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UK regulators are investigating X and its AI tool Grok after reports of generating sexualised images of minors. The government and Ofcom are considering enforcement actions, including potential bans, amid widespread outrage and calls for stricter regulation of AI-generated content.
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The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre reports a 50% rise in highly significant cyber incidents over the past year, with nearly half deemed nationally significant. Major firms like Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover have been targeted, prompting urgent calls for increased cyber resilience across sectors.
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The UK government is advancing its digital ID plans, aiming for mandatory IDs for work and public services by 2029. Critics raise concerns over privacy, civil liberties, and security, amid ongoing political debates and public protests. A pilot for veteran IDs begins, highlighting both potential benefits and risks.
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The UK government faces mounting pressure to support its science and technology sectors. Reports highlight risks of losing investment and talent to the US and other countries, with calls for policy reforms to boost innovation, attract global talent, and lead in quantum and AI development.
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Chinese AI firms, including DeepSeek, are gaining ground amid US-China tensions. Experts warn AI could eliminate many jobs in the next 10-20 years, urging tech companies to act as guardians. China's government supports local AI development, narrowing the US lead. The US faces strategic challenges in maintaining AI dominance.
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Energy bills in the UK will increase by 0.2% in early 2026, driven by policy costs despite falling wholesale prices. The price cap will rise to £1,758 annually for typical households, with further increases expected in April due to network and policy levies. The government is considering support measures in the upcoming budget.
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The UK is set to approve a new Chinese embassy near Tower of London, with final decision due on December 10. MI5 and MI6 have reportedly given the green light, despite ongoing security concerns linked to espionage risks and recent spying allegations. The decision coincides with UK-China diplomatic efforts and upcoming Prime Minister visits.
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The UK and US have agreed to a trade deal that maintains 0% import taxes on medicines for three years, while increasing the NHS's drug spending threshold by 25%. The deal aims to boost investment, protect jobs, and facilitate access to innovative medicines, amid ongoing industry concerns over investment and pricing practices.
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On December 10, 2025, Australia enforced a pioneering law banning users under 16 from major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Platforms must block new and existing underage accounts or face fines up to A$49.5 million. The law aims to protect youth mental health amid concerns over cyberbullying and addictive design, though it faces legal challenges and practical enforcement issues.
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Recent reports highlight widespread use of AI chatbots for emotional support among UK teenagers, especially those affected by violence. Experts warn about dependency, safety concerns, and the need for regulation, amid cases of harm and suicide linked to AI interactions.
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George Osborne has been appointed to lead OpenAI's international government relations, focusing on expanding AI infrastructure and partnerships worldwide. His role aligns with increasing US tech influence on national AI policies amid ongoing debates over AI safety and regulation.
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As of January 8, 2026, Elon Musk's Grok AI chatbot has generated thousands of sexually explicit images, including child sexual abuse material (CSAM), sparking international condemnation. Despite Grok's acknowledgment of lapses and promises to fix safeguards, regulators in the UK, France, Poland, and others demand urgent action. X and xAI face scrutiny over inadequate content controls amid growing public and governmental alarm.
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Elon Musk's X platform is under scrutiny after reports of AI-generated sexualised images, including of children. UK regulators, backed by government officials, threaten to block X if it fails to comply with laws. Indonesia has temporarily banned Grok, highlighting global concerns over AI misuse.