Scientists found seagrass meadows affected by sewage had far fewer small invertebrates, like crabs.
Dame Sarah Storey, Britain's most decorated Paralympian with 19 gold medals, has announced her retirement from elite competition after a 35-year career. The 48-year-old, who excelled in swimming and cycling, plans to leverage her experience in new roles, including her work as Manchester's travel commissioner and chair of Lancashire Cricket.
An interim review of the UK's Personal Independence Payment (Pip) has found the disability benefit is not 'fit for purpose'. The minister leading the review, Sir Stephen Timms, stated that recommendations due in autumn will involve 'fundamental change' but not 'crude proposals' on payment levels, acknowledging concerns about the benefit's sustainability.
The UK's ethics watchdog has recommended a radical overhaul of transparency laws, proposing a new register to publicly declare all government lobbying, including informal communications like WhatsApp chats and party conference meetings. The review, led by Doug Chalmers, aims to restore public trust by highlighting who is lobbying, what policies they seek to influence, and who they meet in government.
UK government is considering new plans for the veterinary sector, including mandatory licensing for practices, price caps on pet medicine, and increased transparency over ownership. These reforms aim to address concerns over high costs and lack of competition, with over 60% of practices owned by six major groups.
A government review of the Personal Independence Payment (Pip) has concluded the system is "unfit for purpose" and "dehumanising" for claimants. The interim report highlights deep-rooted problems and suggests radical reform is needed, while stressing any changes must be financially sustainable.
A parliamentary committee has recommended MPs be given veto power over ambassadorial appointments, citing Peter Mandelson's "disastrous" posting to Washington as a prime example. The committee criticized the Foreign Office's handling of his security clearance and record-keeping.
