Boris Johnson breached rules designed to stop abuse of contacts made in public office, watchdog finds

The Guardian editorial critiques the trend of famous European football clubs, like AC Milan, playing 'home' games in distant locations such as Perth. This practice undermines the community ties and historical significance these clubs hold for their local supporters. It raises concerns about the commercialization of football, suggesting that clubs should prioritize their roots and the loyalty of their fans over financial gain from global promoters. This matters because it highlights the ongoing tension between tradition and profit in sports.

Michael Stipe, the iconic frontman of REM, expressed his excitement about being featured in a crossword puzzle, highlighting the intersection of music and puzzles. This news is particularly significant as it marks the release of a new book titled 'All Squared' by Tom Johnson, also known as Maskarade, a prominent crossword setter for the Guardian. Johnson's contributions to the crossword community have been invaluable, bringing fresh talent and innovative ideas to the genre. This development not only celebrates Stipe's influence but also underscores the enduring popularity of crosswords in contemporary culture.

Today's photo selection from The Guardian captures significant moments, including the return of Gaza refugees and the unveiling of a giant idol. These images not only document current events but also highlight the resilience of communities and the cultural expressions that emerge in times of change. It's a reminder of the power of photography to tell stories that resonate across borders.

High street slot machine shops are facing backlash after it was revealed that they pay staff bonuses based on the losses incurred by gamblers. This controversial reward scheme has drawn sharp criticism from MPs and campaigners, who label it as 'appalling.' The implications of such practices raise concerns about the ethics of incentivizing staff based on the financial losses of vulnerable individuals, highlighting the need for stricter regulations in the gambling industry.

Boris Johnson's recent trip to Ukraine included a notable figure, Christopher Harborne, who donated £1 million to him, marking one of the largest donations to an individual MP in the UK. This relationship raises questions about the influence of private donors in politics and the implications of such financial support on political decisions. Understanding this dynamic is crucial as it sheds light on the intersection of money and politics, especially in times of international crisis.

A recent report reveals that nearly half of FBI agents in major U.S. field offices have been reassigned to focus on immigration enforcement, a significant shift in law enforcement priorities. This change has sparked concerns about public safety, as resources traditionally dedicated to other criminal investigations are now being diverted. The implications of this reassignment could affect the overall effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing various crimes, raising questions about the balance between immigration policy and community safety.

Bridget Phillipson, the education secretary, is advocating for the complete abolition of the two-child benefit cap in the upcoming budget, arguing that this move is the most effective way to combat child poverty. Her push comes as she prepares a report for Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, emphasizing the need for decisive action to support families in need. This initiative is significant as it addresses a critical issue affecting many households, potentially leading to improved financial stability for children across the country.

Liliane Landor, the former controller of the BBC World Service, has expressed serious concerns about the potential impact of using Britain's defence budget to fund the World Service. She argues that this could compromise the independence of its journalism, making it vulnerable to government influence and national security agendas. This issue is significant as it raises questions about the integrity of public broadcasting and the importance of maintaining a free press, especially in a time when media independence is crucial for democracy.

Taylor Swift's latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, is making waves in the music industry, breaking sales records and surpassing Adele's previous achievements. Despite some fans criticizing the lyrics and overall quality, the album's commercial success and a recent cinematic release that grossed $34 million in the US highlight its impact. This success raises questions about Swift's future direction and how she will navigate the mixed reception, making it a pivotal moment in her career.

Erwin James, a journalist known for his insightful prison columns, tragically drowned in a Devon marina after a night out. His inquest revealed the circumstances surrounding his death, highlighting the impact of his work and the loss felt by many. James's writings provided a unique perspective on life behind bars, making his passing a significant loss to both journalism and the discourse on rehabilitation.

US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with China by threatening to impose a staggering 100% tariff on Chinese imports, effective November 1 or sooner. This move comes in response to China's new export controls on rare earth elements, which are crucial for various industries. Trump's comments also cast uncertainty on his planned meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during his upcoming trip to South Korea. This situation is significant as it could further strain US-China relations and impact global markets.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who was reappointed just days after resigning, is now under pressure to present a budget bill for 2026 by Monday. This situation is critical as he must navigate a divided parliament, where both left and right opposition members are poised to challenge his new cabinet. The outcome of this budget proposal will significantly impact France's financial planning and governance, making it a key moment for Lecornu's leadership.

Recent heavy rains in Mexico have led to devastating floods, resulting in at least 23 fatalities and leaving many unaccounted for. The worst-hit regions include Veracruz, Queretaro, Hidalgo, and San Luis Potosi, where authorities are grappling with the aftermath of the storms. This situation is critical as it highlights the increasing impact of climate-related disasters in the region, prompting discussions on emergency preparedness and response.

In a concerning development, hackers known as Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters have leaked the personal records of five million Qantas customers after their ransom deadline passed. This breach not only exposes sensitive information but also raises significant concerns about data security across various sectors, as the hackers claimed to have data from nearly 40 companies. The implications of such a leak can be severe, affecting customer trust and prompting calls for stronger cybersecurity measures.

Malak A Tantesh, a young reporter, shares her harrowing experience of living in besieged Gaza following the Hamas attack in October 2023. Her story highlights the constant fear and uncertainty faced by civilians in the region, emphasizing the human cost of the ongoing conflict. This narrative is crucial as it sheds light on the personal struggles and resilience of those caught in the crossfire, reminding us of the urgent need for peace and understanding in a war-torn area.

The recent high court ruling against PPE Medpro, a company associated with Michelle Mone, has raised concerns for UK taxpayers regarding the recovery of £122 million spent on defective gowns. This judgment marks a significant development in a scandal that has unfolded over five years, involving high-profile figures and questionable government contracts. With no clear path to reclaim the funds, the implications for public trust and accountability in government spending are profound, highlighting the need for transparency in future procurement processes.