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School attendance in Scotland remains critically low, with 40.6% of secondary students absent for over 10% of the year. Teacher numbers have also dropped significantly, prompting government intervention to address the crisis. The situation reflects broader issues in education exacerbated by the pandemic.
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent budget has drawn significant criticism for its tax increases and spending reforms, raising concerns about economic stagnation and job losses. The housing market is also affected, with a notable decline in high-value property sales and investor confidence waning as the government grapples with fiscal challenges.
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The number of Indian students at US colleges increased by 23% in the 2023-2024 academic year, surpassing Chinese students for the first time since 2009. This shift reflects broader trends in international education, with overall foreign student enrollment in the US reaching over 1.1 million, according to the Institute of International Education.
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As the UK Labour Party prepares for a crucial vote on assisted dying legislation scheduled for November 29, internal divisions have surfaced. Key figures, including Harriet Harman and Wes Streeting, express conflicting views on the bill's implications for NHS resources and moral considerations, complicating the party's stance.
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, marking the first meeting between a British leader and Xi since 2018. Starmer aimed to mend UK-China relations while addressing human rights concerns, including the case of detained activist Jimmy Lai.
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The UK government is implementing reforms to address excessive profits in children's social care. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced measures for financial transparency and new regulatory powers for Ofsted, aiming to improve care for vulnerable children amid rising costs and inadequate placements. The reforms follow alarming reports of children in unsafe accommodations.
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On December 1, 2024, UK MPs voted to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales, a significant shift in end-of-life care policy. The decision follows a growing public demand for change and highlights the need for improved palliative care services, as many terminally ill patients currently lack adequate support.
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On November 29, 2024, UK MPs debated a landmark bill allowing terminally ill adults to choose assisted dying. The bill, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, requires approval from two doctors and a High Court judge. The debate highlighted emotional testimonies and divided opinions among MPs, with a vote expected soon.