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In November 2025, UK battery electric vehicle (EV) registrations rose 3.6% year-on-year to 39,965, marking the weakest growth in nearly two years amid a 1.6% overall new car market decline. The government announced a £1.3bn extension of EV purchase grants and £200m for charging infrastructure, while planning a 3p-per-mile EV tax from 2028 to offset lost fuel duty revenue, sparking industry concerns about demand sustainability.
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As of late September 2025, new Alzheimer’s drugs like lecanemab and donanemab show promise in slowing disease progression but require early diagnosis and carry risks. The UK’s NHS and Australia face challenges in access and funding, while the UAE highlights the need for improved awareness and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the UK’s rollout of weight-loss drug Mounjaro is underfunded, limiting patient access amid rising demand and GP shortages.
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Recent days in Sudan have seen intensified fighting between the Sudanese army and RSF, with drone strikes killing at least 75 civilians in El-Fasher, Darfur. The city remains under siege, with ongoing clashes, ethnic violence, and worsening humanitarian crises, including food shortages and disease outbreaks. The conflict has killed over 40,000 and displaced millions since April 2023.
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Scottish authorities plan to release around 440 prisoners early to address rising prison numbers, with concerns raised by victim support groups about safety and capacity. The scheme excludes sexual and domestic abuse offenders and faces opposition from some officials and parties.
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Horizon Aircraft secures a key engine deal for its hybrid eVTOL aircraft. Meanwhile, Loganair shifts focus from hybrid to hydrogen engines for zero-emission flights, and Boeing prepares for a new narrowbody aircraft amid ongoing production and safety challenges. Otto Aerospace unveils a futuristic, windowless private jet with significant fuel savings.
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Recent fish farm escapes in Scotland, notably from Mowi, highlight ongoing concerns over environmental impact and regulatory enforcement. Despite calls for fines and stricter welfare standards, authorities have yet to impose penalties. The incidents raise questions about industry practices and government oversight, with potential long-term effects on wild salmon populations.
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Nevada prisons see a tenfold increase in overdoses, mainly synthetic drugs, linked to mail smuggling. Meanwhile, British Columbia's drug decriminalization has coincided with record overdose deaths, and the UK reports its highest drug poisoning toll since 1993, driven by synthetic opioids.
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The Scottish Government plans to issue its first bonds, nicknamed 'kilts,' in 2026-27, supported by credit ratings equal to the UK. The move aims to fund infrastructure and demonstrates Scotland's fiscal maturity, though independence could threaten its credit status.
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As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
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Recent archaeological discoveries in Egypt, Turkey, and Scotland reveal complex Neolithic societies, challenging previous ideas of primitive cultures. Findings include figurines, structures, and artifacts that suggest organized social and spiritual practices, with implications for understanding early human development today. Date: Fri, 05 Dec 2025.
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Target's Black Friday gift bags faced criticism for low-value items, with customers expressing disappointment over the lack of substantial swag. Meanwhile, other retailers like Lowe's offered more generous freebies, highlighting a competitive gap in holiday marketing strategies.
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The UK government plans to give local authorities in England the power to impose a tourist levy on overnight visitors, aiming to fund local infrastructure. The move follows similar measures in Scotland and Wales, with mixed reactions from industry and political leaders. The consultation runs until February 2026.
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NHS Tayside destroyed around 40 patient logbooks linked to disgraced neurosurgeon Sam Eljamel despite a 'do not destroy' order. The Scottish inquiry is investigating whether the destruction was gross negligence or malice, amid systemic failures and patient harm. The case highlights accountability issues within NHS Scotland.