Yvette Cooper defends children as young as 13 needing digital ID – as it happened

Fayaz Khan, a 26-year-old Afghan national, has been found guilty of threatening to kill Nigel Farage in a TikTok video. The court's decision, reached after nearly 12 hours of deliberation, highlights the serious nature of online threats and their potential real-world implications. This case raises concerns about public safety and the impact of social media on political discourse, especially as it involves a prominent political figure in the UK.

Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, has been a strong advocate for sustainability over the past 15 years, despite his criticism of the 'net zero' initiatives. His leadership in various firms has demonstrated a commitment to saving energy and reducing CO2 emissions, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in business. This matters because it shows that even those who critique mainstream environmental policies can still contribute positively to the green agenda.

Left-wing activists are uniting to push back against right-wing movements and the Labour Party's recent decisions. This gathering highlights the growing concern among progressives about the political landscape and their determination to advocate for their values. It matters because it reflects a vibrant democratic process where citizens actively engage in shaping their political future.

At the recent Tory conference in Manchester, a palpable sense of desperation was evident, reflecting a broader crisis affecting not just the Conservatives but also Labour and the Lib Dems. This situation highlights a troubling instability in the political landscape, leaving voters feeling uncertain about their choices. As traditional parties struggle to capture attention and regain support, they may resort to increasingly dramatic policies, which could further alienate an already disengaged electorate. This moment is crucial as it signals potential shifts in voter sentiment and the future of political engagement in the UK.

Britain's Conservative Party is finally presenting some promising ideas after years of challenges and failures. With the rise of Reform UK and shifting dynamics in the electoral landscape, the party's new proposals could be crucial in regaining public trust and support. This shift is significant as it reflects a response to the changing political climate and the need for effective governance.

Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has stirred controversy by accusing teachers of 'poisoning our kids' regarding race issues. Speaking at a private US college event, he claimed that educators are misleading students by portraying black children as victims and white children as oppressors. His remarks have drawn sharp criticism from the National Education Union, which labeled them as 'grossly irresponsible.' This debate is significant as it touches on the sensitive topic of race in education and the influence of political rhetoric on teaching practices.

Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid Cymru, has announced that the upcoming Welsh parliament elections in 2026 will likely be a contest primarily between his party and Reform UK. He emphasizes that this election will focus on contrasting visions for Wales rather than on the issue of independence. This prediction is significant as it highlights the political landscape in Wales and the potential for a shift in voter priorities, making it a crucial moment for both parties.

UK ministers are considering increasing NHS payments to pharmaceutical companies by up to 25% to resolve ongoing disputes with the industry and the Trump administration. This move comes after concerns that the standoff has led to reduced investments from drugmakers in the UK. The Labour party is also proposing new measures to address these issues, highlighting the importance of ensuring access to affordable medicines for the public.

The UK government is considering extending the opening hours for pubs, clubs, and restaurants in England and Wales as part of a strategy to revitalize the struggling hospitality sector. While this initiative aims to enhance the British nightlife experience and stimulate economic growth, it has faced backlash from health experts who warn about the potential for increased alcohol-related disorder. This move highlights the ongoing tension between economic recovery efforts and public health concerns.

David Lammy, the justice secretary, has firmly ruled out the idea of charging workers for employment tribunal claims, a decision that comes after significant backlash from unions. This move is crucial as it reinforces the Labour party's commitment to protecting workers' rights and ensuring that everyone has the ability to challenge unfair work practices without financial barriers. It highlights the importance of accessible justice in the workplace, which is vital for maintaining fair labor standards.

In a recent podcast, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch addressed her party's challenges during her conference speech, proposing to eliminate stamp duty while criticizing Labour. However, her lack of focus on the most significant threats to her leadership, particularly from rival Robert Jenrick, raises questions about her strategy. The discussion, featuring insights from Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey, explores the implications of her performance and what it means for the future of the Conservatives.

The recent Tory proposal to abolish stamp duty has sparked significant debate, with critics arguing that it primarily benefits London and the wealthiest individuals. This move raises concerns about housing affordability and equity, especially as the Labour deputy leadership election unfolds, with Lucy Powell emerging as a key figure advocating for more inclusive policies. The implications of this policy could deepen the divide between affluent areas and those struggling with housing costs, making it a critical issue for many voters.

The excitement is palpable as the World Cup qualifiers heat up, with matches featuring Northern Ireland against Slovakia and Sweden facing Switzerland. Fans are eager to see how teams perform as they vie for a spot in the prestigious tournament. Notably, England's Djed Spence has been making waves on social media, celebrating his team's recent victory and showcasing his skills. This not only highlights the competitive spirit of the qualifiers but also the personal stories that unfold, making the journey to the World Cup even more thrilling.

The White House has announced layoffs of federal workers as the government shutdown approaches its third week, a move that has raised significant concerns among labor unions and workers. The AFL-CIO has vowed to challenge this decision in court, while AFSCME's leader warns of the devastating effects these layoffs could have on American families. This situation highlights the ongoing struggles faced by federal employees and the broader implications of government shutdowns on the economy and public services.

Federal layoffs have officially begun as the government shutdown stretches into its third week, with the White House budget office confirming that the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will be among the affected. This situation highlights the ongoing deadlock in Congress, where lawmakers are unable to reach an agreement on funding, leaving many federal workers in uncertainty. The implications of these layoffs are significant, as they not only affect the livelihoods of those workers but also the critical services they provide to the public.

Donald Trump recently completed what he referred to as a 'semiannual physical' before his upcoming trip to the Middle East. While the White House labeled the visit as a 'routine yearly checkup,' it follows his annual physical conducted in April. This highlights the ongoing scrutiny of Trump's health, especially given his status as the oldest individual to be elected as US president. Such checkups are crucial for public figures, as they can impact perceptions of their fitness for office.

Former President Trump has announced layoffs affecting employees in key government departments like the Treasury and Homeland Security, coinciding with a government shutdown. This decision raises concerns about the impact on public services and the workforce, especially during a time of legal scrutiny surrounding Trump's actions. The layoffs highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the government and the potential consequences for those affected.

The University of Manitoba is taking significant steps to address the deteriorating condition of its library, originally built in 1951. With floors crumbling under the weight of books and major cracks in the foundation, the decision to replace the library is crucial for ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for students and faculty. This renovation not only preserves the institution's resources but also enhances the overall educational experience, making it a positive development for the university community.