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The Geminid meteor shower, one of the strongest annual meteor displays, peaks overnight from December 13 to 14, with up to 120 meteors per hour visible under dark skies. Best viewed in the northern hemisphere, including the UK, the shower will continue until December 20. Viewing conditions depend on weather and light pollution.
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On December 15, 2025, Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai was found guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious materials under the national security law. Lai, a British citizen and founder of the pro-democracy Apple Daily, has spent five years in custody, with his health reportedly deteriorating. The verdict marks a significant moment in Beijing's crackdown on dissent.
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The UK government has announced an independent review into foreign financial influence on politics following the conviction of Nathan Gill, a former MEP jailed for accepting Russian bribes. The review aims to strengthen laws against illicit funding and foreign interference, amid rising concerns over Russia, China, and other hostile states' efforts to manipulate UK democracy.
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Recent data from the US and UK labor markets reveal rising unemployment and slowing wage growth amid economic uncertainty. The US added 64,000 jobs in November, while UK unemployment hit a four-year high of 5.1%. Both economies face ongoing challenges from political and fiscal pressures.
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British military leaders warn of increasing Russian threats, emphasizing the need for societal and military preparedness. UK plans include new arms factories, enhanced intelligence, and a national resilience strategy amid rising tensions and NATO concerns.
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In December 2025, former US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Europe as "decaying" and its leaders as "weak," blaming migration policies and political correctness for the continent's decline. He questioned Ukraine's democracy amid the ongoing war with Russia, urged elections despite martial law, and endorsed far-right European politicians, deepening transatlantic tensions.
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Lea Michele’s star turn in “Chess.” Kara Young as an 8-year-old. A 12-minute monologue delivered from a cloud. These are our favorite scenes from this year.
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The Nigerian Competition Commission (FCCPC) is reviewing recent sharp increases in airline ticket prices amid consumer complaints and suspected collusion among airlines. The inquiry focuses on pricing patterns and fair competition, with ongoing investigations independent of a court case involving Air Peace. Updates will follow as findings develop.
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Blaise Metreweli, MI6's first female chief, warns that Britain faces a more dangerous world driven by technological advances and hybrid threats from Russia, China, and Iran. She emphasizes the shift of power from states to corporations and individuals, urging adaptation in intelligence strategies.
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer are discussing closer ties with the EU amid economic pressures. Sunak emphasizes maintaining red lines, while Starmer signals openness to rejoining the customs union, reflecting ongoing debates over Brexit's economic impact and future relationship with Europe.
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European countries are advancing new migration policies amid political pressure and concerns over human rights. Measures include establishing border 'return hubs', stricter deportation rules, and potential reforms to the European Convention on Human Rights, raising debates on sovereignty, safety, and legal protections. The story is current as of Tue, 16 Dec 2025.
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UK food prices for Christmas are up 5% overall, with some items rising sharply. Supermarkets are countering inflation with increased promotions, especially Aldi and Lidl, offering a full festive meal for less than £12 for eight people. Despite inflation, some prices, like potatoes and Yorkshire puddings, have fallen.
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Recent reports highlight increased tensions around Channel migration, with UK and French authorities facing criticism over border control. Far-right groups are actively harassing migrants in France, while UK plans include doubling migration enforcement units and considering controversial pushback policies. The situation underscores ongoing debates over border security and migration policies post-Brexit.
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Shares of SThree rose 8% after reporting a resilient full-year performance despite a 12% decline in net fees, driven by US recovery. Meanwhile, UK retailers Card Factory and Five Below faced challenges: Card Factory issued a profit warning amid weak sales, while Five Below's new CEO focused on merchandise reset and operational efficiency to boost growth.
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Gerry McCann has urged the UK government to restart the Leveson inquiry into media practices, citing ongoing media pressure and misleading headlines affecting his family. He also discussed the 18-year search for Madeleine and recent media exploitation of a woman claiming to be her.
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Official figures show the UK economy contracted by 0.1% in October, marking the second consecutive monthly decline. The slowdown is linked to pre-Budget uncertainty, a cyberattack on Jaguar Land Rover, and subdued consumer spending. Economists expect a Bank of England rate cut next week amid ongoing economic fragility.
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On December 8, 2025, a Boston federal judge ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unlawfully terminated Turkish PhD student Rümeysa Öztürk's SEVIS record after her visa was revoked amid a crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism. Arrested in March and detained for 45 days, Öztürk can now resume teaching and research at Tufts University, though legal challenges continue.
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Nigel Farage's Reform UK considers a merger or deal with the Conservatives before the 2026 elections, despite denials from both sides. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch emphasizes fighting for every vote amid declining poll support, as Labour faces internal challenges ahead of local elections.
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The UK and South Korea have finalized a new trade agreement to replace their expiring post-Brexit deal. The pact boosts services, digital trade, and tariff-free access on 98% of goods, safeguarding £2 billion in exports and expanding market opportunities for UK businesses.
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Heavy rains and high winds have flooded tents and damaged buildings in Gaza, worsening an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Displaced Palestinians face increased risks of injury, disease, and death as infrastructure remains largely destroyed and aid access is limited. International calls for urgent aid entry grow louder.
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Recent data shows UK consumer spending slowed in December amid economic uncertainty and upcoming tax increases. Retail sales growth remains subdued, with online sales rising but overall confidence low. Black Friday saw strong online activity, but shoppers remain wary of the economic outlook.
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Hinba, a Scottish hospitality group founded in 2019, has doubled in size over 18 months, now operating seven venues across Glasgow and the west coast. Despite industry pressures, it focuses on expansion and resilience, including acquiring restaurants and a bakery, with a 150% turnover growth last year.
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Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy activist and founder of Apple Daily, was convicted in Hong Kong on charges linked to national security laws. The case has drawn criticism from Western governments and the UK, with calls for his release amid concerns over health and political repression. Lai faces potential life imprisonment.
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Recent data shows UK government borrowing costs are decreasing relative to the US and eurozone, driven by market confidence in Labour's fiscal plans. The fall follows the Chancellor's budget announcements and signals a potential end to the UK's historically high bond yields, which have been influenced by market doubts over fiscal credibility. Today's date is Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:35:05 +0000.
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British intelligence chief Ms Metreweli, the first woman to lead MI6, warns that threats from Russia, disinformation, and cyber attacks are escalating globally. She emphasizes the UK's ongoing support for Ukraine and the need for technological mastery across all security efforts. The UK is also imposing sanctions on Russian and Chinese entities involved in malign activities.
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Australia commits A$674 million over ten years to domestic violence support and security, including a new 24/7 support line, specialist police, and regional forensic services. The government accepts most recommendations from the Royal Commission, with plans to amend alcohol laws and enhance victim services amid ongoing regional security concerns.
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African countries have pledged increased contributions to the African Development Fund (ADF-17), tripling support and emphasizing Africa's role as a co-investor. The fund finances infrastructure, health, and education projects, leveraging private capital. Meanwhile, Uganda and Kenya secure major infrastructure and green financing, and efforts to support women entrepreneurs expand across Africa.
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Countries are making contrasting moves on climate and energy. China advances fusion research, while the UK leads in phasing out fossil fuels. Meanwhile, the US faces opposition to data centers, and Asia's energy security concerns slow renewables. These developments shape the global climate effort today, December 15, 2025.
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The UK National Screening Committee is set to recommend targeted prostate cancer screening for high-risk groups, including men with BRCA mutations and Black men, amid ongoing debates over PSA test efficacy and potential harms of mass screening. The decision follows recent advocacy and new research trials.
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The UK has submitted a bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women's World Cup, proposing 22 stadiums across 16 cities in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The tournament would feature 48 teams, 104 matches, and aim to be the most accessible ever, with Wembley Stadium set to host the final if successful.
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An outbreak of African swine fever in wild boar near Barcelona has prompted containment measures and export restrictions. Authorities suspect contaminated food as the source, with no farms affected so far. The outbreak threatens Spain's pork industry and international trade, with EU and global responses underway.
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Zipcar, the UK's largest car-sharing service, will cease UK operations at year's end, impacting over 650,000 users amid financial losses. The move raises concerns about the future of urban car sharing and sustainable transport, with other companies eyeing expansion in London despite regulatory challenges.
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The UK government announced delays for mayoral elections in Essex, Hampshire, Sussex, and Norfolk, citing local government reorganization. The move has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who accuse Labour of undermining democracy. The elections are now scheduled for 2028, with political tensions rising ahead of upcoming local polls.
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The UK and Norway have signed a new agreement to operate a joint fleet of anti-submarine ships and develop autonomous underwater systems to counter increased Russian submarine activity and protect critical undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic. The initiative includes a £10 billion warship deal and advanced AI technology, amid rising tensions over Russian threats to undersea cables and pipelines.
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On December 4, 2025, a UK public inquiry concluded that Russian President Vladimir Putin authorized the 2018 Novichok nerve agent attack targeting former spy Sergei Skripal, which led to the death of Dawn Sturgess. The UK government sanctioned Russia's GRU intelligence agency and summoned the Russian ambassador amid ongoing tensions over Russia's hostile activities.
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The UK government and regulators are implementing measures to boost economic growth, including faster listing processes, provisional licensing for fintechs, and easing pension and mortgage rules, as part of a broader deregulation push. These changes aim to support start-ups and attract investment.
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UBS's latest report shows a record increase in billionaires worldwide, reaching 2,919 with collective wealth of $15.8 trillion. Women are outpacing men in wealth growth for four consecutive years, and inheritance continues to drive the rise, especially in the US and Europe. The billionaire class is diversifying and expanding rapidly.
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Recent articles highlight escalating tensions over Ukraine, with Russia's economic decline, US diplomatic shifts, and Europe's limited response. Key figures include Putin, Trump, and European leaders, amid ongoing conflicts and geopolitical realignments. The situation remains volatile as international actors navigate complex interests.
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Former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss has announced a new show claiming to expose the 'deep state' and promote Western values. Polls show minimal public interest and support for her political return, amid ongoing debates about her influence and the show's impact on political discourse.
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Emirjon Gjuta, 34, was sentenced to 14 months in prison after re-entering the UK in breach of a deportation order. He was previously deported twice following convictions for drug offences and identity document offences. Gjuta claimed he did not understand the deportation orders due to lack of interpreter support.
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As 2025 ends, high earners and UK side hustlers face new tax rules. US taxpayers should consider timing donations, while UK creators must report earnings over £1,000. Both regions emphasize record-keeping and compliance to avoid penalties.
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The Palestinian embassy in London was targeted by masked men waving Israeli flags and Union Jacks. The ambassador called for increased security after vandalism and stickers with political messages. Despite Britain's recognition of Palestine, security arrangements remain unchanged, raising concerns over staff safety amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
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Lando Norris claimed his first Formula One world championship on December 8, 2025, finishing third in the season finale. Max Verstappen won the race but missed out on a fifth consecutive title. Norris's victory marks McLaren's first drivers' and constructors' titles since 1998, with Norris emotional after the race.
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The UK government is advancing its anti-corruption efforts, focusing on legislation to combat strategic lawsuits against public participation (Slapps) and illicit finance. New measures include expanding police units, international summits, and reforms to financial transparency, aiming to curb money laundering, political corruption, and foreign influence. Progress is slow, with full implementation expected by 2029.
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The UK government announced a new branding for Great British Railways, including a redesign of trains and logos, to be rolled out from spring 2026. The move coincides with fare freezes and plans for full nationalisation, aiming to modernise and unify the rail network.
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The UK announced a ban on new oil and gas licenses, windfall taxes, and faster fossil fuel phase-out, emphasizing climate leadership. Meanwhile, Canada signed a pipeline deal supporting increased fossil fuel production, delaying methane regulations and weakening green policies amid global climate crises.
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Recent reports highlight the rising use of AI chatbots for mental health support among UK teenagers, especially those affected by violence. Experts warn about dependency, potential harm, and the need for regulation, amid concerns over safety and emotional dependency.
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UK households threw away an estimated 168 million light-up Christmas items last year, raising concerns over waste and fire risks. Experts highlight the environmental impact of disposable electricals and batteries, urging proper recycling to prevent fires and reduce waste. The story underscores ongoing waste management challenges during festive seasons.
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The UK government faces ongoing scrutiny after leaks and the resignation of the OBR chair Richard Hughes. The Budget process was marred by unauthorized disclosures, with the Treasury launching an investigation. The OECD warns that fiscal tightening will slow growth, while political tensions escalate over the handling of public finances.
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President Trump has renewed his criticism of London Mayor Sadiq Khan, calling him a 'disaster' and suggesting he was elected due to immigration. Trump also criticized European leaders for being 'weak' and 'politically correct,' warning of future instability without reforms. The UK government defended Khan's record amid the controversy.