Trump wins latest: President-elect gives 'ice maiden' top job; singer 'removes song from TikTok' after use in Trump video
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Donald Trump has appointed Susie Wiles as his White House chief of staff; this is his first major appointment as president-elect; three states, including California, are taking steps to protect liberal policies from Trump's administration; the date of the announcement is November 8, 2024.

#Trump #Wiles #Harris #UsElection2024 #California #LiberalPolicies #Tiktok #Music #Appointment #Politics

https://news.sky.com/story/us-election-trump-kamala-harris-latest-live-13209921


US election latest: Mobile phones used by Trump, Vance, and Harris campaign, among those targeted by Chinese hackers
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Mobile phones used by Donald Trump, J.D. Vance, and Kamala Harris's campaign were targeted by Chinese hackers; US officials are investigating the incident; it is unclear if any data was successfully taken; staff express anger at two major US publications for blocking endorsements for Kamala Harris; incident reported on October 26, 2024.

#UsElection #ChineseHackers #KamalaHarris #DonaldTrump #JdVance #Cybersecurity #Investigation #DataBreach #Politics #Media

https://news.sky.com/story/us-election-donald-trump-kamala-harris-democrat-republican-polls-skynews-live-latest-13209921


Politics latest: Renowned doctor and Labour peer says UK 'might have to consider insurance' to cover cost of NHS
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Lord Robert Winston suggests considering an insurance model for NHS funding; PM states NHS reform will take 'ten years' and requires funding changes; Lord Darzi's report highlights critical state of NHS; Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces criticism over economic management; Sir Keir Starmer asserts 'Russia started this conflict' regarding Ukraine; PM en route to Washington DC for discussions with President Biden; Winter fuel payment cuts affect 7 million pensioners, saving £1.3bn; NHS waiting lists and care quality deteriorating, requiring urgent investment; Tory leadership contest includes Kemi Badenoch, Robert Jenrick, James Cleverly, and Tom Tugendhat; Stephen Kinnock emphasizes fiscal discipline while addressing NHS funding.

#Nhs #Politics #Uk #Insurance #Funding #Starmer #Winston #Darzi #Economy #Reform

https://news.sky.com/story/politics-live-labour-nhs-keir-starmer-sunak-tory-leadership-budget-sky-news-latest-12593360


US election latest: Harris 'preparing for Trump calling her a bitch' in debate
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Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will debate for the first time on September 10, 2024, at 2am UK time; Harris is preparing for potential derogatory comments from Trump, including the possibility of him using the word 'bitch'; Trump's spokesman questioned why Harris's team is anticipating such language; Harris's aides are pushing for open microphones during exchanges; Harris has been criticized for her shifting political positions since becoming vice president; Polls show Harris leading Trump by 3.7% on August 23, but the gap has narrowed recently; Key swing states include Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin; The election is set for November 5, 2024.

#UsElection #KamalaHarris #DonaldTrump #Debate #Polls #SwingStates #Politics #2024Election #Biden #Campaign

https://news.sky.com/story/us-election-latest-harris-preparing-for-trump-calling-her-a-bitch-in-debate-13209921


Politics latest: Tory leadership candidates fall a bit flat in new poll - as Starmer says 'country's in a state'
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First day of political term on 2 September 2024; Sir Keir Starmer focuses on education plans; Tory leadership race intensifies with six candidates: James Cleverly, Tom Tugendhat, Robert Jenrick, Mel Stride, Priti Patel, Kemi Badenoch; Poll shows low public recognition of candidates; Cleverly pledges to resurrect Rwanda scheme and increase defense spending to 3% of GDP; Badenoch emphasizes blunt honesty and renewal; UK to impose partial ban on arms sales to Israel; £421m extended Household Support Fund announced; MPs return to Westminster after summer recess.

#ToryLeadership #KeirStarmer #JamesCleverly #KemiBadenoch #UkPolitics #Israel #ArmsSales #HouseholdSupportFund #DefenseSpending #Elections

https://news.sky.com/story/politics-latest-tory-leadership-candidates-fall-a-bit-flat-in-new-poll-as-starmer-says-countrys-in-a-state-12593360


Politics latest: Government under fire over airport decision as PM touts green agenda
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Sir Keir Starmer emphasizes Wales' role in Britain's energy future; Labour government faces criticism over London City Airport expansion, increasing capacity from 6.5 million to 9 million passengers; Deputy PM Angela Rayner and Transport Secretary Louise Haigh approved the expansion despite local Labour council's opposition; Critics, including Zack Polanski of the Green Party, argue it contradicts climate commitments; Greenpeace claims it benefits wealthy frequent flyers while harming poorer neighborhoods; Government insists it will meet climate targets; Starmer discusses ceasefire prospects with Israeli PM Netanyahu; 206 migrants crossed the Channel, totaling 19,294 for the year; Scottish government faces scrutiny over rising drug deaths, with 1,172 fatalities last year; Labour MP Clive Lewis avoids disciplinary action over controversial social media post.

#UkPolitics #ClimateChange #AirportExpansion #LabourParty #GreenParty #Migration #DrugPolicy #Israel #Netanyahu #Starmer

https://news.sky.com/story/politics-latest-starmer-labour-riots-parliament-conservative-leadership-jenrick-police-live-12593360


Politics latest: Government under fire over airport decision as PM touts green agenda
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Sir Keir Starmer emphasizes Wales' role in becoming an 'energy superpower'; government faces criticism over London City Airport expansion, increasing capacity from 6.5m to 9m passengers; Deputy PM Angela Rayner and Transport Secretary Louise Haigh approved the expansion; critics like Zack Polanski from the Green Party argue it contradicts climate commitments; government claims commitment to climate targets; six contenders in Conservative Party leadership race announced, with final two chosen by 10 October; Labour's two-child benefit cap remains despite calls for abolition; Operation Early Dawn activated to address prison overcrowding; PM pledges support for Port Talbot steelworks facing 2,800 job losses due to green transition; GB Energy allocated £8.3bn for offshore wind projects; Liberal Democrats fined £3,600 for late donation reporting.

#UkPolitics #GreenAgenda #AirportExpansion #PrisonOvercrowding #LabourParty #ConservativeParty #ClimateChange #EnergyPolicy #SteelIndustry #ElectoralCommission

https://news.sky.com/story/politics-latest-government-under-fire-over-airport-decision-as-pm-touts-green-agenda-12593360


Money blog: Couples reveal how they split finances when one earns more than other
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Research by Hargreaves Lansdown suggests in an average household with a couple, three-quarters of the income is earned by one person. Some couples will want to pay the same amount on bills as they want to contribute equally. But for others, one partner can feel resentful if they are spending all of their money on bills while the other has much more to spend and is living a different lifestyle as a result. Couples should set a specific date in the year to go through their finances and have open and honest conversations about money. There are several ways couples can split their finances, including separate personal accounts where both pay the same amount into a joint account regardless of income, separate personal accounts where the higher earner pays their partner an 'allowance', and everything is shared with both partners having access to separate accounts but paying for expenses from either one. The best approach depends on the couple's preferences and financial situation.

#Money #Finances #Couples #Income #Bills

https://news.sky.com/story/money-news-latest-consumer-blog-13040934


Politics latest: Chancellor to accuse Tories of 'covering up' state of public finances; Braverman scraps Tory leadership bid
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Rachel Reeves is set to unveil spending cuts after finding a £20bn "black hole" in the public finances following a review of the books; Kemi Badenoch has entered the Conservative leadership race to replace Rishi Sunak; Suella Braverman will not run to be the next leader of the Conservative Party; Chancellor Rachel Reeves will accuse the previous Tory government of "covering up" problems with the public finances in a Commons speech; The race to replace Rishi Sunak as Conservative Party leader has started; David Lammy has spoken on the phone with Lebanon's prime minister amid fears of an escalation between Israel and Hezbollah; Rachel Reeves is set to accuse the previous Conservative government of having "covered up" the state of public finances following a review of the books after taking office earlier this month; Kemi Badenoch has entered the Conservative leadership race to replace Rishi Sunak with a pledge to tell voters the truth; Rachel Reeves is set to accuse the previous Conservative government of having "covered up" the state of public finances following a review of the books after taking office earlier this month; Rachel Reeves is set to accuse the previous Conservative government of having "covered up" the state of public finances following a review of the books after taking office earlier this month

#Politics #Chancellor #Tories #PublicFinances #SpendingCuts #ConservativePartyLeadership #RachelReeves #KemiBadenoch #SuellaBraverman #Israel #Hezbollah

https://news.sky.com/story/keir-starmer-pmqs-conservative-leadership-contest-latest-live-12593360


Politics latest: COBRA meetings held over widespread IT outages; Zelenskyy makes historic visit to No 10
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Urgent COBRA meetings have been held over IT outages; Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, asks UK government to allow Ukraine to target sites in Russia using UK weapons; UK restores funding to UNRWA; Several arrests made following rioting in Leeds; Small boat crossings in 2024 pass 15,000; Multibillion-pound programme to build UK's future flagship fighter jet could be at risk in defence review; COBRA meetings held with civil servants over cyber outage; Parliament goes cash only due to technical issues; Liberal Democrats call for COBRA meeting over IT outages; Global cyber outages affecting GPs; Zelenskyy meets with UK government ministers; Sir Keir Starmer promises to crack down on 'shadow fleets' in meeting with Zelenskyy

#Cobra #ItOutages #Zelenskyy #Ukraine #Russia #Unrwa #Arrests #Leeds #SmallBoatCrossings #FighterJet #DefenceReview #CyberOutage #Parliament #CashOnly #LiberalDemocrats #Gps #ShadowFleets

https://news.sky.com/story/kings-speech-labour-keir-starmer-latest-live-12593360


Best wines for the summer under £10 a bottle
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The article provides a list of the best wines for the summer under £10 a bottle. The wines recommended include Minimalista Malbec, Sicilian Grillo, Amandla Shiraz Zinfandel, Canto Nono Alvarinho, M&S Found Agiorgitiko, M&S Found Organic Verdil, Agramont Garnacha Old Vine, Duca di Castelmonte Zibibbo, Specially Selected Australian Cabernet Franc, Unearthed Custoza Bianco, Maree d'ione Organic Nero di Troia, Azevedo Vinho Verde, Extra Special Barossa Shiraz, Santodeno Grillo Sicilia, Cidade Branca Alentejo, and The Best Verdeca. The article also mentions the availability of a Supermarket Wine Finder app for personalized recommendations.

#Wine #Summer #Budget #Recommendations

https://news.sky.com/story/money-blog-interest-rates-mortgage-deals-consumer-skynews-latest-13040934


Sir Keir Starmer does not rule out 20,000 prisoners being released early
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Sir Keir Starmer has not ruled out the possibility of releasing 20,000 prisoners early in order to alleviate pressure on the justice system. The government is considering reducing the minimum portion of a sentence that criminals have to serve, potentially allowing prisoners to serve only 40% of their sentences instead of the current 50%. This could result in the release of up to 20,000 prisoners over a period of several months. Sir Keir Starmer described the state of the criminal justice system as a 'much worse problem' than he anticipated and criticized the previous government for its handling of the issue. The capacity issues in prisons led to an early release scheme being implemented before the general election, allowing for the release of 'high-risk' offenders. The early release scheme initially began in October and was extended in March, allowing prisoners serving less than four years to be released two months early. Alex Chalk, the previous Conservative justice secretary, suggested that Rishi Sunak, the current chancellor, may have opposed further early releases due to concerns about getting the policy approved by MPs.

#KeirStarmer #Prisoners #EarlyRelease #JusticeSystem #Criminals

https://news.sky.com/story/sir-keir-starmer-does-not-rule-out-20-000-prisoners-being-released-early-13176700


Ukraine-Russia war latest: Dire warnings over 'enormity' of Trump's NATO plans
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China lashes out at NATO after the alliance said it was a 'decisive enabler' of Russia's war effort. Ukraine's state-owned defence company Ukroboronprom has signed an agreement with US weapons manufacturer Northrop Grumman to produce ammunition. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been criticized for unapproved meetings with Putin. A Russian court has sentenced a student to five years in jail for sharing troop locations with Ukrainian forces. A foreign cargo ship has been seized for allegedly exporting Ukrainian grain from occupied Crimea. Joe Biden's speech at the NATO summit is under scrutiny. Russia will develop a 'military response' to US missiles in Germany. The number of people killed by Russian strikes on Ukraine has risen to 44. Hungarian opposition politician Peter Magyar is delivering aid to a children's hospital in Kyiv. Moscow has ruled out attending a second peace summit hosted by Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban plans to visit Donald Trump in Florida for talks on a possible peace deal.

#Ukraine #Russia #Nato #Trump #China #NorthropGrumman #Hungary #Orban #Crimea #JoeBiden #Germany #RussianStrikes #AidDelivery #PeaceSummit

https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-russia-war-latest-updates-putin-kyiv-sky-news-blog-12541713


Politics latest: 'Elephant in the room' at Starmer's first NATO summit - as allies stress support for Ukraine
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Sir Keir Starmer is attending his first NATO summit as prime minister, with Ukraine as the main focus. He will meet with world leaders, including Joe Biden. Starmer will emphasize UK support for Ukraine and recommit to a £3bn per year support package. The UK will also provide a £40m package for vital assistance to Kyiv. The NATO summit has declared support for Ukraine's path towards membership and called on Russia to withdraw its troops. Starmer will also attend the Euro 2024 final in Berlin to support England.

#KeirStarmer #NatoSummit #Ukraine #Support #Russia #Euro2024

https://news.sky.com/story/labour-keir-starmer-prime-minister-tory-leadership-latest-news-12593360


UK election latest: New cabinet ministers arrive at Downing Street - as Ed Miliband jokes he is 'always' surprised by Labour victory
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Sir Keir Starmer has named the bulk of his cabinet, with Rachel Reeves the first female chancellor, and will chair his first cabinet meeting as prime minister this morning. Jeremy Hunt has ruled himself out of the Tory leadership race. Jess Phillips reflects on campaign abuse. Sir Keir Starmer arrives at Downing Street. Cabinet arrivals continue. Suella Braverman denies making announcements on Tory leadership. Conservative Sir Malcolm Rifkind criticizes party's election strategy. Larry the cat faces competition as Starmer's children lobby for Downing Street dog. Defence and security will dominate the first few days of the new government. The new cabinet arrives for their first meeting.

#UkElection #CabinetMinisters #KeirStarmer #RachelReeves #EdMiliband #JeremyHunt #JessPhillips #SuellaBraverman #MalcolmRifkind #LarryTheCat #DowningStreet

https://news.sky.com/story/election-results-labour-keir-starmer-prime-minister-tory-reform-lib-dem-latest-news-12593360


Election latest: Senior Tory demands 'robust action' on betting scandal; IFS warns of tax 'conspiracy of silence'
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Tobias Ellwood, a former minister, has called for Rishi Sunak to suspend Conservative candidates accused of placing bets on the date of the election. The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has criticized both Labour and the Conservatives for failing to address major issues facing the UK economy. The IFS director, Paul Johnson, highlighted that taxes are at a record high and public services are struggling. He called for a 'primary surplus' and criticized the rush to rule out tax increases. Nigel Farage and Boris Johnson have engaged in a war of words over Farage's comments on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Gambling Commission is investigating the election betting scandal and has received hundreds of lines of entries from bookmakers. Labour's proposed changes to simplify the transitioning process for trans people have been criticized by the Conservative Party for potentially unraveling protections for women and girls.

#UkElection #BettingScandal #TaxPolicy #Economy #RussiaukraineConflict #TransRights

https://news.sky.com/story/election-2024-sunak-starmer-conservatives-labour-reform-lib-dem-12593360


Taylor Swift Eras Tour: Final UK shows at London's Wembley Stadium 'will boost economy by £300m'
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The final UK shows of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour at London's Wembley Stadium are expected to boost the economy by £300m. Nearly 640,000 people will attend the eight sold-out gigs, with fans estimated to spend an average of £471 per show. The Greater London Authority (GLA) predicts that the concerts will provide a huge boost to the hospitality industry and further establish London as the greatest city in the world to watch live music. Transport for London will rename some Tube stations in Swift's honor, and a mural of the singer has been unveiled outside Wembley Stadium. However, some economists have expressed doubts about the alleged net benefit of the tour, suggesting that fans may be cutting back on other spending to attend. Swift's 15 UK shows are predicted to generate almost £1bn in total. The tour is also expected to be a major earner for Swift herself, who has an estimated net worth of over $1.1bn.

#TaylorSwift #ErasTour #WembleyStadium #UkEconomy #Concerts #HospitalityIndustry

https://news.sky.com/story/taylor-swift-eras-tour-final-uk-shows-at-londons-wembley-stadium-will-boost-economy-by-300m-13155843


Election latest: Farage asked about Tory speculation - and 'his silence is telling'
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Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform party, launched the party's 'contract with the people' instead of a traditional manifesto, raising speculation about his future plans. Farage has his eye on the 2029 election, but it is unclear whether he intends to continue with his current party or join the Conservatives. The Reform party's proposed policies include £141 billion in annual spending, nationalizing energy companies, increasing the armed forces, and raising the starting rate of income tax. However, there are doubts about the feasibility of these plans. Farage has stated that he does not expect to win the upcoming general election and views the contract as a blueprint for the 2029 election. He aims to position Reform UK as the opposition to both the expected Labour government and a weakened Conservative Party. Farage's silence on the question of joining the Tories is seen as significant. Reform UK's manifesto has been criticized for lacking credibility, similar to other parties' manifestos. The general election is scheduled for July 4, 2024.

#UkPolitics #NigelFarage #ReformParty #Conservatives #Manifesto #GeneralElection

https://news.sky.com/story/general-election-2024-sunak-starmer-conservatives-labour-reform-davey-lib-dem-12593360


Election latest: Minister says election 'not about the past' as poll suggests Tory wipeout on 4 July
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A new poll suggests the Tories could be left with just 72 seats - less than half the number they won in their worst election in 1906. Transport secretary Mark Harper told Trevor Phillips live on Sky News his party are "fighting for every vote". Nigel Farage will unveil Reform UK's manifesto in Wales tomorrow. A 47-year-old pub manager has registered his establishment as a political party. The Mitre will appear on thousands of ballot papers in Richmond Park in an advertising arranged by Chris French. Labour MP Jo Cox was killed during the Brexit referendum campaign by a far right extremist. Her sister, Kim Leadbeater - who has subsequently been elected as a Labour MP and is contesting this election - has spoken to Sky News to remember her. Nigel Farage is "terrorising" the Conservative Party and Rishi Sunak is afraid to take him on, Labour grandee Lord Mandelson has told Sky News. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has wished the England football team well, ahead of the start of their tournament.

#Election #Conservatives #Labour #ReformUk #JoCox #NigelFarage #RishiSunak #KeirStarmer #EnglandFootballTeam

https://news.sky.com/story/general-election-2024-sunak-starmer-conservatives-labour-davey-lib-dem-12593360


Election latest: Labour makes new tax promise - as Farage declares Reform the 'real opposition'
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Labour is pledging thousands of new prison places to combat what it calls a "powder keg waiting to explode" as the Conservatives promise to cut the cost of welfare. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has declared Reform UK will replace the Conservatives to become the "real opposition".

https://news.sky.com/story/election-latest-d-day-blunder-hasnt-lost-election-minister-insists-tories-vow-to-scrap-ulez-expansion-12593360


Election latest: Rishi Sunak admits mistake after returning early from D-Day commemorations
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Rishi Sunak has admitted it was a 'mistake' to leave D-Day commemorations in Normandy early. The prime minister faced criticism for leaving the commemorations, with Labour calling it a 'dereliction of duty'. Sunak apologized for not staying in France longer and stated that he cares deeply about veterans. The prime minister has a 'proud record' of supporting veterans, according to a minister. The Conservatives have promised a tax cut for parents by raising the threshold for when families have to pay a levy on their child benefit. The current system means if either parent earns more than £60,000, they begin paying the high income child benefit tax charge. If the Tories win the election, they will increase the threshold to £120,000 before any tax is paid and to £160,000 before the benefit is withdrawn. The Labour Party is holding a top-secret 'Clause V' meeting to finalize their election manifesto. The manifesto will be based on Sir Keir Starmer's five 'missions' on the economy, the NHS, crime, climate change, and education. The meeting will agree on the manifesto that Sir Keir is expected to present to the country on 13 June. The meeting attendees include Sir Keir Starmer, his shadow cabinet, senior backbench MPs, top trade union leaders, and members of the party's national executive. The meeting is highly secretive, with attendees required to surrender their mobile phones and other electronic devices. The manifesto will be unveiled to the public next Thursday. The Sky News live poll tracker indicates the current standing of political parties based on various surveys.

#Election #RishiSunak #DdayCommemorations #TaxCut #Parents #LabourParty #ConservativeParty #Manifesto

https://news.sky.com/story/election-latest-pivotal-moment-in-labour-campaign-today-as-tories-pledge-tax-cut-for-parents-12593360


General election latest: Keir Starmer says Rishi Sunak didn't 'catch us' with surprise election call; Jeremy Hunt defends PM's interest rates claim
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Sir Keir Starmer is launching Labour's general election campaign in Wales; Jeremy Hunt defends PM's interest rates claim. Plaid Cymru launches its general election campaign, calling for an end to ignoring Wales at Westminster. Labour leader Keir Starmer denies being blocking left-wing candidates from standing. Green Party co-leaders Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay launch their campaign, offering 'real hope and real change'. Caroline Lucas of the Green Party says the Tories will be 'shown the door' by voters. Sir Keir Starmer launches Labour's general election campaign in Wales, rejecting the notion that Rishi Sunak caught them off guard with the early election call. Shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens pokes fun at Sunak's Euros gaffe. Labour will 'rebuild our broken asylum system', says shadow foreign secretary David Lammy. Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething calls the election 'the moment we've been waiting for', criticizes the Tories for treating politics as a game.

#GeneralElection #KeirStarmer #RishiSunak #JeremyHunt #PlaidCymru #LabourParty #GreenParty #Wales

https://news.sky.com/story/general-election-live-uk-latest-politics-sunak-starmer-davey-economy-tax-immigration-tories-labour-lib-dems-12593360


Infected Blood Inquiry: Boy, 7, was used in secret trials before HIV infection, parents say
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Colin and Jan Smith's son, Colin, died at the age of seven in January 1990 due to Hepatitis C and HIV infection. The treatment for his blood clotting disorder included a product called Factor VIII, which was made in America using blood farmed from prisoners, drug addicts, and sex workers. Colin's parents believe their son was being used in secret trials without their knowledge. They trusted the doctors at the time and never questioned his treatment. The ignorance surrounding HIV and AIDS at the time led to a hate-fueled campaign against those impacted, forcing Colin and Jan to move home and be shunned by their community. The long-awaited report into the infected blood scandal will be released on Monday, and the Smiths hope it will bring accountability and justice for their son's death.

#InfectedBloodInquiry #HivInfection #SecretTrials #ColinSmith #JanSmith #FactorViii #HepatitisC #Haemophilia #ProfessorArthurBloom

https://news.sky.com/story/infected-blood-inquiry-couple-who-were-shunned-and-abused-as-son-lay-dying-hoping-for-justice-13137866


Money blog: 'Extremely worrying' mortgage trend revealed in new report; a third of people make this mistake when booking their holiday - and how to avoid it
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A new report reveals an 'extremely worrying' mortgage trend, with mortgage possession actions rising above previous year's levels. Landlords selling properties represent the single biggest threat to renters, with 5,790 households threatened with homelessness due to receiving a notice to end an assured shorthold tenancy. Around 16% of wealthier shoppers have cut spending on luxury goods, impacting companies like Burberry. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is hiring 2,500 'external agents' to crackdown on benefit fraud. Parents of children under two years old can now get 15 hours free childcare. The price of packed lunches has soared by around 45%, with Tesco being the cheapest supermarket to buy a healthy one. Buskers in the UK share their experiences and earnings. The best bank accounts for children offer competitive rates and can significantly improve their financial health in the future.

#Mortgages #Renting #LuxuryGoods #BenefitFraud #Childcare #PackedLunches #Busking #Children'sBankAccounts

https://news.sky.com/story/money-news-taylor-swift-inflation-interest-rate-latest-blog-mortgages-13040934


Ukraine war latest: 'Astonishing' Putin reshuffle points to 'serious instability' in Russian leadership, ex-MI6 officer says
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Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu is set to be replaced by civilian Andrei Belousov in a major reshuffle of Vladimir Putin's cabinet. The reshuffle is seen as a sign of 'serious instability' in the Russian leadership. More than 4,000 civilians have fled the Kharkiv region after a surprise attack by Putin's military. Andrei Belousov, an economist, will become the new defence minister. The move suggests Putin's concerns about the direction of the war and the efficiency of the military. Shoigu will move to the Security Council, replacing Nikolai Patrushev. The reshuffle is seen as a demotion for Shoigu and a way for Putin to have more control over the powerful body. The Kremlin has stated that the new defence minister should have an economic background to handle Russia's increasing military spending. The reshuffle indicates Putin's frustration with the lack of progress in the war. The move is seen as a sign of instability and a surprise within the Kremlin. The replacement of Shoigu and Patrushev suggests that something deeper is happening within the Russian regime. Sergei Lavrov will remain as foreign minister, and Valery Gerasimov will remain as chief of Russia's general staff.

#Ukraine #Russia #War #VladimirPutin #SergeiShoigu #AndreiBelousov #RussianLeadership #SecurityCouncil

https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-latest-updates-thousands-of-civilians-flee-region-under-attack-lord-cameron-warns-of-extremely-dangerous-moment-for-ukraine-12541713


China hacked Ministry of Defence, Sky News learns
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The Chinese state has hacked the Ministry of Defence, targeting service personnel. The cyberattack was on a payroll system with current service personnel and some veterans, exposing names and bank details. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to make a statement today, outlining a plan to protect affected service men and women. The MoD has been working to understand the scale of the hack, but investigations have not shown any data has been taken. This comes after China was blamed for two cyberattack campaigns in the UK. Labour's shadow defence secretary and Conservative MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith called for the UK government to acknowledge China as a systemic threat. China's president Xi Jinping is currently on a tour of Europe.

#China #MinistryOfDefence #Cyberattack #DataBreach #ServicePersonnel #PayrollSystem #Names #BankDetails #DefenceSecretary #GrantShapps #Plan #Investigations #Labour #ShadowDefenceSecretary #ConservativeMp #IainDuncanSmith #CyberattackCampaigns #XiJinping #Europe

https://news.sky.com/story/china-hacked-ministry-of-defence-sky-news-learns-13130757


Politics latest: Sunak finally gets his way as Lords decide not to table further amendments
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Rishi Sunak has won a major victory for his Rwanda policy after it finally passed through parliament tonight. The bill had gone back and forth between the House of Commons and House of Lords in a stand-off that threatened to drag on into the early hours. The PM has acknowledged it will be 10 to 12 weeks before the first plane carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda will take off, missing his self-imposed spring deadline. Small boat arrivals are up 24% compared to last year. Airlines could be breaking international law if they fly asylum seekers to Rwanda, UN experts warn.

#RishiSunak #Rwanda #AsylumSeekers #HouseOfCommons #HouseOfLords #SmallBoatArrivals #InternationalLaw #UnExperts

https://news.sky.com/story/politics-latest-uk-politics-sunak-starmer-general-election-vote-labour-tories-sky-news-politics-hub-12593360


Another political headache for Rishi Sunak - as things start to look like John Major years of scandal
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Conservative MP Mark Menzies is facing allegations of financial misconduct, including making a 3.15am phone call to an elderly party volunteer asking for £5,000 as a matter of 'life or death'. The money was paid by his office manager and reimbursed from campaign funds. Menzies also allegedly received thousands of pounds from campaign funds into his personal bank account for personal medical expenses. The Conservative Party has suspended Menzies pending an investigation. Ruth Davidson, a Conservative peer, believes Menzies will have no choice but to resign and trigger a by-election. The Conservatives, already facing losses in by-elections, will want to avoid this. The allegations against Menzies come at a time when the Conservative Party is already dealing with other scandals, leading to comparisons with the scandal-ridden years of John Major's government. The story adds to the political challenges faced by Rishi Sunak, who has been working on a smoking ban and de-escalating tensions in the Middle East.

#RishiSunak #MarkMenzies #ConservativeParty #FinancialMisconduct #Scandal #Resignation #Byelection #JohnMajor #BethRigby

https://news.sky.com/story/another-political-headache-for-rishi-sunak-as-things-start-to-look-like-john-major-years-of-scandal-13117974


Middle East latest: Ten militants killed in Israeli raid in West Bank; Erdogan and Hamas chief discuss 'lasting peace process'
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The IDF has said its forces killed ten militants in a raid in the West Bank. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh for talks in Istanbul. Families mourn after airstrike kills children in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanks US Congress for passing aid bill for Israel. US Congress approves aid package for Israel and Ukraine. Protests take place in Tel Aviv against Netanyahu's government. Israel will make its own decisions on matters of war. Erdogan and Hamas chief discuss 'lasting peace process'. US House on brink of approving aid for Ukraine and Israel. Israeli military action on Iran has limited impact. Satellite images show damage to Israeli air base. Funeral held for World Central Kitchen aid worker killed in Israeli strike.

#MiddleEast #Israel #WestBank #Erdogan #Hamas #PeaceProcess

https://news.sky.com/story/middle-east-latest-un-nuclear-watchdog-concerned-israel-could-target-iranian-nuclear-facilities-in-revenge-attack-12978800


Online videos portraying squabbling families censored in China to encourage people to have more babies
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China is taking steps to boost its falling birth rate by censoring online videos that portray unhappy Chinese families. The government fears that these videos will discourage young Chinese from having families. Hundreds of videos from online platforms Douyin and Kuaishou have been removed. China's elderly population is set to grow to 520 million by 2050, and the country is urging young people to get married. Despite the removal of these videos, fakes of the original videos continue to appear online.

#China #BirthRate #OnlineVideos #Censorship #Family #Population

https://news.sky.com/story/online-videos-portraying-squabbling-families-censored-in-china-to-encourage-people-to-have-more-babies-13117040


Bank of England governor talks up interest rate cut prospects as inflation eases to 3.2%
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Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey signals the UK is still on course for an interest rate cut as official figures show a further easing in the pace of price growth in the economy. The consumer prices index (CPI) measure of inflation slowed to 3.2% in the 12 months to March, down from 3.4% the previous month. Lower inflation is welcome for households as wages are rising at a faster pace than prices. The Bank of England may begin withdrawing its medicine to combat inflation in June. Financial market participants expect a first rate cut in August or September. Rising oil costs and strong US demand-led inflation are concerns. A rate cut ahead of the Federal Reserve risks weakening the value of the pound against the dollar and stoking inflation.

#BankOfEngland #InterestRates #Inflation #UkEconomy

https://news.sky.com/story/bank-of-england-governor-talks-up-rate-cut-prospects-as-inflation-eases-to-3-2-13116964


It's the inflation, stupid: Why a 'vibecession' is hurting Biden - despite an economy which is the envy of Europe
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The United States has outperformed pretty much every other major economy in the world, including Europe, in terms of economic growth. However, American consumer confidence remains low, and President Joe Biden's approval ratings are lower than his predecessors at this stage. The White House is concerned that it is not getting credit for the strength of the economy with voters. The main reason for this disaffection seems to be inflation, with rising food prices, gas prices, and rents. While the rate of inflation is dropping, prices are still rising, and over the past two years, prices have increased by around 9%. The Biden administration is hoping that its economic policies, inspired by Franklin D Roosevelt's New Deal, will eventually win over voters.

#UsEconomy #Inflation #JoeBiden

https://news.sky.com/story/its-the-inflation-stupid-why-a-vibecession-is-hurting-biden-despite-an-economy-which-is-the-envy-of-europe-13116800


Money latest: Prepayment meters now have cheapest default tariff - should you switch?
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The default tariff for prepayment meters is now cheaper than other types of meter. Prepayment meters have traditionally been a more expensive way of paying for energy, but now prepayment standing charges have been lowered to match those for direct debit customers. Customers who pay when they get a bill are forking out the most - around 5.8p more per day on the standing charge than those with direct debits. The number of prepayment meters has fallen almost 8% from the peak in 2019, but there's still more than seven million gas and electricity units in action. Uswitch data shows 56% of households don't know about the change. Young people (18 to 34) are far more likely to go for prepay meters - 51% would consider it, compared with 5% of over-55s.

#PrepaymentMeters #EnergyTariffs #Electricity #Gas #Households #Uswitch

https://news.sky.com/story/how-to-earn-thousands-letting-film-and-music-stars-shoot-in-your-home-and-what-types-of-home-they-look-for-13040934


Russia-Ukraine war latest: Putin 'may launch all-out bid to seize second city' - as Western officials fear major Russian advance
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Russia has launched fresh strikes on critical infrastructure, with Kyiv residents told to cut energy consumption every night for the rest of 2024. Western officials fear a major Russian advance and believe Vladimir Putin could attempt to seize Kharkiv. Ukraine's defences are at risk of collapse due to shortages of manpower and ammunition. The city of Kharkiv has faced intense bombardment from Russia, and there are concerns it could be targeted in a renewed Russian assault. However, experts believe it would be difficult for Moscow to seize Kharkiv. There are fears that Russia could attempt to destroy the city in an assault reminiscent of that in Aleppo. Western officials warn that if Ukraine's ammunition and manpower issues are not addressed, Russia could make greater gains this summer.

#Russia #Ukraine #War #VladimirPutin #Kharkiv #Kyiv #Bombardment #Defences #Manpower #Ammunition

https://news.sky.com/story/russia-ukraine-war-latest-russia-launches-major-attack-on-ukraines-energy-infrastructure-12541713


Politics latest: Reform 'will be major force' after election - as Labour HQ spray-painted by protesters
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Reform UK's only MP, Lee Anderson, has stated that the party will become a "major force" in the UK after the general election. Anderson, a former Conservative deputy chairman, was suspended from the Conservative Party in February and subsequently defected to Reform UK. He believes that the party, which claims to be a party of the working class, does not need a working class leader and that the right person for the job is what matters. Anderson also stated that he will win his seat and Reform UK will win seats in the next election, making them a major force in the country.

#ReformUk #LeeAnderson #ConservativeParty #GeneralElection #WorkingClass #LabourParty

https://news.sky.com/story/politics-latest-uk-politics-sunak-starmer-general-election-vote-labour-tories-speaker-sky-news-politics-hub-12593360


Murder suspect arrested at Heathrow Airport hours after man hit and killed by car
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A murder suspect has been arrested at Heathrow Airport hours after a man was hit by a car and killed in east London. Officers and paramedics were called to Barking Road in Newham at 5.11am on Sunday to reports of a collision between a car and a pedestrian. A 35-year-old man was found injured at the junction with Arragon Road and died shortly after. At 3.30pm, a 33-year-old man was arrested at Heathrow Airport on suspicion of murder. A 30-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and they both remain in custody. Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke is leading the investigation and is appealing for witnesses to come forward. Forensic collision investigators have worked at the scene throughout the day and officers will remain in the area over the coming days to provide reassurance.

#Murder #Arrest #CarCollision #Investigation

https://news.sky.com/story/murder-suspect-arrested-at-heathrow-airport-hours-after-man-hit-and-killed-by-car-13101329


Moscow shooting latest: More than 130 killed in concert attack; terrorist 'tackled by spectator'; member of band's team 'hid in dressing room'
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Last night, gunmen opened fire on crowds at a concert hall in Krasnogorsk in the Moscow region, killing at least 133 and injuring more than 100. Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, but the FSB says suspects had Ukrainian contacts and were attempting to flee over the border. All suspects have been detained and attackers tried to escape towards Ukraine. A spectator tackled the terrorist, and the head of the band's production hid in the dressing room. The attack demonstrated Russian security was not prepared, as it took an hour and a half for the national guard to respond. Russia may use the concert attack as leverage for its agenda in Ukraine. The US stands in solidarity with the Russian people and condemns the attack as a heinous crime. A gun and ammunition were found at the scene of the shooting. A team member working with the band hid in the dressing room, and the head of the band's production managed to escape through the basement. The attackers arrived in a van and opened fire on the concert venue, then set fire to the building. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, and the US has intelligence confirming their claim. Vladimir Putin claimed the attackers were heading towards Ukraine when they were detained, but Ukraine denies any involvement. Survivor Margarita Bunova described the panic and pain of the attack. The US has no reason to doubt Islamic State's claim, and they have a history of targeting Russia and neighboring countries. No US citizens were killed in the attack.

#Moscow #Shooting #ConcertAttack #Terrorism #IslamicState #Ukraine #Spectator #Band'sTeam #Security #Leverage #Condemnation #Gun #Ammunition #Survivor

https://news.sky.com/story/russia-moscow-shooting-latest-ukraine-islamic-state-live-sky-news-blog-12541713


Kate cancer latest: Video statement was 'unprecedented'; celebrities apologise and share words of support
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The Princess of Wales, Kate, has revealed that she is undergoing treatment for cancer, sparking an outpouring of support and well-wishes from around the world. The video statement made by Kate about her health is considered 'almost unprecedented' and has received a 'staggering' level of support and empathy. Celebrities have apologized for their previous posts and are now sharing words of support. The King is hoping to make a public appearance at the traditional Easter Matins service if his health allows. The royal family is facing a test of resilience, as the King and Kate are both temporarily stepping back from public duties due to their health conditions. The public reaction in Windsor has been described as 'unbelievably upsetting.' Macmillan Cancer Support offers advice on how to talk to children about a cancer diagnosis. The Princess of Wales's message about her health has raised awareness of the fears and concerns that come with a cancer diagnosis. Messages of support are pouring in from around the world, including Paris and Rome.

#Kate #Cancer #Support #VideoStatement #Celebrities #King #Windsor #Resilience #Children #MacmillanCancerSupport

https://news.sky.com/story/kate-cancer-latest-princess-of-wales-follow-sky-news-live-13097903


NASA's SpaceX crew leave treats behind on International Space Station as they splash down after months in orbit
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Four astronauts from four different countries, NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen from Denmark, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Satoshi Furukawa, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov, have safely returned to Earth after 199 days in orbit. The crew left behind treats including peanut butter and tortillas on the International Space Station. The mission, known as Crew-7, involved hundreds of experiments and aimed to gather samples from outside the station, investigate the impact of space on astronauts' sleep, and study the effects of being in orbit on humans. The crew's success is seen as proof that "space unites us all" and is part of NASA's program to improve transportation between Earth and the International Space Station. The next crew, Crew-8, is already in orbit and will conduct around 200 experiments during their mission.

#Nasa #Spacex #InternationalSpaceStation #Astronauts #SpaceExploration

https://news.sky.com/story/nasas-spacex-crew-leave-treats-behind-on-international-space-station-as-they-splash-down-after-months-in-orbit-13093206


Ukraine war latest: Russia is gaining advantage in Ukraine, Norway warns
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Norway's intelligence service has warned that Russian forces are gaining the advantage in Ukraine. Russia has a stronger position than a year ago, with more troops and material supplied by countries like North Korea and China. Ukraine will need extensive Western military aid to turn the situation around. In other news, the US Senate has passed a $95bn bill containing aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Ukraine's GDP rose by 3.5% in January, and the economy ministry expects it to grow by 4.6% this year. The Kremlin dismissed warnings about Russian propaganda as a way of punishing media they dislike. Estonia's foreign intelligence service has said that Russia is planning to double the number of troops along its borders with Baltic states and Finland. Ukrainian military intelligence has reported that elements of Lebanese Hezbollah and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are training Russian drone operators. Moscow has warned of a tough response if the US and EU seize Russian assets. Ukraine claims that Russian forces are buying Starlink terminals in Arab countries, but both Russia and Elon Musk have denied this. Russia has launched missiles and drones on the central Ukrainian city of Dnipro, damaging a power plant and cutting off water supplies to some residents.

#Ukraine #Russia #Norway #Starlink #UsSenate #Gdp #Propaganda #Estonia #Lebanon #Iran #Drones #RussianAssets #Dnipro

https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-latest-russian-forces-buying-starlink-terminals-in-arab-countries-ukraine-claims-prompting-musk-denial-12541713


Middle East latest: US 'actively working' on six-week ceasefire - as Biden makes Rafah plea
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US President Joe Biden has stated that the US is actively working on a six-week ceasefire deal in the Israel-Hamas war. Biden has had calls with Israel, Egypt, and Qatar regarding the ceasefire and has warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against conducting a ground operation in Rafah without a credible plan to ensure the safety of civilians. The US Senate has passed a bill providing Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan with nearly $100 billion worth of funding, but it still needs to go through the Republican-led House of Representatives. Thousands of Palestinians in Rafah will be forced to relocate for the fourth or fifth time since the war started. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has focused on the western part of Khan Younis, claiming to have killed around 30 Hamas or aligned fighters and strengthening operational control of the area. Officials from the US, Israel, Qatar, and Egypt are expected to meet in Cairo for talks on a potential ceasefire in Gaza. Ukraine's military intelligence has reported that Hezbollah and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) are training Russian drone operators in Syria. The Hamas-run health ministry claims that at least 28,473 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since October 7. The IDF has shared images from its operations in the Gaza Strip, as it prepares for an assault on Rafah. Israel has stated that there will be a plan to evacuate civilians in Rafah before sending troops in on the ground.

#MiddleEast #Israel #Hamas #Ceasefire #JoeBiden #BenjaminNetanyahu #Rafah #UsSenate #Funding #Palestinians #IsraelDefenseForces #Gaza #Ukraine #Taiwan #Hezbollah #IslamicRevolutionaryGuardCorps #DroneOperators

https://news.sky.com/story/middle-east-latest-two-hostages-rescued-from-gaza-says-israel-violent-strikes-launched-on-rafah-reports-12978800


Ukraine war latest: Kyiv sends warning to Poland over grain sabotage; Trump condemned for putting security at risk with 'irresponsible' comment
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Ukraine's foreign minister condemns the spoiling of Ukrainian grain on the Polish border and calls for the perpetrators to be held accountable. Funding for Ukraine moves closer in the US as a Trump ally disagrees with the former president's NATO comments. France, Poland, and Germany vow to strengthen European security. The EU considers sending revenues from frozen Russian assets to Ukraine. Russia is accused of a long-running manipulation campaign against the West. Ukraine's foreign minister welcomes the EU's decision to consider sending revenues from frozen Russian assets to Kyiv. Russia's economy is compared to the Soviet Union, with growth relying on state-funded arms production. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin cancels a trip to Brussels due to hospitalization. Alexander Stubb becomes Finland's next president as the country navigates its new NATO membership. Locals in Kharkiv hold a funeral for a family killed in a drone strike.

#Ukraine #Poland #GrainSabotage #Trump #Nato #FrozenRussianAssets #EuropeanSecurity #ManipulationCampaign #Russia'sEconomy #UsDefenseSecretary #Finland'sPresident #DroneStrike

https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-russia-war-latest-putin-annoying-half-hour-lecture-war-in-ukraine-12541713


Ukraine-Russia war latest: Tucker Carlson was at Putin's office, state media suggests as interview rumours swirl
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The Kremlin has declined to say whether or not Vladimir Putin would grant an interview to former Fox News host Tucker Carlson - or if he was in Moscow at all. Kyiv mayor gives backing to army chief on Zelenskyy's chopping block. Kremlin gives nothing away over rumours Tucker Carlson could interview Putin. US Senate proposes $60bn for Ukraine in latest bid to break deadlock. Anti-war presidential hopeful facing exclusion from election contest with Putin. Russia attacks regions along Ukrainian border. First Russians sentenced over rainbow items in crackdown on LGBTQ activism. Hungary calls on Swedish PM to visit before NATO bid approval. No new import bans in next package of EU sanctions on Russia. Georgia seizes explosives en route from Ukraine to Russia. Sweden to announce Nord Stream probe decision this week. Russia state media suggests Tucker Carlson was at Putin's office. Netherlands pledges six more F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Sunak says war has been 'strategic failure' for Putin - and UK in good position to defend against Russia. Putin to visit Turkey soon - in what would be his first trip to NATO country in two years

#Ukraine #Russia #TuckerCarlson #VladimirPutin #Interview #Kyiv #ArmyChief #Zelenskyy #UsSenate #LgbtqActivism #Hungary #Sweden #Nato #EuSanctions #Georgia #Explosives #NordStream #F-16FighterJets #RishiSunak #Turkey

https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-russia-war-latest-putin-tucker-carlson-sky-news-live-news-12541713


Exiled Chinese artist Ai Weiwei: 'Censorship in the West is exactly the same as Mao's China'
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Exiled Chinese artist Ai Weiwei compares political censorship in the West to that of Mao's China, stating that society becomes timid and avoids questioning or argument. He refers to the cancellation of his exhibition by the Lisson Gallery in London in November following social media posts about the Israel-Gaza conflict. Weiwei believes that the West is undergoing a cultural revolution that aims to destroy anyone with different attitudes or opinions. He criticizes Western artists for being corrupted by capitalism and seeking money and fame. Weiwei, known for addressing political issues in his art, was arrested in 2011 and detained for 81 days. He left China in 2015 and currently resides in Portugal with a studio in Berlin and a property in the UK. Weiwei's graphic memoir, Zodiac, was recently published.

#AiWeiwei #Censorship #PoliticalCensorship #Mao'sChina #LissonGallery #FreedomOfExpression #WesternArtists #Capitalism

https://news.sky.com/story/exiled-chinese-artist-ai-weiwei-censorship-in-the-west-is-exactly-the-same-as-maos-china-13063751


Israeli intelligence report claims four UNRWA staff in Gaza involved in Hamas kidnappings
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Israeli intelligence documents allege that four employees of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Gaza were involved in kidnapping Israelis, while another worker provided logistics support. The report also claims that approximately 10% of UNRWA employees in Gaza are Hamas operatives and about 50% are first-degree relatives with a Hamas member. Critics argue that the number of staff allegedly involved is a small percentage of the agency's overall workforce. Several countries, including the US, UK, Germany, Japan, and Australia, have suspended funding to UNRWA pending further investigation. UNRWA's commissioner general has terminated the contracts of the accused staff and ordered an investigation. The move to cut funding has been criticized by other aid organizations as a form of collective punishment.

#IsraeliIntelligence #Unrwa #Hamas #Kidnappings #GazaStrip

https://news.sky.com/story/israeli-intelligence-report-claims-four-unrwa-staff-in-gaza-involved-in-hamas-kidnappings-13059967