Bad season of bird flu in UK hits supply of Christmas turkeys

The UK government has announced a freeze on rail fares in England for 2026, marking the first such measure in 30 years. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to confirm this decision in her upcoming budget speech, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on commuters and support economic growth amid rising living costs.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce a £1.5 billion boost in electric vehicle (EV) subsidies as part of the upcoming budget, which aims to support the purchase of new EVs until 2030. This funding includes £1.3 billion for subsidies and £200 million for charging infrastructure, addressing concerns about a potential pay-per-mile tax that could deter consumers from buying electric cars.

A Ukrainian delegation, supported by representatives from France, Germany, and the UK, is set to engage in direct talks with Washington in Switzerland, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizes a diplomatic approach in discussions with foreign allies. This strategy aims to avoid making 'loud statements' while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics.

The UK government has announced a £1.5 billion package to support the transition to electric vehicles, which includes an extension of the Electric Car Grant scheme for an additional year. This initiative aims to encourage more consumers to switch to electric cars, contributing to the country's environmental goals.

Anas Sarwar has stated that Scotland cannot depend on migrants to fill social care positions, highlighting the need for a reform of the UK's immigration system and advocating for better wages to attract local workers. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the challenges faced by the social care sector in Scotland.

Boris Johnson took four days off from official duties during a critical period in February 2020 when the NHS was preparing for a potential Covid crisis, as revealed by official disclosures. During this time, he was at Chevening, engaging in leisure activities such as walking his dog and riding a motorbike while pandemic planning stalled.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, faces allegations from 20 former classmates at Dulwich College who claim he exhibited racist and antisemitic behavior during his teenage years. Farage has denied these claims through a spokesperson, asserting there is 'no evidence' to support the allegations.

Duralex, the renowned French glassmaker, successfully raised €5 million in emergency funding within just five hours and 40 minutes, with total pledges exceeding €19 million within 48 hours. This rapid response from the public highlights the brand's nostalgic value and strong connection with consumers.