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‘I’ll Be There for You’ and ‘Boxing Day sales fall’

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‘I’ll Be There for You’ and ‘Boxing Day sales fall’
The main Times headline is
The Royal Family dominate the Boxing Day front page, including photographs of them attending a Christmas Day church service at the Sandringham estate.
The front page also includes reports of King Charles III’s Christmas message. The Times features Princess Catherine of Wales waving to the crowd on the front page.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ “mansion tax”, which she claims thousands of homeowners will have to pay due to inaccurate assessments, dominates the main story.
According to the paper, properties could be worth as much as £30,000 more, taking homeowners over the £2m threshold.
The main headline on the front page of the Guardian is
The Guardian builds on its research, which shows that less than one in 60 public sector workers are sharing leave with their colleagues at the birth of a child.
Experts have criticised this as a “lost decade” of parental rights progress. The foreground depicts the King and Queen Camilla attending church at Sandringham.
The main headline on the Daily Telegraph is
A teacher at an Oxfordshire school says he was referred to the government’s anti-terrorism program after a video of US President Donald Trump was shown in his politics class.
The Daily Telegraph covers the story. According to the newspaper, the teacher says he launched a complaints process against Henley College and received £2,000 compensation in a negotiated settlement after being effectively forced to resign.
The school was quoted as saying, “Henley College does not comment on individual allegations or ongoing investigations.” Meanwhile, the newspaper decided to feature Princess Charlotte on its front page as she joined her family for a church service.
The main headline of the Daily Mirror is
According to the Daily Mirror, the King’s Christmas message says he spoke of “the common values that unite us.”
The newspaper says that his words have come at a time when tension has increased both in the country and abroad.
The main headline of the Daily Mail is

income on Boxing Day,

High street shops will have £1bn less income on Boxing Day than last year, the Daily Mail reports, citing Barclays Bank figures.
The newspaper reports that stretched household budgets will hinder sales on Friday, “shattering consumers’ confidence amid Rachel Reeves’ tax bombshells.”
The Sandringham service was also highlighted on the front page, with the newspaper noting that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, joined the royal family in Norfolk while their father remained in Windsor.
While their father remained in Windsor, Windsor’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, joined the royal family in Norfolk.
The former prince was stripped of his titles following intense pressure over his links to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has always denied any wrongdoing.
Surya's main title is
Beatrice’s and Eugenie’s attendance leads the Sun to say the former’s “last-minute” decision to join her sister and the rest of the royal family in Norfolk “delighted well-wishers.”

The newspaper says their “show of support” for the king comes about a week after the US Justice Department released hundreds of thousands of documents related to the Epstein case.

The files include references to Andrews. Mentioning Andrews in the Epstein files does not necessarily imply any wrongdoing.

The headline on the front page of The Independent is
A poll for the Independent shows that more than a third of Labour supporters say the party would have a better chance of winning the next general election if Sir Keir Starmer were removed.

The newspaper says 19% of Labour supporters backed Andy Burnham when asked who should replace him as prime minister.

The main title of the paper is
The iPaper is leading the analysis of this year’s polls by Sir John Curtice.
Who says Britain is entering “uncharted territory” as Labour faces threats from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and the Green Party under Jack Polanski?
The vote for both main parties is at “record lows”, meaning Britain’s political landscape has never looked “more fractured”, a leading polling expert told the newspaper.
The front page headline of the Daily Express read, 'You give children the gift of freedom'
The Daily Express is celebrating its Christmas appeal on its front page, saying its readers have raised more than £100,000 for children’s wheelchair charity Whizz Kidz. According to the newspaper,

Whizz Kidz will use the raised money to buy 20 personalised wheelchairs or other life-changing devices, thereby enhancing children’s independence.
The front page also features the Prince of Wales and Princess Charlotte as they attend a Christmas Day church service.

The main headline on the Daily Star is
And finally, the Daily Star decided to feature football royalty on its front page, with David Beckham’s “Family Feud” taking centre stage. It says Brooklyn Beckham stayed away while David, Victoria and the rest of the family celebrated Christmas by singing Spice Girls hits.

“Someone is in the sun.” This is how the Guardian captioned a photo of King Charles III and Queen Camilla arriving for a Christmas Day church service at Sandringham.

The Times says Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s daughters “strongly march on a united front” in Sandringham. The newspaper describes her appearance as a public show of support for the royal family, as her parents have grown “cool” over her friendship with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The sisters were showing their support for the king and queen. The Daily Mail says Andrew’s girls chose “the firm” over “Mom and Dad.”

The Times warns that thousands more households than expected could become eligible for payments from the “Mansion Tax” due to changes in how property values will be calculated, as announced in the November Budget. It says a computer-based system – which would be quicker to implement – ​​could increase the value of properties by £30,000.

The Daily Mail says Barclays is predicting Boxing Day sales will fall by £1 billion compared to last year. The newspaper reports that analysts believe fewer people will choose to sell their homes because the Chancellor’s recent tax announcements have “stretched household budgets” and resulted in a “fall in consumer confidence.”

The Daily Mirror has warned that bargaining is not the solution to low wages, rising bills, and the challenges faced by common, hard-working people.

The Daily Telegraph says a teacher showed videos to his US Politics A-level class—including a video about Donald Trump’s inauguration. Oxfordshire’s Child Protection Authority was informed. The body concluded that he should be referred to Prevent, the government’s anti-terrorism program. The newspaper says Henley College paid him £2,000 to leave his job. In an official email, the college told the teacher that some of the videos were unrelated to the course – and one had made a student feel “quite uncomfortable”. The school was quoted as saying: “Henley College does not comment on individual allegations or ongoing investigations.”

The Sun reports that some gangs earn £50,000 at once by sending drones filled with contraband, such as phones or drugs, into prisons. The Times has warned, according to the head of the Prison Governors Association, “any day now.” A new generation of large drones, operable by an average person, can help prisoners escape.

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I want to make films about domestic violence that ‘save lives’

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I want to make films about domestic violence that ‘save lives’
I want to make films about domestic violence that ‘save lives’

 

Lionsgate Sydney Sweeney appears with her head turned to face away from the camera. She is wearing a white long-sleeved ribbed top and is in front of a dolls house.Lionsgate
Sydney Sweeney plays housemaid MiSydney Sweeney wants to make films that will “impact and hopefully save people from domestic violence.”‘s lives,” she has told the BBC.

The 28-year-old US actor has this year appeared in the psychological thriller The Housemaid and the boxing biopic Christy, which both address issues around domestic violence.

Sweeney calls the topic “prevalent” and says she takes a “lot of care” when playing these types of roles.

“Being able to have a film that’s on a more commercial level talk about a very difficult topic is important,” she adds.

Lionsgate A scene from The Housemaid with Sydney Sweeney's reflection shown in the mirror. She is staring at Amanda Seyfried who appears behind her in the reflection. Sweeney is wearing a green vest and Seyfried is wearing a white blouse.Lionsgate
Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried were cast in The Housemaid due to their physical similarities

Sweeney is currently starring as Millie Calloway in The Housemaid, which is based on the 2022 novel of the same name by Freida McFadden.

The novel is an international bestseller and has generated a large following, especially among the reading community on TikTok.

Sweeney says she is “a huge fan of the book” and that she “loved all the characters”.

“I love complex, juicy, crazy, twisted stories. This is a dream project,” she adds.

The film also features Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar as Nina and Andrew Winchester, who employ Sweeney’s character in their home.

Seyfried and Sweeney were chosen to play the two female leads in The Housemaid because of their physical resemblances, but Seyfried says the similarities do not end there.

“There’s a similarity between us that is uncanny, and it’s really fun to work with people [who] are doing life in a similar way and have similar ideals about the job and life,” she tells the BBC.

Sweeney says the two have a “dynamic” that allows them to “enjoy being around” each other, and their relationship lets them “go to these crazy places and discover so much more within your character.”

Lionsgate Actress Amanda Seyfried stands in a doorway wearing a grey knitted cardigan and white skirt with a pearl necklace. Her hair is blonde and curled.Lionsgate
Amanda Seyfried plays Nina Winchester, a housewife who appears to have complex mental health isSeyfried’s character Nina grapples with complex mental health issues throughout the film, which at times makes it a difficult watch. times make it a difficult watch.

“You have to play it as realistically as possible because it needs to reflect real life,” she says.

The Housemaid has been compared to domestic thrillers of the 1990s, such as The Hand That Rocks the Cradle and Fatal Attraction; the film draws inspiration from classics like Basic Instinct, but it incorporates a distinctly modern twist through its physical and mental abuse plot lines. The film incorporates a distinctly modern twist through its physical and mental abuse plot lines.

Seyfried, who is known for her roles in Mamma Mia! and Mean Girls, believes the cast “nailed getting the tone right” and hopes that despite the movie being entertainment, people “come out with a deeper understanding of domestic violence” and “broaden their horizons”.

She adds that this is “especially” true for “people who haven’t thankfully had to deal with it”.

This is echoed by director Paul Feig, who admits he was “nervous” about handling the subject sensitively.

“I made sure there wasn’t any physical abuse, that it was more psychological abuse,” he says.

Domestic abuse in Hollywood has become a hot topic, sparked by the promotional tour for the 2024 film It Ends With Us, which was criticised by some for packaging it as a romantic story rather than one of abuse.

Sklenar, who appears in both The Housemaid and It Ends With Us, says it is “challenging” to take on the role of an abuser.

He describes his characters, Andrew Winchester in The Housemaid and Atlas Corrigan in It Ends With Us, as “polar opposites”.

“When it comes to acting, you can try all you want, but ultimately, sometimes ‘it just affects you’,” he says. “It’s intense and it’s ultimately going to affect you in certain ways.”

Lionsgate Actor Brandon Sklenar appearing in film The Housemaid. He is smiling whilst holding his chin with his hand. He is wearing a blue shirt.Lionsgate
Brandon Sklenar also appeared in It Ends With Us, a film adaptation of the Colleen Hoover novel of the same name

The film has received mostly positive reviews.

The Guardian gave the film four stars, stating that Feig and his cast “deliver with terrific gusto,” and this positive reception will be welcome for Sweeney after she was at the centre of multiple controversies and discussions in 2025. In 2025, Sweeney was at the forefront of both drama and discussion.

Her American Eagle jeans ads drew criticism for raising issues over race and beauty standards. Sweeney told People Magazine earlier this month she was “against hate and divisiveness” and had been surprised by the reaction to the campaign.

And her career was under scrutiny after a string of box office flops—but The Housemaid opened with a healthy $19 million (£14 million) in North America last weekend.

That’s no surprise given that the original novel was a huge hit, selling more than 1.6 million copies worldwide.

Film adaptations could be on the cards.

Two sequels have also been published, meaning further film adaptations could be on the cards.

Feig, whose previous films include Bridesmaids and The Heat, believes novels will become an even more fertile source of material for Hollywood because “studios always want something that is a known quality” to “justify their ability to put a lot of money” into the project.

But he says he tries not to let books with a huge audience and fanbase dictate what projects he makes, because “there are plenty of books that are really popular that just don’t work as movies.”

Feig adds that it has been “fun” to work with Rebecca Sonnenshine’s adapted screenplay for The Housemaid, but that he has “restored” some parts of the book that “readers really would miss if they weren’t in there”.

“There’s also an extra ending that’s not in the book,” he says, “so readers can get something new that they didn’t expect.”



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Digital gold boom: Youth-led purchases hit 12 tonnes; what Sebi’s warning changes now

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Digital gold boom: Youth-led purchases hit 12 tonnes; what Sebi’s warning changes now

Digital gold boom: Youth-led purchases hit 12 tonnes; what Sebi’s warning changes now

Investors, led largely by younger buyers, purchased an estimated 12 tonnes of digital gold during January–November this year.

according to data compiled by the World Gold Council (WGC), even as demand slowed after a recent regulatory caution from Sebi.

The estimate is based on data from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on UPI transactions for digital gold purchases.

NPCI published this data for the first time this year, ET reported.

ET reported. By comparison, industry estimates suggest Indians bought digital gold equivalent to around 8 tonnes in 2024.

Digital gold allows consumers to buy,

sell and hold gold online without taking physical delivery, with purchases starting as low as Rs 1.

The format has gained popularity among first-time investors and younger users transacting through apps and fintech platforms. However,

momentum slowed after Sebi issued an advisory in November cautioning investors that digital gold is not a regulated security and does not fall under existing commodity market regulations.

unlike gold exchange-traded funds or electronic gold receipts.

The regulator urged investors to assess risks before using such platforms. Despite the caution, industry participants say demand for a regulatory framework is growing.

“Gold continues to hold a deeply rooted place in Indian households as an important asset class and digital gold builds on this legacy by improving access through fractional ownership and transparent,

market-linked pricing, while addressing concerns around storage and purity,” said Sachin Jain, WGC’s regional chief executive for India. “

Digitalisation will be critical to ensuring that gold remains a trusted and relevant asset for Indian consumers.”

he said. Major digital gold providers in India include MMTC PAMP, Augmont and SafeGold. These platforms store physical gold in vaults on behalf of customers.

who can sell their holdings at any time, offering liquidity through digital channels.

The regulatory gap has prompted the India Bullion & Jewellers Association (IBJA) to set up a self-regulatory organisation (SRO) for digital gold players.

The SRO is expected to begin onboarding members in January and aims to ensure that customers’ digital gold holdings are fully backed by physical gold and subject to regular audits.“

We are developing technology to onboard and regulate digital gold players. There will be auditing of all the digital gold players periodically.

This will create confidence among buyers of digital gold and the market will deepen further.”

IBJA national secretary Surendra Mehta said, as quoted by ET.

The association expects to finalise rules and regulations by the end of March or early April next year. Industry executives said millennials and Gen Z account for nearly two-thirds of digital gold buyers.

underlining a broader shift toward digital-first investing.

However, the Sebi advisory triggered uncertainty. “

Post Sebi’s order, there was a lot of confusion in the market,” said a senior executive at a digital gold platform.

“All the stakeholders, including the digital gold buyers, have almost stopped buying gold digitally. We had to convince them to return to the platform,” he said.

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The social supermarket helps me afford Christmas.

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The social supermarket helps me afford Christmas.
BBC Photograph of Jazz Gough, who uses the Re:dish social supermarket in Stockport. With short, dark hair and wearing a round-necked red jumper, she is pictured in front of some fridges.BBC
Yazz Gough uses the Re:dish Good Stuff social supermarket in the Reddish area of Stockport

A customer of a social supermarket has said she “can afford a few extras for Christmas” thanks to the money she saves there on her weekly groceries.

Yazz Gough, who goes to the Re:dish Good Stuff in the Reddish area of Stockport, Greater Manchester, said, “I save a fortune because I’ve got two teenage kids at home who never stop eating!”

The 56-year-old said, “I buy a lot of fresh fruit and vegetables to make things like apple strudels, chips or shepherd’s pie, so it has cut the cost of my midweek shop.”

Reddish Good Stuff – open twice a week and funded by Stockport Council and local businesses, including Vernon Building Society – charges customers £4 a week. So far it has about 330 members.

Photograph of Lynn Brandwood from the Stockport based charity Re:dish. She is pictured inside her shop in Reddish.
Lynn Brandwood is Re:dish’s CEO

The social supermarket opened in June 2024 to offer low-cost, good-quality, fresh, and healthy food to people in Reddish, Heaton Norris, and Heaton Chapel who are struggling with their weekly groceries.

Social supermarkets typically operate on a membership model.

It costs £5 to become a member of the Re:dish Good Stuff and £4 for each visit.

Members can choose one item from each table/freezer/area plus several items of fruit and vegetables.

The charity collects surplus food from large supermarkets and wholesalers that would otherwise go to waste.

For example, they sell excess seasonal goods like ice cream, which supermarkets struggle to sell in cold weather.

The choice of household groceries varies each week, depending upon what is available.

Re:dish’s CEO Lynn Brandwood said, “The main difference between us and a food bank is that there’s no referral needed, so it’s open to everybody in the community.

“You get shown around by a personal shopper so you get the chance for a chat and the savings mean there’s money for rent, bills, Christmas presents or a night out.”

Photograph of Sue Bredbury from Reddish. She is pictured in the social supermarket in Reddish.
Sue Bredbury from Reddish pays £4 per week to use the social supermarket

Social supermarkets typically place an emphasis on fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as frozen items which can be used to create a meal.

Sue Bredbury, from Reddish, said, “I picked up luxury items like strawberries and ice cream today, but getting the vegetables here really means I can save money.”

The 63-year-old added, “Being able to come here and pay £4 to get the bulk of the week’s shopping is wonderful.”

Re:dish Good Stuff store also stocks seasonal items like Christmas crackers.

Photograph of the Re:dish Good Stuff social supermarket in Stockport. The image is taken on Gorton Road in Reddish.
The Re:dish Good Stuff social supermarket puts an emphasis on fresh fruit and vegetables

Mandy Carter, also from Reddish, told BBC Radio Manchester: “Each week is different, so it could be potatoes, onions, tomatoes and carrots to help make things like soup.”

The 69-year-old added, “It helps me out a lot, so I’m not worried about putting on the central heating to keep the house warm and I live quite well.”

Photograph of Mandy Carter from Reddish. She is pictured wearing a jumper inside a charity shop in the Reddish area of Stockport.
Mandy Carter from Reddish said she buys lots of fruit and vegetables at the social supermarket



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Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bid farewell during the Christmas special.

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Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bid farewell during the Christmas special.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bid farewell during the Christmas special.

‘Keep dancing!’ Claudia and Tess sign off for the last time on Strictly

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman embraced on the dancefloor as they signed off as Strictly Come Dancing hosts, more than a decade after they began presenting the show together.

“Thank you again for watching us over the years; it has meant the world to us,” Winkleman told viewers at the end of Strictly’s Christmas Day special. “There’s just one thing left to do. Come on, Tess.”

Daly then grabbed her presenting partner and began to slowly dance, looking into her eyes and declaring, “For our very final time, Claud.”

“Let’s make it count,” added Winkleman, before the duo led the room in one last call of the show’s catchphrase: “Keep dancing!”

Strictly presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly share a hug on the dancefloor the end of their final show
Winkleman and Daly shared a big hug on the dancefloor at the end of their final show.

Many see Daly and Winkleman as the faces of Strictly.

Daly has presented the show since it started 21 years ago, initially alongside Sir Bruce Forsyth. Winkleman began co-hosting the results show with her in 2010, before permanently replacing Sir Bruce in 2014.

Prior to that, Winkleman had hosted Strictly’s sister show It Takes Two since 2004.

The pair became prime-time Saturday night TV’s first female presenting duo.

Much attention has turned to who may replace them, with Zoe Ball, Rylan Clark, Janette Manrara, Alan Carr and Holly Willoughby among the names that have been suggested.

What transpired on Tess and Claudia’s most recent episode?

Warning: This article contains spoilers about Strictly Come Dancing’s Christmas special

Dancers and judges on the Strictly Christmas show salute outgoing presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, seen dressed in all white

Early on in the Christmas special, Anton Du Beke briefly interrupted Daly to say he and his fellow judges had decided to have “a whip round” to get her an Argentinian Tango – the host’s favourite dance – as a parting gift.

She was then swept off her feet and spun around by Strictly pro dancer Aljaž Škorjanec.

“Best present ever,” said a breathless Daly afterwards. She was then generously awarded 12 out of 10 by Du Beke.

Daly being swept of her feet and spun around by Strictly pro dancer Aljaž Škorjanec

The presenter later gave Craig Revel Horwood, considered the grumpiest of all the judges, a “little cuddle.”.

“I’ve always wanted to do this,” beamed Daly, 56, while wrapping her arms around the pantomime villain.

Tess Daly wraps her arms around Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood to give him

Strictly’s long-serving musical director and arranger Dave Arch then paid a silent tribute to Winkleman, conveying his message with cue cards in the style of the 2003 Christmas film Love Actually.

“To me you are perfect,” he declared in writing, before joking: “Even though you are orange.”

More hugs followed.

Dave Arch, Strictly's musical director and arranger, pays tribute to Winkleman with cue cards in the style of the film Love, Actually

Who won the Strictly Christmas special?

The Christmas special saw six couples compete on the dance floor under the glitterball.

The celebrity contestants included comedian Babatunde Aléshé, All Saints star Mel Blatt, Westlife singer Brian McFadden, ex-rugby player Jodie Ounsley – aka Fury from the TV show Gladiators – and EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey.

But it was former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt and dance pro Vito Coppola who cha-cha-cha’d their way to victory with a full house of 10s from the judges.

“This is honestly the greatest gift that ever could’ve happened at Christmas,” a shocked Moffatt said.

Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola with this year's Strictly Come Dancing Christmas trophy
Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola won this year’s Strictly Come Dancing Christmas trophy

‘An absolute dream’

In a joint Instagram statement in October, Winkleman and Daly said hosting the show had been “an absolute dream.”

In 2024, Strictly’s 20th anniversary, the pair picked up the entertainment program Gong at the Bafta TV Awards.

Earlier this year, Winkleman – who also presents The Traitors – and Daly were made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by King Charles III at investiture ceremonies at Windsor Castle, for services to broadcasting.

Claudia style over the years

Last Saturday, it was an emotional night in the ballroom, as together they hosted the main Strictly final for the last time – with the Queen among those paying tribute to the long-running hosts.

In a message read out by judge Craig Revel Horwood, Queen Camilla said their “warmth, compassion and sheer happiness” had been at the heart of the show’s success, adding, “I think I speak for everyone when I say you have been utterly fab-u-lous.”

Who sent Tess and Claudia a special send-off message?

After a rocky few years for the show, some have also been wondering what comes next for the competition.

But entertainment journalist Emma Bullimore says many people will still want the hosting job.

She assured BBC News that the hosting role remains a significant role on British TV. Strictly brings families together more than most shows.

Tess Daly fashion through the years

Strictly controversies

Media circles viewed the current Strictly series, which started in September, as a potential revival of the long-running hit BBC show.

It follows last year’s controversies relating to the behaviour of some professional dancers and, in August, the launch of a BBC investigation into alleged drug use by two of the show’s stars and an unnamed star being arrested on suspicion of rape (it is understood the development was not related to the current series).

BBC bosses were keen for fans and the media to return to talking about the show itself.

However, the scandals continue to persist. In October, a second unnamed star from the show was arrested on suspicion of rape. Reports from November also suggest that the current series has no connection to that development.

Bullimore says it’s “difficult to know” whether the various scandals played into Daly and Winkleman’s decision to leave.

But she also said, despite the controversies, hosting would remain “very attractive” to any presenter.

The BBC has stated that they will reveal plans for the show’s 2026 format in due course.

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“There will be no talks and no ceasefire” with the RSF, according to Sudan war news.

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“There will be no talks and no ceasefire” with the RSF, according to Sudan war news.

The comments come days after Prime Minister Kamil Idris presented a plan to end the country’s nearly three-year war.

Published on December 25, 2025.

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A senior official in Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council (TSC) has ruled out any talks with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as fighting continues in the country.

“There is no ceasefire or negotiations with the occupier, and the peace that Sudan seeks will be achieved through the roadmap and vision of its people and government,” TSC Vice President Malik Agar Aiyar said in a statement posted by the Ministry of Culture, Media, and Tourism on Thursday.

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Speaking to ministers and state officials in the eastern city of Port Sudan, where the government is based, he rejected claims that the war was aimed at achieving “democracy.” Instead, he described the war as a “struggle over resources and the desire to change Sudan’s demography” and emphasised the opportunity to strengthen national unity.

It comes days after Sudan’s Prime Minister Kamil Idris presented a plan to the UN Security Council to end the country’s nearly three-year war.

In line with the position of the Sudanese army and government, the plan stipulates that RSF fighters must withdraw from vast areas of land taken by force in the western and central parts of Sudan.

They would be disarmed and put in camps before the innocent could return to society.

The RSF has repeatedly rejected the idea of ​​leaving the area, with al-Basha Tibik, a top adviser to commander Mohammed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, calling it “closer to fantasy than politics”.

RSF reports profit

The war, which has forcibly displaced some 14 million people, shows no signs of stopping as the RSF tightens its grip on captured territory and expands attacks.

According to international aid agencies working on the ground, RSF fighters have continued to commit mass killings, systematic sexual violence, and the burying and burning of bodies in Darfur over the past several months to conceal evidence of war crimes.

The humanitarian situation on the ground has become more devastating following the capture of al-Fashar, the capital of North Darfur state, in October.

The RSF announced on Thursday that its forces had taken control of the Abu Qumra area in North Darfur.

“They have continued their successful advance into the Um Buru area, where they have completely liberated these areas,” the group claimed in a statement.

Despite mounting evidence of widespread atrocities in western Sudan, the RSF claimed that the primary duty of its fighters is to “protect civilians and eliminate the presence of armed pockets and remnants of mercenary movements.”.

The group also released footage of its armed fighters, whom it claimed were advancing towards al-Obeid, a strategic town in North Kordofan state.



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A hidden Arctic world: Methane mounds and life found 3.6 km below the Greenland Sea |

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A hidden Arctic world: Methane mounds and life found 3.6 km below the Greenland Sea |
A hidden Arctic world: Methane mounds and life found 3.6 km below the Greenland Sea |

A hidden Arctic world: Methane mounds and life found 3.6 km below the Greenland Sea

Deep down, beneath the icy edges of the Greenland Sea, a remarkable and previously undiscovered geological and biological complex has been found by scientists.

This topographic anomaly exists deep in the sea, where light is scarce, and high pressure and low temperatures are prevalent.

extends our understanding of what is known about the oceanography of the Arctic.

The findings are particularly relevant given the recent surge in scientific interest in the Earth’s poles, which is linked to a better understanding of global climate processes.

The observation of a level of biological and geological interaction in one of the most remote ocean regions on Earth contributes important information to what is known about the physical characteristics of the Arctic.

Why methane hydrate mounds forming deep beneath the Arctic Ocean

The most notable aspect of the discovery is that it consists of a number of gas hydrate mounds along the Molloy Ridge, a tectonic boundary that lies deep beneath the Greenland Sea.

A gas hydrate is a molecule that consists of a large amount of trapped methane, all held together with crystalline ice.

The existence of these hydrates at a depth of some 3,640 metres is one of the deepest known hydrate formation sites that have been discovered so far.

According to the research paper that was published in Nature Communications,

Researchers discovered high-resolution images showing the extent of these hydrate mounds along the ridge with the help of a remotely operated robotic vehicle.

Until now, we have largely associated gas hydrates with continental slopes and the shallower margins of the Arctic.

The question of how life survives without sunlight on the Arctic sea floor is intriguing.

The ecologists surrounding the hydrate mountains recorded the existence of a dense population of chemosynthetic organisms.

Such organisms receive energy from chemicals instead of sunlight.

Based on the fact that the area is lightless, the organisms receive energy from the methane seeping from beneath the seafloor.

The organisms form the base of the food chain, in turn supporting other life forms.

Scientists recorded tube worms and crustaceans, as well as a dense mat of microbes aggregated in areas surrounding the seeps.

The organisms exhibit specific adaptations to withstand high pressures as well as near-freezing temperatures.

The organisms’ metabolism is specifically attuned to take advantage of the methane as well as sulphide compounds seeping from the sediments.

The finding shows the existence of life in the deepest parts of the Arctic Ocean utilising available energy in the area.

What role does the Molloy Ridge play in processes occurring on the deep Arctic sea floor?

Molloy Ridge is recognised as one of the deepest mid-ocean ridges in the world and is characterised by tectonic plates that are gradually drifting apart.

The tectonic activities in this process result in the creation of cracks and channels in the Earth’s crust that facilitate methane gas flowing from deeper to upper layers.

When methane gas reaches lower temperatures close to the ocean floor, it either becomes trapped in its hydrate form or seeps out gradually.

This tectonic interaction directly links the observed process to biological activities on the ocean floor.

The mid-ocean ridge functions both as a channel and as a supporting structure that determines hydrate and biologically active zones.

The process of interaction in this study is very advantageous in gaining an understanding of deep-sea ecosystems’ maintenance at a deeper level for extended periods.

What this discovery means for Arctic methane stability

Methane has a crucial role within the carbon cycle, and what happens to it under the ocean floor is closely tracked because it can affect the climate.

The methane hydrate mounds under the Greenland Sea support a long-term trap that holds methane under stable conditions.

At present, the conditions on the Molloy Ridge support a stable environment to retain methane, hindering massive amounts of methane from entering the water body. Still,

Recognising such systems is critical to predicting their reaction to potential warming in ocean currents or temperatures.

The findings provide scientists a chance to observe and measure methane within a system that has been under-represented within climate models to predict climatic changes.

The findings validate the crucial role of the deep basins in the Arctic in managing carbon under the Earth’s surface and in the ocean.

Why the deep Arctic Ocean is becoming a focus of scientific research

The discovery of hydrate mounds and their ecosystems in the Greenland Sea is one such finding that showcases the effect that advances in technology are having on deep oceanography.

The use of remotely operated vehicles with sophisticated sensors and imaging systems is enabling scientists to explore regions that were hitherto unexplored.

With every new expedition, new layers of complexity are being found under the Arctic Ocean, from unexpected topographical features to new ecosystems.

The Molloy Ridge finding indicates that perhaps such regions are to be found elsewhere on deep tectonic margins, waiting to be located and studied.

Also Read | A step toward time travel? Physicists reverse waves in time

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‘We did nothing wrong’: Indian truck drivers challenge California over mass licence cancellations – world News

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‘We did nothing wrong’: Indian truck drivers challenge California over mass licence cancellations – world News

'We did nothing wrong': Indian truck drivers challenge California over mass license cancellations

Thousands of Indian truck drivers in California have launched a legal challenge against the state after they were told their commercial driving licences would be cancelled.

Drivers say the move threatens their livelihoods and leaves their families in limbo.

The lawsuit follows a decision by the California Department of Motor Vehicles to revoke licences issued to immigrant drivers after a federal audit revealed problems with expiration dates.

Many of the affected drivers are Punjabi Sikhs, according to advocacy groups, who say the crackdown has raised their profile in the industry.

The controversy centres on approximately 20,000 commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) that the DMV says were issued with expiration dates that exceeded the period the drivers were authorised to live and work in the United States.

Approximately 17,000 drivers received 60-day revocation notices from the agency on November 6, and this number has continued to rise as more cases undergo review.

Truck drivers say they are being punished for the state’s mistakes

Civil rights groups contend that the DMV’s clerical errors, rather than driver misconduct, are the root cause of the problem. Under California law,

They say the agency must either correct such errors or allow licence holders to reapply for amended documents. Instead,

The DMV halted the issuance, renewal, and correction of nonresident CDLs, leaving drivers with no clear way to fix the problem.”

The state of California must help these drivers because the clerical errors that are endangering their livelihoods are of the state’s own making.”

said Munmeet Kaur, legal director of the Sikh Coalition, which filed the class-action lawsuit with the Asian Law Caucus.

Federal pressure and political fallout

Advocacy groups say the Trump administration warrants a tougher investigation after a fatal truck crash in Florida earlier this year became a national political issue.

Federal officials accused several states, including California, of lax licensing standards and pushed for stricter immigration and English language proficiency rules for commercial drivers.

The Sikh Coalition says the response has had wide-ranging consequences, including racial profiling of Sikh truck drivers, many of whom wear turbans and beards as part of their faith.

Industry figures warn that strict federal policies could remove hundreds of thousands of drivers from the workforce across the country in the coming years.

Livelihoods and supply chains are at risk

For drivers, the immediate impact is severe. Losing a CDL means losing the legal right to work.

while the threat of revoking a regular driver’s licence will keep them from driving. Many affected drivers are the sole breadwinners for their families and have invested heavily in trucks.

homes and small transportation businesses. “If the court does not intervene, we will see a devastating wave of unemployment that will harm families and destabilize supply chains.”

Kaur said. The DMV has declined to comment on the lawsuit but has previously said it is prepared to reissue the licences if federal objections are overcome.

The plaintiffs argue that the agency already has the authority under state law to correct or reinstate the licence without waiting for Washington.

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A guest is fighting for his life after allegedly drinking a liquid nitrogen cocktail served by a celebrity chef during a workplace Christmas party.

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A guest is fighting for his life after allegedly drinking a liquid nitrogen cocktail served by a celebrity chef during a workplace Christmas party.

A guest was left fighting for life after drinking a liquid nitrogen cocktail ‘served by a celeb chef’ during a workplace Christmas party, sparking serious questions about safety, responsibility, and the use of dangerous substances in food and drink.

The incident, which took place at a festive work event, has shocked the public and prompted calls for tighter controls around so-called “theatrical” cocktails that use liquid nitrogen for dramatic effect.

What Happened at the Christmas Party?

According to reports, the guest became critically ill shortly after consuming a cocktail containing liquid nitrogen. Emergency services were called, and the individual was rushed to hospital, where they were treated for severe internal injuries.

Liquid nitrogen is frigid, at around -196°C, and is commonly used in professional kitchens for freezing or creating visual effects. However, it is not safe to ingest and can cause catastrophic damage if swallowed.

Why Liquid Nitrogen Is So Dangerous

Liquid nitrogen rapidly expands into gas when it warms up. Inside the human body, this expansion can cause:

  • Severe internal burns

  • Damage to the stomach and oesophagus

  • Risk of organ rupture

  • Oxygen displacement leading to breathing difficulties

Medical experts warn that even small amounts can be life-threatening if consumed before fully evaporating.

Role of the ‘Celebrity Chef’

The cocktail was reportedly served by a celebrity chef, a detail that has intensified scrutiny. While the chef’s identity and level of responsibility have not been fully clarified, the association raises concerns about professional standards and public trust.

Experts stress that celebrity status does not replace safety obligations. Any professional involved in preparing or serving food and drink has a duty of care to ensure items are safe for consumption.

Was the Drink Properly Prepared?

When used correctly, liquid nitrogen should never be present in the final drink. It must fully evaporate before serving. Investigators are now examining whether:

  • The drink was served too quickly

  • Proper safety procedures were ignored

  • Staff were adequately trained

  • Risk assessments were carried out

Failures in any of these areas could have contributed to the incident.

Legal and Safety Implications

This case could have serious legal consequences. Potential areas under investigation include:

  • Health and safety breaches

  • Negligence claims

  • Corporate liability for the event organisers.

  • Possible criminal charges if safety laws were violated

UK food safety guidance already warns against serving liquid nitrogen directly to consumers, especially in drinks.

Workplace Responsibility and Event Safety

The incident also highlights broader concerns about workplace Christmas parties. Employers have a legal duty to ensure staff events are safe, even when hosted off-site or run by third parties.

This includes:

  • Vetting suppliers and entertainers

  • Ensuring hazardous substances are not used irresponsibly

  • Carrying out risk assessments

Failing to do so can leave employers exposed to serious legal and financial consequences.

Public Reaction and Industry Response

Public reaction has been swift, with many questioning why liquid nitrogen cocktails are still allowed at events. Hospitality professionals have also weighed in, calling for clearer rules and stronger enforcement.

Some venues have already announced bans on liquid nitrogen in drinks, arguing that visual gimmicks are not worth the risk.

A Cautionary Tale for the Hospitality Industry

The case of the guest left fighting for life after drinking a liquid nitrogen cocktail ‘served by a celeb chef’ during a workplace Christmas party serves as a stark warning. What may look impressive on social media can turn deadly in seconds if handled incorrectly.

As investigations continue, the incident is likely to influence future safety regulations and industry practices across the UK.

Conclusion

This shocking incident illustrates the dangers of prioritising spectacle over safety. Liquid nitrogen has a place in professional kitchens, but not in drinks served to unsuspecting guests. For employers, chefs, and venues alike, the message is clear: safety must always come first, no matter how festive the occasion.

FAQs

1. Is liquid nitrogen legal to use in drinks in the UK?
Liquid nitrogen can be used for preparation, but it must fully evaporate before serving. Drinking it directly is extremely dangerous.

2. What injuries can liquid nitrogen cause?
It can cause severe internal burns, organ damage, and breathing problems and can be fatal.

3. Who is responsible if someone is injured at a work party?
Responsibility may lie with the event organiser, employer, venue, or food and drink provider, depending on the circumstances.

4. Why do some bars use liquid nitrogen?
It’s used for visual effects like smoke or rapid freezing, but it carries serious risks if misused.

5. Could this incident lead to new regulations?
Yes, incidents like this type often prompt reviews of safety guidance and stricter enforcement.

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New official figures confirm the UK economic slowdown | Money News

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New official figures confirm the UK economic slowdown | Money News
New official figures confirm the UK economic slowdown | Money News

Introduction – What the Latest Data Reveals

New official figures confirm the UK economic slowdown, sending a clear signal that the economy has lost momentum. While households and businesses already experiencing financial difficulties may not be surprised, the data provides concrete numbers to support these everyday experiences.

In simple terms, the UK economy is still moving forward — just much more slowly than expected. And when growth slows, everyone feels it.

Understanding the UK Economic Slowdown

What Does “Economic Slowdown” Mean?

An economic slowdown doesn’t mean the economy is shrinking. Consider it akin to a car gradually reducing its speed instead of abruptly stopping. Growth continues, but at a weaker pace.

How Economists Measure Slowing Growth

Economists look at indicators such as GDP, consumer spending, business investment, and employment data. When several of these weaken at once, it points to a broader slowdown rather than a temporary wobble.

The Official Figures Explained

GDP Growth Performance

New official data shows GDP growth has stalled compared with earlier periods. Output rose only marginally, highlighting how fragile the recovery has become.

Quarterly and Annual Comparisons

Compared with the previous quarter, growth was flat or close to zero. On an annual basis, expansion remains well below historical averages.

Revisions to Previous Estimates

In some cases, earlier growth figures have been revised downwards, reinforcing the view that the UK economy has been underperforming for longer than first thought.

Key Sectors Affected by the Slowdown

Services Sector Performance

The services sector, which makes up the bulk of the UK economy, has shown signs of fatigue. Hospitality, retail, and professional services are all reporting softer demand.

Manufacturing Struggles

Manufacturing output has remained weak, affected by lower export demand and rising production costs.

Construction and Housing Trends

Construction activity has slowed as high interest rates dampen demand for new housing projects and commercial developments.

Consumer Spending Under Pressure

Impact of High Living Costs

Rising prices for essentials like food, energy, and housing have squeezed household budgets. As a result, many consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending.

Changes in Household Behaviour

People prioritise saving, paying down debt, or simply spending less. This cautious behaviour directly feeds into slower economic growth.

Inflation and Interest Rates

Inflation’s Lingering Effects

Although inflation has eased from its peak, prices remain high compared with wages. This imbalance continues to limit spending power.

Role of Bank of England Interest Rates

Higher interest rates were designed to curb inflation, but they also make borrowing more expensive.

Mortgage and Borrowing Costs

Mortgage holders renewing fixed-rate deals face higher monthly payments, leaving less money to spend elsewhere in the economy.

Labour Market Signals

Employment Levels

Employment remains relatively strong, but cracks are starting to show. Job vacancies have fallen, and hiring plans are becoming more cautious.

Wage Growth Versus Inflation

While wages have risen, they haven’t fully kept pace with living expenses, meaning real incomes remain under pressure.

Business Confidence and Investment

Business Sentiment Surveys

Surveys show businesses are less optimistic about the future. Uncertainty around demand, costs, and policy direction is holding firms back.

Delayed or Cancelled Investments

Many companies are postponing investment decisions, which reduces productivity growth and long-term economic potential.

Trade, Exports, and Global Pressures

Weak Global Demand

Slower growth in key global markets has reduced demand for UK exports, adding another drag on the economy.

Post-Brexit Trade Challenges

Ongoing trade friction and regulatory hurdles continue to weigh on exporters, especially smaller businesses.

The government’s response to the slowdown

Fiscal Policy Measures

The government must delicately strike a balance between promoting growth and maintaining public debt control.

Public Spending Constraints

Tight budgets mean fewer large-scale stimulus measures, increasing pressure on private-sector growth.

Political Implications

Pressure on Policymakers

When the UK economic slowdown is confirmed by new official figures, it intensifies scrutiny of economic policy decisions.

Economic Slowdown and Public Opinion

Living standards are a major political issue, and weak growth can quickly translate into voter dissatisfaction.

How the UK Compares with Other Economies

Performance Versus the EU

The UK’s growth has lagged behind some European peers, though many countries face similar challenges.

Comparison with the US

The US economy has shown greater resilience, highlighting differences in fiscal support and labour market dynamics.

What Economists Are Saying

Short-Term Outlook

Most economists expect sluggish growth to continue in the near term, with risks tilted to the downside.

Risks of Recession

While a technical recession is not guaranteed, the margin for error is thin if conditions worsen.

Impact on Households

Cost of Living Concerns

For households, slower growth means fewer opportunities for wage increases and continued pressure on finances.

Savings and Debt Trends

Many families are relying on savings or credit to cope, which could create problems if conditions deteriorate further.

What Happens Next for the UK Economy

Growth Forecasts

Forecasts suggest modest improvement next year, but only if inflation continues to ease and interest rates fall.

Potential Recovery Scenarios

A gradual recovery is possible, but it will likely be slow and uneven across sectors.

Conclusion – A Cautious Economic Moment.

New official figures confirm the UK economic slowdown, highlighting the real challenges. While the economy is not in crisis, it is fragile. For households, businesses, and policymakers alike, the months ahead will require careful decisions, patience, and realistic expectations.

FAQs

1. What do the new figures say about the UK economy?
They show that economic growth has slowed significantly compared with previous periods.

2. Does an economic slowdown mean recession?
No. A slowdown means weaker growth, not necessarily economic contraction.

3. Which sectors are most affected?
Services, manufacturing, and construction have all shown signs of weakness.

4. How does this affect households?
Slower growth often means tighter budgets, fewer job opportunities, and pressure on wages.

5. When could the UK economy recover?
Recovery depends on falling inflation, lower interest rates, and improved business confidence.

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