Lack of school closure plan ‘an extraordinary dereliction of duty’, Covid inquiry told

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has dismissed President Trump's assertion that bipartisan negotiations to prevent a government shutdown are in progress. This comes amid the Supreme Court's decision to reject Ghislaine Maxwell's appeal against her conviction for recruiting minors for sexual abuse by Jeffrey Epstein. Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence, remains a significant figure in discussions about accountability and justice in high-profile sexual abuse cases. The rejection of her appeal highlights ongoing concerns about the legal ramifications of such crimes and the political landscape surrounding them.

The Metropolitan Police have made significant strides in combating phone theft by disrupting a major international smuggling ring believed to have trafficked around 40,000 stolen phones from the UK to China over the past year. This operation marks the largest crackdown on phone theft in London, highlighting the police's commitment to tackling organized crime and protecting consumers. By dismantling this network, the police not only aim to recover stolen property but also to deter future thefts, making the streets safer for everyone.

Fred Ramsdell, one of the recipients of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Medicine, is currently unreachable as he enjoys a hiking trip in Idaho, living life to the fullest. This lighthearted situation highlights the joy of discovery and the importance of recognizing achievements, even when the winners are off enjoying nature. Ramsdell shares this honor with Mary Brunkow and Shimon Sakaguchi for their significant contributions to medical science, reminding us that groundbreaking work can come from anywhere.

Job centre staff are facing overwhelming challenges as they struggle to provide personalized support for disabled individuals seeking employment. With some coaches managing caseloads of up to 200 people, the government's push for tailored assistance seems increasingly difficult to achieve. This situation highlights the urgent need for more resources and support to ensure that disabled individuals have equal opportunities in the job market.

In a significant political moment, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has condemned the recent appearance of Hamas graffiti in Melbourne, labeling it as 'disgraceful.' He emphasized that this is a 'difficult day' for the Jewish community, which should be focused on remembrance and commemoration. This incident highlights ongoing tensions and the need for respectful dialogue in Australia, especially in light of current global events. Additionally, Labor is set to introduce new legislation aimed at enhancing emergency response systems, showcasing a proactive approach to governance.

Snapchat users are expressing their frustration over the platform's announcement of upcoming fees for storing old photos and videos. While Snap claims that only a small number of users will be impacted, many are voicing their disagreement online. This matters because it highlights the growing tension between social media platforms and their users regarding monetization practices, potentially affecting user loyalty and engagement.