Wes Streeting, the new UK Defence Secretary, stated that increased defence spending is a top economic priority for Andy Burnham's government, aiming for 3.5% of GDP by 2035. He emphasized clarity for the arms industry and criticized Israel's conduct in Gaza.
The French Open has become the first Grand Slam to offer players a share of its revenue for prize money, a move that increases pressure on the US Open to finalize its prize fund. Players seek 16% of revenue immediately, rising to 22% by 2030.
Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's column for 'El Debate' sparked controversy by praising the Spanish team but criticizing the French national team for having "no French players." The comment gained traction in Spain and prompted a response from Emmanuel Macron's government, with Spanish player Lamine Yamal also addressing the issue.
Argentina's football team waved a "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" banner after a World Cup win, sparking a sovereignty dispute row. The White House defended their free speech, while Downing Street urged FIFA to investigate for political statement breaches.
The White House supports Argentina's free speech rights after players displayed a banner claiming the Falkland Islands during their World Cup win against England, amid UK calls for FIFA disciplinary action.
72 European lawmakers are demanding an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino after Folarin Balogun's red card suspension was overturned following a call from Donald Trump. The MEPs called FIFA's decision a "disgrace and perversion of justice."
Mikel Oyarzabal, Spain's quiet striker, is gaining recognition for his crucial goals and intelligent play. Despite a lack of fanfare and a preference for anonymity, his recent performances, including scoring in multiple finals and a strong showing in the US, are highlighting his significant impact on the national team.
The All England Club (AELTC) is questioning player claims that they receive 22% of tournament revenues as prize money. The AELTC has requested financial information from player representatives, including Larry Scott, to verify these figures amidst ongoing disputes over player remuneration and welfare at Wimbledon.
Congress leader Pawan Khera sharply criticized party colleague Shashi Tharoor for praising PM Modi's handling of the Indian sailors' issue. Khera suggested Tharoor's admiration allowed him to 'hear what Modi doesn't even say,' as official statements lacked mention of the sailors' deaths or Modi's alleged diplomatic actions.
Labour peer Thangam Debbonaire confronted Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin during a byelection count, accusing her of racism and defending Nigel Farage's undeclared £5m gift. The exchange, broadcast on Sky News, touched on Farage's financial dealings and Pochin's past controversial remarks about diversity in advertising.
The US imposed strict export controls on Anthropic's AI tools, citing national security risks. This move has led to global access suspension, criticism from tech executives and policymakers, and concerns about US AI leadership and regulatory gaps.
The UK faces a debate over its military budget, with critics arguing that increased defence spending is prioritized over essential services like healthcare and welfare. This 'welfare vs. warfare' narrative is fueled by political rhetoric and think tank reports, despite the financial realities suggesting that welfare cuts alone won't fund defence goals.
Vancouver police face accusations of aggressive tactics and "red-zoning" in the Downtown Eastside, a neighbourhood with high rates of homelessness and drug use, ahead of the World Cup. Community groups argue these actions are to present a "clean environment" for FIFA, potentially endangering vulnerable residents.
China restricts Japanese films at film festivals amid row
New planning guidelines in Selangor, Malaysia, restrict non-Islamic places of worship in commercial areas, sparking concerns over minority rights. Approved on Nov 12, the rules by PLANMalaysia Selangor prohibit new sites and conversions in commercial zones, where many groups operate due to land scarcity.
The Metropolitan Police's proposed £50m deal with US AI firm Palantir to combat crime is controversial, raising questions about public service delivery, data privacy, and reliance on 'big tech'. Sadiq Khan blocked the deal citing procurement rule breaches and ethical concerns.
Beijing accused Taiwan's leader William Lai Ching-te of "destroying cross-strait peace" after his anniversary speech. The Taiwan Affairs Office condemned Lai's remarks as "lies and deception, hostility and confrontation," accusing him of promoting "Taiwan independence."
Brigitte Macron denies allegations that a 2023 on-plane incident with her husband, French President Emmanuel Macron, was sparked by his purported relationship with actress Golshifteh Farahani, as claimed in a new book by Florian Tardif.
Malaysia considers legal action after Norway blocks export of Naval Strike Missiles to Malaysia's navy, disrupting a long-delayed defense project.
China has issued a strongly worded position paper warning that Japan could soon produce nuclear weapons, calling on the UN Security Council to make Tokyo's potential pursuit of nuclear arms an 'important agenda item'. The document, released Thursday, claims Japan has mastered the ability to extract weapons-grade plutonium and has stockpiled far more than needed for its civilian nuclear programme.
Malcolm Offord, leader of Reform UK in Scotland and a multimillionaire former Conservative life peer, has faced fierce criticism after boasting during an STV election debate about owning six houses, five cars, and six boats. The co-leader of the Scottish Greens Ross Greer responded by saying fewer people like Offord are needed, while Labour's Anas Sarwar called him "entitled". SNP leader John Swinney proposed all party leaders publish their tax returns before the May 7 election, describing Offord's comments as "tone deaf".
Chief property and security officer Ian Collard set to submit written answers to foreign affairs committee questionsA key figure in the row over Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to Washington will not appear before a parliamentary committee of MPs to give evidence.Dame Emily Thornberry had requested that Ian Collard speak to the foreign affairs committee (FAC) on Tuesday, but confirmed on Saturday that he would submit written answers instead.Whether he felt under pressure to deliver Lord Mandelson’s clearance, after Sir Olly said there was an “atmosphere of pressure” and “constant chasing” from Downing Street.Whether he had seen the cover form for Lord Mandelson’s vetting by UK Security Vetting (UKSV), the agency responsible for checks on candidates for sensitive posts, in which it had ticked two red boxes – meaning they had “high concern” and recommended “clearance denied or withdrawn”.If he was asked by anyone in the Foreign Office, Downing Street or the Cabinet Office for advice about whether Lord Mandelson required vetting for the post given he was a member of the House of Lords.If he advised on how Lord Mandelson should be treated during the period between his appointment being announced and his clearance coming through. Continue reading...
This opinion piece explores how Arsenal's collapse in the Premier League title race and Tottenham's descent toward relegation reflect broader cultural tensions around north London. The author, a north London resident, examines the irony of Arsenal's 'win ugly' approach failing, while Tottenham fans face existential questions about their club's identity. The piece weaves personal observations with fan perspectives to argue these two tortured clubs remain obsessions whether fans or critics wish them well or not.
Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar has been named the 12th Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, a state unique in Malaysia for its elected monarchy system governed by the Undang territorial chiefs.
