Dozens of flood alerts across England and Wales amid warning of heavy rainfall

The UK Labour government has announced a comprehensive action plan to eliminate new HIV cases in England by 2030, which includes routine testing for HIV at Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments. This initiative, set to be detailed on World Aids Day, aims to re-engage individuals who have disengaged from HIV care and includes a £170 million funding package for opt-out testing in high-prevalence areas such as London and Manchester.

Biker romance film Pillion has been awarded the top prize at the British Independent Film Awards, highlighting its success in the independent film sector.

An inquiry has revealed that a UK special forces unit in Afghanistan operated under a 'deliberate policy' to kill fighting-aged males, even in instances where they did not pose a threat. This alarming finding raises serious ethical concerns regarding military conduct and adherence to international laws of engagement.

England's water companies have issued £10.5 billion in green bonds since 2017, despite a persistent record of sewage pollution, according to research by Unearthed, part of Greenpeace UK. This issuance is criticized by River Action as being a form of corporate greenwashing, as the environmental benefits claimed are undermined by ongoing pollution issues.

In September, 386,849 patients in England faced delays exceeding six weeks for critical diagnostic tests, including those for cancer and heart conditions, raising alarms among healthcare professionals about potential harm to patients. This situation highlights significant inefficiencies within the NHS, as reported by the Royal College of Radiologists.

Retired UK detective Hugh Hughes believes that Ivan Milat, convicted of murdering seven people, may have had additional victims, including a family member of his wife, Keren Rowland. This assertion comes as a New South Wales inquiry into unsolved murders invites public submissions, potentially reopening discussions on Milat's criminal history.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to deliver a speech defending the recent budget decisions amid accusations that Chancellor Rachel Reeves misrepresented the state of public finances and implemented significant tax increases totaling £26 billion. This budget aims to address the UK's ongoing cost of living crisis while facing criticism from various political factions.

Joe Root expressed his skepticism about the necessity of day-night Tests in the Ashes series, stating, 'I personally don’t think so,' while acknowledging the format's popularity in Australia. As England prepares for the second Test at the Gabba, Root's performance under lights will be crucial, especially in light of the team's recent struggles.