Firm linked to Tory peer Michelle Mone breached £122m PPE contract, judge rules

Sky NewsWednesday, October 1, 2025 at 7:25:00 AM
Firm linked to Tory peer Michelle Mone breached £122m PPE contract, judge rules
A recent ruling by the High Court has found that a company associated with Tory peer Michelle Mone violated a significant government contract worth nearly £122 million for supplying surgical gowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. This breach raises serious concerns about accountability and transparency in government contracts, especially during a public health crisis when timely access to medical supplies was critical.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Shutdown Shrug — Markets Aren’t Missing the Government
NeutralFinancial Markets
The recent political developments have led to a noticeable shift in market dynamics, with investors seemingly unfazed by the government's shutdown. Instead, there's a growing emphasis on private-sector job data, which is becoming a key indicator for economic health. This shift matters because it highlights the resilience of the market and the increasing importance of private sector performance in driving economic confidence.
Shutdown Shrug — Markets Aren’t Missing the Government
NeutralFinancial Markets
The recent political developments have led to a noticeable shift in market dynamics, with investors seemingly unfazed by the government's shutdown. Instead, there's a growing emphasis on private-sector job data, which is becoming a key indicator for economic health. This shift matters because it highlights the resilience of the market and the increasing importance of private sector performance in driving economic confidence.
Japan PM contender Takaichi proposes crisis management spending
PositiveFinancial Markets
Japan's Prime Minister contender, Takaichi, has proposed a significant increase in crisis management spending, aiming to bolster the nation's preparedness for future emergencies. This initiative is crucial as it reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding citizens and enhancing national resilience, especially in light of recent global challenges. Takaichi's plan could lead to improved infrastructure and resources, ultimately benefiting the economy and public safety.
Japan PM contender Takaichi proposes crisis management spending
PositiveFinancial Markets
Japan's Prime Minister contender, Takaichi, has proposed a significant increase in crisis management spending, aiming to bolster the nation's preparedness for future emergencies. This initiative is crucial as it reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding citizens and enhancing national resilience, especially in light of recent global challenges. Takaichi's plan could lead to improved infrastructure and resources, ultimately benefiting the economy and public safety.
For Workers, Mixed Signals. For the Public, Limited Impact on Shutdown’s First Day.
NeutralFinancial Markets
On the first day of the government shutdown, workers are receiving mixed signals about their job security, while the public is experiencing limited immediate impact. This situation highlights the complexities of government operations and the ripple effects on everyday life, making it crucial for citizens to stay informed about potential long-term consequences.
For Workers, Mixed Signals. For the Public, Limited Impact on Shutdown’s First Day.
NeutralFinancial Markets
On the first day of the government shutdown, workers are receiving mixed signals about their job security, while the public is experiencing limited immediate impact. This situation highlights the complexities of government operations and the ripple effects on everyday life, making it crucial for citizens to stay informed about potential long-term consequences.
Indonesia Sugar Imports Seen Easing Amid Push to Buy Locally
PositiveFinancial Markets
Indonesia is set to reduce its sugar imports to the lowest level in seven years by 2026, thanks to a government initiative aimed at boosting local production. This shift not only supports domestic farmers but also enhances the country's self-sufficiency in sugar, which is crucial for food security and economic stability. The move reflects a growing trend among nations to prioritize local resources over imports, making it a significant step for Indonesia's agricultural sector.
Indonesia Sugar Imports Seen Easing Amid Push to Buy Locally
PositiveFinancial Markets
Indonesia is set to reduce its sugar imports to the lowest level in seven years by 2026, thanks to a government initiative aimed at boosting local production. This shift not only supports domestic farmers but also enhances the country's self-sufficiency in sugar, which is crucial for food security and economic stability. The move reflects a growing trend among nations to prioritize local resources over imports, making it a significant step for Indonesia's agricultural sector.
Trump Uses Shutdown to Maximize Pain for Democrats and Move Forward With Layoffs
NegativeFinancial Markets
In a strategic move, Trump is leveraging the government shutdown to inflict maximum discomfort on Democrats while simultaneously advancing plans for layoffs. This tactic not only highlights the ongoing political strife but also raises concerns about the impact on federal employees and services. As the shutdown continues, the implications for the economy and public trust in government are becoming increasingly significant.
Trump Uses Shutdown to Maximize Pain for Democrats and Move Forward With Layoffs
NegativeFinancial Markets
In a strategic move, Trump is leveraging the government shutdown to inflict maximum discomfort on Democrats while simultaneously advancing plans for layoffs. This tactic not only highlights the ongoing political strife but also raises concerns about the impact on federal employees and services. As the shutdown continues, the implications for the economy and public trust in government are becoming increasingly significant.
Mike Levin: 'We're Ready To Negotiate Right Now, But House Republicans Aren't Even Here' | Shutdown
NegativeFinancial Markets
Rep. Mike Levin expressed frustration over the ongoing government shutdown, criticizing House Republicans for their absence in Washington, D.C. He emphasized the urgency of negotiations, stating that they are ready to engage but face a lack of participation from their counterparts. This situation is significant as it highlights the political gridlock affecting government operations and the potential impact on citizens relying on federal services.
Mike Levin: 'We're Ready To Negotiate Right Now, But House Republicans Aren't Even Here' | Shutdown
NegativeFinancial Markets
Rep. Mike Levin expressed frustration over the ongoing government shutdown, criticizing House Republicans for their absence in Washington, D.C. He emphasized the urgency of negotiations, stating that they are ready to engage but face a lack of participation from their counterparts. This situation is significant as it highlights the political gridlock affecting government operations and the potential impact on citizens relying on federal services.
Latest from Financial Markets
White House Withdraws Nomination of E.J. Antoni, Trump’s Pick to Lead BLS
NegativeFinancial Markets
The White House has officially withdrawn the nomination of E.J. Antoni, who was selected by former President Trump to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This decision is significant as it reflects ongoing tensions in the political landscape and raises questions about the future direction of labor statistics under new leadership. The withdrawal may also impact the credibility and effectiveness of the BLS, which plays a crucial role in informing economic policy.
Dragonfly On Investing In Digital Asset Treasuries
PositiveFinancial Markets
At TOKEN2049 Singapore, Haseeb Qureshi, Managing Partner at Dragonfly, shared his insights on investing in digital asset treasuries. His perspective is particularly relevant as the digital asset market continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for investors. This discussion highlights the growing importance of digital assets in financial strategies, making it a key topic for those interested in the future of finance.
More pain for US farmers as government shutdown halts payments
NegativeFinancial Markets
The recent government shutdown has brought significant challenges for US farmers, as crucial payments have been halted. This situation not only affects their immediate financial stability but also has broader implications for the agricultural sector and the economy as a whole. Farmers rely on these payments for various operational costs, and the delay could lead to long-term repercussions for food production and supply chains.
Asia FX, dollar muted amid US shutdown; S.Korea CPI, Aussie trade data in focus
NeutralFinancial Markets
The foreign exchange market in Asia is experiencing muted activity as concerns about a potential US government shutdown loom. Investors are particularly focused on South Korea's consumer price index and Australia's trade data, which could provide insights into economic trends in the region. This situation is significant as it reflects the interconnectedness of global economies and the impact of US fiscal policies on Asian markets.
Corruption Scandal Darkens Philippine Economic Outlook
NegativeFinancial Markets
A recent corruption scandal involving flood control projects in the Philippines is casting a shadow over the country's economic outlook. This situation is significant as it has led economists to revise their growth projections and raised concerns about the nation's credit ratings. The implications of this scandal could affect investments and public trust, making it a critical issue for the Philippines' future.
Morning Bid: Darkness falls on dour US jobs market
NegativeFinancial Markets
The latest report on the US jobs market paints a bleak picture, highlighting rising unemployment and stagnant job growth. This downturn is significant as it reflects broader economic challenges, affecting consumer confidence and spending. With many Americans struggling to find work, the implications for the economy could be severe, potentially leading to a slowdown in recovery efforts.