UK News Live: Labour leader Keir Starmer proposes new test to recruit tech experts into UK government

The UK economy is showing signs of slowing after a strong start to the year, with analysts forecasting minimal GDP growth for the current quarter, according to a report in Financial Times. This follows a robust 0.7% GDP expansion in the first quarter. The potential slowdown suggests a risk of the UK returning to a familiar pattern of inconsistent economic performance, where periods of growth are followed by stagnation.

A new exhibition has opened at the British Museum in London showcasing the evolution of India's spiritual and devotional art, according to a report in BBC. The display, titled 'Serpents to saints: The journey of India's spiritual art', features 189 objects that trace the development of the country's devotional art forms.

UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has called for 'innovators and disrupters' to be recruited into the government through a new Whitehall test designed to attract elite technical talent, according to a report in the Financial Times. The proposal, part of a plan to 'rewire the state,' aims to bring in specialists in fields like data science, AI, and software engineering to address long-standing concerns about public sector productivity and efficiency. This initiative would establish a new, targeted recruitment process separate from traditional civil service entry routes to bring in outside expertise and overhaul how the government operates through technology.

The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence (MoD) is being accused of deliberately delaying the release of hidden records concerning the 'Nuked Blood' scandal, according to a report in The Mirror. Despite the records being due for release, the MoD is reportedly refusing to answer questions about their contents. This has led to accusations that the department is using 'delaying tactics' to obstruct transparency and avoid scrutiny over the historical events.

UK Shadow Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has signalled the Labour Party's strong opposition to the two-child benefit cap, as per a report in The Mirror. Phillipson, who co-chairs Labour's Child Poverty Task Force, stated the limit has a clear negative impact and is a policy her party would not have introduced. The cap, which was implemented in 2017, has been linked by campaigners to rising child poverty.

An interim head has been appointed at a UK university following a damning report into a financial crisis at the institution, according to a report in the Evening Standard. Nigel Seaton will take on the role, replacing Shane O’Neill, who stepped down from his position on Thursday, June 19, in the wake of the report's findings.

UK Shadow Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has warned that parents have a "responsibility" to their children's classmates and should not take them out of school for holidays during term time, The Mirror says in a report. The statement from the Labour Party politician reinforces a firm stance on school attendance. This comes as many families face a cost of living crisis, making cheaper term-time holidays an attractive option despite rules that only permit such absences in "exceptional circumstances" and allow for fines to be issued.

A genuine film car used in the 1981 James Bond movie 'For Your Eyes Only' is currently being sold in an online auction, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The vehicle, one of six used for filming, was reportedly recovered from a scrapyard before being prepared for sale. The car is noted as being a personal favorite of the late actor Roger Moore, who played Bond in the film. The auction for the vehicle, a Citroën 2CV, could see it sell for as much as $500,000.

The Policy Exchange think-tank has recommended the immediate suspension of work being done by the UK's 'Anti-Muslim Hate/Islamophobia Definition Working Group', which was established earlier this year, the Daily Mail says in a report. The think-tank's report warns that the Labour-supported effort to devise an official definition of 'Islamophobia' risks complicating and worsening the ongoing scandal related to grooming gangs.

The UK Treasury is facing an estimated £1.4 billion revenue shortfall from tobacco duties as a growing number of smokers turn to the black market to avoid high taxes, as per a report in The Sun. This trend, potentially intensified by the cost of living crisis, creates a fiscal challenge and complicates the government's public health strategy. The policy of using high taxes to create a 'smoke-free generation' is being undermined by the rise in illicit trade, which includes smuggled and counterfeit products.

Primark has updated its work policy, ordering its UK-based product teams to be in the office four days per week as part of a move to increase productivity, according to a report in the Daily Mail. This decision makes it the latest major company to reduce remote work arrangements that became common during the pandemic. The new policy allows affected employees to continue working from home on Fridays, with the additional benefit of finishing the workday at 2 p.m.

Some areas in the UK may have a greater risk for young people of developing cancers linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV), according to a report in the Daily Mail. Infection with the virus, which is commonly spread through sexual contact including oral sex, can lead to several types of cancer, such as those in the head, neck, and cervix. The report suggests that certain regions pose a higher risk, which is often linked to geographical variations in the uptake of the national HPV vaccination programme.

A 45-year-old corporal in the British Army's Household Cavalry has been dismissed after 28 years of service following a court martial, according to a report in Daily Mail. The military court heard that the corporal slapped the bottom of a teenage female recruit during a drunken night out. The court martial concluded with his dismissal, which was described as a "sadly discreditable" end to his career.

Logan Addison has been sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison for causing the death of Lily-May Vaughan by dangerous driving, Daily Mail said in a report. The fatal crash occurred in Shropshire on February 4, 2023. The court was also informed that weeks after the crash, Addison was seen performing dangerous driving manoeuvres in a supermarket car park.

UK officials have warned that Border Force lacks the necessary resources to deal with a growing number of migrants entering the country illegally aboard larger vessels such as yachts, motorboats, and trawlers, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The warning highlights that this method represents an increasing challenge to the UK's border security, distinct from the more common small boat crossings.

A 16-year-old boy has been sentenced to seven years in jail for the fatal stabbing of a 15-year-old in north London last year, according to a report in Daily Mail. The victim, 15-year-old Pharrell Garcia, was attacked in a park in the Stoke Newington area on July 23, 2024.

British tourists are facing increased costs for travel to the European Union following proposals to raise the fee for the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), according to a report in the Daily Mail. The ETIAS, scheduled for implementation from 2025, is a pre-travel authorisation requirement for citizens of visa-exempt third countries, a category that now includes the UK post-Brexit. The new system and its associated fee will apply to British travellers entering the Schengen Area, making holidays on the continent more expensive.

Residents on Percy Thrower Avenue in Bonmere Heath, Shropshire, are fighting a proposal from developers to build affordable homes that would require homeowners to cede up to a third of their back gardens, according to a report in Daily Mail. The locals, many of whom have tended to their gardens for decades, are protesting the plan that would see parts of their lawns used for the new housing development. The street is named after the well-known historical British gardener, Percy Thrower.

UK actress Natalie Cassidy has taken to social media to shut down a false rumour that she has breast cancer, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The "EastEnders" star addressed the "disgusting" and "completely made up" story in an Instagram post after it was shared on Facebook, prompting concern from fans. Cassidy confirmed the story was untrue and described it as a "terrible story."

Widespread train cancellations are occurring across the United Kingdom as a heatwave impacts the public transport network. Technical experts explain that extreme heat can cause steel rails to expand and buckle, posing a derailment risk. Additionally, overhead power lines can sag in the heat, which can lead to them being caught by trains, causing damage and power loss. These vulnerabilities in the infrastructure force operators to impose speed restrictions or cancel services entirely to ensure passenger safety.

Consumer watchdog Which? has found that a popular £28 sunscreen is ineffective and may pose a safety risk, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The finding came after the group tested 15 popular SPF50 and SPF30 sunscreens available from UK high-street retailers and supermarkets. The tests, which were conducted using strict international safety standards, revealed that one high-priced cream failed to provide the level of sun protection claimed on its packaging.

A fight broke out among some attendees at the Royal Ascot horse racing event in the UK, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The incident of public disorder occurred at the high-profile annual race meeting, which is known for its formal dress code and royal patronage. The altercation involved several individuals within the crowd of racegoers.

Kate issued a statement to mark Children's Hospice Week, a cause she supports, as per a report in the Daily Mail. The message was released on Friday after she did not join her husband, Prince William, at the Royal Ascot races in Berkshire on Wednesday as had been expected.

King Charles III was present for the fourth day of the Royal Ascot racing festival in Berkshire, joining other members of the Royal Family at the event, the Daily Mail said in a report. During the event, the King publicly greeted the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson. This appearance is part of the monarch's regular schedule of public engagements.

Actress Sue Cleaver has shared details about a "misunderstood" health battle, revealing she felt faint while on set, according to a report in the Daily Mail. Cleaver, who played the character Eileen Grimshaw on the ITV soap "Coronation Street" since 2000, recently departed from the show. Her final appearance as the long-running character was broadcast in an episode earlier this month, marking an end to her nearly 25-year tenure on the programme.

A fire next to the railway track has caused major disruption for rush-hour commuters at London Paddington station, one of the UK's busiest transport hubs, Daily Mail said in a report. National Rail is warning passengers of widespread cancellations and delays following the blaze, which has specifically impacted services operating between the central London station and Heathrow Airport.

A former German police officer paid a £1,300 fine for Christian Brueckner, the lead suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The unnamed woman reportedly claimed the payment was a 'misunderstanding'. She also alleged that she was previously a member of Germany's federal police and was involved in wire-tapping Brueckner's jail cell as part of the investigation into him.

A woman, identified as Belinda Taylor, has died following a tandem skydiving incident in Totnes, Devon, according to a report in the Daily Mail. Taylor fell to her death during a 15,000ft dive that was being conducted with an instructor. The incident has raised questions about adventure sports safety and the effectiveness of current regulations overseen by the UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), prompting calls for a potential review of safety standards.

Patrick Walden, the guitarist for the British rock band Babyshambles, has passed away at the age of 46, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The band has paid tribute to the musician, who was also known for having played with singer James Blunt.

The UK's National Health Service (NHS) is launching a new program to test people at high risk of developing pancreatic cancer before any symptoms appear, according to a report in The Independent. The initiative aims to improve survival rates for the disease, which currently sees more than half of diagnosed individuals die within three months. This targeted screening program is designed for specific groups identified as having a significantly elevated risk, rather than being a universal screening for the general population.

Supermarket chain Tesco has issued an apology following a public backlash on social media over a promotional display in one of its Welsh stores, according to a report in the Daily Mail. Shoppers in Wales voiced their frustration after the signage, placed at the front of a store, was perceived as disrespectful to the Welsh language, which holds official status in the country. The incident prompted numerous complaints online, leading the company to acknowledge the oversight and apologize.

Wimbledon organizers will increase the price of strawberries and cream for the 2025 tournament, ending a 15-year price freeze, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The All England Club had maintained the price at £2.50 per portion since 2010 but has decided on the increase for next year, attributing the change to the ongoing cost of living crisis in the UK.

A Black student at the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle in South Kensington, London, has alleged she endured years of racist abuse, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The pupil claims she was called a 'monkey' and that white students asked for the 'N-word pass'. The allegations also extend to some teachers at the £17,000-a-year private school, who are accused of making 'racist and xenophobic' remarks.

Parents in the UK have raised concerns after the charity Swindon and Wiltshire Pride handed out leaflets to primary schoolchildren covering a wide variety of Pride flags, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The materials reportedly claimed there are more flags representing sexuality and gender identity than there are for countries, specifically highlighting flags such as the 'intersex-inclusive' and one celebrating polyamory. The incident has prompted a backlash from some parents over the appropriateness of the content for young children.

Conservationists are releasing hundreds of turtle doves across England this summer to combat the species' potential extinction in the country, according to a report in The Guardian. The turtle dove is the UK's fastest-declining bird species, with only 2,000 mating pairs remaining, a 98% drop since the 1970s. The decline is attributed to the destruction of their scrubland habitats and hunting during their migration across Europe.

Labour whip Vicky Foxcroft has resigned from her frontbench role in protest of the party's proposed changes to the benefits system, according to a report in The Independent. Foxcroft stated her opposition to reforms targeting the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and the health-related element of Universal Credit as the reason for her departure.

A sunken British-flagged superyacht has been raised from the seabed, BBC says in a report. An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the sinking, which resulted in the deaths of seven of the 22 people who were on board the vessel.

More than 400 homes, which account for 27% of all properties acquired by the UK government for the HS2 high-speed rail project, currently remain empty, according to a report in The Independent. The majority of these vacant properties are located along the now-cancelled northern leg of the route from Birmingham to Manchester. The homes were obtained by the government-owned company HS2 Ltd, primarily through compulsory purchase orders, and now remain under its management without their original intended purpose following the major alteration to the project.

The volume of water extracted from rivers and lakes in England for industrial or public consumption has surged by 76% in two decades, posing potential risks to wildlife and people, according to a report in The Guardian. An investigation found that 11.6 million cubic metres of water were abstracted in the five years leading up to 2023. This figure represents a significant increase from the 6.6 million cubic metres abstracted in the early 2000s.

A couple, Wasif Hussain and Nabela Tabassum, have been jailed for the attempted murder of Hussain's stepmother at Birmingham Crown Court in the United Kingdom, The Independent said in a report. The pair wore animal masks purchased from Poundland during the attack.

Thousands of people have gathered at Stonehenge in the UK to celebrate the summer solstice, an event which could be one of the busiest in years due to good weather and weekend timing, according to a report in The Guardian. Attendees described the event as a spiritual gathering for people of all faiths and none, focused on feeling the "wheel of the year turning," appreciating nature, and coming together as a community.

Trainer Joseph Murphy achieved a long-awaited career milestone by winning his first Group One race at Royal Ascot on Friday, according to a report in The Guardian. His horse, Cercene, a 33-1 outsider, secured a narrow victory in the prestigious Coronation Stakes, defeating the 6-4 favourite, Zarigana. Murphy, who has been a licensed trainer for nearly 50 years, described the win as a 'lifetime's ambition' and the culmination of five decades of his family's work in horse racing.

British No 1 Jack Draper has advanced to the semi-finals at Queen's Club for the first time in his career, according to a report in The Guardian. He secured his place with a three-set victory over Brandon Nakashima, winning 6-4, 5-7, 6-4. This victory also provides a boost to Draper's seeding for the upcoming Wimbledon tournament.

The British & Irish Lions rugby team experienced a setback ahead of their tour to Australia, losing 24-28 to Argentina in a match played in Dublin, as per a report in The Guardian. Despite tries from Bundee Aki and Tadhg Beirne, the Lions could not overcome the Pumas, who had established an 11-point lead by halftime. The loss is being viewed as a 'wake-up call' for the squad before they depart for Australia this weekend.

The British and Irish Lions were defeated 28-24 by Argentina in Dublin on Friday, according to a report in AP. The team's tour of Australia is set to commence on June 28 against the Western Force in Perth. The schedule includes subsequent fixtures against the Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, and ACT Brumbies, as well as a match against an Invitational Australia and New Zealand team in Adelaide on July 12. The first test match against Australia is scheduled for July 19 in Brisbane, followed by a game against a First Nations and Pasifika XV in Melbourne on July 22.

The UK government has released new emissions guidance for oil and gas projects, which will be a key factor in deciding whether controversial developments like the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields in the North Sea can proceed, BBC says in a report. This guidance establishes criteria for managing and reducing direct operational emissions (Scope 1 and 2) from new projects, aiming to ensure they are developed with lower carbon intensity. However, the framework does not address the 'Scope 3' emissions generated from the final combustion of the extracted oil and gas. The move comes amid tensions between the UK's net-zero commitments and calls for greater energy security, with the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) set to use this guidance for future licensing decisions.

The United Kingdom has approved a new post-Brexit youth mobility visa scheme with the European Union, aimed at allowing young people to more easily work and study in the UK and the bloc, according to a report in The Independent. The plan is not a return to pre-Brexit freedom of movement but a specific visa program that will likely have age and duration limits and require a formal application process. The scheme addresses a gap left by the post-Brexit Trade and Cooperation Agreement and comes after sustained calls for such an arrangement from the arts, education, and hospitality sectors.

Shadow Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has praised the 'Brick by Brick' campaign, a charitable initiative, for providing a safe home for a family escaping domestic abuse, The Independent says in a report. In her capacity as Shadow Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Rayner commented on the importance of helping vulnerable families and children into secure housing. The campaign operates independently to provide housing solutions for those in crisis, particularly for victims of abuse who require a safe haven.

The UK government has changed the eligibility criteria for its energy bill support scheme, extending a £150 discount to an additional 2.7 million people, according to a report in BBC. The financial support, aimed at easing cost of living pressures, will be automatically applied to the energy bills of the newly eligible households. This expansion ensures more low-income individuals and families receive direct financial relief without needing to apply for it.

Legislation to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill adults in the UK has cleared its most significant parliamentary hurdle, passing its Second Reading in the House of Commons with a 314-291 vote, according to a report in Al Jazeera. This vote approves the general principles of the bill, which specifically proposes allowing terminally ill individuals to self-administer prescribed medication to end their life. The bill is not yet law and will now proceed to the Committee Stage for detailed scrutiny and potential amendments before facing further votes and examination in the House of Lords.

The UK's Labour Party has announced a proposal to overhaul local government financing by shifting more funds to poorer areas, according to a report in BBC. Shadow Ministers from the party stated that the current funding rules do not adequately account for the higher costs of providing essential services in more deprived communities. The policy aims to address the financial pressures on councils that serve populations with greater needs, which have struggled under the existing funding model.

A man, Zhenhao Zou, was sentenced to 24 years in prison in a London court on Thursday for drugging and raping 10 women in the UK and China, according to a report in Reuters. Zou, who lived in south London, used online platforms and dating apps to meet women, whom he would invite to his home before drugging them. He was also convicted of filming himself raping and sexually assaulting the victims.

UK Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy is scheduled to travel to Geneva on Friday to join European counterparts for nuclear talks with Iran, as per a report in Reuters. The meeting is described as an effort to press for a diplomatic solution to issues surrounding Tehran's nuclear program. These discussions are taking place amid heightened regional tensions following a recent exchange of military strikes between Israel and Iran.

Former Chelsea midfielder Sophie Ingle was named in Wales' 23-player squad for the upcoming Women's European Championship, despite being sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament injury since September, according to a report in Reuters. Although she has not played since sustaining the injury, the team confirmed she is on a path to full fitness and is in a position to be included in the squad for the tournament which begins next month.

India took a commanding position against England on the opening day of the first Test match of their tour, according to a report in Al Jazeera. Indian captain Shubman Gill and batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal both scored centuries, contributing to a strong performance by the visiting team. The English bowlers struggled throughout the day, leaving India in control at the close of play.

Scottish actor Alan Cumming will be awarded an honorary degree by the University of St Andrews, the Evening Standard says in a report. The university announced it will honour several distinguished individuals for their contributions across various fields, including the arts, sport, politics, science, and medicine, during its upcoming graduation ceremonies.

UK utility company Thames Water may have to restate its financial accounts because of a recently discovered accounting error, as per a report in Financial Times. This development adds further uncertainty to the company, which is already facing significant financial instability, a large debt pile, and intense scrutiny from the public and regulators over its performance and sewage discharges. Any amendment to its key financial figures comes at a sensitive time, with the government having reportedly prepared contingency plans for a temporary nationalization, known as special administration, should the company collapse.

Global companies, including those in the United Kingdom, are contending with a significant increase in cyber and ransomware attacks, according to a report in Reuters. Increasingly sophisticated threat actors are disrupting business operations and compromising sensitive data across a wide range of sectors. The affected industries include healthcare, financial services, retail, and even regulatory agencies in the UK, US, and European Union.

The UK government's decision to delay its overhaul of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision for another two years will add hundreds of millions of pounds in costs to councils in England, according to a report in The Guardian. This delay postpones addressing a cumulative £5 billion deficit from spending on SEND support. Council leaders have warned that the continued financial strain could force more local authorities into insolvency, leading to potential asset sales and cuts to other services.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning to UK holidaymakers about the risks of rabies abroad, releasing a list of high-risk countries, according to a report in HuffPost. Citing advice from medical professionals and the NHS, travellers are urged to consider pre-travel rabies vaccinations and to seek immediate medical care if scratched or bitten by an animal in a risk area, even if symptoms are not present. The UKHSA's list identifies numerous countries in Asia, Africa, and the Americas as high-risk, while the UK itself is considered low-risk, with rare cases found only in some bat populations.

As the UK prepares for a heatwave with temperatures predicted to exceed 30°C, gardening experts are advising on proper watering techniques to protect plants, according to a report in HuffPost. The primary recommendation is to water plants at their base, avoiding the leaves, as water droplets can magnify the sun's rays and cause scorching, especially on new growth or plants with "hairy" leaves. The ideal times for watering are early in the morning or in the evening when the soil can better absorb the moisture without it evaporating. Experts note that newly planted items, as well as potted plants and hanging baskets, are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to less established root systems or shallow soil.

A recent UK Ministry of Defence intelligence update states that the conflict between Iran and Israel will likely negatively impact the future provision of Iranian military equipment to Russia for its war in Ukraine, according to a report in HuffPost. While the UK assessment notes that Russia likely perceives a benefit from the conflict distracting international focus from Ukraine, it also presents challenges to Moscow's war effort. Iran has been a significant supplier of drones, ballistic missiles, and artillery munitions to Russia since the two countries signed a strategic partnership agreement in January 2025.

A new survey from the charity YoungMinds indicates that England's high-stakes exam system is a primary driver of poor mental health among teenagers, with its impact being more significant than that of social media, according to a report in HuffPost. The survey of 1,000 students taking GCSEs or A-Levels found that 63% struggled to cope with the pressure; of this group, 61% experienced anxiety and 13% had suicidal thoughts. The report contrasts England's system, which includes SATs for primary students, with less intense assessment models in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. In response, a Department for Education spokesperson acknowledged the stress exams can cause and mentioned an ongoing review into reducing the volume of exams, while defending their role in maintaining a fair and trusted qualifications system.

Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies has responded to recent rumors that the UK series could be taking an extended break, according to a report in HuffPost. In the show's official magazine, Davies acknowledged that a decision on the show's future is pending but insisted the franchise "will never end" and that "great things" are ahead, referencing an upcoming spin-off. This follows previous instances where the BBC refuted separate reports that the show was being shelved or that current Doctor Ncuti Gatwa had been axed. Davies expressed optimism that even if the show were to pause, it would eventually return, pointing to unresolved storylines involving Billie Piper's recent appearance.

A new Netflix documentary exploring the 2017 Grenfell Tower disaster, "Grenfell Uncovered," has been released to critical acclaim, as per a report in HuffPost. The film investigates the events that led to the fire in North Kensington, London, which killed 72 people, and argues the tragedy could have been prevented. It features testimony from survivors, bereaved families, and firefighters. Early reviews from publications including The Guardian and The Telegraph have described the documentary as "heartwrenching," "rage-inducing," and "vital journalism," praising its concise and powerful presentation of the systemic failures that contributed to the disaster.

Ahead of a final House of Commons vote scheduled for June 20, 2025, on landmark assisted dying legislation in the United Kingdom, some Members of Parliament are reportedly changing their positions on the issue, i News said in a report. The article explores the reasons behind these shifts in opinion as MPs prepare for what is typically a free vote on such ethically charged matters, against a backdrop of previous unsuccessful legislative attempts and consistent public polling indicating majority support for assisted dying under specific conditions.

The UK Schools Minister has, on three occasions, refused to answer directly whether Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) tribunals will be cut back, sparking fears among parents who describe the potential loss of this appeal route as "terrifying," i News said in a report. These tribunals serve as a critical mechanism for families to challenge local authority decisions regarding support for children with special needs. The minister's refusal to rule out cuts comes at a time when the SEND system is already under pressure from funding issues and increasing demand for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), heightening anxiety for those who see tribunals as a vital safeguard.

Long waiting lists for ADHD assessment in the UK have contributed to an increase in unregulated private providers, the Evening Standard said in a report. The report also suggests there is no evidence of over-diagnosis of ADHD in the UK.

A recent report has found that the rise of private Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) clinics in England has led to the development of a 'two-tier' system for patients seeking diagnosis and treatment, the Financial Times said in a report. This report urges the UK government to take action to tackle what it describes as "unacceptably long" waiting lists for ADHD services within the National Health Service (NHS), highlighting concerns about equitable access to care.

Queen Mary University of London plans to develop a £750 million biomedical campus in East London after acquiring a site from the UK government, a project described as a major life sciences investment, Financial Times said in a report.

The Scottish government is set to remove the WhatsApp messaging application from phones used by its officials, according to a report in BBC. This decision comes as a direct response to evidence presented at the UK Covid Inquiry, which revealed that government officials had deleted messages exchanged on the platform during the coronavirus pandemic. The inquiry has been examining communication practices across UK and devolved governments, highlighting issues with the use and archiving of informal messaging for official business.

The Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry is set to publish the first tranche of its final report on July 8, Evening Standard said in a report. This initial volume will concentrate on the compensation processes for those affected by the scandal and will also detail the devastating toll the Horizon IT system failures had on the lives of the victims.

The Scottish Government has implemented a new policy ending the use of WhatsApp for official government business, which came into effect on Friday, June 20, 2025, Evening Standard says in a report. This decision directly follows criticism from the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, which found that ministers and officials used informal messaging channels like WhatsApp for official business during the pandemic. The inquiry criticized this practice due to the lack of formal record-keeping, as messages on such platforms are often not archived, hindering the ability to reconstruct decision-making processes crucial for accountability. Under the new policy, government ministers and officials are prohibited from conducting official government business or making decisions via WhatsApp and are expected to use official, secure government communication systems.

Londoners face council tax rises exceeding 5% due to a £2 billion government funding shift aimed at benefiting the North and Midlands, according to a report in Evening Standard. This reallocation, part of the 'Levelling Up' agenda, is expected to particularly affect suburban boroughs such as Kingston, Richmond, Bromley, and Barnet, as well as central areas like Westminster and Wandsworth, as councils contend with rising costs and service demands.

UK Members of Parliament are sharing their personal experiences during the ongoing debate concerning the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, Evening Standard said in a report. Should MPs approve the bill at its third reading in the House of Commons, it is slated to undergo additional scrutiny in the House of Lords at a subsequent date.

UK retailer River Island has announced plans to close 33 of its shops, attributing the decision to the increasing prevalence of online shopping, BBC says in a report. This move by the fashion chain is expected to place hundreds of jobs in jeopardy across the United Kingdom.

The circumstances surrounding the early release of Liam Matthews from a UK prison are being reviewed after he killed a man within hours of his freedom, BBC said in a report. Matthews was released under a government initiative, understood to be the End of Custody Supervised Licence (ECSL) scheme which aims to alleviate prison overcrowding. The incident has triggered an immediate examination of both the specific decision to release Matthews and the early release program's overall procedures and safeguards.

A British couple from Bolton described hiding under sun loungers and fearing for their lives when a shoot-out erupted at their holiday hotel, BBC said in a report. Such incidents involving UK nationals abroad typically draw attention to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office's (FCDO) travel advice and the consular assistance available to citizens in distress.

Separate legislative bills proposing to allow terminally ill individuals to end their lives are currently under consideration in the UK Parliament at Westminster and in the Scottish Parliament, BBC says in a report. Assisted suicide is currently illegal across the United Kingdom. Due to the devolution of healthcare and criminal law, the Scottish Parliament has the authority to consider its own legislation on this matter independently from the UK Parliament, which legislates for England and Wales. These proposals are often introduced as Private Member's Bills, which typically face significant hurdles and rarely become law without government support or substantial cross-party consensus. In 2024, the UK Parliament's Health and Social Care Committee published a report advising against the legalisation of assisted dying in England and Wales within the current parliament, citing concerns about insufficient evidence and potential impacts on palliative care and vulnerable individuals.

The total volume of retail sales in the United Kingdom fell by 2.7 per cent in May, marking the biggest rate of decline in a year, as consumers cut back on spending for items including food and alcohol, Daily Mail said in a report. These figures were released by the Office for National Statistics, indicating a downturn in consumer purchasing activity.

A body has been discovered during the search for a 14-year-old girl named May, who was reported missing in Weymouth, United Kingdom, Daily Mail said in a report. May was last seen at approximately 10 pm on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, on Old Station Road. The discovery concludes the search for the teenager.

Kay Mason Billig, the Conservative leader of Norfolk County Council, has defended a Facebook post in which she shared a picture of a tomahawk steak, stating it was a "private joke," as per a report in Mirror. The post has drawn criticism and been described as a "poor people" joke, leading to a controversy surrounding the Tory chief's social media activity.

A woman in her 30s died at the Durdle Door beauty spot in Dorset on Friday afternoon, which was reported as the UK's hottest day of the year, according to a report in Daily Mail. Emergency services, including coastguards, lifeboat crews, an air ambulance, and police, responded to reports of a woman needing urgent medical attention around 1 pm; despite CPR efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. It is currently unknown if the woman had been in the water prior to the incident, which occurred as government scientists issued an alert regarding high temperatures.

Kristina O'Connor, daughter of the late entertainer Des O'Connor, has publicly stated that police 'cannot be trusted with women's safety,' after a Metropolitan Police officer who sexually harassed her in 2011 avoided dismissal, Daily Mail says in a report. Detective Chief Inspector James Mason received a final written warning in October 2021 for his conduct towards Ms. O'Connor, which occurred while he was investigating a mugging where she was the victim. He reportedly called her 'amazingly hot,' his 'favourite Camden victim of crime,' and asked her for a date, with a police misconduct panel subsequently finding he used inappropriate language but opting not to dismiss him.

A flight departing from the United Kingdom en route to the Canary Islands was forced to make an emergency landing after a threatening note, indicating a bomb threat, was discovered by a crew member in the aircraft's bathroom as it flew over Portugal on Thursday morning, Daily Mail said in a report. The incident prompted immediate emergency procedures.

Top medics in the United Kingdom have issued an urgent warning concerning a widely used heart drug prescribed to millions for acute coronary syndrome—a condition involving a sudden reduction of blood to the heart—to reduce the risk of deadly clots and strokes, the Daily Mail said in a report. Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, the drug's maker, is concurrently accused of 'misreporting' safety data related to this twice-daily pill.

BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty has reportedly been accused of bullying a staff member and was also allegedly spoken to by the company management regarding an off-air "sex jibe" made at BBC Radio 5 Live, Daily Mail said in a report. These claims emerge while Munchetty is already mentioned in connection with a "toxicity row" at the BBC Breakfast show, and it is currently unclear if she will publicly respond to the allegations, which were also reported by The Sun.

Revellers at Royal Ascot were observed leaving the event, spilling onto the streets after a day spent on their feet in significant heat, as temperatures reached 32.2C, reportedly the hottest day of the year so far in the United Kingdom, Daily Mail said in a report. The attendees were seen making their way home after the day's activities at the event.

British holidaymakers may face an increase in passport renewal costs to over £120, up from the current £94.50, as the National Audit Office (NAO) has recommended the rise due to the Passport Office operating at a loss, Daily Mail says in a report. The NAO, an independent body that scrutinises public spending, indicated that the current fee does not cover the full cost of providing the passport service, necessitating an increase to ensure financial viability.

Nancy Pexton of Westminster has been charged with the murder of Jennifer Abbott, Daily Mail said in a report. Abbott was found deceased last Friday in her Camden flat.

The United Kingdom is temporarily withdrawing UK staff from its embassy in Iran as a precautionary measure due to the current security situation, according to a report in Reuters. The UK government stated on its travel advice website for Iran that while staff are being withdrawn, the embassy will continue to operate remotely. This decision follows a period of conflict between Israel and Iran that began last week.

A councillor in the United Kingdom has been suspended by the Labour Party and has lost the party whip following the emergence of 'offensive' social media posts made a decade ago, BBC said in a report. One of the historical tweets reportedly included a message supporting Tommy Robinson, a far-right activist. Losing the party whip means the councillor is suspended from the party's council group and will sit as an independent representative while the suspension, typically a temporary measure pending investigation, is in place.

The United Kingdom government has stated it will provide charter flights from Tel Aviv for British nationals who want to depart Israel as soon as the airspace reopens, The Guardian says in a report. This decision comes as Whitehall officials work on organizing escape routes for the thousands of British and dual nationals currently in Israel amidst the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Six men were arrested in London on Friday on suspicion of grievous bodily harm following reports of an altercation near the Iranian embassy, Reuters said in a report. The police confirmed that the six men remain in custody. According to local media, the arrests took place during a protest against the Iranian government.

A UK Treasury minister has advised a Member of Parliament that they should be 'grateful' for a £445 million funding allocation for Welsh rail, countering criticism that the sum is inadequate, BBC News said in a report. The minister's comment was made in response to the MP's concerns that the £445 million designated for rail projects in Wales was not sufficient.

Members of Parliament have voted to deny the Welsh Parliament, the Senedd, powers that would have allowed it to veto Westminster legislation concerning assisted dying in Wales, BBC News says in a report. This decision means the Senedd will not have a formal mechanism to block UK Parliament laws on this issue as it applies to Wales. The vote was specifically about the Senedd's ability to grant or refuse legislative consent for Westminster-led laws on assisted dying, and not a direct vote on whether assisted dying should be legalized. The situation underscores the UK's devolution arrangement, where health matters are largely devolved to Wales, but aspects of criminal law, which assisted dying touches upon, remain primarily under Westminster's jurisdiction.

Prudential plc CEO Anil Wadhwani met with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and emphasized India's strategic importance to the UK FTSE100 insurer and asset manager, AP said in a report. Prudential, which operates across Asia and Africa, provides life insurance solutions in India through ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited.

Catherine Steele's husband passed away at their home in the United Kingdom in May 2025 from stomach cancer, but due to no ambulance being available, she was instructed during a 999 emergency call to examine him to confirm his death, BBC said in a report. This incident underscores the significant pressures faced by emergency medical services in the UK.

Members of Parliament in the United Kingdom are scheduled to vote on Friday, 2025-06-20, on proposed legislation concerning the legality of assisted dying in England and Wales, BBC said in a report. This vote pertains to a Private Member's Bill, meaning it was introduced by an individual MP, and is anticipated to be a 'free vote,' allowing MPs to decide based on their personal conviction rather than party instruction. The proposed law, if passed, would specifically apply to England and Wales, as health and social care are devolved matters within the UK.

Ilyas Akhtar has appeared in a United Kingdom court facing charges of preparing terrorist acts and arson, BBC says in a report. He is accused of starting fires at two leisure venues. The court appearance regarding these allegations took place on June 20, 2025.