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Petroineos announced the refinery would cease operations in the second quarter of next year.
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The Scottish government has confirmed Glasgow as the host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games after Australia's Victoria state withdrew due to rising costs. The event will feature a scaled-down format with 10 sports and will be funded primarily through compensation from Victoria, ensuring minimal public expenditure.
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A Council of Europe report highlights discrimination against Scots speakers, urging the Scottish Government to enhance support for minority languages. The report emphasizes the need for better education and funding, contrasting Scotland's approach with Wales, where Welsh is more systematically supported.
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Scotland's drug-related deaths increased by 12% in 2023, totaling 1,172 fatalities. Health Secretary Neil Gray emphasized the need for intensified efforts against the crisis, particularly concerning potent synthetic opioids like nitazenes. Critics highlight systemic failures in treatment access and support for those struggling with addiction.
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As rental prices surge globally, new data reveals a cooling trend in the UK rental market, while Mexico City introduces strict rent controls. In Scotland, the end of temporary rent caps has led to significant rent increases, raising concerns among tenants. Meanwhile, US landlords are offering concessions to attract renters amid a housing surplus.
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On August 14, 2024, the Scottish government announced the end of universal winter fuel payments for pensioners, shifting to a means-tested system. This decision follows significant funding cuts from the UK government, leading to broader spending restrictions in Scotland. The new policy will impact around 900,000 pensioners this winter.
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The Scottish Conservative Party is in turmoil as deputy leader Meghan Gallacher resigns amid allegations against outgoing leader Douglas Ross. The leadership contest is marred by claims of favoritism and internal strife, with multiple candidates demanding clarity on the situation. The party's future direction remains uncertain as the contest unfolds.
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The Scottish Government will reinstate peak rail fares from September 27, 2024, after a year-long pilot aimed at eliminating these fares failed to significantly increase passenger numbers. The initiative, which cost £40 million, primarily benefited existing rail users and did not meet financial sustainability goals amid ongoing budget constraints.
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The Scottish government is implementing up to £500 million in budget cuts due to financial pressures largely attributed to its own decisions. Finance Secretary Shona Robison has warned of a challenging fiscal environment, with potential cuts to key services and benefits looming as the government grapples with a projected £1.5 billion shortfall.
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As the Labour government prepares for its first budget, it confronts a projected £22 billion shortfall inherited from the Conservatives. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced cuts, including the winter fuel payment for pensioners, while civil service head Simon Case criticizes the previous government's financial management. The upcoming budget is expected to be painful.
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On September 5, 2024, the UK, EU, US, and Israel signed the first international treaty on artificial intelligence, aimed at safeguarding human rights and democracy. Concurrently, Chinese and US tech giants announced security standards for large language models, highlighting the growing global focus on AI regulation.
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Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has criticized BBC Scotland's documentary on Scottish independence, accusing it of bias. He also rebuked current First Minister Humza Yousaf for his comments in the film, claiming Yousaf has resorted to smears in his pursuit of relevance. The tensions highlight ongoing divisions within Scottish politics.