Crashed Lisbon funicular had faulty cable, official inquiry finds

Fiona Goddard and Ellie-Ann Reynolds have resigned from the panel that oversees the national inquiry into grooming gangs, raising concerns about the future of the investigation. Their departure highlights potential issues within the inquiry process and the ongoing struggle for justice for survivors. This resignation could impact the credibility and effectiveness of the panel, making it crucial for authorities to address these challenges promptly.

Following a tragic crash in September that resulted in the deaths of 16 people due to a faulty cable, an inquiry has recommended that Lisbon's funicular trams remain closed. This decision underscores the importance of safety in public transport, as authorities prioritize thorough inspections to prevent further accidents. The closure not only affects daily commuters but also highlights the need for stringent safety measures in the city's transport infrastructure.

A preliminary report on the Glória funicular crash in Lisbon has revealed serious safety oversights, including the fact that the cable involved had never been certified. This raises significant concerns about the maintenance and safety protocols in place for public transport systems, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to prevent future accidents.

A recent inquiry revealed that a faulty cable caused the tragic funicular crash in Lisbon that claimed 16 lives in September. The report highlighted that the cable was substandard and recommended that the city's other funiculars remain out of service until their safety can be assured. This incident raises significant concerns about public transportation safety and the need for rigorous maintenance checks to prevent future tragedies.

An inquiry has been announced into the maternity failings at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, following reports from over 70 families who have described their experiences as traumatic. This investigation is crucial as it aims to address the serious concerns raised about the quality of care provided in these maternity units, highlighting the need for improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of mothers and their newborns.

In a recent live news update, Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong commented on Donald Trump's remarks to the Australian US ambassador, suggesting they were made in jest. This exchange highlights the ongoing complexities in Australia-US relations, especially in light of recent political changes. Wong's assertion that Kevin Rudd's position is not tenable adds another layer to the diplomatic discourse, indicating potential shifts in leadership and policy direction. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they can impact international cooperation and trade.

The ongoing government shutdown in the U.S. has reached a critical point as the Senate's eleventh vote to pass a funding resolution has failed, resulting in a 50-43 tally. This deadlock highlights the deep divisions within Congress, particularly among Democrats, and raises concerns about the impact on government services and employees. As one of the longest shutdowns in U.S. history, it underscores the urgent need for bipartisan cooperation to resolve the funding crisis and prevent further disruptions.

Maccabi Tel Aviv has announced that they will not accept any ticket allocation from Aston Villa, even if the ban on their supporters for the upcoming Europa League match is lifted. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the clubs and raises questions about fan engagement and safety in international competitions.

A US Boeing 737 MAX 8 was reportedly struck by an unidentified object, raising concerns that it may have originated from space. This incident highlights the ongoing discussions about the potential risks posed by space debris to commercial aviation. As air travel continues to grow, understanding and mitigating these risks becomes increasingly important for passenger safety.

A tragic incident occurred at Hong Kong's airport when a cargo plane skidded off the runway after colliding with a security vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. This event raises serious concerns about airport safety protocols and the need for thorough investigations to prevent future accidents. The implications of such incidents can affect not only the families involved but also the broader aviation industry and public confidence in air travel.

The White House has started the demolition of a section of the East Wing, removing a large covered entryway and windows to create a new event space for Trump. This development is significant as it reflects ongoing changes to the iconic building, which may impact future events and the overall aesthetic of the White House.