Jones, who brings a unique energy and momentum to the team. Her experience, particularly not having faced the previous loss to New Zealand, could be a game-changer. This match is significant not just for the teams involved but for the sport itself, as it showcases the intensity and skill of rugby at its highest level.

Mikel Arteta has expressed his desire for Bukayo Saka to sign a new contract with Arsenal, following William Saliba's recent long-term deal. Saka, whose current contract runs until 2027, is seen as a crucial player for the team, and securing his future would be a significant boost for Arsenal as they aim for success in the upcoming seasons.

Keir Starmer's proposal for a new digital ID system has sparked a variety of opinions among the public and experts alike. While some see it as a modern solution to streamline identification processes, others raise concerns about privacy and security. This discussion is crucial as it reflects broader societal attitudes towards technology and governance, especially in the UK.

Moldova's government has banned an opposition party just days before a crucial vote, leading to accusations of political persecution from the party's leader. This move raises concerns about the state of democracy in Moldova and the government's commitment to fair electoral processes. The situation is significant as it could impact voter turnout and the overall political landscape in the country.

The sold-out Women's Rugby World Cup final at Twickenham highlights the UK's emerging status as a global hub for women's sports. This event not only showcases the thrilling competition between Canada and England but also marks the beginning of a series of significant women's sporting events in the UK over the next decade, including the Women's T20 World Cup and the Grand Départ of the Tour de France. This momentum is crucial for promoting gender equality in sports and inspiring future generations of female athletes.

Recent government data reveals that immigrants without a criminal record now constitute the largest group in U.S. immigration detention, surpassing those with criminal histories. This shift, with 16,523 individuals without records compared to 15,725 with records, raises significant concerns about the treatment of non-criminal immigrants and the implications for U.S. immigration policy. It highlights a troubling trend where individuals who have not committed any crimes are being detained, prompting discussions about the fairness and effectiveness of current immigration enforcement practices.

The UK government is facing increasing pressure to implement a compulsory digital ID system, largely driven by rising populist sentiments surrounding immigration. This initiative has sparked significant criticism from various political factions, highlighting concerns over privacy and government overreach. The debate around this scheme is crucial as it reflects broader societal tensions and the challenges of balancing security with individual rights.

Sophie de Goede is emerging as a key player for Canada in the Rugby World Cup final against England, showcasing her versatility and skill. Her ability to score tries and excel in breakdown situations makes her a formidable opponent. This match is significant not only for the teams involved but also for the future of rugby in Canada, as a victory could inspire a new generation of players and elevate the sport's profile in the country.

Ministers in England and Wales are advancing a controversial plan to allow the naming and shaming of offenders completing community sentences. Critics argue that this approach could unfairly stigmatize families of those involved, raising ethical concerns about public shaming and its potential impact on rehabilitation. As the sentencing bill progresses through parliament, the debate intensifies over the balance between accountability and compassion in the justice system.

The UK government is showing strong support for the return of international rail travel to Kent stations, specifically Ashford and Ebbsfleet, which have been without cross-Channel services since 2020. With Eurostar deeming these routes unviable, new competitors are stepping in, and the government is urging the rail regulator to facilitate their entry. This move is significant as it could revitalize travel options for residents and tourists alike, enhancing connectivity and boosting the local economy.

John Mitchell believes that his past experience with the men's 2019 Rugby World Cup final can guide the England women's team to success against Canada. He acknowledges the mistakes made in the previous final but is confident that the Red Roses are prepared to seize this opportunity for Rugby World Cup glory. This match is crucial not only for the team's aspirations but also for showcasing the growth and potential of women's rugby on a global stage.

Assata Shakur, a prominent figure in the Black Liberation Army and a symbol of resistance, has passed away at the age of 78 in Havana, Cuba. Her life was marked by her activism and her controversial escape from the U.S. after being convicted of killing a New Jersey state trooper. Shakur's death is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions around race, justice, and the legacy of political activism in America.

A recent forensic audit of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations has raised serious concerns, revealing that over $34 million of its expenditures from April 2019 to March 2024 were deemed questionable, unsupported, or ineligible. This finding is significant as it highlights potential mismanagement of funds within an organization that plays a crucial role in representing Indigenous interests, raising questions about accountability and transparency in financial practices.

Keir Starmer's proposal for mandatory digital IDs in the UK has sparked significant criticism from rivals and civil liberties groups. Concerns are rising about the potential risks, including the creation of a major hacking target and the exclusion of individuals without smartphones. This initiative, aimed for implementation by mid-2029, raises important questions about privacy and accessibility in an increasingly digital world.

The Ryder Cup 2025 kicked off with an exciting day of foursomes at Bethpage Black, where the USA trails Europe 1-3 after the first round. This event is significant as it showcases top golfers from both sides competing for national pride and glory. With players like Bryson DeChambeau aiming to ignite the American team, fans are eager to see how the competition unfolds in the coming days.

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including protests in Milan, Israeli strikes on Gaza, and the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa in China, alongside lighter moments like a pelican relaxing in London. These images not only capture the diversity of human experiences but also highlight the pressing issues facing different regions, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our world.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting they could ignite further conflict in the Middle East. He also reflected on a personal injury from the recent war with Israel and expressed openness to international nuclear inspectors visiting Iran. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the delicate balance of international relations, making it crucial for global leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent escalation.