A central London public square with Nelson’s Column and a stage for art and protests
Ghent University has suspended postdoctoral researcher Nathan Cofnas and launched a preliminary disciplinary investigation over public statements about Professor Jason Arday. The action follows weeks of media scrutiny of Arday’s alleged plagiarism, Cambridge’s inquiry into his appointments and Arday’s death on 14 August; universities and campaigners are calling for lessons on press conduct and institutional checks.
Former archbishop Rowan Williams says there is an inherent scepticism toward religious conviction and calls out Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson for using Christian imagery to fuel public rhetoric. He questions how public Christian discipleship aligns with hostile, violent rhetoric, and notes that Reform UK has sought theological counsel to bolster its platform.
The minister for women and equalities has accused Conservative shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy and Reform UK’s Robert Jenrick of racist statements, warning that misogyny and racism are becoming more normalized. She says police failings on violence against women and girls persist.
Gen. Christopher Donahue, commander of US Army Europe and Africa and NATO’s Allied Land Command, is relinquishing his post on July 2 as part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s drive to trim senior ranks. His deputy, Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, will oversee duties in the interim. Donahue’s departure follows praise for his Afghanistan evacuation leadership and comes as the Army weighs downgrading Europe/Africa from four-star to three-star command.
In a heated PMQs, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch trade barbs over Labour’s plan to tax private school fees to fund teachers in state schools. Badenoch labels Phillipson a “spiteful class warrior” as the exchange spills into social media and prompts a call for decorum from the speaker.
Multiple Edinburgh schools face overcrowding as VAT on private school fees is cited as contributing to demand shifts. Parents report cramped spaces, with pupils eating in toilets and sharing facilities while councils contemplate urgent action and longer-term plans.
North Korea has demonstrated combat systems on the Kang Kon destroyer, including a strategic cruise missile, main gun and electronic-warfare tests. Kim Jong Un has ordered completion of trials and active deployment within two months, as Pyongyang presses to expand a nuclear-armed navy after the Choe Hyon’s debut.
Pride events across the US and Europe proceed as leaders push back on transgender rights and DEI policies. In New York and San Francisco, parades highlight activism over corporate spectacle, with hospitals facing pressure over gender-affirming care and organizers weighing participation amid federal subpoenas.
London’s Pride parade has drawn more than 35,000 marchers from 600 groups, with temperatures reaching 28C. Activists urge ongoing protection of LGBTQ+ rights as authorities warn of a zero-tolerance stance on hate crime. The event marks a push for greater trans healthcare access and safe spaces, while London unveils plans for WorldPride 2032.
Massive Attack has been banned from returning to Singapore after two of its members displayed a Palestinian flag on stage and joined chants of Free Palestine during a July 29 show. Police say the actions could harm racial and religious harmony, issuing stern warnings and an entry ban. The band says the incident was a surreal expression of solidarity with Palestinians and that they are proud of the moment.
Four men aged 34, 39, 42 and 52 have been stabbed on Endell Street, Covent Garden. A 47-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and assault. Police say the incident is being treated as mental health related. Four patients were taken to a major trauma centre; scissors were recovered at the scene.
Four men were stabbed in Covent Garden; Stella Gollovena has been charged with four counts of wounding with intent and one count of possessing an offensive weapon. The victims' injuries are not life-threatening. The suspect was arrested at the scene and remanded in custody ahead of a September court appearance. London’s air ambulance attended; three of the four victims remain in hospital.
Westminster Council’s draft licensing policy discourages vertical drinking and table service in the West End to curb noise and disorder. The plan is open for consultation and has drawn sharp reactions from hospitality groups, the Mayor of London, and Prime Minister allies, who argue devolved powers must support nightlife.