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Banning zero-hours contracts could cost businesses up to £3bn a year

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Banning zero-hours contracts could cost businesses up to £3bn a year

Banning zero-hours contracts could cost businesses up to £3bn a year, according to government analysis of reforms intended to give millions of UK workers greater security over their hours and income.

The reforms target what the government describes as “exploitative” zero-hours working practices. Rather than simply outlawing every flexible contract, the changes are designed to give qualifying workers rights to guaranteed-hours offers based on the hours they regularly work, reasonable notice of shifts, and compensation when employers cancel or cut shifts at short notice.

Government analysis puts the potential variable cost to businesses at approximately £350 million to £2.9 billion annually, depending on how employers respond and how extensively the new rights are used. The upper estimate has therefore produced headlines warning that the reforms could cost companies almost £3 billion every year.

Supporters argue that better job security could improve workers’ finances, wellbeing and productivity. Business groups, however, fear another substantial increase in employment expenses, particularly for sectors such as hospitality and retail that rely heavily on flexible staffing.

UK workers affected by proposed changes to zero-hours contracts.

What Is Changing With Zero-Hours Contracts?

The government’s approach is more complicated than simply making all zero-hours contracts illegal.

Its June consultation sets out three central protections.

Workers within scope would receive a right to be offered guaranteed hours if they regularly work those hours during a reference period. They would also receive a right to reasonable notice of shifts and changes to those shifts, as well as compensation when shifts are cancelled, moved or curtailed at short notice.

The intention is to tackle what ministers describe as one-sided flexibility.

Under some existing arrangements, an employer can benefit from having workers available without guaranteeing how much work they will actually receive. For workers who depend on that employment as their principal income, such arrangements can make monthly earnings difficult to predict.

The reforms aim to shift some of that uncertainty from workers back to employers.

Why Could the Changes Cost Businesses Almost £3bn?

The potential £3 billion bill does not come from a single charge.

Instead, businesses could face several types of additional cost as they adjust their staffing arrangements.

A particularly significant expense could arise from compensation for cancelled, moved or shortened shifts. Reporting on the government assessment indicates that this element alone could account for roughly £1.2 billion under some assumptions.

Businesses may also incur administrative expenses for monitoring workers’ hours, identifying when they must make guaranteed-hours offers, and complying with new notice requirements.

Companies that currently rely heavily on last-minute staffing changes could therefore face a much greater impact than those already providing predictable schedules.

Hospitality and Retail Could Be Hit Hardest

Not every part of the economy uses zero-hours contracts to the same extent.

Hospitality is particularly dependent on flexible labour, as customer demand can change dramatically.

A restaurant might be extremely busy on Saturday evening but quiet on Monday afternoon. Hotels experience seasonal fluctuations, while events, holidays and even the weather can affect demand for pubs, entertainment venues and catering businesses.

Retailers face similar challenges during Christmas, Black Friday, sales periods and other peaks.

These industries argue that flexible staffing enables businesses to match employee numbers more closely to customer demand.

Business organisations have consequently warned that restrictions could make hiring pricier and potentially discourage employers from creating some entry-level positions. The British Retail Consortium and other business groups have raised concerns about the cost and complexity of the changes.

Hospitality and retail businesses could face higher costs from zero-hours contract reforms.
Hospitality and retail businesses could face higher costs from zero-hours contract reforms.

Why Does the Government Want to Change the System?

The government argues that flexibility should work for employees as well as employers.

Zero-hours arrangements can suit some people extremely well. Students, semi-retired workers, carers and people with multiple jobs may appreciate being able to accept work when convenient.

The criticism concerns workers who want predictable employment but remain dependent on contracts offering little certainty over when or how much they will work.

The government says its reforms aim to give workers greater security and predictability, while retaining genuine flexibility where workers want it.

That distinction is important.

The policy is not based on the assumption that every person currently working flexibly wants a traditional fixed-hours contract. Instead, it seeks to prevent flexibility from operating entirely in the employer’s favour.

What Would Guaranteed Hours Mean?

Guaranteed-hours provisions are central to the reforms.

Where eligible workers regularly work a certain number of hours during a defined reference period, employers would generally have to offer contracts that reflect those hours.

For example, someone technically employed on zero guaranteed hours but consistently working around 25 hours each week could become entitled to an offer reflecting their actual working pattern, subject to the detailed rules and exceptions.

That could make household finances more predictable.

Knowing approximately how much income will arrive each month can make it easier to budget for rent, mortgages, food, childcare, transport and energy bills.

However, businesses argue that guaranteeing hours based on previous working patterns could become difficult when future customer demand falls unexpectedly.

Cancelled Shifts Are a Major Part of the Debate

Another important reform concerns shifts that are cancelled at short notice.

For workers, a cancelled shift does not simply mean an unexpected day off.

Someone may already have arranged childcare, paid for transport or turned down work elsewhere.

If the employer cancels at the last minute without compensation, much of the financial risk falls on the worker.

The proposed system seeks to change that by creating a right to compensation in qualifying circumstances.

Trade unions argue that employers who schedule responsibly should have less to fear from these provisions than companies that routinely rely on last-minute cancellations.

Could Businesses Reduce Hiring?

This issue is one of the biggest questions surrounding the reforms.

Business organisations worry that the increasing cost and legal complexity of hiring could lead employers to recruit fewer people.

Young people could be particularly affected if employers reduce entry-level positions in hospitality and retail.

Companies could also respond by changing how they organise their workforce, including offering more conventional part-time contracts, increasing overtime for existing employees or investing more heavily in automation.

But these outcomes are not certain.

The government’s position is that improved working conditions can produce economic benefits of their own through better employee well-being, retention and productivity.

The real economic impact will therefore depend heavily on how employers adapt once the detailed rules come into effect.

What Do Business Groups Say?

Business groups have reacted strongly to the potential costs.

Retail and hospitality organisations argue that companies have already faced significant increases in labour costs and that additional regulation could make expansion and recruitment more difficult.

The British Retail Consortium has called for changes to the government’s approach amid concerns about the consequences for employers.

Smaller companies could feel particularly exposed because they generally have fewer employees available to cover sudden absences or unexpected increases in demand.

A major national retailer may be able to reorganise hundreds of employees across its stores.

An independent restaurant with 15 members of staff has much less flexibility.

What Do Trade Unions Say?

Trade unions generally view the reforms very differently.

The Trades Union Congress has backed stronger protections and argues that workers should not carry the financial consequences when employers cancel shifts at short notice.

Supporters also reject the idea that improving employment standards necessarily destroys jobs.

Their argument is that businesses should compete through productivity, investment and service rather than relying on workers accepting unpredictable incomes.

This creates the fundamental disagreement behind the zero-hours debate.

Businesses emphasise flexibility and cost. Workers’ organisations emphasise security and fairness.

Both issues will influence how successful the reforms ultimately prove.

UK businesses and workers face major changes under zero-hours contract reforms.
UK businesses and workers face major changes under zero-hours contract reforms.

Could Better Job Security Benefit the Economy?

The £3 billion figure naturally attracts attention, but cost is only one side of the government’s assessment.

More predictable employment could potentially provide benefits.

Workers with greater income security may experience less financial stress. Employers could potentially benefit from lower staff turnover, improved morale and better retention.

Businesses regularly spend money recruiting and training replacement workers when employees leave.

If more secure employment encourages people to remain in their jobs for longer, some of those costs could fall.

The government argues that improved employment conditions can therefore support economic growth rather than simply imposing additional expenses.

Whether those benefits offset the direct costs will be a key question as the reforms take effect.

Are Zero-Hours Contracts Being Completely Banned?

No — and this issue is an important point for readers searching for information about the “zero-hours contract ban”.

The government’s stated objective is to end exploitative zero-hours contracts, not necessarily to eliminate every form of flexible or casual work.

Workers who genuinely prefer flexible arrangements should still have options available.

The reforms instead focus on preventing situations where people regularly work predictable hours while technically receiving no guarantee that those hours will continue.

They also seek to protect workers from unreasonable shift changes and cancellations.

That means headlines describing the policy simply as a blanket ban can obscure how the system is actually intended to work.

Why the £3bn Estimate Should Be Treated Carefully

The phrase “could cost businesses up to £3bn a year” is important.

The £2.9 billion figure represents the upper end of estimated variable costs rather than a guaranteed annual bill.

Government analysis reportedly places the range at roughly £350 million to £2.9 billion, demonstrating how much uncertainty remains around the eventual impact.

Actual costs will depend on factors including how regulations are finalised, how many workers qualify, how businesses change their scheduling practices and how frequently compensation becomes payable.

For an SEO news article, maintaining the words “could” and “up to” is therefore important for accuracy.

What Happens Next?

The detailed implementation of the reforms remains crucial.

The government has been consulting on how the guaranteed-hours system and related protections should operate in practice. Issues include reference periods, qualifying workers, shift-notice rules, compensation and how the provisions should apply to agency workers.

Employers will need clarity well before implementation so they can change contracts, payroll systems, workforce planning and shift-management procedures.

Workers will also need straightforward information explaining when they become entitled to guaranteed hours or compensation.

The success of the policy may ultimately depend less on the headline promise and more on whether the final system is simple enough for workers to understand and businesses to administer.

Conclusion

Banning zero-hours contracts could cost businesses up to £3bn a year, according to the upper end of government estimates surrounding the UK’s employment reforms.

The figure has intensified an already heated debate about the balance between flexible employment and worker security.

Businesses, particularly in hospitality and retail, fear higher costs, additional administration and reduced flexibility. Trade unions and supporters of the reforms argue that workers should not have to live with unpredictable incomes or lose money when shifts are cancelled without sufficient notice.

Importantly, the policy is more nuanced than a blanket prohibition on every zero-hours arrangement. The government wants workers to receive guaranteed-hours offers reflecting their regular working patterns, reasonable notice of shifts and protection against short-notice cancellations while preserving genuine flexibility where it is wanted.

Whether the reforms ultimately cost businesses anything close to £3 billion will depend on the final regulations and how employers adapt.

What is already clear is that Britain’s approach to insecure and flexible employment is undergoing a significant change — one that could affect employers and workers across some of the country’s biggest industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the UK banning all zero-hours contracts?

No. The reforms target exploitative zero-hours arrangements and seek to give eligible workers guaranteed-hours offers, reasonable notice of shifts and compensation for qualifying short-notice cancellations.

How much could the zero-hours reforms cost businesses?

Government analysis reportedly estimates that variable annual costs could range from around £350 million to £2.9 billion, depending on implementation and employer behaviour.

Which businesses could be most affected?

Hospitality and retail are among the sectors likely to pay particular attention to the reforms because they make extensive use of flexible staffing to respond to changing customer demand.

Will workers receive guaranteed hours?

Eligible workers who regularly work particular hours during the relevant reference period would have a right to an offer of guaranteed hours reflecting their working pattern, subject to the final rules.

Will employers have to pay when shifts are cancelled?

The reforms include a right to compensation for qualifying shifts that are cancelled, moved or curtailed at short notice.

Why does the government support the changes?

The government argues that greater security and predictability can improve worker wellbeing and employment conditions while supporting productivity and economic growth.

UNESCO World Heritage Site status for Alvar Aalto’s unique Sunila residential area in Finland

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UNESCO World Heritage Site status for Alvar Aalto’s unique Sunila residential area in Finland

The Sunila Residential Area becomes the 12th building and site in Finland to join the UNESCO-listed Aalto Works ensemble

UNESCO Names Alvar Aalto’s Unique Sunila Residential Area in Finland a World Heritage Site

The Aalto Works, comprising 13 buildings and sites that are exemplary of modern Finnish architecture, has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, and the Sunila residential area in Kotka is part of it.

Sunila, located in south-eastern Finland, is one of the largest projects of the architect Alvar Aalto. The area is a mix of modernist architecture, the history of Finland’s forest industry, workers’ housing and landscape planning.

Sunila was constructed next to the Gulf of Finland, at the mouth of the Kymi River, as a residential district for workers of the neighbouring pulp mill. Its planning was informed by new ideas about worker welfare, access to nature and the role of architecture in everyday life.

A Forest Suburb Designed for Workers

Sunila is currently home to approximately 1,100 residents.
Sunila is currently home to approximately 1,100 residents

The first buildings in Sunila were completed in 1937. The district was planned as a complete living environment, with homes, communal facilities and service buildings integrated into the surrounding terrain.

“The Sunila mill area and residential district together form Alvar Aalto’s largest realised work and Finland’s first forest suburb,” said Anne Stocker, Chair of the Pro Sunila Association.

Stocker added that the district influenced the planning of several later residential areas and continues to function as a neighbourhood nearly 90 years after its earliest buildings were completed.

Sunila is currently home to approximately 1,100 residents.

The residential area includes 12 row houses and apartment buildings, service structures and Kantola, the former mill manager’s residence, which also has seaside saunas. Some apartments retain furnishings and interiors based on the design principles associated with Aino and Alvar Aalto.

Kantola is open to the public during the summer, allowing visitors to view part of the residential and industrial ensemble.

Architecture at a Residential Scale

Sunila's planning reflected emerging ideas about worker welfare, access to nature and the role of architecture in everyday life
Sunila’s planning reflected emerging ideas about worker welfare, access to nature and the role of architecture in everyday life. Image courtesy: Annika Ruohonen

Unlike architectural heritage sites that centre on individual monuments or public buildings, Sunila demonstrates how modernist planning was applied across an entire residential community.

The buildings were positioned in relation to the landscape, with surrounding woodland, pedestrian routes and shared spaces forming part of the original plan. The district illustrates how architecture, industrial development and social policy intersected in Finland during the 1930s.

Sunila is located approximately 130 kilometres east of Helsinki. Five other sites in the Aalto Works ensemble are in the Finnish capital: Finlandia Hall, the House of Culture, the Social Insurance Institution Headquarters, Alvar Aalto’s home and Alvar Aalto’s studio.

Residents to Open Their Homes in August

The Sunila Aalto Homes event will take place on August 29 and 30, between 11 am and 4 pm. During the event, participating residents will open their homes to visitors.

The programme will include lectures, discussions, workshops and flea markets centred on architecture, design and residential life in Sunila. The event will provide access to homes in a neighbourhood that continues to serve its original residential purpose.

Finland’s Eighth World Heritage Site

Sunila joins the World Heritage List as part of Aalto Works, which comprises buildings and sites associated with Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto across Finland.

The inclusion makes Aalto Works Finland’s eighth World Heritage Site. Other Finnish sites on the list include the Fortress of Suomenlinna and the historic wooden town of Old Rauma.

Welcoming UNESCO’s decision, Anne Stocker of Pro Sunila states, “A new and exciting chapter now begins for Sunil



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Serial sex offender Simon Levy given whole-life term after police blunders left him free to murder

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Serial sex offender Simon Levy given whole-life term after police blunders left him free to murder

Simon Levy has been given a whole-life term after being convicted of murdering two women and raping another, bringing renewed scrutiny to serious failures by police and prosecutors that left the repeat sex offender free to continue attacking women.

The 40-year-old was sentenced at the Old Bailey on 12 August 2026 after being found guilty of murdering Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo, 53, and Sheryl Wilkins, 39. He was also convicted of the rape and serious assault of another woman who survived. A whole-life order means Levy is not expected to be released from prison.

The case has generated particular anger because Levy had a long history of sexual offending and had repeatedly come to the attention of authorities. He was even released after being arrested on suspicion of Valencia-Trujillo’s murder, before going on to commit further offences and murder Wilkins months later.

Simon Levy, who received a whole-life order for murdering two women in London.

What Was Simon Levy Convicted Of?

Levy was convicted following a trial at the Old Bailey of the murders of Valencia-Trujillo and Wilkins, along with offences against a third woman who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Valencia-Trujillo was found dead at a property on the Aylesbury Estate in Walworth, south-east London, on 17 March 2025. Levy was arrested on suspicion of her murder on 1 April but was released while further enquiries continued.

Wilkins was killed five months later, on 24 August 2025, in Tottenham, north London. At the time, Levy was still at liberty despite the earlier murder investigation and his extensive history of sexual offending.

The surviving woman had been violently attacked and raped in January 2025. Prosecutors told the court that Levy targeted women he considered vulnerable and believed he could attack without facing consequences.

What Does a Whole-Life Order Mean?

A whole-life order is the most severe sentence available for murder in England and Wales.

Unlike an ordinary life sentence, there is no minimum tariff after which the offender can normally apply for release on parole. In practical terms, Levy is expected to spend the rest of his life in prison.

Whole-life orders are reserved for exceptionally serious crimes. Before Levy’s sentence, only around 75 prisoners in England and Wales were serving such terms, according to reporting on the case.

The severity of the sentence reflects not only the two murders but also Levy’s pattern of violent sexual offending.

A Long History of Sexual Offending

One of the most disturbing aspects of the case is how many warning signs existed before the murders.

Levy’s convictions for sexual offences stretched back for years. In September 2021, he was convicted of sexual assault and assault by penetration for offences committed in 2018.

He was jailed, but his offending did not stop.

While in prison, Levy sexually assaulted a female prison officer in 2022. After his release, he committed further sexual assaults against women on London’s transport network between 2023 and 2025.

The history raises a difficult question at the heart of the case: how was such a persistent offender repeatedly able to remain free?

Police and Prosecution Failures Under Scrutiny

The answer involves a series of failures across different parts of the criminal justice system.

The Metropolitan Police, British Transport Police and Crown Prosecution Service have acknowledged errors in their handling of Levy.

Reporting on the case indicates that delays and mistakes affected the handling of earlier sexual offences. His risk level was also downgraded despite his history, and opportunities to remove him from the streets were missed.

These were significant administrative problems.

They occurred while Levy continued offending.

Most seriously, after his April 2025 arrest on suspicion of murdering Valencia-Trujillo, Levy was released while the investigation continued. He subsequently attacked more women and murdered Wilkins.

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Police and prosecution failures in the Simon Levy case are facing scrutiny.

Why Was Levy Released After the First Murder Arrest?

When Valencia-Trujillo was found dead, the initial post-mortem examination was unable to establish a cause of death.

Police arrested Levy on suspicion of murder on 1 April 2025. He was subsequently released under investigation while further tests and enquiries were carried out.

That decision became devastatingly significant when Levy later killed Wilkins.

It is important, however, to distinguish between the legal principle that an arrest does not itself establish guilt and the wider questions raised by Levy’s known history, risk assessment and other alleged or proven offences.

The controversy is therefore not simply that police released a murder suspect. It concerns whether agencies have properly considered the combined pattern of ‘Contact Us’ behaviour and risk presented by a repeat sexual offender.

The Victims at the Centre of the Case

The institutional failures are important, but they should not overshadow the women harmed by Levy.

Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo was 53 years old. Sheryl Wilkins was 39.

The third woman survived an extremely serious attack and later provided evidence against Levy. The court heard that she had been trafficked into the UK and was particularly vulnerable.

The women Levy targeted were vulnerable, and prosecutors argued that this vulnerability was part of his predatory behaviour.

Their circumstances made the crimes against them more serious. If anything, the case raises uncomfortable questions about whether vulnerable women receive the protection they should when reporting violence and sexual offences.

Survivor’s Evidence Helped Bring Levy to Justice

The surviving victim played an important role in the prosecution.

She had been attacked months before the two murders and was able to provide evidence of Levy’s behaviour. According to evidence presented during the trial, she correctly identified where he lived and later selected him from a police identification procedure.

Her evidence helped prosecutors demonstrate similarities between the attacks.

At sentencing, she described the devastating impact Levy’s violence had on her life and called him a “monster.”

Officers Face Investigation

Accountability has now become another major part of the story.

Police officers are facing investigation over aspects of the handling of Levy, while the Metropolitan Police has carried out a review of what went wrong.

The case raises broader questions about how repeat sexual offenders are assessed and monitored, especially when different police forces, prosecutors, and courts are handling separate offences involving the same individual.

Information may exist within the system, but it is only useful if agencies connect it quickly enough to understand the level of risk an offender presents.

he Old Bailey, where Simon Levy received a whole-life order for murder and rape.
he Old Bailey, where Simon Levy received a whole-life order for murder and rape.

London Mayor Condemns the Failures

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has criticised the failures surrounding the case and the missed opportunities to prevent Levy’s continued offending.

The criticism reflects a wider concern about violence against women and girls and whether criminal justice agencies respond effectively enough to repeat offenders.

The Levy case is particularly troubling because his offending did not suddenly escalate without warning.

There was an established history.

There were previous convictions.

There were further allegations.

There were arrests.

And yet he remained able to attack women.

Could the Murders Have Been Prevented?

It is impossible to reconstruct with certainty what would have happened under different circumstances. However, the acknowledged failures inevitably raise questions about whether later offences could have been prevented had earlier cases been handled differently.

Levy was already a convicted sex offender. He continued offending after leaving prison and came repeatedly to the attention of law enforcement.

By the time Wilkins was murdered, Levy had also been arrested in connection with Valencia-Trujillo’s death.

The focus now will be on identifying exactly where the system failed and determining whether procedures need to change to prevent similar cases.

Why This Case Matters Beyond Simon Levy

The significance of the case extends beyond one offender.

Police forces routinely have to assess suspects based on separate incidents, allegations and convictions. A series of offences that might seem individually manageable can reveal a far more serious pattern when examined together.

The Levy case demonstrates the potential consequences when that pattern is not acted upon effectively.

It also reinforces the importance of taking reports involving vulnerable victims seriously. People affected by addiction, homelessness, trafficking or sex work can face substantial barriers when dealing with authorities.

Their vulnerability should increase the urgency of protecting them—not reduce the credibility attached to their experiences.

Conclusion

The Simon Levy whole-life term ensures that one of Britain’s most dangerous sexual offenders will not return to the streets.

Levy was convicted of murdering Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo and Sheryl Wilkins, as well as raping and violently attacking another woman. His crimes followed years of sexual offending and repeated contact with the criminal justice system.

But his imprisonment does not end the questions raised by the case.

The Metropolitan Police, British Transport Police and Crown Prosecution Service have all faced scrutiny over failures that allowed Levy to remain at liberty despite mounting evidence of the danger he posed.

The most important issue now is accountability: understanding how those failures occurred, learning from them and ensuring that warnings about repeat violent and sexual offenders are acted upon before more lives are lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Simon Levy?

Simon Levy is a 40-year-old convicted serial sex offender who was found guilty of murdering two women in London and raping and seriously assaulting another.

Who did Simon Levy murder?

He murdered Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo, 53, and Sheryl Wilkins, 39, in separate attacks during 2025.

What sentence did Simon Levy receive?

Levy received a whole-life order, meaning he is expected to spend the rest of his life in prison without release on parole.

Was Simon Levy already known to police?

Yes. He had previous sexual-offence convictions and had repeatedly come to the attention of police before the murders.

Was Levy on bail when he murdered Sheryl Wilkins?

Yes. He had previously been arrested in connection with Valencia-Trujillo’s murder and was at liberty when he later murdered Wilkins.

Are police being investigated?

Yes. The handling of Levy has prompted investigations and reviews following acknowledged failures by criminal justice agencies.

Households Near New Pylons to Get £250 Taken Off Annual Energy Bills Under UK Scheme

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Households Near New Pylons to Get £250 Taken Off Annual Energy Bills Under UK Scheme

Households near new pylons are set to get £250 taken off their annual energy bills under a UK government scheme designed to compensate communities living closest to new electricity transmission infrastructure.

Under the latest plans, eligible households located within 500 metres of new overhead electricity lines will receive a £250 annual electricity bill discount. The support is expected to last for 10 years, meaning an eligible household could receive as much as £2,500 in total.

The initiative comes as Britain prepares for a major expansion of its electricity transmission network. New pylons, substations and power lines will be needed to connect renewable generation and other sources of electricity to homes and businesses.

For people living next to that infrastructure, the government argues that the financial benefit is a way of ensuring communities hosting nationally important projects receive something tangible in return.

New electricity pylons being constructed as Britain expands its power transmission network.

Who Will Get the £250 Energy Bill Discount?

The most important question for households is eligibility.

The latest plans cover qualifying homes within 500 metres of new overhead transmission infrastructure. The government previously announced that people living closest to new or significantly upgraded infrastructure could receive discounts of up to £250 annually for a decade.

That means simply living near an existing electricity pylon will not automatically qualify you.

The scheme is primarily associated with new transmission infrastructure needed as Britain’s electricity system expands.

The government intends to introduce the detailed rules through secondary legislation. Its July 2026 update said that, subject to parliamentary approval, eligible households should begin receiving discounts in the first half of 2027.

How Much Could Households Save?

The headline benefit is straightforward:

  • £250 per year
  • Available for up to 10 years
  • Maximum potential benefit of £2,500 per eligible household

The discount is intended to be applied directly to electricity bills rather than requiring households to claim an equivalent amount through the tax system. Current reporting says eligible households should receive the discount automatically in twice-yearly instalments.

For households facing high living costs, £250 annually could provide meaningful help.

However, the scheme should not be confused with a general reduction in UK energy bills. It is specifically designed for qualifying properties located close to certain new electricity transmission projects.

Why Does Britain Need So Many New Pylons?

Britain’s electricity system is changing rapidly.

Historically, much of the country’s electricity was generated by large coal, gas and nuclear power stations before being transmitted to population centres.

Renewable electricity changes that geography.

Large offshore wind farms, for example, may generate electricity far away from the cities where most power is consumed. New transmission lines are therefore required to move that electricity around the country.

The government says expanding the grid is essential to its ambition of creating a cleaner electricity system and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The scale of the task is substantial. More than 40 major infrastructure projects are reportedly involved in the planned grid upgrade, with investment potentially reaching £77 billion over five years.

Electricity transmission infrastructure will be expanded as Britain connects more renewable power to the grid.
Electricity transmission infrastructure will be expanded as Britain connects more renewable power to the grid.

Why Pay People Who Live Near Pylons?

Building new electricity infrastructure frequently generates local opposition.

Residents may be concerned about:

  • Changes to countryside views
  • The effect on local landscapes
  • Construction disruption
  • Possible effects on property values
  • The proximity of substations or overhead cables
  • Environmental impacts

The bill-discount programme is intended partly to ensure communities affected by major national infrastructure projects share in their benefits.

There is also a practical political consideration.

Britain needs to build transmission infrastructure quickly if it wants to connect new electricity generation. Lengthy opposition and planning disputes can delay projects considerably.

Providing direct benefits to nearby residents could make some communities more accepting of infrastructure that they might otherwise regard as imposing costs without providing local advantages.

Why Not Put All the Cables Underground?

One common response to proposals for new pylons is simple: why can’t the cables be buried underground?

Underground cables can reduce the visual impact of transmission lines, but they are generally considerably more expensive and can create their own environmental and engineering challenges.

The government has therefore continued to favour overhead transmission infrastructure for many projects where it considers pylons the more cost-effective solution.

That doesn’t mean every new electricity connection will use traditional pylons. Different technologies can be chosen depending on geography, environmental considerations, planning requirements and cost.

Will Everyone Else Pay for the Discount?

There is an important detail behind the headline.

Government impact assessments have proposed funding the scheme through obligations on electricity suppliers. The assessment assumes suppliers would recover those costs through their wider customer base, meaning the cost could ultimately be spread across electricity billpayers.

This creates an obvious debate about fairness.

Supporters can argue that households hosting essential national infrastructure deserve compensation and that the cost is relatively small when distributed across millions of customers.

Critics may question why electricity consumers elsewhere should contribute toward discounts for households living close to new infrastructure.

The final financial impact will depend on the scheme’s detailed rules and the number of eligible properties.

How Many Homes Could Benefit?

Previous government modelling gives some indication of the potential scale.

An impact assessment estimated that roughly 163,500 to 245,300 domestic properties could fall within 500 metres of transmission lines under one modelling approach. However, those figures were illustrative rather than a confirmed estimate of how many households will actually qualify for the final scheme.

Eligibility will depend on which infrastructure projects are included and the final regulations.

For homeowners wondering whether their property qualifies, it is therefore too early to rely solely on distance from a nearby pylon.

Community Funds Will Provide Additional Benefits

The individual household discount isn’t the only measure intended to benefit affected areas.

Electricity network companies can also provide funding for communities hosting new transmission infrastructure. Such money could support local facilities and projects rather than being paid directly to individual households.

This creates two distinct forms of benefit: direct electricity bill discounts for qualifying households and broader community funding for affected areas

Communities hosting new electricity transmission infrastructure could receive financial benefits.
Communities hosting new electricity transmission infrastructure could receive financial benefits.

When Will the £250 Pylon Discount Start?

This is particularly important because the scheme has not started paying households yet.

The government said in its July 2026 update that it intends to lay secondary legislation before Parliament later this year.

Subject to parliamentary approval, discounts are expected to begin reaching eligible households during the first half of 2027.

So if somebody receives a message today claiming they must immediately provide bank details to obtain their £250 pylon payment, they should be cautious.

Details of how households will be identified and notified should come through the official scheme.

UK government update on the electricity bill discount scheme

Could the Scheme Speed Up Britain’s Energy Transition?

Potentially—and that is one of the reasons the government is introducing it.

Britain’s energy transition isn’t simply about constructing wind farms and solar farms. Electricity generated by them needs to reach consumers.

Grid bottlenecks can force operators to restrict electricity generation in one part of the country while using more expensive generation elsewhere.

The government hopes that accelerating transmission construction will make the electricity system more efficient while supporting greater use of domestically generated power.

But expanding the grid will inevitably create disagreements over where infrastructure should be built.

The £250 discount is therefore both an energy policy and a community-acceptance policy.

What Should Households Do Now?

Householders do not need to rush to submit an application based solely on the announcement.

Instead, residents near proposed transmission projects should follow official government and network-operator updates as individual projects move through planning and construction.

Most importantly, remember these three points: the scheme concerns qualifying new infrastructure, eligibility is based on specific rules rather than simply having a pylon nearby, and payments are currently expected to start in 2027.

Conclusion

The plan for households near new pylons to get £250 off energy bills represents a significant attempt to share some of the benefits of Britain’s electricity-grid expansion with the communities most directly affected.

Eligible households within 500 metres of qualifying new overhead transmission infrastructure are expected to receive £250 a year for up to 10 years, potentially providing £2,500 in total.

For the government, the bigger objective is accelerating construction of the electricity network needed for Britain’s changing energy system.

For households, however, the question is much simpler: Will my home qualify?

The detailed regulations should make that clearer before the scheme begins, currently expected in the first half of 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will households near new pylons receive?

Eligible households are expected to receive £250 per year for up to 10 years, giving a maximum potential discount of £2,500.

How close do you need to live to a new pylon?

The latest plan covers eligible households located within 500 metres of qualifying new overhead transmission infrastructure.

Will people living near existing pylons receive £250?

Not simply because an existing pylon is nearby. The scheme is focused on households affected by qualifying new transmission infrastructure.

When will the pylon energy discount start?

Subject to parliamentary approval, the government intends discounts to begin in the first half of 2027.

Will households have to apply?

Current reporting says eligible households are expected to receive the discount automatically rather than having to make a conventional application.

Nottingham Forest’s Oliver Glasner Reveals How Key Dinner With Marinakis Changed His Mind

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Nottingham Forest’s Oliver Glasner Reveals How Key Dinner With Marinakis Changed His Mind

Nottingham Forest boss Oliver Glasner has revealed how a key dinner with Evangelos Marinakis helped convince him to take charge at the City Ground, despite initially having little interest in the job.

The Austrian arrived at Forest in July on a three-year contract after leaving Crystal Palace, where he had enjoyed a highly successful spell. Glasner said he originally wanted to remain in the Premier League but was attracted by clubs competing regularly in European football. Forest therefore did not immediately appear to be his obvious next destination.

That changed after a meeting with Forest owner Marinakis in Athens. Over dinner, the pair discussed the club, its squad and their ambitions for the future. Glasner came away convinced that Forest offered an opportunity worth taking.

Oliver Glasner discusses his ambitions after becoming Nottingham Forest head coach.
Oliver Glasner discusses his ambitions after becoming Nottingham Forest head coach.
Oliver Glasner discusses his ambitions after becoming Nottingham Forest head coach.

Glasner Initially Said No to Forest

One of the most interesting aspects of Glasner’s move is that Forest apparently had to change his mind.

Glasner has explained that he was repeatedly approached but initially did not regard Forest as the right destination. European football was particularly important to him after experiencing continental competition with previous clubs.

The situation changed once he examined Forest’s potential more closely.

Two factors became particularly important: the quality he believes exists within the squad and Marinakis’s ambition for the club.

For Glasner, the second factor appears to have been decisive.

The Athens Dinner That Changed Everything

Glasner met Marinakis in Athens, where the two discussed Forest’s future over dinner. According to Glasner, the conversation demonstrated that Marinakis shared his determination to achieve something significant.

That mattered because Glasner is not looking merely to keep Forest comfortably in the Premier League.

He wants to build a side capable of competing towards the upper end of English football and regularly qualifying for European competition.

Marinakis has expressed similar ambitions. When announcing Glasner’s appointment, the Forest owner said the pair shared a vision and desire for success, adding that his objective was to establish Forest among England and Europe’s leading clubs.

That shared ambition appears to have transformed what initially looked like an unlikely appointment into an attractive project for both men.

Glasner Wants More Than a One-Off European Run

Nottingham Forest aim to establish themselves as regular contenders for European football.
Nottingham Forest aim to establish themselves as regular contenders for European football.

Forest have experienced dramatic progress since returning to the Premier League, but Glasner wants sustained success rather than occasional exceptional seasons.

His message is essentially that European qualification cannot be treated as a one-off achievement.

That represents an ambitious target considering the financial strength of clubs such as Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea.

Glasner nevertheless believes Forest can establish greater consistency. Recent interviews show him stressing that the club needs to create the right environment to compete at a higher level over time.

Nottingham Forest aim to establish themselves as regular contenders for European football.
Nottingham Forest aim to establish themselves as regular contenders for European football.

Glasner Arrives With a Strong Reputation

Forest’s appointment of Glasner is significant because of what he achieved before arriving at the City Ground.

The 51-year-old previously managed clubs, including Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt, before moving to Crystal Palace. His career includes success in European and English competition, and his Palace tenure considerably raised his reputation in the Premier League.

His teams are generally associated with energetic football, structured pressing and a system frequently built around three central defenders and attacking wing-backs.

Forest will therefore have to adapt to his tactical demands.

Glasner has also cautioned that supporters should not expect everything to work immediately. He has indicated that fully establishing his methods can take three to six months.

That patience could prove particularly important at Forest.

The Big Question: Will Glasner Get Enough Time?

Oliver Glasner begins a new Premier League chapter with Nottingham Forest.purpose=fullsize
Oliver Glasner begins a new Premier League chapter with Nottingham Forest.

This is arguably the biggest issue surrounding the appointment.

Glasner became Forest’s fifth head coach in less than 12 months, highlighting the extraordinary managerial turnover at the club.

A manager trying to implement a distinctive tactical identity usually needs time.

That means the relationship between Glasner and Marinakis could be just as important as formations, transfers and individual performances.

The Athens dinner established their shared ambitions. Maintaining that relationship when Forest inevitably experience difficult results will be the more meaningful test.

What Marinakis Sees in Glasner

Marinakis has been clear about why he wanted the Austrian.

The Forest owner praised Glasner’s leadership, personality, style of football and record of building successful teams. He also described him as a winner capable of competing against strong opposition.

That makes the appointment more than simply another managerial change.

Forest appear to have hired a coach they believe can take the club into a different phase—one in which expectations move beyond Premier League survival.

The challenge will be matching those expectations with recruitment, squad development and patience.

Recruitment Could Be Crucial

Glasner’s tactical system requires players with particular characteristics.

Wing-backs need the stamina to contribute in both directions. Central defenders must be comfortable defending space, while attacking midfielders need to operate effectively between the lines.

Recruitment will consequently be a major part of determining whether his Forest project succeeds.

A coach can have an ambitious plan, but he also needs a squad capable of executing it.

The relationship with Marinakis and Forest’s recruitment team will therefore be worth watching throughout the transfer window and beyond.

Oliver Glasner begins a new Premier League chapter with Nottingham Forest.
Oliver Glasner begins a new Premier League chapter with Nottingham Forest.

From Crystal Palace to Nottingham Forest

Glasner’s move inevitably attracted attention because of his successful association with Crystal Palace.

He has nevertheless made clear that he views Forest as a new chapter rather than an attempt to recreate his previous job.

Speaking at his Forest unveiling, he reflected positively on his time at Palace while emphasising that his focus has moved to the challenge at the City Ground.

For Forest supporters, that distinction matters.

They are not simply getting the former Palace manager. They are getting an ambitious coach who believes Forest have enough potential to build something of their own.

Why the Marinakis Dinner Matters

Football is full of stories about transfer negotiations and managerial interviews, but Glasner’s dinner with Marinakis is revealing because it explains the thinking behind the appointment.

Glasner initially had reservations.

He wanted European football. The forest was not initially his preferred destination. But a closer look at the squad—and particularly Marinakis’s ambitions—persuaded him that the club’s potential was greater than he had first thought.

That creates substantial expectations.

If Forest progress towards regular European qualification, the Athens meeting may eventually be remembered as an important moment in the club’s modern history.

If the relationship breaks down, supporters may instead wonder whether ambition was ever enough to overcome Forest’s recent instability.

Conclusion

The story of the Nottingham Forest Oliver Glasner Marinakis dinner offers a fascinating insight into why one of the Premier League’s most highly regarded coaches chose the City Ground.

Glasner initially had doubts about taking the job, particularly because Forest could not offer the regular European football he wanted. But his meeting with Marinakis changed his perspective. He saw potential in the squad and, crucially, encountered an owner whose ambitions matched his own.

Now comes the difficult part.

Forest must translate those ambitions into results while giving Glasner enough time to establish his methods.

The dinner in Athens helped get the partnership started. What happens on the pitch will determine whether it becomes a successful one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Oliver Glasner join Nottingham Forest?

Glasner said the potential of Forest’s squad and the ambition demonstrated by owner Evangelos Marinakis were important reasons for changing his mind about the job.

Where did Glasner meet Evangelos Marinakis?

The pair met in Athens, where they had dinner and discussed Forest’s future ambitions.

How long is Oliver Glasner’s Nottingham Forest contract?

Glasner joined Forest on a three-year deal in July 2026.

What does Glasner want to achieve at Forest?

He wants Forest to become consistent competitors rather than enjoying occasional successful seasons, with regular European football a major ambition.

Will Glasner need time at Nottingham Forest?

Glasner has suggested it can take roughly three to six months for his methods and habits to become properly established within a team.

Ronald Araujo transfer latest: Liverpool complete loan deal for Barcelona defender

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Ronald Araujo transfer latest: Liverpool complete loan deal for Barcelona defender

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of defender Ronald Araujo from Barcelona. The deal is an initial loan for the 27-year-old, who signed a new contract with Barca until 2031 last year, and it also includes an option to buy for around £47.14m (€55m).

⁠Liverpool are not paying Barcelona a loan fee and will cover the entirety of Araujo’s salary for the duration of the season-long loan. It is understood Araujo has taken a pay cut to facilitate the move.

Araujo, who will wear the No. 33 shirt, told Liverpoolfc.com: “I can’t wait to get started. I’m very, pleased.

“I’m excited to be here at this massive club with lots of history. I’m excited to meet my teammates, excited to get started playing, and I’m very motivated and really up for getting going.

It was the ideal move for me at this stage in my career. It was a move that was necessary for me to take. As soon as I heard that interest from Liverpool, everything went into action really, really quickly.

“As I say, I’m super-happy to be here and excited to get started. I’m glad about the interest and it was the right move at the right time.”

The Uruguay international, who did not play at the World Cup due to injury, is expected to train with his new team-mates this week.

Araujo will add to Andoni Iraola’s options at the heart of his defence following Ibrahima Konate’s departure to Real Madrid and fitness concerns over the inexperienced 21-year-old Jeremy Jacquet.

Jacquet, a summer signing from Rennes, has made fewer than 100 senior career appearances and has not featured in pre-season yet after missing the second half of last season following shoulder surgery.

Joe Gomez suffered a muscle injury in Liverpool’s opening pre-season game, while teenage centre-back Giovanni Leoni is still recovering from an ACL injury, leaving captain Virgil van Dijk as Liverpool’s only fully fit senior centre-back.

Araujo, who can play at right-back and centre-back, moved from his native Uruguay in 2018 and made his Barcelona debut the following October, going on to play more than 200 games for the LaLiga side.

He was named as one of the club captains following the departure of Marc-André ter Stegen in January but started only 11 La Liga matches for the Catalan giants last season after an extended break from football in November 2025 to recover from what he later revealed was depression.

Why the Araujo deal works for Liverpool…

Ronald Araujo can play at centre-back or right-back
Ronald Araujo can play at centre-back or right-back

Liverpool had not been actively seeking defensive reinforcements, their priority firmly on adding a wide forward, but the deal was a market opportunity that made sense for a number of reasons.

Ronald Araujo can play at centre-back or right-back, and, crucially, he was available on loan. The deal offered an appropriate solution to injury concerns that Liverpool consider more short-term.

Liverpool have already committed £60m to signing Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, with a view to him partnering Virgil van Dijk at centre-back.

However, it remains to be seen whether he will be fit for the start of the season, as Liverpool are taking caution with his re-integration into competitive action following a shoulder injury that has kept him out since February.

A muscle problem for Joe Gomez has worsened the situation for new head coach Andoni Iraola, who admits he is slim on options at the back and will keep Gomez out for the Premier League opener against Newcastle.

Joe Gomez has worsened the situation for new head coach Andoni Iraola

Araujo arriving on a temporary move alleviates that injury headache and adds a layer of experience to Liverpool’s backline that is sorely missing. He has played more than 200 games for Barcelona after all.

There are understandable concerns around whether Araujo can turn around his struggles with form and fitness. Liverpool are not short on defenders with patchy injury records.

Liverpool are taking on a deal that carries some risk in that regard. But there is also a potentially big reward if Araujo does rediscover his best form, thanks to the option to buy included in the deal, which is worth around £47m.

At the peak of his powers, Araujo’s value was around double that figure. Liverpool will hope to see him at his best in the Premier League, a division that seems well suited to his strengths.



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Solar Eclipse Glasses Sellers Reveal Unprecedented Demand Ahead of Historic 2026 Eclipse

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Solar Eclipse Glasses Sellers Reveal Unprecedented Demand Ahead of Historic 2026 Eclipse

Solar eclipse glasses are seeing unprecedented demand as millions of people prepare for the highly anticipated solar eclipse on Wednesday, 12 August 2026. With the event just hours away, retailers across the UK and parts of Europe are reporting shortages and sell-outs as last-minute shoppers scramble to find certified protective eyewear.

In London, one convenience-store seller told The Independent that stock had completely sold out by 9:30 a.m., with some customers reportedly travelling considerable distances in search of glasses. The Royal Observatory Greenwich has also sold out following what it described as exceptional demand.

The rush is about more than getting a good view. Looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause serious and potentially permanent eye damage, making genuine eclipse glasses an essential piece of equipment for anyone planning to watch the partial phases in person.

People wearing certified solar eclipse glasses ahead of the August 12, 2026 eclipse.
People wearing certified solar eclipse glasses ahead of the August 12, 2026 eclipse.

Why Is Demand for Solar Eclipse Glasses So High?

The explanation is simple: Wednesday’s eclipse is a genuinely major astronomical event.

On 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will cross Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, the Atlantic, Spain and a small part of Portugal. Much of the rest of Europe—including the UK—will experience a partial eclipse.

For people in Britain, it offers an unusual opportunity to watch a substantial portion of the Sun disappear behind the Moon without travelling abroad.

The event has attracted interest from families, amateur astronomers, schools, photographers and people who may never previously have watched an eclipse.

That enthusiasm has translated into a sudden surge in demand for viewing equipment.

UK Shops Are Running Out

The shortage has become particularly noticeable as eclipse day approaches.

The Guardian reports that high-street and online supplies have been running short, with customers struggling to find glasses that can be delivered before Wednesday. One organisation, Go Stargazing, reportedly imported 300,000 pairs and supplied thousands of them to astronomy clubs and community organisations.

The pattern is familiar from previous major eclipses: many people wait until the final few days before deciding to buy glasses, creating an enormous spike in demand that suppliers cannot easily satisfy.

Unlike ordinary consumer products, eclipse glasses have an extremely short period of peak demand. Once the eclipse has passed, demand drops sharply.

France Is Experiencing Similar Shortages

Britain is not alone.

France has also experienced strong demand, with shortages reported at pharmacies and major retailers ahead of Wednesday’s eclipse. French health authorities have warned of limited supplies and have emphasised the importance of using appropriate eye protection.

The combination of public excitement and safety warnings has created an unusual retail rush across several European countries.

Suggested Image 2

Demand for certified solar eclipse glasses surges ahead of the August 2026 eclipse.
Demand for certified solar eclipse glasses surges ahead of the August 2026 eclipse.
Demand for certified solar eclipse glasses surges ahead of the August 2026 eclipse.
Demand for certified solar eclipse glasses surges ahead of the August 2026 eclipse.

Not All Eclipse Glasses Are Safe

The shortage creates another problem: it may tempt consumers to buy questionable products.

Proper eclipse glasses should comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard for direct observation of the Sun.

The Royal Observatory Greenwich advises viewers to look for ISO 12312-2 or ISO 12312-2:2015 certification printed on their glasses. Damaged, scratched or creased filters should not be used.

Ordinary sunglasses are not sufficient, regardless of how dark their lenses appear.

This information is important because the danger from looking directly at the Sun is not necessarily accompanied by immediate pain. Damage to the retina can occur without the person realising it.

What If You Can’t Find Eclipse Glasses?

With shops selling out, plenty of people may reach Wednesday without a pair. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean they have to miss the eclipse.

The safest alternative is indirect viewing.

A simple pinhole projector can project an image of the partially eclipsed Sun onto another surface. Even everyday objects containing small holes can produce multiple projections of the crescent-shaped Sun.

The Guardian notes that experts have suggested indirect methods—including using a colander—to people unable to obtain appropriate glasses.

Another straightforward option is to watch a professionally produced livestream. The Royal Observatory Greenwich plans to provide a free live broadcast of the event.

The key rule is simple: do not improvise filters for direct viewing.

Don’t Use Regular Sunglasses

This point deserves repeating because it’s one of the easiest mistakes to make.

Regular sunglasses—even several pairs worn together—do not provide the necessary protection for looking directly at the Sun.

Neither should people rely on smoked glass, photographic film or other homemade filters.

Certified eclipse glasses or properly designed solar viewers are specifically manufactured to reduce solar radiation to safe levels.

Cameras, Binoculars and Telescopes Need Special Protection Too

Eclipse glasses are intended for viewing the Sun directly with your eyes. They should not automatically be placed behind binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses.

Optical equipment concentrates sunlight and requires solar filters that are correctly fitted to it.

Anyone hoping to photograph the eclipse should therefore follow the manufacturer’s instructions for their camera, telescope or solar filter, rather than assume that ordinary eclipse glasses will protect the equipment—or their eyes.

Why the August 12 Eclipse Is Special

Total solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes directly between Earth and the Sun, temporarily covering the solar disc for observers located within a relatively narrow path.

NASA says the August 12 eclipse’s path of totality crosses Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain and a small corner of Portugal. Large areas of Europe, Canada, parts of the United States and northwestern Africa will instead see a partial eclipse.

For many observers in Western Europe, another unusual feature will be the eclipse’s timing: the sun will be relatively low, and some locations will see it setting while still partially eclipsed.

That combination has helped generate enormous public interest.

Suggested Image 3

The August 12, 2026, total solar eclipse will cross Iceland and Spain while the UK sees a partial eclipse.
The August 12, 2026, total solar eclipse will cross Iceland and Spain while the UK sees a partial eclipse.
The August 12, 2026, total solar eclipse will cross Iceland and Spain while the UK sees a partial eclipse.
The August 12, 2026, total solar eclipse will cross Iceland and Spain while the UK sees a partial eclipse.

A Last-Minute Warning for UK Viewers

Anyone still looking for glasses should be particularly cautious about last-minute marketplace listings making vague safety claims.

Check the certification, inspect the filters for damage and buy from a reputable source where possible.

If you can’t get safe glasses, don’t risk your eyesight just to see the eclipse directly. Projection techniques or a livestream can provide a safe alternative.

The eclipse is memorable. Retinal damage is a considerably worse souvenir.

Conclusion

Solar eclipse glasses are experiencing unprecedented demand ahead of the August 12 event, with shops and astronomy organisations reporting sell-outs as people across Britain and Europe prepare to watch the spectacle.

The shortages demonstrate just how much excitement has built around the 2026 eclipse. But they also make safety especially important.

People fortunate enough to have genuine ISO 12312-2-compliant glasses can prepare for an extraordinary celestial event. Those who haven’t found a pair should use a safe indirect viewing method or watch a trusted livestream instead.

Whatever method you choose, protecting your eyesight should come first.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 solar eclipse?

The eclipse takes place on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.

Will the eclipse be visible from the UK?

Yes. The UK will experience a partial solar eclipse, while totality occurs along a narrower path crossing locations, including Iceland and Spain.

Why are eclipse glasses selling out?

Public interest has surged immediately before the event, producing shortages at high-street stores, observatories and online retailers.

What certification should eclipse glasses have?

Look for the ISO 12312-2 safety standard.

Can I wear normal sunglasses instead?

No. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection for looking directly at the Sun.

What can I do if I can’t buy eclipse glasses?

Use an indirect viewing technique such as a pinhole projection, or watch a reputable livestream. Never look directly at the Sun without appropriate protection.

Rangers confirm striker’s ACL injury sustained in Hibernian defeat that will keep him out for ‘significant period of time’ | Football News

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Rangers confirm striker’s ACL injury sustained in Hibernian defeat that will keep him out for ‘significant period of time’ | Football News

Rangers striker Youssef Chermiti will be out for “a significant period of time” after suffering an ACL injury in Sunday’s defeat to Hibernian.

The 22-year-old went down in the first half of the match at Ibrox after colliding with pitchside boards and left the stadium in a boot and knee brace.

His injury came hours after Rangers rejected a big-money bid for him from Galatasaray.

Image:
Chermiti left the pitch on a stretcher

Sky Sports News understands the club are also looking to add another forward in the final weeks of this transfer window, following Chermiti’s injury.

While several options are being looked at, it is understood no talks are ongoing over a move for Ryan One of Sheffield United, despite reports.

Chermiti, capped at U21 level by Portugal, joined from Everton last summer in a deal worth up to £10m, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists across all competitions last season.

That has led Ibrox chiefs to value him higher than the club-record fee they received for Calvin Bassey, who joined Ajax for an initial £19.6m in 2023.

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Highlights as Rangers lost to Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership
Speaking after Sunday’s defeat to Hibernian, which left Derek McInnes winless in his first three games as Rangers boss, he said: “Disappointed for the big fella that he has to come off on a stretcher. I thought he was looking bright and running gaps.

“He played with a bit of purpose and there’s no doubt we missed that, but he’s left in a boot and his knee in a brace.

“It’s no surprise that he’s a player who’s got a big tag on him and he’s got high potential, but thankfully he’s our player and that will continue to be the case.”

Rangers in talks for Meghoma as Driouech closes in on £6.5m move

Jayden Meghoma was on loan at Rangers last season
Image:
Jayden Meghoma was on loan at Rangers last season

Rangers have made nine signings this summer, and that number is set to rise this week.

The club are in talks with Brentford over a deal to sign Jayden Meghoma on loan.

Sky Sports News understands that if terms can be agreed, he could be in McInnes’ squad to face St Mirren in the League Cup on Sunday.

Meghoma, 20, spent last season on loan at Ibrox and made 44 appearances.

Meanwhile, Rangers are assessing Tuur Rommens’ fitness ahead of the second leg of their Europa League third round qualifier against Jagiellonia Białystok.

As well as Meghoma, the club are still looking for other reinforcements in defence.

Talks are ongoing with Aston Villa over right-back Kosta Nedeljkovic. Meanwhile, it is thought Hugo Siquet of Club Brugge is keen on a move to Ibrox – with Rangers in talks over a possible deal for the 24-year-old.

Chairman Andrew Cavenagh confirmed the club will add in the region of three to five more players before the transfer window shuts on September 3 in Scotland.

Winger Couhaib Driouech will be the first of those, and become the club’s 10th arrival this summer.

Couhaib Driouech is set to join Rangers from PSV
Image:
Couhaib Driouech is set to join Rangers from PSV

The 24-year-old is completing his medical and paperwork ahead of a £6.5m move from PSV.

Rangers have beaten off strong competition from various clubs, including Burnley and Celta Vigo, for the player.

Driouech scored 12 goals in 61 games for PSV, including three in the Champions League last season, plus provided 10 assists.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Diomande is expected to be the next outgoing, with Turkish club Corum FK set to sign the midfielder for around £4.5m.

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Rubio says Iran is not serious about diplomacy and warns ASEAN about the Hormuz threat.

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Rubio says Iran is not serious about diplomacy and warns ASEAN about the Hormuz threat.
Rubio says Iran is not serious about diplomacy and warns ASEAN about the Hormuz threat.

Rubio says Iran is not serious about diplomacy as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz continue to create concerns about global shipping, energy security and the possibility of a wider international confrontation.

Speaking at a meeting with foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Manila on July 22, 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remained willing to negotiate with Tehran. However, he accused Iran of failing to demonstrate that it was genuinely committed to diplomatic talks.

Rubio’s comments also carried a warning for Southeast Asia: allowing one country to control an important international waterway could establish a precedent with consequences far beyond the Middle East.

What Did Marco Rubio Say About Iran?

Rubio said the United States remained open to negotiations with Iran but questioned Tehran’s commitment to reaching and respecting an agreement.

“The problem we’re having right now is that they’re not serious about talks,” Rubio said. He added that if Iran became serious about negotiations, Washington would also be prepared to engage.

The comments demonstrate the difficult position facing diplomats. Washington says diplomacy remains possible, but the continuing dispute over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has become a major obstacle.

Rubio has also accused Iran of failing to honour its previous commitments to reduce tensions.

Why the Strait of Hormuz Is So Important

“Marco Rubio at ASEAN meeting in Manila” and “Commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.”

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Large quantities of oil and liquefied natural gas normally travel through the waterway, making it critical to the international energy market.

Any serious disruption can therefore affect much more than countries in the Middle East. Reduced shipping capacity or attacks on commercial vessels can increase insurance and transportation expenses and put upward pressure on global energy prices.

That is why the dispute has become an issue for governments thousands of miles away from Iran.

Rubio Warns ASEAN About a “Dangerous Precedent”

Rubio’s message to ASEAN countries focused heavily on freedom of navigation.

He argued that Iran has no legal right to decide which international shipping can pass through the Strait of Hormuz or impose conditions on vessels using the waterway.

Rubio warned that accepting such behaviour could set a dangerous precedent in international law. His argument was straightforward: if one state can unilaterally control an international waterway, other governments might attempt something similar elsewhere.

This warning is particularly relevant to Southeast Asian countries because the region contains some of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes and has its own territorial and maritime disputes.

Why ASEAN Countries Are Concerned

“Marco Rubio at ASEAN meeting in Manila” and “Commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.”
“Marco Rubio at ASEAN meeting in Manila” and “Commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.”

ASEAN includes major trading economies that depend heavily on secure international shipping and imported energy.

Countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines have strong economic interests in maintaining stable maritime trade.

Instability around the Strait of Hormuz could affect Asian economies through higher energy prices, increased shipping costs and disruptions to supply chains.

Rubio, therefore, attempted to frame the Hormuz crisis not simply as a dispute between Washington and Tehran but as an international challenge involving the principle of free navigation.

The Wider Economic Risk

The Strait of Hormuz dispute has significant implications for global markets.

Oil traders closely monitor developments in the region because interruptions to energy supplies can quickly influence prices. Higher crude oil prices can eventually increase petrol, diesel, aviation and manufacturing costs.

Shipping companies can also face higher insurance premiums when operating in conflict zones.

For consumers, the consequences may eventually appear through higher transportation, food and household costs.

This scenario explains why countries that are not directly involved in the confrontation still have a major interest in preventing further escalation.

Diplomacy Remains Possible

Despite his criticism of Tehran, Rubio did not rule out negotiations.

The United States continues to publicly maintain that a diplomatic settlement is possible if Iran demonstrates that it is prepared to reach and follow an agreement.

That distinction is important. Rubio’s position was not that diplomacy had permanently ended but that Washington questioned whether Iran was currently approaching negotiations seriously.

Tehran, meanwhile, has its own accusations and demands regarding the conflict and the status of the Strait of Hormuz. Any lasting settlement would therefore require significant compromises and confidence-building measures from the parties involved.

Freedom of Navigation Becomes a Global Issue

The crisis demonstrates how control of a relatively narrow stretch of water can have enormous geopolitical consequences.

Modern international trade depends on several maritime chokepoints. When one becomes unstable, the effects can quickly spread through shipping networks, financial markets and global supply chains.

For ASEAN countries, the issue also carries particular significance because Southeast Asia contains vital shipping routes, including the Strait of Malacca and waters affected by competing territorial claims.

Rubio’s warning was therefore designed to connect developments in the Persian Gulf with Asia’s own maritime security concerns.

What Happens Next?

“Marco Rubio at ASEAN meeting in Manila” and “Commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.”
“Marco Rubio at ASEAN meeting in Manila” and “Commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.”

The immediate question is whether Washington and Tehran can return to meaningful negotiations.

Continued confrontation around the Strait of Hormuz could increase pressure on both sides. Iran faces significant economic challenges, while prolonged instability can also impose substantial military and economic costs on the United States and its allies.

Other major powers may also become increasingly involved diplomatically because they depend on secure energy supplies and international shipping.

China, European governments, Gulf countries and Asian economies all have reasons to support the restoration of predictable commercial navigation.

Conclusion

The statement that Rubio says Iran is not serious about diplomacy reflects the growing frustration surrounding efforts to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran.

However, the most important part of Rubio’s message to ASEAN went beyond US-Iran relations. His warning centred on the principle that international waterways must remain open for lawful commercial navigation.

The Strait of Hormuz is vital to global energy supplies, and instability there can affect businesses and consumers across Asia, Europe, and other regions.

Whether diplomacy succeeds will depend on what Washington and Tehran do next. What is already clear is that the future of the Strait of Hormuz is no longer simply a Middle Eastern issue. It has become a question of global trade, energy security and international maritime order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus keyword?

The focus keyword is Rubio says Iran is not serious about diplomacy.

What did Marco Rubio say about Iran?

Rubio said the United States remained open to diplomacy but argued that Iran was not currently demonstrating sufficient seriousness about negotiations.

Why did Rubio warn ASEAN?

He warned that allowing a country to control an international waterway and restrict commercial shipping could establish a dangerous precedent for other regions.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?

It is a major maritime route connecting Persian Gulf energy producers with international markets. Disruption can affect oil and gas supplies, shipping costs and global energy prices.

Could the US and Iran still negotiate?

Rubio indicated that Washington remained open to a diplomatic solution, provided Iran was prepared to engage seriously and abide by an agreement.

Colombia Earthquake Live Updates: More Than 100 Dead After Powerful 7.4-Magnitude Quake

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Colombia Earthquake Live Updates: More Than 100 Dead After Powerful 7.4-Magnitude Quake

Colombia Earthquake Live Updates

Colombia earthquake live updates show a rapidly developing emergency after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, 10 August. The epicentre was near San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, and the shaking was felt across a wide area of the country.

At least 111 people have been reported dead, while rescue workers continue searching damaged and collapsed buildings. The Colombian government has declared a national disaster, allowing authorities to mobilise additional resources for rescue, medical care and emergency assistance. Because this remains a developing situation, casualty and damage figures may change.

Colombia earthquake emergency response after powerful 7.4-magnitude tremor.

What Happened in Colombia?

The earthquake struck at approximately 12:34 UTC on 10 August. The U.S. Geological Survey measured it at magnitude 7.4 and located it close to San José del Palmar. USGS data puts the depth at roughly 107 kilometres, while Colombia’s Geological Survey reported a depth of about 103 kilometres.

Although the earthquake originated relatively deep underground, it was powerful enough to produce strong shaking across a large region.

The Colombian Geological Survey described it as the country’s strongest seismic event so far this century.

Latest Death Toll and Damage

The most serious concern is the growing human cost.

Reuters reported at least 111 deaths following the earthquake. Buildings have been damaged or destroyed, while emergency teams are trying to reach people who may remain trapped beneath rubble.

The scale of the destruction is still being assessed, meaning the confirmed number of casualties could change as rescue teams reach harder-hit communities.

Reports indicate serious damage in areas close to the epicentre, while the earthquake was also felt much farther away.

For a live article, it is important to make clear that these figures are provisional rather than presenting them as a final toll.

National Disaster Declared

Colombia’s government has declared the earthquake a national disaster.

The declaration allows the authorities to coordinate emergency agencies and direct more resources toward affected communities. Rescue teams, firefighters, police, medical personnel and civil-defence workers are involved in the response.

The immediate priorities are expected to include finding survivors, treating injured residents, inspecting damaged structures and restoring essential services.

Earthquake Felt Across Colombia

The earthquake’s effects were not restricted to the epicentral area.

Strong tremors prompted people to leave buildings in several parts of Colombia, including areas far from western Chocó. The epicentre was roughly 250 miles west of Bogotá, according to reports citing officials.

Earthquakes of this size can be felt across considerable distances, particularly when seismic waves travel efficiently through the Earth’s crust and mantle.

Map showing the epicentre of the 7.4-magnitude Colombia earthquake near San José del Palmar.
Map showing the epicentre of the 7.4-magnitude Colombia earthquake near San José del Palmar.

Rescue Operations Continue

The hours immediately following a destructive earthquake are critical for search-and-rescue operations.

Emergency teams are likely to concentrate on buildings where people are known or believed to be trapped. Heavy machinery, rescue dogs, specialist teams and medical personnel can all become important during these operations.

Damaged roads, communications networks and electricity supplies can complicate rescue efforts, particularly in mountainous or remote communities.

The government’s national disaster declaration reflects the seriousness of the emergency.

Aftershocks Remain a Concern

Residents should also be prepared for aftershocks.

After a major earthquake, smaller earthquakes commonly follow as stresses in the Earth’s crust readjust. Some aftershocks can themselves be strong enough to damage buildings that were weakened during the initial earthquake.

People in affected areas should follow instructions from Colombian emergency authorities and avoid entering visibly damaged buildings until they have been assessed.

The Colombian Geological Survey provides ongoing seismic monitoring, while the USGS also maintains real-time earthquake information.

Colombian Geological Survey earthquake monitor

USGS information for the magnitude 7.4 earthquake

Why Is Colombia Vulnerable to Earthquakes?

Colombia sits in a geologically complex part of South America where major tectonic plates interact.

The movement and subduction of tectonic plates generate considerable seismic activity, meaning earthquakes are a recognised natural hazard in the country.

This does not mean scientists can predict exactly when the next major earthquake will happen. The USGS stresses that earthquakes cannot currently be predicted with the precise date, location and magnitude required for a genuine prediction.

Instead, seismic monitoring and hazard assessments help governments understand which areas face higher risks and improve preparedness.

What Should People Do After an Earthquake?

People in affected areas should prioritise official emergency guidance. General earthquake-safety principles include staying away from visibly damaged buildings, watching for falling debris and damaged power lines, checking for injuries, and being prepared for aftershocks.

Residents should also avoid spreading unverified casualty figures, tsunami warnings or supposed earthquake predictions on social media. During a fast-moving disaster, misinformation can make an already difficult emergency response harder.

What Happens Next?

The immediate focus will remain on saving lives.

Over the coming hours and days, authorities will need to establish a clearer picture of the following:

  • The confirmed number of deaths and injuries
  • People who remain missing
  • Homes and public buildings damaged or destroyed
  • Road and infrastructure damage
  • Aftershock activity
  • Temporary shelter requirements
  • Medical and humanitarian needs

Once rescue operations progress, attention will increasingly turn toward temporary accommodation, infrastructure repairs and the longer-term reconstruction of affected communities.

Colombia Earthquake Live Updates: What We Know So Far

The key confirmed information at the time of writing is that a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck near San José del Palmar in western Colombia on 10 August 2026. At least 111 deaths have been reported, significant structural damage has occurred, and the government has declared a national disaster.

The situation remains fluid. Readers should expect casualty and damage estimates to be revised as emergency workers reach additional communities.

Conclusion

The latest Colombia earthquake live updates point to a major national emergency following one of the country’s strongest earthquakes in decades. The magnitude 7.4 event has killed more than 100 people, damaged buildings and triggered a large-scale rescue operation.

For a developing story like this, accuracy is especially important. The article should be updated whenever Colombian authorities provide verified changes to the death toll, injuries, missing-person figures or damage assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How strong was the Colombia earthquake?

The earthquake measured magnitude 7.4, according to both the USGS and Colombia’s Geological Survey.

Where was the epicentre?

The epicentre was near San José del Palmar in Chocó, western Colombia.

How many people have died?

At least 111 people had been reported dead at the latest verified count available while this article was being prepared. Because rescue operations are continuing, this number may change.

Has Colombia declared a national disaster?

Yes. The government declared the earthquake a national disaster as emergency operations expanded.

Could there be more earthquakes?

Aftershocks commonly occur after major earthquakes. Residents should continue following instructions from official Colombian emergency and geological authorities.

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