English councils to remain poorer than in 2010 despite funding rise, says report

Thomas Tuchel, the head coach of the England national football team, plans to reach out to Jude Bellingham and other players who were left out of the latest squad. This is significant as Bellingham, a star at Real Madrid, missed recent matches against Wales and Latvia. Tuchel's intention to connect with these players before the next selection in November shows his commitment to building a strong team and ensuring that key players are eager to return, which could enhance England's performance in upcoming competitions.

In a disappointing turn of events for Pakistan, their hopes of achieving a historic win against England in the Women's World Cup were dashed by rain. The match was abandoned with Pakistan at 34 without loss, chasing a revised target of 113. England's Nat Sciver-Brunt acknowledged that her team 'weren’t good enough,' highlighting the missed opportunity for Pakistan to secure their first ODI victory over England. This match was crucial for both teams, as it could have shifted the dynamics of the tournament.

The Guardian's editorial discusses the recent China spy trial and highlights it as a pivotal moment for the Labour party to demonstrate its understanding of the challenges posed by Beijing. The article emphasizes the need for the UK government to clarify its stance on China, balancing the threats and opportunities that arise from this complex relationship. This is crucial for building public confidence in the government's foreign policy, especially given China's repressive regime and its aggressive international posture.

The recent actions of Labour's new housing secretary, Steve Reed, have sparked controversy, as he appears to be falling short of the ambitious housing promises made by the party. His 'Build Baby Build!' slogan, reminiscent of right-wing rhetoric, raises concerns about the sincerity of Labour's commitment to addressing the housing crisis. This matters because it highlights a potential disconnect between political promises and actual policy, leaving many wondering if real change will ever come to the housing sector.

Zoe Aldcroft, the captain of the England women's rugby team, recently celebrated their victory in the Women's Rugby World Cup. After a whirlwind of festivities in Ibiza, she reflected on the emotional moment when she realized they had won, expressing her disbelief and joy. This victory not only highlights the team's hard work and dedication but also boosts the profile of women's rugby, inspiring future generations of players.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between England and Pakistan was abandoned due to rain, which is disappointing for fans and players alike. The game had already been reduced to 31 overs a side, and the weather ultimately thwarted any chance of play. This situation highlights the challenges of scheduling outdoor sports events, especially in unpredictable weather conditions, and raises questions about how teams and organizers can better prepare for such occurrences in the future.

Recent research from the mental health charity Mind reveals a troubling increase in stigma surrounding mental health in England. Alarmingly, one in seven people now express fear about living near someone with a mental health issue, a figure that has nearly doubled. Even more concerning is that one in ten individuals would refuse to live next to someone who has recovered from mental illness. This rise in stigma not only highlights societal fears but also underscores the urgent need for awareness and education to foster understanding and acceptance.

A man from England has been arrested in Quebec City by local police at the request of British authorities regarding the disappearance of a U.K. teenager. This development is significant as it highlights international cooperation in addressing serious cases like missing persons, ensuring that justice can be pursued across borders.

As England gears up for the 2026 World Cup, the squad is taking shape with more than half of the 26 spots seemingly secured. Key players like Jordan Pickford, who recently broke Gordon Banks's record for consecutive clean sheets, are solidifying their positions. With a strong defensive record, even against lesser opponents, coach Thomas Tuchel has reasons to feel optimistic. The return of elegant centre-back John Stones adds further strength to the team. This is an exciting time for England fans as they look forward to the tournament with a promising lineup.

A recent BBC investigation has uncovered a troubling 37% rise in reports of sexual offences across England, Scotland, and Wales, highlighting a significant issue that affects public safety and trust in transportation. This alarming trend raises concerns about the effectiveness of current measures to protect individuals, especially in vulnerable situations like traveling on trains.

England has made history by becoming the first European team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, showcasing their strong performance in the qualifiers. This achievement is significant as it highlights England's growing dominance in international football. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo set a new record for Portugal, but the team faced a setback by drawing with Hungary. This mix of triumph and challenge adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming World Cup, making fans eager to see how both teams will perform on the global stage.

The current political crisis surrounding French President Emmanuel Macron serves as a cautionary tale for UK Labour leader Keir Starmer. While Macron once held a strong position in the center, his inability to establish a lasting legacy has led to instability in France. This situation highlights the risks for Starmer, who has recently gained significant support but must navigate the complexities of political volatility. The implications of Macron's struggles could resonate across the Channel, reminding Labour of the importance of solidifying their position to avoid a similar fate.

Canada is taking a tough stance against Stellantis, threatening legal action over the company's decision to shift Jeep production to the U.S. This move could breach agreements made with the Canadian government to keep manufacturing operations in Ontario. Industry Minister Melanie Joly has expressed concerns that such a shift could jeopardize jobs and economic stability in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining local production.

Recent viral posts falsely claim that ICE agents zip-tied a toddler during an immigration crackdown in Chicago. However, the footage actually shows a father playing with his son in a game of 'cops and robbers' filmed in 2024. This misinformation highlights the dangers of spreading unverified claims, especially regarding sensitive topics like immigration, and underscores the importance of fact-checking in today's digital age.

NATO defense chiefs are reportedly pushing for a change in engagement rules that would permit the shooting down of Russian planes. This development raises significant concerns about escalating tensions between NATO and Russia, as it suggests a more aggressive military stance that could lead to dangerous confrontations in the air. The implications of such a shift could affect international relations and security in the region, making it a critical issue to watch.

The Women's Champions League match between Chelsea and Paris FC is underway at Stamford Bridge, with kick-off at 8pm BST. This event is significant as it showcases top-level women's football, drawing attention to the growing popularity and competitiveness of the women's game. Fans can follow live updates and scores, highlighting the excitement surrounding this match.

In a recent statement, President Trump indicated that Israel could resume military actions in Gaza if Hamas does not adhere to the ceasefire agreement. This comes as Hamas struggles to locate the remaining bodies of hostages. The situation remains tense, and Trump's comments highlight the fragile nature of the ceasefire, emphasizing the ongoing complexities in the region. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they impact humanitarian efforts and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is set to announce a significant crackdown on crypto ATMs that have been linked to money laundering and other serious crimes. This move is crucial as it aims to enhance financial security and combat illegal activities that exploit digital currencies. By addressing these issues, the government is taking a proactive stance to protect citizens and maintain the integrity of the financial system.