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Muirhall Energy claims that intergovernmental discord is blocking £9 billion in renewable energy investments in Scotland. The Ministry of Defence's objections to wind farm applications around the Eskdalemuir facility are cited as a major hurdle, impacting local economies and energy security.
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Australia's government has introduced legislation to ban social media access for children under 16, citing mental health concerns. The bill, announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, holds platforms accountable for enforcing the age limit and is expected to pass by the end of the year. The legislation aims to protect children from harmful online content.
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Nik Storonsky, CEO of Revolut, criticized the UK stock market's liquidity and high transaction costs compared to the US. He indicated that a public listing in the US is more appealing for the fintech company, which recently achieved a $45 billion valuation. Barclays' CEO echoed similar concerns about the UK market's decline.
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The number of Indian students at US colleges increased by 23% in the 2023-2024 academic year, surpassing Chinese students for the first time since 2009. This shift reflects broader trends in international education, with overall foreign student enrollment in the US reaching over 1.1 million, according to the Institute of International Education.
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UK police forces, including the Metropolitan Police and Police Scotland, are facing significant budget cuts due to government funding reductions. Leaders express concerns over the impact on public safety and operational capabilities, with calls for urgent government support to address the funding crisis.
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A Scottish court is reviewing the legality of drilling licenses for the Rosebank oilfield, amid claims from climate campaigners that the UK government unlawfully ignored the climate impact of burning fossil fuels. The outcome could significantly affect the future of oil and gas extraction in the UK.
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The UK automotive industry is grappling with declining electric vehicle (EV) sales, job cuts, and economic pressures. Major manufacturers like Ford and Stellantis are reducing their workforce, while the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) warns of a potential £6 billion loss this year, urging for urgent market intervention.
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The death of three-month-old red panda Roxie at Edinburgh Zoo on Bonfire Night has prompted calls for stricter firework regulations. Roxie choked on her vomit, likely due to stress from fireworks, following the earlier death of her mother, Ginger, just five days prior, also believed to be linked to firework noise.
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On November 19, Ukraine launched ATACMS missiles at a Russian ammunition depot, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. In response, Russia revised its nuclear doctrine, allowing for nuclear retaliation against conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers. This development coincided with the 1,000th day of the war, heightening tensions between the nations.
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On the 1,000th day of the Ukraine conflict, Vladimir Putin revised Russia's nuclear doctrine, warning that any conventional attack supported by a nuclear power would be treated as a joint attack. This follows the US allowing Ukraine to strike targets in Russia, raising concerns about escalating tensions.
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UK government borrowing reached £17.4 billion in October, the second highest figure for the month since records began in 1993. This increase, driven by rising debt interest payments, poses challenges for Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she navigates fiscal policy amid economic pressures.
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Finance Secretary Shona Robison's recent budget announcement has sparked debate over funding adequacy and public sector pay pressures. With significant spending commitments, the SNP government faces scrutiny from opposition parties regarding the sustainability of its financial plans amid rising costs and national insurance hikes.
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The Scottish government plans to reintroduce universal winter fuel payments for pensioners starting in winter 2025-26, following the UK government's decision to means-test the benefit. This move aims to support nearly 900,000 pensioners who lost their payments this winter, amidst rising energy costs and political pressures.
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The UK government has issued a severe weather alert for Storm Darragh, predicting life-threatening winds of up to 90mph across Wales and parts of southwestern England. The Met Office's red warning is the first since January, prompting travel disruptions and safety advisories for residents in affected areas.