Drone-blocking technology ‘urgently’ required at jails in England and Wales

Latvian MPs have voted to withdraw from a treaty aimed at protecting women from violence, sparking outrage among several thousand protesters. This decision raises significant concerns about the future of women's rights in Latvia and puts pressure on the president to take a stand on the issue. The outcome could have lasting implications for the safety and well-being of women in the country.

The Wallabies are showing promising signs as they prepare for their upcoming clash against England, reminiscent of their victory at Twickenham last year. This resurgence is crucial as it marks a significant turnaround for Australia, who have been striving to regain their competitive edge in rugby. The team's return to their free-running style of play is not just about winning; it's about restoring confidence and excitement in their game, which fans and players alike have been eager to see.

England's rugby team is generating genuine optimism ahead of the autumn series, thanks to their recent successes, including seven consecutive wins and a strong finish in the Six Nations. The unconventional pairing of Northampton players Tommy Freeman and Fraser Dingwall adds excitement to the squad's depth, suggesting that England is not only ready to compete but also to potentially dominate in upcoming matches.

A recent report from the National Audit Office reveals that home-to-school transport costs in England have skyrocketed to £2.3 billion annually, largely due to more children with special educational needs and disabilities traveling longer distances to suitable schools. This overspend of £415 million highlights the urgent need for addressing transport issues for these pupils, as over half a million young people rely on council-funded transport. This situation not only strains local budgets but also raises concerns about accessibility and equity in education for vulnerable children.

A recent report by Age UK reveals a troubling situation in England's A&E departments, where nearly 150,000 individuals aged 90 and above endure waits exceeding 12 hours each year. Many of these elderly patients face distressing conditions, including being left in their own waste and witnessing the suffering of others. This alarming trend highlights significant issues within the healthcare system, raising concerns about the treatment and dignity of older patients in critical situations.

The latest deprivation index reveals a troubling picture of inequality in Britain, highlighting how geography and housing costs are exacerbating poverty, particularly in areas like Jaywick and London. This matters because it underscores the systemic issues that contribute to the widening gap between the wealthy and the impoverished, affecting the lives of countless families and children who are trapped in low-income households.

England's rugby team is looking to adopt the aggressive 'Bazball' mentality from cricket as they prepare for their upcoming match against Australia. Head coach Steve Borthwick and his staff have consulted with Brendon McCullum to inspire a fast-paced and dynamic approach. This strategy aims to not only energize the team but also set a strong tone ahead of the Ashes series, showcasing England's ambition to excel in both rugby and cricket.

A recent report reveals that nearly all children in 73 areas of England are living in low-income households, highlighting the ongoing struggle with poverty and deprivation in these neighborhoods. This situation is particularly alarming as it includes 31 boroughs in inner London, where high housing costs exacerbate the issue. The findings underscore the failure of government efforts to improve living conditions and raise awareness about the urgent need for effective policies to support these vulnerable families.

A federal judge has ruled against the Trump administration's plan to suspend SNAP food benefits, which would have affected millions of Americans amid the ongoing government shutdown. This decision is significant as it ensures that vulnerable populations continue to receive essential food assistance during a time of uncertainty, highlighting the importance of maintaining support for those in need.

Saint John Police Chief Robert Bruce has addressed concerns regarding the future of the police force amid allegations of harassment. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to his role, emphasizing the importance of leadership during turbulent times. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions about accountability and transparency within law enforcement.

The ongoing protests in Tanzania following the recent elections have turned deadly, with credible reports indicating that at least 500 people may have lost their lives. This tragic situation highlights the severe unrest and political tensions in the country, raising concerns about human rights and the stability of the region. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, as the implications of such violence could affect not only Tanzania but also its neighbors.

A federal court has stepped in to block the suspension of SNAP benefits, which was set to affect over 40 million Americans just hours before the government shutdown. This ruling is significant as it ensures that vulnerable populations will continue to receive essential food assistance during a time of uncertainty. The decision highlights the importance of food security and the role of government support in helping families navigate challenging economic conditions.

Israel's top military lawyer has resigned following a controversy over her involvement in the release of footage that allegedly shows soldiers assaulting a Palestinian detainee. This resignation highlights the ongoing tensions and scrutiny surrounding military conduct in the region, raising questions about accountability and the treatment of detainees.

Exciting news for Beatles fans as Sam Mendes' upcoming four-part film series has confirmed the casting of four talented actresses to portray the spouses of the iconic band members. Mia McKenna-Bruce will take on the role of Maureen Cox, while Saoirse Ronan will play Linda Eastman, Anna Sawai will embody Yoko Ono, and Aimee Lou Wood will portray Pattie Boyd. This casting not only highlights the film's commitment to authenticity but also brings a fresh perspective to the stories behind the legendary Fab Four, making it a highly anticipated project.