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Scientists Identify New Immune System Component That May Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Scientists Identify New Immune System Component That May Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Discovery Could Lead to Revolutionary Treatments for Drug-Resistant Infections

Researchers have unveiled a previously unknown part of the immune system that could serve as a natural source of antibiotics, offering new possibilities in the fight against drug-resistant infections.

Supported by the European Research Council, scientists believe this breakthrough could revolutionise the way infectious diseases are treated. They suggest that these newly identified “natural antibacterials” might serve as alternatives to conventional antibiotics, addressing the increasing threat of antibiotic resistance.

The research focuses on proteasomes—cell structures responsible for breaking down proteins. Until now, their role in immunity was not fully understood. The study demonstrates that proteasomes can identify bacterial threats within cells and activate defences to halt bacterial growth.

“These insights could lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for infectious diseases,” the research team stated in their study published in Nature.

Professor Yifat Merbl of the Weizmann Institute of Science described the discovery as “groundbreaking,” highlighting its potential to reshape our understanding of immunity.

“We’ve uncovered a previously unknown mechanism that enhances our ability to fight bacterial infections,” she explained. “This process is constantly occurring throughout our bodies, creating a new category of potential natural antibiotics.”

While Professor Daniel Davis, head of life sciences at Imperial College London, called the findings “fascinating,” he cautioned that further studies are needed before this discovery can be transformed into a practical medical application.

The urgency of developing new treatments is underscored by the ongoing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The World Health Organisation has warned that misuse and overuse of antibiotics, combined with inadequate public health measures, have accelerated the emergence of drug-resistant infections.

According to the UK’s National Audit Office (NAO), AMR directly causes 7,600 deaths annually in the country, contributing to approximately 35,200 deaths each year. The report also highlighted that inappropriate prescriptions of antibiotics for viral infections have worsened the crisis.

The NHS has been criticised for not being adequately prepared to tackle this growing health threat. Many healthcare facilities have not been updated to meet modern standards, making it difficult to contain the spread of resistant infections. The NAO report stressed that ageing hospital infrastructure and outdated equipment make infection control increasingly challenging.

While the UK government has acknowledged the seriousness of AMR, progress in addressing the issue has been slow. A five-year action plan was implemented, but recent assessments indicate that significant advancements have yet to be made.

In January, Dr Colin Brown, deputy director of the UK Health Security Agency, warned that the rising number of drug-resistant infections remains a pressing concern both domestically and globally.

Glastonbury 2025: The 1975, Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo to Headline

Glastonbury 2025: The 1975, Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo to Headline

Festival to Feature Debuts from Alanis Morissette, Doechii and En Vogue, with Charli XCX, The Prodigy and Loyle Carner Leading the Other Stage

This year’s Glastonbury Festival will see two first-time headliners: British pop-rock band The 1975 and American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo. The band, fronted by Matty Healy, will take the Pyramid Stage on Friday night, while Rodrigo will close the festival on Sunday. In 2022, the Drivers License singer made a memorable appearance on the Other Stage, bringing out Lily Allen as a surprise guest and speaking out against the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

On Saturday, Neil Young and his band Chrome Hearts will headline, following some initial confusion over his participation. At the start of the year, Young announced he was pulling out of the festival due to concerns about BBC’s corporate influence, only to later confirm his performance after receiving “incorrect information.” Young previously headlined in 2009.

Preceding Young’s performance on the Pyramid Stage, British soul-pop star Raye will showcase her acclaimed repertoire. The 27-year-old singer has solidified her status as a national treasure after leaving her major label and achieving critical and commercial success with her album My 21st Century Blues.

Rod Stewart, who turned 80 in January, will take this year’s prestigious “legends” slot on Sunday. The veteran star has promised a show that will be both exciting and nostalgic.

The festival’s second-largest stage, the Other Stage, will also feature major names. Charli XCX, whose album Brat took the music world by storm, will headline on Saturday. Loyle Carner is set to kick things off on Friday, while The Prodigy will close out the stage on Sunday in their first Glastonbury appearance since the passing of frontman Keith Flint in 2019.

Several high-profile artists will make their Glastonbury debuts, including Alanis Morissette, hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes, indie-rock singer Brandi Carlile, iconic girl group En Vogue, and the cult British funk act Cymande. Rising stars such as Noah Kahan, Gracie Abrams, Lola Young, and Myles Smith will also make their mark.

Returning acts include indie duo Wet Leg, Irish pop star CMAT, British sensation PinkPantheress, and rapper Doechii, who recently won Best Rap Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards for Alligator Bites Never Heal. Doechii is set to headline the West Holts Stage on Saturday.

On Sunday, British rock band Wolf Alice will make their return, joined by The Libertines and The Maccabees. Fans can also look forward to St. Vincent performing tracks from her 2024 album All Born Screaming, while hardcore band Turnstile might finally unveil new material following the success of Glow On in 2021.

Glastonbury 2025 will take place from 25 to 29 June, with more acts yet to be announced. It has been confirmed that the festival will take a fallow year in 2026 to allow Worthy Farm’s land to recover, a practice last implemented in 2018.

Trump’s Bold Agenda Unveiled in Historic Congressional Address

Trump’s Bold Agenda Unveiled in Historic Congressional Address

US President Outlines Trade, Energy, and Global Strategy Amid Heated Political Divide

In a landmark address to Congress, President Donald Trump declared that “the American Dream cannot be stopped,” delivering the longest-ever presidential speech to lawmakers. He outlined his ambitious plans for his second term, celebrating Republican achievements while facing fierce opposition from Democrats.

Trump tackled economic and foreign policy issues, defending his tariff strategy despite market fluctuations and insisting that trade restrictions would ultimately benefit American industries. He reaffirmed his commitment to expanding US influence abroad, particularly regarding Greenland and the Panama Canal, while criticising foreign aid to several African nations.

Amid applause from Republican lawmakers, Trump praised billionaire Elon Musk for leading an initiative to shrink the federal workforce and cut spending. However, Democratic opposition was visible, with protests erupting in the chamber, including lawmakers holding signs and staging a partial walkout.

The president also highlighted energy independence as a key pillar of his economic plan, promising aggressive oil and gas drilling to combat inflation. He directly blamed his predecessor for rising food prices, particularly the soaring cost of eggs.

As Trump shapes the next phase of his presidency, the political divide remains stark, with his policies energising supporters while drawing sharp criticism from opponents.

Wall Street’s Gamble: The Rise of Profiteering from Green Regulations

Wall Street’s Gamble: The Rise of Profiteering from Green Regulations

Analysis Reveals $92bn in Public Money Awarded to Fossil Fuel and Mining Firms, With Speculators Cashing In

A growing number of financial speculators are funding lawsuits against governments over environmental regulations, turning legal claims into a highly lucrative business.

Traditionally, litigation finance was associated with personal injury and employment disputes. However, investors have shifted their focus to large-scale arbitration cases, where corporations sue states for regulatory measures that affect their profits. This practice operates under investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanisms, which allow businesses to claim damages from governments for policy decisions that impact their earnings.

With legal awards averaging over $200m (£160m), experts warn that ISDS has become a financial windfall for hedge funds and specialist financiers. Legal analysis by The Guardian shows that more than $120bn has been awarded to corporations through ISDS tribunals, including $84bn to fossil fuel companies and $7.8bn to mining firms. However, the real figures are likely much higher, as many payouts remain undisclosed.

At least 75 ISDS cases have been backed by third-party funders, with a significant portion involving fossil fuel or mining disputes. More than half of these claims originate from investors in the US, UK, or Canada, and most target developing nations. Legal scholars and arbitrators are raising concerns over the expansion of third-party funding, warning that it incentivises speculative claims, forcing governments to bear the costs of defending cases that may lack merit.

Notable cases include a Bolivian mining dispute where the government was compelled to pay $18.7m to a company accused of environmental damage and intimidation. Another involves a Canadian firm suing Mexico for $408m over a mining blockade. Additionally, Greenland faces a high-profile claim that could force it to lift a uranium mining ban or pay up to $11.5bn in compensation.

Industry leaders defend third-party litigation funding as a tool to improve access to justice. Christopher Bogart, CEO of Burford Capital—the world’s largest litigation-finance firm—insists that such investments weed out weak cases, as funders only profit when their clients win. However, critics argue that the system prioritises financial returns over legitimate legal grievances, escalating costs and burdening taxpayers.

Arbitrators have begun questioning the role of third-party financiers in ISDS cases, suggesting they should be held accountable for legal costs incurred by governments. Some experts believe that allowing financiers to fund these lawsuits without risk has transformed ISDS into a “gambler’s paradise,” where the potential for massive financial gains fuels a growing industry of speculative litigation.

Conviction Over Deadly New Zealand Volcano Eruption Overturned

Conviction Over Deadly New Zealand Volcano Eruption Overturned

High Court Rules That Whakaari Owners Were Not Responsible for Visitor Safety

The conviction against the owners of Whakaari/White Island, the active New Zealand volcano that erupted in 2019 and claimed 22 lives, has been overturned by the country’s High Court.

Whakaari Management Limited (WML) was found guilty in 2023 of failing to protect visitors and was fined over NZ$1 million, alongside an NZ$4.8 million reparation order for victims. However, after an appeal, the court determined on Friday that the company, as landowners, was not accountable for ensuring visitor safety.

White Island, also known by its Māori name Whakaari, had shown signs of heightened activity before the devastating December 2019 eruption. At the time, 47 people were on the island, mostly tourists, including 17 Australians and three Americans. Twenty-five suffered severe burns.

Justice Simon Moore stated that while WML had issued licences for tour operators, it had no direct control over daily activities on the island. He ruled that the company had reasonably relied on tour companies and safety authorities to assess risks. Though acknowledging the profound grief of the victims’ families, he emphasised that legal responsibility did not fall on WML.

Thirteen parties, including tour operators, faced charges over the disaster. Some pleaded guilty, others had charges dismissed, and WML was the final entity to receive a verdict. New Zealand’s workplace safety regulator, Worksafe NZ, has acknowledged the ruling and is considering an appeal.

James Cairney, representing company owners James, Andrew, and Peter Buttle, welcomed the decision, stating it provided clarity for landowners allowing recreational access to their property. The Buttle family has owned the island since the 1930s, passing it through a family trust.

Clashes Erupt in Athens as Protesters Confront Riot Police on Train Disaster Anniversary

Clashes Erupt in Athens as Protesters Confront Riot Police on Train Disaster Anniversary

Demonstrations Across Greece Mark Two Years Since the Tempe Train Crash, with Widespread Strikes and Public Anger

Tensions flared in Athens as peaceful demonstrations transformed into violent clashes between riot police and stone-throwing protesters, marking the second anniversary of Greece’s worst train disaster. Striking workers and thousands of demonstrators took to the streets nationwide, demanding justice for the 57 lives lost in the Tempe crash.

In Syntagma Square, crowds initially gathered for a mass protest but later scattered as riot officers fired teargas at groups of hooded youths hurling projectiles. The unrest underscored mounting frustration over the government’s handling of the tragedy, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis facing increasing political pressure.

The 2023 collision, which saw a passenger train crash head-on into a cargo locomotive, was attributed to systemic failures. Outrage has intensified over accusations of a cover-up, particularly the swift clearing of the wreckage, which removed crucial evidence. A recent independent report suggested the presence of an unknown fuel at the crash site, fuelling suspicions that the freight train carried illegal hazardous materials.

Nationwide protests in over 200 locations were accompanied by a 24-hour general strike, grounding flights and halting transport. Students, teachers, doctors, and other professionals joined the movement, with banners labelling the government as “murderers.” In Athens suburbs, demonstrators held signs reading, “I have no oxygen,” a haunting echo of a victim’s last words.

Opposition leaders accused the administration of deceiving the public, with Pasok party head Nikos Androulakis announcing plans to file a no-confidence motion against Mitsotakis. Meanwhile, growing distrust in public institutions and the judiciary has intensified calls for accountability.

Polls indicate that over 80% of Greeks believe the government has failed to deliver transparency on the disaster. Analysts warn that the crisis, now intertwined with broader grievances over living costs and public services, could trigger prolonged unrest.

Government signals support for Gatwick’s second runway as final decision delayed

Government signals support for Gatwick’s second runway as final decision delayed

Transport secretary backs £2.2bn expansion plan, but approval remains pending until October

Gatwick Airport has been given provisional approval to operate a second runway after the government outlined a pathway for expansion at London’s second-largest airport.

While the final decision has been postponed until late October, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has issued a “minded to approve” letter, indicating potential backing for the £2.2bn project. If approved, the expansion could add over 100,000 flights per year at the West Sussex airport.

Despite planning inspectors initially advising against the scheme, they suggested it could proceed if conditions regarding noise levels and public transport accessibility were met. The proposal involves modifying an emergency runway and taxiway to function alongside the existing main runway.

Alexander had been due to announce her decision this week but has instead set a new deadline of 24 April for Gatwick to agree to additional conditions. The government will then make its final ruling by 27 October.

A government source stated, “The transport secretary has laid out steps towards approving Gatwick’s expansion after the planning inspectorate recommended rejecting the original application. This development will bring significant business advantages and represents a win for holidaymakers. However, it must align with legal, environmental, and climate obligations.”

Gatwick’s chief executive, Stewart Wingate, welcomed the update, describing it as a “clear pathway to full approval later in the year.” He emphasised that any conditions imposed must allow the airport to justify the £2.2bn investment and maximise the benefits of bringing the northern runway into routine use. Gatwick claims the expansion will create 14,000 jobs and generate £1bn annually for the economy.

However, local campaigners and environmental groups have expressed strong opposition. Concerns extend beyond carbon emissions and noise pollution to issues such as housing demands, wastewater management, and potential traffic congestion.

Peter Barclay, chair of the Gatwick Area Conservation Campaign, criticised the government’s stance, accusing ministers of ignoring misleading economic claims made by the airport and neglecting climate concerns. Rosie Downes, head of campaigns at Friends of the Earth, described the government’s approach as “bewildering” given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events worldwide.

Gatwick first launched the expansion proposal in 2018 after losing to Heathrow in a bid for government approval. The Labour government, particularly Chancellor Rachel Reeves, has shown strong support for the aviation industry’s growth despite environmental concerns. Meanwhile, Heathrow is preparing to submit plans for a third runway this summer, and Luton Airport is awaiting ministerial approval for its own expansion in April.

Starmer and Trump meet as PM avoids confirming potential tax increases

Starmer and Trump meet as PM avoids confirming potential tax increases

Amid crucial White House discussions, Sir Keir Starmer neither confirms nor rules out further tax rises and spending cuts

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declined to clarify whether his government plans to raise taxes or introduce further spending cuts ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Budget on 26 March.

When asked about the possibility of tax increases, Starmer refused to specify which economic measures might be implemented. The Autumn Budget had already introduced £40 billion in tax rises, alongside cuts to the winter fuel allowance and several other social programmes.

“I am not going to say in advance what we might or might not do,” Starmer said on Thursday.

His remarks come as the prime minister travels to the United States today for one of the most significant meetings between Downing Street and the White House in recent history. During the discussions, he is expected to urge Washington to provide additional backing for Ukraine to deter further Russian aggression in Europe.

Meanwhile, Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer has called on Starmer to set “clear red lines” regarding what she described as Donald Trump’s threat to Palestinian territories. In January, Trump suggested “clearing out” Gaza as either a temporary or long-term measure to bring stability to the Middle East.

Lords Chief Whip Linked to Alleged Cash-for-Access Scheme

Lords Chief Whip Linked to Alleged Cash-for-Access Scheme

Labour Peer Spoke at Event Organised by Lord Evans’ Son Amid Sponsorship Controversy

Roy Kennedy, the Lords chief whip, participated in an event at the heart of an alleged cash-for-access scheme recently exposed by an undercover investigation.

Labour peer Lord David Evans of Watford was revealed to have offered access to ministers in discussions about sponsorship deals worth £25,000 for networking events held in the House of Lords. His son, Richard Evans, was responsible for organising these events.

It has now emerged that Kennedy spoke at a similar gathering for the construction sector in November 2024, hosted by Lord Evans and attended by over 70 guests—some of whom had paid upwards of £600 for access. This revelation raises concerns over Kennedy’s judgement, given his senior role in maintaining party discipline in the Lords.

Further scrutiny has also fallen on Housing Minister Sharon Taylor, who was announced as a keynote speaker for another House of Lords event in June, focused on housing and infrastructure. Access to that event was available for more than £320. However, after being contacted for comment, Taylor stated she had declined the invitation and would not be attending.

The controversy deepened after undercover reporters, posing as property developers, sought sponsorship details for the events. Lord Evans was recorded stating that being a Labour peer was advantageous due to connections with senior government figures.

Richard Evans, who runs the company organising these events—with Lord Evans holding a one-third stake—was heard boasting about Kennedy’s last-minute attendance. In conversation with an undercover reporter, he suggested Kennedy could be persuaded to attend future events in a similar manner.

Kennedy’s spokesperson later clarified that he had responded to a last-minute request from a Labour colleague, delivered a brief welcome speech, and left promptly.

As part of his sponsorship discussions, Richard Evans also highlighted past ministerial attendance at events, describing one minister’s participation as a “major coup” and claiming it was “better than Keir Starmer.” He also indicated that additional parliamentarians, including Conservative peer Lord Richard Harrington, had been lined up for future events.

After being approached for comment, Harrington withdrew from an upcoming March event, stating that he had initially agreed to speak on foreign direct investment but would no longer take part following the revelations.

Lord Evans has denied involvement in any cash-for-access arrangement, insisting he was focused solely on promoting social housing policies. He also stated that he had never personally received payment for hosting parliamentary events.

Richard Evans defended the events, calling them educational, with the majority of attendees receiving complimentary places. He stated that the £25,000 sponsorship packages extended beyond event costs, covering additional marketing support for sponsors.

Following media inquiries, references to both Harrington and Taylor were removed from promotional materials for their respective events. The revelations are likely to prompt further debate about the ethical rules surrounding private events hosted in Westminster.

Tesla Shares Plummet as European Sales Halve

Tesla Shares Plummet as European Sales Halve

Growing Competition and Musk’s Political Stance Weigh on Tesla’s Market Value

Tesla’s stock price has plunged by over 9% following a sharp drop in its sales across the EU and UK, which fell by nearly 50% in January.

As a result, the company’s valuation has dipped below the $1 trillion mark for the first time since November 2024. Analysts attribute this slump to intensifying competition from Chinese and other manufacturers, as well as CEO Elon Musk’s controversial political statements.

According to trade body Acea, the broader European electric vehicle market expanded by over a third in January. However, Tesla’s sales across the EU, EFTA, and UK declined by more than 45%, with a more than 50% drop within the EU alone.

This follows a difficult year for Tesla, which saw its annual sales decrease for the first time in over a decade due to weakening demand and growing competition.

Investment director Russ Mould of AJ Bell identified rising competition as a primary reason for Tesla’s struggles. Chinese automaker BYD, in particular, has gained ground by offering additional features as standard, which are often optional extras from other brands.

Mould also suggested that some consumers may be avoiding Tesla due to Musk’s divisive political views. In the US, he has played a role in cutting development funds and advocating for drastic federal budget reductions. In the UK, he has voiced support for imprisoned far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, while criticising Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Additionally, Musk has backed Germany’s far-right AfD party, congratulating its leader on a recent electoral success.

Peter Bardenfleth-Hansen, a former senior executive at Tesla’s Europe, Middle East, and Asia division, told the BBC that Musk’s political affiliations are “definitely one of the reasons” for Tesla’s struggles, but they are part of a broader set of challenges creating a “domino effect.”

“Musk’s actions may be winning him followers in certain circles, but those are not necessarily the customers who buy Teslas or invest in the company,” Bardenfleth-Hansen remarked.

Tesla’s stock initially surged following the US election due to Musk’s close ties with Donald Trump, who he has referred to as his “first buddy.” Investors believed this connection would benefit Tesla. However, Trump has expressed opposition to electric vehicles and pledged to reverse policies aimed at increasing their adoption.

“This was never going to be good for Tesla—how anyone thought otherwise is beyond me,” Mould said.

Concerns about interest rate cuts and Trump’s potential trade tariffs are also contributing to market uncertainty, further pressuring Tesla’s stock, he added.