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The UK government has approved £120m support for Ineos at Grangemouth, amid ongoing tensions over energy taxes and industry policies. Meanwhile, Scotland's offshore wind sector faces funding challenges, risking delays and job losses. The stories highlight tensions between industry needs and government climate policies.
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Feral dogs in India, especially Ladakh, pose health and wildlife threats. Culling is illegal, and sterilization efforts are slow, sparking political debate. Conservationists warn of dogs' impact on wildlife and public safety, amid rising dog populations and attacks.
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Recent articles highlight the spread of disinformation, deepfake manipulation, and political arrests. These issues threaten public discourse, electoral integrity, and free speech, with social media platforms and government actions playing significant roles in shaping the current landscape. The stories underscore the importance of digital literacy and accountability.
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Recent articles highlight ongoing crises in UK education, including teacher shortages, headteacher vacancies, and deteriorating working conditions. Meanwhile, social care reforms in England aim to support vulnerable young people, amid concerns over workforce burnout and underfunding. These issues reflect systemic underinvestment and policy challenges.
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On January 3, 2026, the US captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a military operation. President Trump declared the US would 'run' Venezuela until a 'safe, proper, and judicious transition' occurs. The UK government, led by Keir Starmer, has expressed cautious support for a peaceful transition but refrained from condemning the US action, emphasizing the importance of international law. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch defended the US move as morally right, while opposition voices called for stronger condemnation.
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First Minister John Swinney announced plans to declare Monday, June 15, a bank holiday in Scotland to celebrate the men's national football team's World Cup qualification. The match against Haiti in Boston is scheduled for June 14 at 2am GMT. The move aims to boost national pride, tourism, and cultural connections.
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UK-wide and Scottish bank holidays for 2026 have been confirmed, with notable dates including St Patrick’s Day, St Andrew’s Day, and a proposed extra holiday for Scotland’s World Cup match. No additional bank holidays are expected this year beyond existing ones.
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Storm Goretti, a multi-hazard weather event, has caused fatalities, power outages, and travel disruptions across Europe, especially in the UK, France, and Germany. The storm brought hurricane-force winds, heavy snow, and ice, leading to dangerous conditions and significant infrastructure impacts.
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On January 13-14, 2026, the UK government announced it will no longer require mandatory digital ID cards to prove the right to work, reversing a key policy from last September. Instead, digital right to work checks will remain mandatory but can be verified via passports, e-visas, or digital IDs. The change follows widespread public opposition and political criticism.
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President Trump has threatened to impose a 10% tariff increase on UK goods, including Scotch whisky, due to UK opposition to his Greenland plans. UK and Scottish officials warn this could harm Scottish industries and jobs, with ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation. The story highlights tensions over trade and geopolitics.
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Scottish First Minister John Swinney criticises UK government for not providing advance notice of military operations affecting Scottish waters and infrastructure. He highlights weaknesses in maritime defence, calls for more vessels in Scottish waters, and criticises UK prioritisation of nuclear weapons over physical security.
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Multiple UK local authorities, including Birmingham, Worcestershire, and Scottish councils, are grappling with severe financial challenges. They plan significant council tax hikes, service cuts, and debt management strategies amid ongoing budget shortfalls, social care costs, and systemic funding issues, raising concerns about local service sustainability.
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The UK government and NatWest have announced new initiatives to expand affordable housing, with NatWest setting a £10bn funding goal for social housing by 2028. Scotland plans to establish a new housing agency, while Dunkirk port regeneration includes a potential ferry route to Scotland, reflecting broader regional development efforts.
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Jeane Freeman, former Scottish health secretary and SNP MSP, died aged 72 after a brief cancer battle. She was known for her leadership during Scotland’s Covid response and her long public service career. Tributes highlight her compassion and dedication.
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Australian authorities and other countries are investigating Roblox amid reports of child grooming, exposure to harmful content, and self-harm material. The government has demanded safety measures and an urgent meeting with the platform, which faces potential fines and regulatory action following ongoing allegations of exploitation.
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Keir Starmer's government is under intense pressure following a series of crises, including the departure of key aides, internal party dissent, and controversy over appointments linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called for Starmer's resignation, but the Prime Minister survived a week of turmoil, with support from senior figures. Meanwhile, UK politics remains volatile as investigations and internal conflicts unfold.