Displaying items by tag: British Isles

A 74-year-old woman has become the first person charged in Scotland under the new Abortion Services Act 2024. The law, which came into force in September, bans anti-abortion protests within 200 metres of hospitals and clinics where terminations are performed. The police arrested and charged the woman after reports of a demonstration outside a Glasgow hospital. The case will be referred to the procurator fiscal. Scottish Greens MSP Gillian Mackay, who introduced the legislation, called the protests 'shameful' and thanked the police for their swift response. She argued that the law is necessary to protect women from intimidation while accessing healthcare. The incident follows controversial remarks by US vice-president JD Vance, who falsely claimed that Scots could be prosecuted for private prayer in their homes. The Scottish government dismissed his comments as misinformation, reaffirming that private prayer is not prohibited. Mackay urged potential demonstrators to 'think again', warning that future protests will be stopped, and legal consequences will follow.

A 52-year-old man has reportedly overcome a fifteen-year cocaine addiction after receiving weight-loss injections containing semaglutide. The drug, commonly used to treat obesity and diabetes, is believed to target the brain’s hunger and reward centres, reducing cravings not only for food but also for addictive substances. This first-of-its-kind case aligns with recent studies suggesting semaglutide could help treat addiction, including reducing alcohol consumption and smoking habits. Some researchers have even dubbed it a 'fountain of youth', as it has been linked to lowered heart attack risk, improved fertility, and slowed ageing markers. The man, who previously struggled with depression,  anxiety, and failed addiction treatments, sought help for both weight and drug dependency. Within twelve weeks, his focus shifted from drug use to exercise, showing improved physical health and self-esteem. Experts suggest semaglutide could be a promising treatment for addiction; however, further long-term studies are needed.

The Church in Wales is set to reconsider its stance on same-sex blessings, with the experimental provision allowing blessings for same-sex couples due to expire in September 2026. While the Church still does not permit same-sex marriage, the blessing service was introduced in 2021 as a compromise, allowing clergy to decide individually whether to conduct such services. The Archbishop of Wales, Most Rev Andrew John, has called for prayerful and open discussions as the denomination discerns its next steps. A series of meetings will be held across Wales, providing clergy and congregants a chance to share their perspectives. Options under consideration include ending the practice, extending it, or introducing a formal service of same-sex marriage within the Church. The Archbishop emphasised the need for respectful engagement with one another, Scripture, and tradition. The Scottish Episcopal Church already permits same-sex marriage, as do the Quakers, Unitarians, and the United Reformed Church.

Kristie Higgs, a Christian school counselling assistant, has won a landmark UK Court of Appeal case after being fired in 2019 for expressing concerns on Facebook about LGBTQ+ materials being taught in her son’s CofE primary school. The court ruled her dismissal was unlawful discrimination based on religion and belief. Higgs had posted about the 'No Outsiders' programme, which included books promoting gender ideology. An anonymous parent complained, leading to her dismissal for 'gross misconduct'. The school argued she was fired for her language, not her beliefs, but judges ruled the termination was disproportionate. The ruling strengthens freedom of speech and religious expression in employment law, shifting the burden onto employers to justify such dismissals. Higgs, supported by the Christian Legal Centre, called the decision a victory for free speech and for Christians facing workplace discrimination. She hopes it will protect others from losing their jobs over their beliefs.

A new Times survey reveals that Generation Z is more pro-marriage and less engaged in casual sex than millennials. Only 23% of Gen Z respondents said their friends commonly had one-night stands, a steep drop from 78% of millennials twenty years ago. Additionally, fewer young people are engaging in unprotected sex outside long-term relationships, and internet pornography use appears to have declined. While some Gen Z individuals still question the need for legal marriage, others see it as a more serious commitment than past generations. Financial constraints remain a barrier, with lower-income individuals less likely to marry because the benefits system disincentivises marriage. Some argue that difficulties with dating apps and changing cultural values have made young people more likely to stay in long-term relationships rather than constantly seeking new partners. This shift could indicate a revival of traditional relationship values.

The Government has stated it will not immediately retaliate against the renewal of US steel and aluminium tariffs, instead opting for a measured approach. Trade minister Douglas Alexander emphasised the need for a 'cool and clear-headed' response rather than a knee-jerk reaction. The 25% tariffs, set to take effect from 12 March, are designed to reduce foreign imports and boost US steel production. While the UK only exports 10% of its steel to the US, certain specialist suppliers could face severe impacts; the tariffs could also lead to an influx of cheaper foreign steel into the UK, undercutting domestic manufacturers. In response, UK Steel and unions are urging the Government to increase domestic steel purchases and protect jobs. Other nations, including Canada and the EU, have condemned the tariffs and vowed retaliatory measures, while the UK remains committed to diplomatic engagement. Donald Trump, who imposed similar tariffs in 2018, has indicated no exemptions this time, except possibly for Australia.

An official inquiry will soon be launched into the June 2023 Nottingham attacks, when three people were killed by Valdo Calocane. Calocane, who also attempted to kill three others, was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order after admitting to manslaughter by diminished responsibility. Experts ruled that schizophrenia reduced his responsibility, but victims' families insist he 'got away with murder' and demand full accountability. The victims' families welcomed the inquiry, emphasising the urgent need for reforms in mental health care and public safety. A recent NHS England report found severe failures in Calocane’s care, including missed treatment opportunities and a failure to enforce medication. Keir Starmer assured the families that the statutory inquiry will be comprehensive and independent, with a retired judge leading the process to uncover the truth and drive systemic change.

Keir Starmer has announced plans to build a dozen new towns across England, inspired by traditional architectural styles championed by King Charles. With 100 areas applying for developments of over 10,000 homes, he aims to fast-track construction before the end of this parliament, focusing on quality design and community-led development. The Government is targeting 1.5 million new homes, addressing planning delays and environmental regulations which have stalled 700,000 housing projects. Starmer emphasised avoiding a reliance on foreign labour, insisting that developers train British workers to meet construction demands. Visiting Nansledan in Cornwall, a King Charles-backed development, Starmer praised its blended housing approach, where affordable homes are indistinguishable from others. The initiative seeks to expand homeownership opportunities, particularly for young people who have been priced out of the market.

The Government has introduced new immigration rules making it nearly impossible for refugees who enter illegally - including those arriving by small boat or concealed in vehicles - to obtain British citizenship. From 10 February, applications from individuals who previously entered the UK illegally will normally be refused, regardless of how much time has passed. The Home Office defends the policy as strengthening deterrence, ensuring those who bypass legal entry routes face long-term consequences. However, critics argue that the change creates second-class citizens and contradicts international law, which states that refugees should not be penalised for illegal entry. The new Asylum and Immigration Bill will scrap the Rwanda deportation plan, increase police powers against people smugglers, and criminalise endangering others during illegal crossings. Former home secretary Lord Blunkett has urged parliamentary oversight, warning of the impact on children’s rights and stateless individuals.

Major lenders Santander and Barclays have introduced mortgage deals below 4%, signalling increased competition in the sector. These offers follow expectations that the Bank of England will continue to cut interest rates, allowing lenders to lower borrowing costs. Currently, the average two-year fixed mortgage rate is 5.48%, and the five-year average is 5.29%, but further declines are expected as lenders adjust to market trends. 800,000 fixed-rate mortgages under 3% are set to expire annually until 2027, meaning many homeowners will still face higher monthly payments. However, with the Bank of England expected to cut rates further, experts predict continued mortgage rate reductions, offering relief to borrowers. Financial experts are advising homeowners to review their options and switch to better deals where possible. The Bank of England reports that the UK economy grew slightly, by 0.1% in the last quarter of 2024. See