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Xi Jinping's speech at the SCO summit signals China's effort to reshape global governance by promoting multilateralism and reducing US dominance. Meanwhile, Indonesia's President Prabowo advocates for a pragmatic, middle-power-led international system, emphasizing cooperation over confrontation amid a fractured unipolar world.
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US technology companies, including OpenAI, Nvidia, and CoreWeave, plan to announce billions of dollars in UK investments during President Trump's visit. The focus is on expanding AI infrastructure and data centres amid regulatory pressures and government initiatives to support AI growth zones.
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A large far-right protest in London organized by Tommy Robinson drew up to 150,000 attendees, resulting in clashes with police, injuries, and a viral video of a man calling for Keir Starmer's assassination. Police are investigating threats and violence, with multiple arrests made since the event on September 13.
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The UK and US have announced a major tech partnership during President Trump’s visit, with $31 billion in US investments into UK AI, quantum computing, and nuclear sectors. The deal aims to foster growth, security, and innovation, with companies like Microsoft, Google, Nvidia, and OpenAI committing billions. The agreement also includes cooperation on nuclear power and AI infrastructure, but UK steel tariffs remain unresolved.
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The UK has deported its first asylum seeker to France under a new 'one-in, one-out' deal signed with France in July. The move aims to deter small boat crossings, which have reached over 32,000 this year. Critics question the deal's effectiveness amid legal challenges and record migrant numbers.
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As of early October 2025, Labour's annual conference in Liverpool highlights Prime Minister Keir Starmer's pledge to confront Nigel Farage's Reform UK party, condemning its immigration policies as racist. Internal tensions surface with Andy Burnham criticizing a 'climate of fear' in Labour and hinting at leadership ambitions. Meanwhile, health reforms including an NHS online hospital are announced amid cautious expert reactions. The far-right 'Unite the Kingdom' rally in London, led by Tommy Robinson and supported by Elon Musk, intensifies concerns over division and racism in Britain.
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Major pharmaceutical firms have paused or canceled over £2bn in UK investments this year amid concerns over drug pricing policies, US pressure for price parity, and a deteriorating investment climate. Industry warnings highlight risks to future drug development and supply chains.
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The Liberal Democrats propose a 'doomscrolling cap' to limit social media use among under-18s, citing mental health risks. The plan includes mandatory health warnings and restrictions on addictive apps, amid ongoing debates over online safety and free speech, with party leader Sir Ed Davey criticizing tech giants and government efforts.
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Multiple Scottish festivals, including Fawkes Festival and Hogmanay, are canceled or scaled back due to rising costs and weather issues. The government is reviewing licensing rules for pubs to support the hospitality sector. The Wigtown Book Festival and Fringe By The Sea report economic boosts despite weather disruptions.
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On October 7-8, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Mumbai to promote the UK-India trade deal signed in July. Leading a delegation of over 120 business and cultural leaders, Starmer emphasized that visa liberalization for Indian workers or students is not part of the agreement. The deal aims to boost trade by lowering tariffs and expanding business ties, while the UK maintains strict immigration policies.
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Four months after a £40bn investment announcement, the UK government faces scrutiny over its heavy reliance on Amazon Web Services (AWS). A major outage affected thousands of UK and global users, highlighting risks linked to concentrated cloud services and raising questions about resilience and working conditions within Amazon.
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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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Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has outlined plans for modest tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on becoming a pro-business government. The party aims to remove inheritance tax from family farms, raise tax thresholds, and reassess public sector benefits, amid concerns over economic stability and Brexit's impact. The proposals face criticism from Labour and Conservatives.
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A global semiconductor shortage, worsened by geopolitical tensions and export bans, threatens vehicle production across Europe and Japan. Major automakers warn of imminent factory shutdowns as supply chains are disrupted, with key chips from China and the Netherlands affected.
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Recent reports highlight a rising youth unemployment and health-related work inactivity crisis in the UK. Over 2.8 million people are inactive due to health issues, costing the economy billions. Experts call for a shared responsibility approach among employers, government, and workers to address long-term sickness and improve workforce participation.
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British steel companies Unimetals and British Steel are heading toward liquidation amid financial struggles and failed buyout attempts. The government monitors the situation closely, as the industry faces ongoing challenges from global market pressures and political tensions. The collapse could threaten thousands of jobs.
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UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to deliver her budget amid economic uncertainty, with expected tax hikes, spending cuts, and reforms to property taxes. The government faces pressure to balance public finances while avoiding market instability and political backlash, as debates over tax policy and growth strategies intensify.
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On Nov 26, 2025, UK Finance Minister Rachel Reeves announced over £26 billion in new tax increases, adding to £40 billion raised last year. The budget includes freezing income tax thresholds, a mansion tax, and levies on electric cars amid warnings of slowed economic growth and political challenges for the Labour government elected in 2024.
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High-profile UK billionaires and entrepreneurs are relocating abroad due to recent tax reforms, including inheritance and non-domicile rules. The departure of figures like Lakshmi Mittal and others highlights concerns over a growing brain drain and economic impact ahead of the upcoming Labour budget.
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Britain's Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, announced a budget with tax increases and spending cuts amid sluggish growth and declining approval ratings. The budget aims to address economic pressures but faces skepticism about its effectiveness and credibility.
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Recent surveys indicate US consumer confidence has fallen to its lowest since April, driven by inflation, labor market concerns, and political uncertainty. Despite delayed official data, Americans report rising prices, especially in food and dining out, impacting spending and economic outlook. The Federal Reserve faces a delicate balancing act ahead of its rate decision.
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From December 10, Australia enforces a pioneering law banning under-16s from major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Companies face fines up to A$49.5 million for non-compliance. Platforms must block underage accounts, with Meta and TikTok already notifying users. The law aims to protect youth mental health but faces a High Court challenge over free speech rights.
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Recent surveys show UK business confidence remains low following the government's November budget, which included £26bn in tax hikes. Firms expect reduced investment and hiring, citing increased costs and economic uncertainty. Analysts warn growth prospects are weakening amid cautious consumer spending.
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The UK and US have agreed to keep import taxes on medicines at 0% for three years, aiming to boost investment, create jobs, and improve access to innovative treatments. The deal includes raising the NHS's upper threshold for new medicines by 25% and lowering drug repayment rates from 2026.