-
The Scottish government has been given a 14-day deadline to implement the UK Supreme Court's ruling on biological sex definitions in public bodies. The ruling states that the legal definition of a woman does not include transgender women with gender recognition certificates, prompting potential legal action from the campaign group Sex Matters if delays continue.
-
Comedian Kat Timpf successfully underwent a double mastectomy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to treat her early-stage breast cancer. Timpf, who recently gave birth, shared her journey on social media, addressing both support and unsolicited medical advice from followers. Her diagnosis came just hours before childbirth, and she emphasized the importance of her health for her child's future.
-
Major tech companies, including Microsoft and Amazon, are increasingly investing in nuclear energy to meet rising electricity demands driven by artificial intelligence. This shift comes as traditional renewable sources struggle to provide sufficient power, prompting a reevaluation of energy strategies across the industry. The UK is also advancing battery storage projects to support its renewable energy goals.
-
As Scotland reflects on the five-year anniversary of the first Covid-19 lockdown, the impact of the pandemic remains evident. The initial restrictions in March 2020 transformed daily life, and while vaccinations have restored some normalcy, challenges persist in healthcare and mental health.
-
A fire at Heathrow Airport's North Hyde substation on March 21 caused a major power outage, disrupting over 200,000 passengers and leading to the cancellation of 1,300 flights. The incident has raised questions about the airport's infrastructure resilience and prompted calls for legal action from airlines. CEO Thomas Woldbye has proposed a £1 billion investment for a more robust power system.
-
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a £14 billion package to address the UK's economic challenges, including welfare cuts and increased defence spending. Critics warn her policies may push 250,000 people into poverty, while the economic outlook remains uncertain due to external pressures, including tariffs from the US.
-
As the U.S. energy sector evolves, significant investments in grid batteries and advanced nuclear reactors are underway. Companies are racing to meet rising electricity demands, driven by tech giants and climate goals. However, challenges such as tariffs and public skepticism about nuclear safety persist.
-
Recent surveys reveal significant dissatisfaction among Scots regarding public services and democracy. A majority of young people express concerns about political division and the state of democracy, while many believe public services have worsened. These findings highlight the urgent need for political engagement and reform ahead of upcoming elections.
-
The Scottish Government has rejected a community buyout bid for The Albert Hotel in North Queensferry, Fife. Residents aimed to restore the historic pub, but the government cited concerns over the sustainability of the business case. The community plans to appeal the decision, citing procedural errors.
-
A recent British Social Attitudes survey reveals that 59% of respondents are dissatisfied with the NHS, the highest since 1983. Concerns include long waiting times and staffing shortages, with nearly 10% reporting harm from NHS treatment. Despite this, public support for NHS principles remains strong, calling for increased funding and staffing.
-
Scotland is under an extreme wildfire warning as temperatures soar to 22.7C, the highest this year. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is battling multiple blazes, urging the public to avoid outdoor fires. The warning is in effect for Friday and Saturday, coinciding with the Easter holiday period, raising concerns for public safety in rural areas.
-
On April 16, 2025, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the terms 'woman' and 'sex' in the Equality Act 2010 refer exclusively to biological women. This decision stems from a challenge by For Women Scotland against the Scottish Government's inclusion of transgender women in its definition of women for public board representation. The ruling has significant implications for transgender rights and women's rights in the UK.
-
On April 16, 2025, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the terms 'woman' and 'sex' in the Equality Act 2010 refer specifically to biological women. This decision clarifies the legal status of transgender women with gender recognition certificates, impacting access to single-sex spaces and services across the UK. The ruling has sparked significant debate and policy changes among public bodies.
-
Donald Trump has announced plans for a second state visit to the UK in September, expressing respect for King Charles. The visit is expected to take place at Windsor Castle, amid ongoing negotiations over tariffs and trade agreements. Campaigners are preparing for significant protests during his arrival.
-
In a significant shift, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that a woman is an 'adult female' following the Supreme Court's ruling on transgender rights. This marks a departure from his previous stance that included trans women as women. The ruling has sparked protests and discussions on single-sex spaces.
-
Following a UK Supreme Court ruling defining 'woman' and 'sex' as biological terms, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued interim guidance. This guidance restricts access to gender-specific facilities based on biological sex, raising concerns among transgender individuals about potential discrimination.
-
Two Edinburgh schools will enforce a mobile phone ban, requiring students to store devices in lockable pouches. This initiative aims to enhance focus and mental well-being among students. The policy follows a broader discussion in Parliament regarding children's welfare and the impact of technology in schools.
-
Scotland's last oil refinery, Grangemouth, has stopped processing crude oil, transitioning to an import terminal. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes announced 66 inquiries for clean technology projects as part of Project Willow, aimed at securing the site's future amid job losses and economic concerns.
-
As the Assisted Dying Bill progresses in Scotland, opinions diverge sharply. Advocates argue for compassionate choice for terminally ill patients, while critics warn of potential coercion and ethical dilemmas. The bill's implications for vulnerable populations are at the forefront of the debate, reflecting broader societal concerns about end-of-life care. Today's date is May 19, 2025.
-
As businesses grow, conflicts among co-founders can threaten their existence. Experts emphasize the importance of preemptive measures, such as shareholders' agreements, to mitigate disputes. Additionally, diversification in investments is crucial for managing tax uncertainties amid changing economic conditions.
-
Despite a decline in public housing applications in Hong Kong, demand for subsidised housing remains significant. Recent data shows that many low-income households still rely on public housing options, highlighting the ongoing need for affordable housing solutions amid fluctuating private market prices.
-
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing the Fish Lake Valley tui chub as endangered, while the Upemba lechwe faces extinction with fewer than 100 individuals remaining. Both species highlight urgent conservation needs amid habitat destruction and illegal poaching. The proposals aim to galvanize public support and resources for their protection.
-
From July 1, UK households will see a 7% decrease in energy bills, while nearly half a million households in Australia will face price hikes. The UK’s Ofgem attributes the drop to falling wholesale prices, while the Australian Energy Regulator cites rising costs as the reason for increases. Both regions continue to grapple with cost-of-living pressures.
-
US President Donald Trump has urged UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to abandon his clean energy strategy and increase oil and gas drilling in the North Sea. This comes after a recent trade deal between the US and UK, amid rising energy costs and pressure from business leaders in the UK.
-
Staff at the University of Edinburgh are set to strike over proposed budget cuts of £140 million, which could lead to compulsory redundancies. The University and College Union (UCU) has announced strike dates for June 20 and September 8-12, following overwhelming support from its members. University principal Sir Peter Mathieson has defended the cuts amid financial challenges.
-
As of June 11, 2025, Scottish Water staff are on strike, demanding better pay after rejecting a 3.4% increase. Unions accuse management of failing to engage in negotiations, while the Scottish Government faces criticism for its handling of public sector pay. The dispute has escalated, threatening essential services.