James_Smith

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Red Weather Alerts Issued Across Italy as Heatwave Sweeps Southern Europe

Red Weather Alerts Issued Across Italy as Heatwave Sweeps Southern Europe

Temperatures Soar to 47°C as Charon Heatwave Hits Europe

A severe heatwave continues to impact southern Europe, with Italy issuing red weather alerts for 16 cities as temperatures are forecast to rise to life-threatening levels. This second wave of intense heat, known as Charon, is expected to bring scorching temperatures to Italy, Greece, Spain, and beyond.

In Italy, the island of Sardinia is bracing for temperatures reaching as high as 47°C, while Rome is forecast to experience 43°C heat. Health ministry officials have issued red alerts, which signal extreme heat that poses a risk to the entire population, not just vulnerable groups. A tragic incident in Italy saw a 44-year-old municipal worker in Lodi collapse and die from the extreme heat while performing outdoor work on Tuesday.

The heat has also caused disruptions in Greece, where the Acropolis in Athens was temporarily closed on Friday after temperatures soared above 40°C. Tourists were evacuated from the site as some fainted, with paramedics on hand to provide aid. The heat was made worse by the lack of shade on the famous hill, forcing authorities to close the area during the hottest part of the day. Temperatures in Spain’s southern regions reached a staggering 60°C on the ground, with the European Space Agency warning that the heat could bring record-breaking highs across Europe, potentially reaching 48°C in Sicily and Sardinia.

The heatwave is causing major distress across the continent, with officials urging people to stay indoors during peak heat hours to avoid tragic outcomes. Despite the severe temperatures in southern Europe, the UK is expected to remain cooler, with rain forecast for much of Scotland over the weekend.

Princess of Wales Comforts Wimbledon Runner-Up Ons Jabeur After Defeat

Princess of Wales Comforts Wimbledon Runner-Up Ons Jabeur After Defeat

Kate Offers Support to Jabeur Following Her Loss in the Ladies’ Singles Final

The Princess of Wales consoled a tearful Ons Jabeur after the Tunisian tennis star was defeated in the Wimbledon ladies’ singles final on Saturday. Following Czech player Marketa Vondrousova’s 6-4 6-4 victory, Kate, who serves as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, presented the trophies to both finalists.

As Jabeur struggled to hold back tears, Kate was seen rubbing her arm in a gesture of comfort. The runner-up, trying to maintain composure, joked about her appearance in the photos but soon added, “This is the most painful loss of my career.” The crowd, however, cheered her on as she vowed to come back stronger.

After the presentation, Kate had another brief conversation with Jabeur, offering further words of encouragement. Earlier, the Princess had spent time on the Players’ Lawn, arriving over an hour before the match. Wearing a pale green ensemble by Self-Portrait, she chatted with ball boys and girls and even thanked a maintenance manager who had fixed a leak at the venue, saving the tournament thousands of pounds in potential damage.

Kate, who had attended Wimbledon as a child, also reminisced about the excitement of queuing to enter the championships, sharing her memories with staff from the British Army, London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, and Metropolitan Police. Speaking to Jack Wakelin from the Ambulance Service, she noted the risks of dehydration, encouraging spectators to stay hydrated, especially while enjoying Pimm’s.

In addition to her duties at the final, Kate met Philippa George, a representative of the Riding For The Disabled Association who tossed the coin before the match. The princess complimented George on her Wimbledon-themed nail polish, showing genuine interest in her story.

Despite the wet weather causing disruptions earlier in the week, Kate’s presence brought added warmth and cheer to the event. However, fans faced frustration on Saturday morning when Wimbledon organizers had to close the queue due to a yellow weather warning for wind. Many had traveled long distances, like Kathy Yates and her son, who were disappointed after spending over £300 on their trip from Aberdeen.

The Met Office forecasted blustery conditions throughout the day, adding to the challenges faced by both spectators and competitors at the prestigious tournament.

Tens of Thousands March for Trans Rights at Trans Pride Brighton

Tens of Thousands March for Trans Rights at Trans Pride Brighton

Celebrating ‘Trans Joy’ Amid Political Challenges, Event Draws 30,000 Supporters

An estimated 30,000 people took part in the 10th anniversary of Trans Pride Brighton, marching to celebrate “trans joy” and demand equal rights for the trans community. The event, initially expected to draw between 5,000 to 10,000 attendees, saw an overwhelming turnout despite weather warnings that led to a change in the route.

Fox Fisher, co-founder of Trans Pride Brighton, expressed immense pride in the event’s success, reflecting on the humble beginnings of the movement ten years ago when there was no existing community. “For us, it’s about celebrating who we are… we don’t want to hide in the shadows, we want to be seen,” said Fisher.

Many attendees travelled from across the UK to show support, with prominent figures such as comedian Eddie Izzard and Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas participating. Brighton’s first openly trans councillor, Raphael Hill, addressed the crowd, emphasising the importance of Trans Pride, especially in the current political climate where the trans community often feels treated as a “problem.”

The event highlighted ongoing issues faced by the trans community, such as challenges in accessing healthcare and divisive media coverage surrounding the Gender Recognition Act. Fisher warned that the UK is “falling dangerously behind” on LGBT+ rights, citing a “staggering” rise in transphobic hate crimes, which increased by 56% in 2021-2022.

Trans Pride Brighton remains Europe’s largest Trans Pride event, driven by the efforts of over 100 volunteers. Participants, including teachers and students, voiced their solidarity and commitment to the ongoing fight for trans rights, recognising the struggle as part of a broader movement for equality.

“Trans people don’t have all the rights they should have,” said Martina Gilli, a teacher supporting her trans students, while Lex Roberts, a protester from Nottingham, described the protest as becoming “more important” each year due to the vilification of trans people in the media.

Murder Investigation Underway After Two Bodies Found at Shooting Range

Murder Investigation Underway After Two Bodies Found at Shooting Range

Police confirm no further suspects are being sought in connection with the deaths

A murder investigation has been launched following the discovery of a man and woman found dead at a shooting range in North Lincolnshire. Emergency services responded to reports of safety concerns for the residents at an address on College Road, Thornton Curtis, around 3.40pm yesterday. Upon their arrival, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.

Grimsby Live reported a significant police presence at the White Lodge Shooting School on Friday, with multiple police vehicles on the grounds and a large tent set up to facilitate the investigation.

Chief Inspector Al Curtis, leading the investigation from the Major Crime Team, confirmed that enquiries were still in the early stages. “A homicide investigation has commenced, and both deaths are being treated as suspicious until we can establish the facts,” said Curtis. “We can confirm that we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this inquiry.”

He further reassured the public, stating that there was no risk to wider safety in the area. A scene guard has been established, and additional police presence will be observed as officers conduct house-to-house visits. Specially trained officers have notified the next of kin of the victims and are providing support during this challenging time. Authorities are encouraging local residents to reach out to officers if they have any concerns or information regarding the case.

Federal Investigators Question New Mexico Election Chief in 2020 Election Probe

Federal Investigators Question New Mexico Election Chief in 2020 Election Probe

Prosecutors meet with Maggie Toulouse Oliver amid investigation into election interference

New Mexico’s Secretary of State, Maggie Toulouse Oliver, has recently been questioned by federal prosecutors as part of an ongoing investigation into attempts to undermine the 2020 election results. According to a spokesperson, the meeting took place in recent months, although further details were not provided.

The Justice Department, led by Special Counsel Jack Smith, has been looking into the actions of former President Donald Trump’s allies who tried to influence the outcome of the election in battleground states that Biden won. The investigation includes reviewing communications between Trump’s campaign and state officials, with subpoenas sent to those in contested states. State officials have also been interviewed in connection with efforts to obstruct the peaceful transfer of power.

In New Mexico, Trump’s campaign briefly challenged the results, but the legal suit was eventually dropped. However, false Electoral College certificates declaring Trump as the winner were submitted by Republican electors. The impact of these actions still lingers, particularly in regions of the state where there were claims of election fraud, including Otero County, which initially delayed certifying the election results.

Although Toulouse Oliver has not disclosed the specifics of the meeting, it is clear that the investigation is part of a larger effort to uncover all the details surrounding the 2020 election and the pressure campaigns aimed at overturning the outcome. Other state officials from Georgia and Michigan have also participated in similar interviews.

The investigation is still ongoing, with no indication of when it may conclude or whether anyone will face charges. In addition, a separate probe in Georgia is focusing on Trump’s efforts to change the election outcome in that state.

Princess of Wales Watches Wimbledon Ladies’ Singles Final from the Royal Box

Princess of Wales Watches Wimbledon Ladies’ Singles Final from the Royal Box

Kate enjoys a special day at Wimbledon, meeting staff and chatting with ball boys and girls before the match

The Princess of Wales was spotted in the Royal Box at Wimbledon’s Centre Court to watch the ladies’ singles final, where Czech player Marketa Vondrousova faced off against Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur. The princess, dressed in a pale green Self-Portrait ensemble, arrived early, over an hour before the match started, to meet and speak with various people at the tournament.

Kate engaged with several staff members, including a 14-year-old ball girl, Tiffany, and a 17-year-old ball boy, Abhi, at the Players’ Lawn. She also took the opportunity to meet representatives from the British Army, London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, and Metropolitan Police. During her chat with Adam Taylor from the Met Police, she reminisced about her childhood visits to Wimbledon and how much she enjoyed queuing to attend matches.

The princess also spoke with Jack Wakelin from the London Ambulance Service about the importance of staying hydrated during the event, humorously advising him not to forget to “drink water and not too much Pimm’s.”

Kate met Philippa George, a representative of the Riding For The Disabled charity, who had the honour of tossing the coin before the final. The princess expressed admiration for her and asked about her Wimbledon-themed nail polish. Philippa later described the encounter as very special and was thrilled by the princess’s kindness and attention.

Additionally, Kate expressed her gratitude to a maintenance manager, Billy Lewis, who had repaired a leak at the Court One shop just before the tournament began, saving valuable merchandise. Billy was surprised but pleased by the recognition.

As a patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Kate has long been a regular at Wimbledon, showing her support for British tennis. However, the day was marred for some fans, as Wimbledon had to close the queue due to a weather warning. This disappointed several fans, including Kathy Yates and her son Daniel, who had travelled from Aberdeen for the tournament, and Tiago Veloso and his son, who were eager to watch the juniors and under-14 matches. Despite the disappointment, many remained hopeful for future opportunities to attend the iconic event.

Sunak Acknowledges ‘Challenging’ Circumstances for Tories Ahead of Key By-Elections

Sunak Acknowledges ‘Challenging’ Circumstances for Tories Ahead of Key By-Elections

Prime Minister admits uphill battle in Uxbridge, Selby, and Somerton as by-election dates approach

Sunak Acknowledges ‘Challenging’ Circumstances for Tories Ahead of Key By-Elections
Prime Minister admits uphill battle in Uxbridge, Selby, and Somerton as by-election dates approach
Category: Politics

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has admitted that the Conservative Party faces “challenging circumstances” as it prepares for a series of crucial by-elections on July 20. The elections will be held in Uxbridge South Ruislip, Selby and Ainsty, and Somerton and Frome, all triggered by resignations from former Conservative MPs.

In Uxbridge South Ruislip, the seat was vacated following Boris Johnson’s resignation, while in Selby and Ainsty, Nigel Adams stepped down. The Somerton and Frome election follows David Warburton’s resignation.

Mid-term by-elections are historically tough for the incumbent government, and Sunak acknowledged this reality, describing the upcoming races as particularly difficult. During a visit to Selby last Saturday, he met with local volunteers and party members, drawing positive energy from the campaign trail.

“The message I heard loud and clear from people is, ‘Just focus on the things that matter to them and make a difference on them,’” Sunak said.

Labour has expressed confidence in securing the Uxbridge seat following Johnson’s dramatic exit, with the backdrop of high inflation and rising interest rates affecting many households, including mortgage-holders.

Toddler Hospitalised After Falling from Second-Floor Window in Chadwell Heath

Toddler Hospitalised After Falling from Second-Floor Window in Chadwell Heath

Three-year-old boy’s condition not life-threatening after fall in east Londo

A three-year-old boy was rushed to hospital after falling from a second-floor window at a home in Chadwell Heath, east London, on Monday evening. The incident occurred around 6pm at a property in Westfield Gardens.

Emergency services were quick to respond, with an air ambulance transporting the toddler to a hospital. Fortunately, his injuries were not deemed life-threatening or life-changing, according to police. A Met Police spokesperson confirmed that officers were called to the scene at 6.14pm, following reports of the fall. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

The London Ambulance Service also provided details, stating that they were called at 6.07pm and dispatched multiple resources, including two ambulance crews, a medic in a fast-response car, and an air ambulance. Medics arrived within minutes, providing treatment on-site before transferring the child to a major trauma centre as a priority.

Truss’s Taskforce Report Claims the Average Briton Is £10,000 Worse Off Than Their US Counterpart

Truss’s Taskforce Report Claims the Average Briton Is £10,000 Worse Off Than Their US Counterpart

Economists argue UK economic growth could be significantly improved with the right policies
Category: Politics

A new report from the Growth Commission, formed by Liz Truss, claims the average Briton is £10,000 poorer than their US counterpart. This report, launched on Wednesday, points out the sluggish growth of the UK economy, which has resulted in a £10,000 gap in annual spending power between the UK and the US.

The report argues that, with consistent growth levels of 3% by 2040, the UK could boost its economy significantly, with households benefiting from an extra £35,000 in spending. The taskforce, led by Shanker Singham, highlighted that the UK is missing out on growth opportunities that are both “abundant and increasing.” However, the report does not provide specific policy recommendations for achieving the 3% GDP per capita growth rate, focusing instead on diagnosing the issues of low growth.

According to the Growth Commission, the UK’s current GDP per capita stands at £36,568, in contrast to £52,996 in the US, highlighting the stark difference in income levels. The taskforce predicts that if the UK achieves 3% annual GDP growth, the economy would be 65% larger by 2040, equating to an additional £15,000 in annual spending per person and a potential £670 billion in additional tax revenue.

The report follows after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt prioritised tackling inflation over tax cuts, disappointing some Conservative MPs who were calling for pre-election tax relief. The findings echo the concerns Ms. Truss raised during her tenure as Prime Minister, where she emphasised the importance of economic growth, particularly in response to what she described as the “anti-growth coalition.”

Singham called the current gap in income levels “shocking,” stressing that the UK must act now to seize opportunities presented by recent technological advances. Fellow co-chairman Douglas Williams expressed hopes that the report would ignite a non-partisan discussion on how governments worldwide can rejuvenate economies and improve living standards for their citizens.

Labour Promises to Revive UK’s Commitment to International Law

Labour Promises to Revive UK’s Commitment to International Law

David Lammy outlines Labour’s vision to restore Britain’s global standing and uphold international law

David Lammy, Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary, has committed to reinstating the UK’s adherence to international law, stressing the importance of restoring Britain’s global influence. In an address at the Bingham Centre for International Law, Lammy criticised the current Conservative government for what he described as a “reckless disregard” for international legal obligations, undermining cross-party consensus on key global issues.

Lammy will argue that Labour, under Keir Starmer’s leadership, will ensure international law is once again central to the UK’s diplomatic and policy priorities. He stressed that addressing pressing global challenges, such as climate change, human rights abuses, and international security, requires strict compliance with the law.

The Shadow Foreign Secretary also revisited the controversial removal of the ministerial duty to comply with international law during David Cameron’s tenure, a decision Lammy condemned as a signal of disdain for legal frameworks. He warned that the current government has followed suit, bringing forward numerous pieces of legislation that undermine international legal standards.

Under a future Labour government, Lammy vowed to restore the principle of respecting international treaties and obligations, ensuring that ministers abide by these rules without exception. He stated that with Starmer in power, the UK would reclaim its position as a leader in global diplomacy, guided by a firm commitment to the rule of law.

Lammy’s comments come at a time of heightened scrutiny on the UK’s foreign policy, particularly regarding its approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict and its broader role in the world. Labour’s plan aims to promote global consensus and strengthen the UK’s reputation as a responsible and ethical international partner.