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Roxie, a three-month-old red panda at Edinburgh Zoo, died on Bonfire Night, with her death linked to fireworks. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland is calling for stricter firework regulations following Roxie's death and that of her mother, Ginger, just days earlier.
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Australia's government plans to introduce legislation banning social media access for children under 16, citing mental health concerns. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the proposal, which will be tabled in Parliament on November 18, 2024, and take effect a year later, placing enforcement responsibility on social media platforms.
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Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced significant reforms to UK policing, including a new Police Performance Unit and increased funding of £500 million. The reforms aim to address issues like violence against women and girls and knife crime, while modernizing outdated systems and improving police oversight.
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Recent government analysis reveals that cuts to the winter fuel allowance will push an estimated 100,000 pensioners in England and Wales into relative poverty. The decision to restrict payments to only those on pension credit has sparked significant criticism and protests, as many fear they will struggle to afford heating this winter.
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The UK Labour Party faces internal divisions ahead of a historic vote on assisted dying legislation scheduled for November 29. Key ministers publicly express opposing views, complicating the government's neutral stance on the issue. The debate centers on moral implications and potential impacts on NHS resources.
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent budget has sparked significant criticism and market reactions, with rising gilt yields and concerns over Labour's fiscal policies. The budget's tax increases and spending reforms have raised fears of economic stagnation, impacting the housing market and investor confidence as job losses loom in various sectors.
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Donald Trump has nominated Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, as Secretary of Energy. Wright, a proponent of fossil fuels and fracking, aligns with Trump's energy agenda, emphasizing increased oil and gas production while opposing climate change initiatives. His nomination reflects a shift towards prioritizing fossil fuel development in U.S. energy policy.
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On November 19, 2024, thousands of farmers protested in London against proposed inheritance tax changes by the Labour government. The new rules, effective April 2026, will impose a 20% tax on agricultural assets over £1 million, threatening the viability of family farms. Jeremy Clarkson joined the protests, highlighting the issue's significance.
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On November 19, Ukraine launched ATACMS missiles into Russia's Bryansk region, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. This follows the U.S. decision to allow such strikes, coinciding with Russia's revised nuclear doctrine, which lowers the threshold for nuclear retaliation against conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers.
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With Republicans gaining control of Congress, they are strategizing to extend tax cuts from 2017 that are set to expire. This effort is part of a broader agenda to implement significant fiscal reforms and advance Trump's legislative priorities in early 2025.
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The UK Home Office faces criticism over the purchase of the Northeye site for asylum seekers, which was acquired for £15.4 million despite warnings about contamination risks. Meanwhile, 146 asylum seekers will be housed at the Dragonfly Hotel in Peterborough, prompting local MPs to demand clearer information from the government.
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Scottish private schools are increasing fees significantly due to the Labour government's decision to impose a 20% VAT on school fees starting January 2025. Fettes College and George Watson's College announced fee hikes of 7% and 15%, respectively, while other institutions are also raising fees amid financial pressures.
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Following Labour's recent electoral victory, the party is now contending with emerging threats from Reform UK and a potential leftist resurgence. As the political landscape shifts, Labour's leadership is focused on maintaining its position amid growing competition and dissatisfaction among voters.
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Following Donald Trump's recent election victory, his transition team is reportedly seeking legal advice regarding the UK's agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This deal has raised concerns about potential security implications, particularly regarding China's influence in the region, and could lead to a veto from the incoming administration.
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Farmers are protesting in Westminster against Labour's new inheritance tax policy affecting agricultural land. The government plans to impose a 20% tax on farms valued over £1 million starting April 2026, leading to accusations of betrayal from rural communities who feel misled by pre-election promises.
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As Donald Trump prepares to take office, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer navigates complex trade relations. With Trump signaling potential tariffs and urging a choice between US and EU economic models, Starmer's government faces pressure to prioritize EU ties while managing US expectations. The situation poses significant challenges for the UK economy and its political alliances.
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On November 19, 2024, the EU and UK imposed sanctions on Iran's national shipping company and its director for allegedly aiding Russia's military efforts. The sanctions include asset freezes and restrictions on transactions, coinciding with the 1,000th day of the Ukraine war.
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The weight-loss drug market is evolving with new entrants like Wegovy and Mounjaro gaining traction. Novo Nordisk's Wegovy is now available in China, while Eli Lilly's Mounjaro has been approved in Hong Kong. The competition intensifies as biotech firms develop innovative treatments amid rising demand for obesity management.
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Colombia's economy grew 2% in Q3 2024, below expectations, prompting President Gustavo Petro to advocate for deeper interest rate cuts. This follows a trend of mixed economic performance across various countries, including Malaysia's robust growth and concerns over trade tensions under a potential Trump administration.
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Scotland's national football team prepares for a must-win match against Poland in Warsaw on November 18, 2024. After a recent victory over Croatia, Scotland aims to avoid relegation in the Nations League. Coach Steve Clarke is considering lineup changes, particularly regarding young talent Ben Doak, while Poland seeks to secure their position after a heavy loss to Portugal.
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Recent polling indicates a shift in public sentiment, with the Conservative Party gaining support under new leader Kemi Badenoch. Labour's approval has declined following a controversial tax-raising budget, leading to increased dissatisfaction among voters and businesses. The political landscape is evolving as both parties respond to these changes.
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Following Donald Trump's election victory, Ukraine faces uncertainty regarding U.S. military aid. Ukrainian leaders express hope for continued support, while concerns grow over Trump's past criticisms of aid to Kyiv. The Kremlin remains focused on its objectives in Ukraine, indicating a challenging period ahead for Ukrainian defense efforts.
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Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has resigned following a damning report on the Church of England's handling of sexual abuse allegations against John Smyth. The report revealed systemic failures in safeguarding and accountability, prompting calls for significant reform within the church. This scandal has reignited discussions about the church's moral authority and its future direction.
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A Turkish national, arrested in Amsterdam, is suspected of supplying boats and engines to smugglers operating across the English Channel. This arrest is seen as a significant step in combating organized immigration crime, with UK authorities reporting a rise in deportations since Labour took office.
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At COP29 in Azerbaijan, UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband asserts that the transition to renewable energy is unstoppable, despite challenges posed by Donald Trump's re-election. The summit is marked by cancellations from key leaders and concerns over US climate policy, as nations seek to secure climate finance for developing countries.
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The UK government is reviewing its sentencing policies amid a prison crisis, with nearly 3,000 offenders released early. Labour's David Gauke leads the review, focusing on alternatives to incarceration and the use of technology in monitoring offenders. The review aims to reshape the justice system by Spring 2025.
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The UK government is advancing the Future Homes Standard, mandating new homes to use electric heat pumps or non-gas alternatives. Concerns about supply chain capacity and the impact on energy bills persist, while Scotland allows wood-burning stoves in new builds starting January 2025. The need for retrofitting existing homes remains critical.
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At the G20 summit in Brazil, leaders criticized the weak communique regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, marking 1,000 days of conflict. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized continued support for Ukraine, while Ukraine launched long-range missile strikes into Russian territory for the first time, following U.S. approval.
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Ofgem has approved the Eastern Green Link 1 project, a £2 billion subsea and underground cable connecting Scotland and England. This initiative aims to enhance energy security, reduce consumer bills, and support the UK's green energy targets by transporting wind-generated electricity.
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Elon Musk has been appointed co-head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by President-elect Donald Trump. This advisory group aims to cut $2 trillion from the U.S. budget and restructure federal agencies. Musk's close ties to Trump and his political contributions have raised questions about the implications for government operations and his businesses.
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Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy media mogul, is testifying in his collusion trial in Hong Kong, where he faces life imprisonment under the national security law. His case is emblematic of the crackdown on dissent in the city, following the 2019 protests. Lai's health and treatment in prison have raised international concerns.
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The recent U.S. election of Donald Trump, who plans to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, raises concerns about global climate negotiations. Argentina's President Javier Milei is also contemplating leaving the accord, further complicating international climate efforts at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.
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London Mayor Sadiq Khan maintains his critical stance on US President-elect Donald Trump, emphasizing the UK's responsibility to challenge its closest ally. Despite others changing their views, Khan insists on the importance of speaking out against Trump's past policies, which he labels as discriminatory.
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As mass protests loom against the government's inheritance tax changes, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to defend his Budget in a speech in Wales. Farmers are preparing for a week-long strike, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves aims to reassure the business community with plans for financial reforms.
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In light of Donald Trump's recent election victory, UK leaders are grappling with the implications for trade relations with both the EU and the US. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has emphasized the need to rebuild ties with the EU, citing Brexit's adverse effects on the economy. Concerns grow over potential tariffs and their impact on UK growth.
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A new report reveals that the UK's unhealthy food system costs £268 billion annually, significantly impacting public health and the economy. The Food, Farming and Countryside Commission highlights the urgent need for reform to address diet-related illnesses and promote healthier food options.
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The UK economy grew by only 0.1% in the third quarter of 2024, significantly below expectations. This disappointing figure follows Labour's election victory, raising concerns about the government's ability to stimulate growth amid rising taxes and uncertainty in business investment.
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As the Ukraine conflict nears its third anniversary, President-elect Donald Trump’s potential influence raises concerns over U.S. support for Kyiv. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent call with Vladimir Putin has sparked criticism from Ukraine, highlighting the precarious situation on the battlefield as Russian forces advance in the east.
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During the Welsh Labour conference, Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced significant protests from farmers opposing recent inheritance tax changes. Farmers expressed their frustrations over perceived neglect by the Labour government, leading to a tense atmosphere outside the venue in Llandudno on November 16, 2024.
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United Utilities faces backlash for allegedly discharging untreated sewage into Windermere, leading to toxic algae blooms and fish deaths. Campaigners demand transparency and action to restore the lake's health, citing a significant increase in pollution incidents over recent years.
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In a significant policy shift, President Biden has authorized Ukraine to use US-supplied long-range missiles against Russian and North Korean forces in the Kursk region. This decision comes amid escalating tensions as Russia deploys North Korean troops and intensifies its military campaign in Ukraine, just two months before President-elect Trump takes office.
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As G20 leaders convene in Rio, the ongoing UN climate talks in Baku remain stalled. UN officials urge the G20 to commit to significant climate financing for developing nations, emphasizing the urgent need for cooperation to combat climate change and its economic impacts.
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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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A BBC documentary reveals evidence of government misconduct regarding the health impacts of nuclear tests on veterans. Families claim a legacy of medical issues, prompting calls for investigations and accountability from senior officials, including Defence Secretary John Healey. The film airs on BBC2 on November 20, 2024.
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The U.S. has authorized Ukraine to use Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to strike deeper into Russian territory, particularly in the Kursk region. This decision marks a significant shift in U.S. policy amid ongoing military tensions and North Korean support for Russia. The implications for the conflict are profound.
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At the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian President Lula da Silva launched the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, aiming to eradicate hunger by 2030. Supported by 82 countries and various organizations, the initiative seeks to pool resources and expertise to combat global hunger and poverty effectively.
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UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer announced the resumption of trade talks with India after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit. The discussions aim to enhance economic ties, focusing on trade, security, and technology, with hopes of finalizing a deal in early 2025.
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In a significant shift, President Biden has authorized Ukraine to use American ATACMS missiles against Russian targets, following a similar decision by the UK to allow Storm Shadow missile strikes. This change comes amid escalating tensions and military actions involving North Korean troops in the conflict.