Dining across the divide: ‘He was shocked when I told him that schools weaponise anxiety’

As the Conservative Party commemorates the 100th anniversary of Margaret Thatcher's birth with a grand gala dinner in London, the event highlights the ongoing struggle among political factions to claim her legacy. This celebration not only honors Thatcher's significant impact on British politics but also sparks a debate about who will best carry forward her principles in today's political landscape. The outcome of this contest could shape the future direction of the Conservative Party and its relevance in modern governance.

In a candid reflection, author Sarah Perry shares her journey of choosing career aspirations over motherhood. Initially resistant to the idea of having children, she experienced a profound shift in her desires, highlighting the complexities women face in balancing personal and professional goals. This story resonates with many, as it sheds light on the societal pressures surrounding motherhood and the importance of pursuing one's passions.

In a recent exploration of AI's capabilities, holiday-makers have found that AI-powered chatbots can significantly assist in planning their dream summer vacations. These tools help streamline the decision-making process, making it easier to choose destinations and activities. However, users are advised to double-check certain details to ensure everything goes smoothly. This trend highlights the growing role of technology in travel planning, making it more accessible and efficient for everyone.

In London, tens of thousands gathered for a pro-Palestine rally, expressing both relief and skepticism regarding the recent ceasefire in Gaza. The protest leader highlighted the mixed emotions surrounding the truce, reflecting the complex situation in the region. This event matters as it showcases public sentiment and the ongoing discourse about the conflict, emphasizing the need for continued attention and action.

In a heartbreaking case, a London coroner has ruled that Georgia Barter, who suffered years of domestic abuse, was unlawfully killed by her partner, Thomas Bignell. This ruling highlights the severe impact of coercive control and violence in relationships. Despite the coroner's findings, Georgia's family is frustrated as the Crown Prosecution Service has not charged Bignell, and he remains elusive. This situation raises critical questions about the justice system's response to domestic abuse and the need for better protections for victims.

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in central London to advocate for lasting peace in Gaza, following the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. This event highlights the ongoing concerns regarding the situation in Palestine, as activists emphasize that the ceasefire does not address the broader issues of apartheid. The march serves as a significant reminder of the public's desire for a peaceful resolution and the importance of continued dialogue in the region.

In London, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered to commemorate the two-year anniversary of the Gaza war, prompting police to intervene to prevent clashes with a counter-demonstration organized by Stop The Hate. This event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict and the diverse opinions within the community, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding in addressing such complex issues.

London is facing a growing perception of crime, particularly among its wealthiest residents, who feel increasingly unsafe. While some high-profile crimes like watch theft are reportedly declining, the fear of crime is driving away the super-rich, impacting the city's reputation and economy. This situation raises concerns about public safety and the overall quality of life in one of the world's major cities.

A military horse that made headlines after bolting through the streets of London due to construction noise has officially retired. This incident not only captured the attention of the public but also highlighted the challenges faced by animals in urban environments. The horse's retirement marks the end of an era, allowing it to enjoy a well-deserved rest after its service.

The latest exhibition at Newport Street Gallery in London, featuring artists Shepard Fairey, Damien Hirst, and Invader, has been met with harsh criticism, described as a 'revolting visual soup.' This collaboration, rather than showcasing the strengths of each artist, has resulted in a chaotic display that many feel detracts from their individual talents. The negative reception highlights the challenges of merging distinct artistic visions and raises questions about the value of such collaborations in the art world.

A man is in serious condition after being shot by police in Walthamstow, London, during an incident where he reportedly threatened to kill while armed with a firearm. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is now investigating the actions of the Metropolitan police officers involved. This situation raises significant concerns about police use of force and the protocols in place for handling armed individuals, highlighting the ongoing discussions about public safety and police accountability.

A recent social media prank involving an AI-generated home invader has raised serious concerns among law enforcement. Dubbed the 'homeless man prank,' this disturbing trend tricks individuals into believing that an unhoused person has entered their home. Police are warning that such pranks are not only reckless but can also lead to dangerous situations. It's crucial for people to understand the potential consequences of these actions, as they can escalate quickly and cause unnecessary panic.

A significant development is unfolding as Israel and Hamas prepare to initiate a hostage-prisoner exchange, facilitated by a US-brokered agreement. This exchange comes amid a ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting a potential step towards easing tensions in the region. Such exchanges are crucial as they not only bring relief to families affected by the conflict but also open avenues for dialogue and peace, making this a noteworthy moment in the ongoing situation.

In a significant political development, the Australian Greens have criticized Treasurer Jim Chalmers' new superannuation tax plan, labeling it as a 'gift to the super-rich.' This comes as the Labor government has made a surprising backtrack on key elements of the controversial tax proposal, which is now set to apply only to realized capital gains. Additionally, the Victoria police are facing restructuring as the commissioner acknowledges a growing crime problem. This news is crucial as it highlights ongoing tensions in Australian politics regarding wealth distribution and public safety.

In a significant development, US President Trump is set to arrive in Israel as 20 Israeli hostages are expected to be released by Hamas, coinciding with Israel's decision to free around 2,000 Palestinian detainees. This moment marks a hopeful turn in the ongoing conflict, suggesting a potential easing of tensions and a step towards peace in the region. The release of hostages is a crucial humanitarian gesture that could pave the way for further negotiations and stability.

In 2024, Japan saw a record number of over 20,000 babies born to foreign parents, making up more than 3% of all newborns. This significant increase highlights the ongoing demographic shifts in the country and has sparked important discussions about migration policies. As Japan grapples with an aging population and declining birth rates, the rise in births among non-Japanese couples could play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce and cultural landscape, making this a pivotal moment in the nation's approach to immigration.

Trump's recent announcement of a 100% tariff increase poses a significant threat to China's already fragile economy, which was experiencing slowing growth. This escalation in the trade war, which China attributes to U.S. actions, could have far-reaching implications not just for China but for global markets as well.

Donald Trump has expressed the possibility of sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, a move that could significantly bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russia. This potential support highlights the ongoing international interest in aiding Ukraine amidst its conflict, and it could shift the dynamics of the situation on the ground.