‘Ignorant and life-threatening’: experts condemn Free Birth Society misinformation

The Trump administration has reportedly disbanded the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) ahead of its scheduled end, confirming long-held suspicions about the agency's viability. With eight months remaining on its contract, the agency's dissolution marks the conclusion of its controversial efforts to restructure federal agencies and reduce workforce numbers. OPM director Scott Kupor stated that Doge is no longer a 'centralized entity.'

A recent survey conducted in New South Wales revealed that over a quarter of young men believe violence is acceptable for gaining respect, with more than one-third admitting to sexually harassing women in the past month. This alarming data comes from the NSW Man Box report, commissioned by the Minns government, highlighting concerning attitudes towards gender roles and violence among youth.

Hospitals in Gaza are facing a severe shortage of essential medical supplies as Israeli airstrikes continue to escalate, resulting in over 50 fatalities and more than 100 injuries in recent days. Medical personnel report critical shortages of gauze, antiseptics, thermometers, and antibiotics, which are vital for treating the wounded. This situation has arisen amid ongoing violence that has intensified despite previous ceasefire agreements.

A cross-party coalition in England is working towards the realization of an ambitious 'forest city' plan, aiming to construct a city made of wood that could accommodate one million residents. The initiative is set to begin construction by the end of the current parliamentary term, marking the first such project since Milton Keynes in the 1960s.

A year-long investigation into the Free Birth Society (FBS), a North Carolina-based organization promoting unassisted childbirth, has revealed alarming findings, including dangerous medical claims and links to stillbirths. The FBS, led by Emilee Saldaya and Yolande Norris-Clark, has gained significant attention through its podcast, which has millions of downloads.

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.

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.