Commonwealth nation and continent island, a federal democracy.
The Scottish government has not funded the implementation of a standalone sexual offences court and related measures, despite reforms to end the not proven verdict. Crown Office warns Holyrood that resources are not in place as rape and sexual violence statistics rise, with ongoing calls for timely delivery of promised protections.
Tottenham Hotspur have failed to score in their first three league games, despite spending over £300m in the transfer window. A 2-0 loss to Newcastle follows a 3-0 defeat to Brentford, leaving questions about team cohesion and fitness as Roberto De Zerbi’s side hunts an identity in a new era.
Meta has agreed to an $18 billion settlement with 48 states to strengthen age-verification and safety tools on Instagram and Facebook. The deal does not admit liability and carves out ongoing oversight, with audits and time-bound improvements. Other platforms like YouTube and TikTok are urged to follow suit.
A series of lunar and solar eclipses have drawn billions to watch the skies. The Harvest Moon will peak on Sept 26 in the UK, and a partial lunar eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East. Observers are advised to seek clear western horizons and weather permitting, enjoy the spectacle.
Global government bond yields have risen to multi‑year highs after renewed US–Iran fighting sent oil toward $90–$95 a barrel and revived inflation fears. The US 10‑year Treasury has climbed to about 4.8%, UK gilt and long Japanese yields have hit decades‑highs, and markets are pricing an increased chance of central‑bank rate rises this month.
Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband has promised a "comprehensive reset" of the UK’s policy on Israel and has said the government will set out measures in coming weeks to stop British companies financing, constructing or advertising settlements. London is considering targeted sanctions and a trade ban on goods from West Bank settlements after Israel issued tenders for homes in the E1 area and warned it will respond to any sanctions.
The IPPR study has found that 11- to 24-year-olds in England are increasingly lonely, with one in 20 reporting no close friends. Doomscrolling, housing costs, debt, and austerity contribute to a widening social break, while experts warn that weak social ties hinder development and well-being.
Defense Minister has announced the arrest of a senior Hamas official. Israeli strikes in Gaza City follow the raid, with reports of casualties and counterclaims from Palestinian and Hamas-affiliated outlets. An Israeli security source links the arrest to Hamas’ internal security apparatus. Anti-Hamas militias backed by Israel are reported to have been involved.
Meera Syal has publicly detailed how two traumatic encounters in the 1980s and 1990s shaped her career. The actress describes casting-room coercion and assault, the decision not to report, and how she found solidarity with South Asian women’s groups that helped steer her path toward writing and performance.
The summer domestic box office has surged to $4.61 billion, the strongest season since 2013 and the best since pre-pandemic times. Filmmakers, not just blockbuster IP, have driven a rebound, with Gen Z audiences turning out in force and low-budget titles delivering surprise hits. Fall releases are expected to sustain momentum amid ongoing industry changes, including AI’s impact and a potential Warner Bros. Discovery deal.
A collage of Fringe reviews from The Guardian, The Scotsman and others highlights fresh stand-up and theatre, with praise for vulnerability, witty critique and strong stagecraft across Edinburgh venues. The works range from intimate autobiographical pieces to boundary-pushing comedies.
The Guardian reports on Furious, a Disney+ thriller, where Catherine Grace’s mission against predatory men unfolds with a moral core. Alice Black confronts trauma as they pursue justice against institutional indifference. The series has earned praise for its depth and lead performance, while exposing systemic failings in law enforcement and elites.
A digest of recent entertainment news across film, music and exhibitions, highlighting fresh releases, new performances and upcoming events.
Smriti Mandhana has become the all-time leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket after a 124-run century for India against Hong Kong in the Women's Asia Cup, lifting India to 193-5 before dismissing Hong Kong for 56 and sealing a 137-run victory. Raj calls her a legend and role model; Mandhana’s 18th international century surpasses Meg Lanning’s 17.
The government has announced 43 transmission projects that will qualify for a new bill-discount scheme. Households within 500 metres of qualifying overhead lines will receive up to £2,500 off electricity bills over 10 years, with payments starting early next year and funded by a small charge on all bills. Many projects are in Scotland to carry wind power.
The latest data show global sea temperatures have reached record highs in August 2026 as El Ni 0o intensifies, driven by natural variability and long-term warming. Forecasts indicate the warmth will continue into 2027, with wide-ranging impacts on weather, seas and economies. Governments warn of increased risks to vulnerable communities and fisheries.
Gatwick Airport reports half-year pre-tax profits of £136.5 million, down 18% on the prior year as passenger numbers dip amid Middle East conflict and fuel concerns. Long-haul travel falls while short-haul remains pressured; expansion plans for a second runway move forward after a Court of Appeal ruling.
Meta has agreed to pay up to $18 billion and to change Facebook and Instagram defaults for US users under 18. The deal ends a federal trial and requires age verification, a two-hour daily cap, night blocks, muted school-hour notifications, removal of visible like counts and limits on cosmetic filters.
Yayoi Kusama has died at 97, her studio has announced. The Japanese artist has become globally famous for polka dots, Infinity Nets and Infinity Mirror Rooms, and she has continued to paint into her final days. Her work has drawn huge museum audiences and influenced generations of artists across pop, minimalism and performance art.
Gap has announced Michael Francis will become chief executive officer of Old Navy on November 2, replacing Haio Barbeito. Francis, a 26-year veteran of Target and 10 years at Walmart, currently serves as chief customer officer and head of marketing. Gap reports a mixed fiscal second quarter, with earnings beating expectations but revenue lagging, while Old Navy faces a sales slowdown and is the focus of leadership change.
Vaccination rollout continues as updated flu and COVID vaccines arrive nationwide. Medical groups have issued guidance for different populations, aiming to reduce confusion as the federal advisory panel faces legal and political pressure. New mRNA flu vaccines are available for older adults, with other options including nasal sprays for eligible groups. The COVID-19 vaccine remains targeted to high-risk individuals, while health systems push for broader uptake.
Forecasts say the current El Ni 0 will be the strongest in 1,000 years, likely driving 2027 to record heat and affecting weather worldwide. The phenomenon is intensifying as global warming raises ocean and air temperatures, with warnings of droughts, floods and hunger across several regions.
A glacier near Langtang Lirung has collapsed, triggering a rapid flood that has killed hundreds and left tens of thousands displaced across Nepal and Tibet. Rescue efforts are ongoing as international aid and regional authorities try to coordinate relief and future risk warning.
A glacier collapse in the Himalayas has triggered floods and widespread destruction in Nepal and China’s Tibet region. Authorities report rising death tolls, thousands missing, and ongoing rescue operations as hydropower sites are targeted by the disaster.
Pacific Islands Forum leaders are confronting a mounting climate crisis and rising geopolitical pressures as big powers seek influence in the region. Discussions underscore the need for a Pacific-driven agenda amid El Niño disruptions, fuel shocks, and funding gaps for adaptation.
Devastating floods on the China-Nepal border have killed hundreds and left thousands missing. Nepal reports nearly 1000 dead while China and Nepal coordinate rescue efforts amid a multiplier of foreigners among the missing.
Palau hosts this year’s Pacific Islands Forum as tensions rise over Taiwan’s attendance. China objects, calling Taiwan’s presence inappropriate, while Pacific leaders stress regional unity and autonomy.
Global grain markets have tightened as attacks on Black Sea grain terminals persist and port disruptions limit exports from Russia and Ukraine. Futures have risen, and importers like Egypt and Indonesia are scrambling to secure supplies amid higher costs.
Ben Stokes has joined the Adelaide Strikers for BBL16 after retiring from international cricket this year. He is available for the full tournament and is expected to earn around AU$500,000. Tim Paine praises the all-rounder as a key addition to the Strikers’ title bid.
Thailand will shorten visa-free stays for tourists from 60 countries, effective Sept. 15, to 30 days, with two land-border entries allowed per calendar year. The change aims to bolster national security, curb misbehavior, and protect the economy’s tourism engine. Israelis are among those affected; protests over tourist conduct have amplified scrutiny, though authorities say penalties for violations will rise.
Rachael Gunn has opened up about the run-up to the 2024 Games as Netflix releases Untold Raygun: Breaking Badly. The documentary revisits her panic in the Olympic Village, her viral routine, and the subsequent scrutiny that led to retirement. It also highlights support from figures like Jimmy Fallon and public commentary at the time.
American Airlines is expanding premium travel on its Boeing 777-300ERs, retrofitting 20 jets to boost capacity for premium seats. The move widens its gap with Delta and United as more high-spending travelers buoy premium revenue. Lounges and other premium offerings are also under consideration to lock in customers.
Former defence minister has admitted misleading parliament about medical records from nuclear test veterans. The MoD has published a records review, while veterans argue that blood and urine tests could prove health damages from radiation exposure. About 22,000-25,000 people participated in tests between 1952-1967 across Australia and the Pacific.
Rescuers have pulled three workers alive from the Trishuli hydropower project after floods triggered by a glacier collapse killed about 1,300 people and left more than 5,000 missing. International teams are aiding in excavations across 12 hydro sites as authorities warn the window to reach survivors is narrowing.