Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
E3 leaders’ declaration on the situation in the Middle East / Declaration des dirigeants des E3 sur la situation au Moyen orient
E3 Leaders’ Statement on the Middle East.
We have discussed the latest developments in the Middle East earlier today.
We reiterate our commitment to peace and stability for all countries in the region. We affirm our support for the security of Israel.
We have consistently been clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon and can no longer pose a threat to regional security.
Earlier today, the United States has conducted targeted military strikes against nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan. Our aim continues to be to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
We call upon Iran to engage in negotiations leading to an agreement that addresses all concerns associated with its nuclear program. We stand ready to contribute to that goal in coordination with all parties.
We urge Iran not to take any further action that could destabilize the region.
We will continue our joint diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and ensure the conflict does not intensify and spread further.
Keir Starmer’s response to the bombing of Iran sides with the aggressors and contributes to the escalation of the conflict.
More in External Affairs
The Scottish Greens have condemned Keir Starmer’s response to the bombing of Iran as siding with the aggressors and contributing to the escalation of the conflict.
Iran had previously reached a negotiated solution to their nuclear programme with the US, China, Russa, UK and others, which was unilaterally scrapped by the first Trump administration in 2018.
It has said it is willing to discuss a new deal once it is no longer under attack.
In response to last night’s US bombings, the UK Government and Keir Starmer spoke supportively of the action.
“This is a deplorable response from the UK government, but it’s all too predictable.
“Israel expanding its war at a time when negotiations were imminent, and high-level meetings between Iran and the US were already beginning to take place, is an outrage. UN experts have called it a ‘flagrant violation’ of international law and a ‘blatant act of aggression.’
“The UK’s response has done nothing but encourage this escalation, from its ongoing material support for Israel’s routine atrocities in Gaza, to the political cover it’s now providing Israel and the US as they intensify their bombing of Iran.
“The Iranian regime is unquestionably brutal, and everyone will celebrate if the Iranian people can overthrow it. But this attack will do nothing to make that happen, and only takes the world toward ever wider conflict.
“Rather than being a voice for peace, Keir Starmer has shown a reckless disregard for international law and sided with the aggressors. In doing so he is only contributing to further death, destruction, and instability for people in the middle east and the wider world.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Companies House celebrates 10 years of open data
The ground-breaking Find and update company information service was launched 10 years ago. Free access to Companies House data continues to support economic activity and corporate transparency, while new legislation underpins an organisational drive to improve the quality of data on the UK companies register.
Today (22 June 2025) marks 10 years since Companies House made all public digital data on the UK companies register free of charge with the launch of the Find and update company information service on GOV.UK. This commitment to open data was designed to improve corporate transparency and give entrepreneurs the opportunity to come up with innovative ways of using information on the register.
In the last 10 years, the appetite for Companies House data has grown more than tenfold. The register was accessed 1.3 billion times for free information in 2015 to 2016. By 2023 to 2024, it was accessed over 16.5 billion times.
Companies House data is widely used by companies, creditors, investors and researchers, credit reference agencies and providers of financial information.
It’s also a trusted source for journalists and civil society, government, law enforcement and the public.
Companies House data is empowering businesses, easing commerce through the sharing of data, strengthening the fight against financial crime through accountability and helping businesses verify customers, and customers verify businesses.
Companies House Chief Data Officer, Charlie Boundy said:
In 2015 we broke new ground for corporate registers with our commitment to open data. Ten years later that bold decision has led to Companies House supporting 16 billion searches a year, underpinning millions of pounds of everyday financial decisions and our data being valued by industry at £1 billion to £3 billion annually.
Now, Companies House is implementing changes to company law under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCT Act) to improve the integrity and accuracy of data on our register. This will make it even more valuable to users and further support economic growth.
Competition and Markets Minister Justin Madders said:
Over the last 10 years increased transparency from Companies House has empowered businesses big and small, helping level the playing field and improving confidence in our economy.
As part of our Plan for Change we’ll continue to build on this success, strengthening transparency to give companies and consumers more certainty about the businesses they work with.
Ben Cowdock, Senior Investigations Lead, Transparency International said:
For 10 years, the online platform at Companies House has delivered world-leading corporate transparency, setting an example for the best way to make company information available to the public. The data on this platform has contributed to countless investigations into corruption and financial crime by law enforcement, the private sector and civil society alike, and makes the UK a safer place to do business.
We at Transparency International UK use the Companies House service on a daily basis, with the data providing a cornerstone to our research and investigations. We look forward to many more years of using the platform and working with Companies House to ensure it remains a world-leading service for those seeking company information.
Steve Lamb, Chief Operating Officer at Kyckr said:
The launch of the Companies House open data service in 2015 marked a profound leap forward for corporate transparency in the UK. By making company information freely accessible to all, Companies House democratised access to one of the world’s most important datasets, enabling commerce, driving accountability, and strengthening the global fight against financial crime.
At Kyckr, we’ve seen firsthand how open and authoritative registry data can transform the way businesses verify customers and combat illicit activity. Given the UK’s enduring position as an international financial hub, the move by Companies House set a powerful precedent – one that continues, rightly, to be celebrated.
For anti-money laundering (AML) regulated businesses, research published in 2024 suggests the value of company register information is £170 million to £460 million per year in total. ECCT Act reforms are expected to add between £210 million to £400 million in extra value. Much of this is attributed to the introduction of mandatory identity verification for company directors from this autumn.
for AML-regulated businesses, the value of company register information pre-reform is estimated to be between £170 million to £460 million per year in total (across all businesses) – the reforms are expected to add between £210 million to £400 million in extra value
for law enforcement users, the value of company register information is estimated to be around £2,600 per user, per year – the reforms are expected to generate an additional £1,300 of value per user, per year
Both user groups considered the introduction of identity verification for company directors to be the greatest contributor to the increase in value.
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mohammadamin Ahmadfard, Postdoctoral Fellow, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University
Artificial intelligence (AI) is quietly transforming how cities generate, store and distribute energy, acting as the invisible conductor that orchestrates cleaner, smarter and more resilient cities.
By integrating renewables — from solar panels and wind turbines to geothermal grids, hydrogen plants, electric vehicles and batteries — AI can enable cities to manage diverse energy sources as a single, intelligent system.
One striking example is the Oya Hybrid Power Station in South Africa. Here, AI-driven controls seamlessly co-ordinate solar, wind and battery storage to deliver reliable power to up to 320,000 households. Using AI makes this kind of integration not only possible, but dramatically more efficient.
Recent research shows AI can also optimize how batteries, solar and the grid interact in buildings. A 2023 study found that deep learning and real-time data helped a boarding school in Turin, Italy increase low-cost energy purchases and cut its electricity bill by more than half.
Cleaner, smarter energy grids
AI models are increasingly able to predict weather with greater precision. These predictions allow electric grid operators to plan hours ahead, storing excess energy in batteries or adjusting supply to meet demand before a storm or heatwave hits.
Using AI to respond strategically to weather is a game-changer. In Cambridge, England, a system called Aardvark uses satellite and sensor data to generate rapid, accurate forecasts of sun and wind patterns.
Unlike traditional supercomputer-driven weather models, Aardvark’s AI can deliver precise local forecasts in minutes on an ordinary computer. This makes advanced weather prediction more accessible and affordable for cities, utilities and even smaller organizations — potentially transforming how communities everywhere plan for and respond to changing weather.
AI models are increasingly able to predict weather with greater precision, allowing electric grid operators to plan ahead, storing excess energy in batteries or adjusting supply to meet demand before a storm or heat wave hits. (Shutterstock)
AI for smarter district heating and cooling
In Munich, Germany, AI is improving geothermal district heating by using underground sensors to monitor temperature and moisture levels in the ground.
The collected data feeds into a digital simulation model that helps optimize network operations. In more advanced versions, during winter cold snaps, such systems can suggest lowering flow to underused spaces like half-empty offices and boosting heat where demand is higher, such as in crowded apartments.
This intelligent, self-optimizing approach extends the life of equipment and delivers more warmth with the same energy input.
This is a breakthrough with enormous potential for cities in cold climates with established geothermal networks, such as Winnipeg in Canada and Iceland’s Reykjavik.
Although these cities have not yet adopted AI-driven monitoring systems, they could benefit from AI’s real-time improvements in efficiency, comfort and energy savings during harsh winters — a principle that holds true wherever geothermal district heating and cooling exists.
Inside the home, AI-managed smart climate systems can factor in how many people are in each room, which appliances are in use, how much natural sunlight each space receives. (Shutterstock)
Smart buildings
Inside the home, AI-managed smart climate systems can factor in how many people are in each room, which appliances are in use, how much natural sunlight each space receives and how much electricity or heat a home’s solar panels generate throughout the day.
Based on this, AI determines how to heat or cool rooms efficiently, and can transfer energy from one space to another, balancing comfort with minimal energy use.
Coastal cities and those in wind-heavy regions are using AI in other creative ways. In Orkney, Scotland, excess wind and tidal energy are converted into green hydrogen. Instead of letting that surplus power go to waste, an AI system called HyAI controls when to generate hydrogen based on wind forecasts, electricity prices and how full the hydrogen storage tanks are.
When winds are strong at night and electricity is cheap, the AI can divert surplus power to produce hydrogen and store it for later use. On calmer days, that stored hydrogen can power fuel cells or buses.
Energy storage
AI is transforming energy storage into a smart, revenue-generating force. In Finland, a startup called Capalo AI has developed Zeus VPP, an AI-powered virtual power plant that aggregates distributed batteries from homes, businesses and other sites.
Zeus VPP uses advanced forecasting and AI algorithms to decide when batteries should charge or discharge, factoring in energy prices, local consumption and weather forecasts. This enables battery owners to earn revenue by participating in electricity markets, while also supporting grid stability and making better use of renewable energy.
AI-powered dynamic line rating adjusts how much electricity a line can carry in real time, boosting capacity by 15 to 30 per cent when conditions allow. This helps utilities maximize the use of existing infrastructure instead of relying on costly upgrades.
At the local level, AI analyzes smart metre data to predict which transformers are overheating due to rising EV and heat pump use.
By forecasting these stress points, utilities can proactively upgrade equipment before failures happen — a shift from reactive to predictive maintenance that makes the grid stronger and cities more resilient.
AI-powered public transit and mobility
Transportation innovation is becoming part of the energy solution, with AI at the centre of this transformation. In New York City, energy company Con Edison has installed major battery storage systems to help manage peak electricity demand and reduce reliance on polluting peaker plants, which supply energy only during high-demand periods.
More broadly, Con Edison is deploying advanced AI-powered analytics software across its electric grid — optimizing voltage, enhancing reliability and enabling predictive maintenance. Together, these efforts show how combining energy storage and AI-driven analytics can make even the world’s busiest cities more resilient and efficient.
AI is also powering “vehicle-to-grid” innovations in California, where an AI-driven platform manages electric school buses that can supply stored energy back to the grid during periods of high demand.
By carefully managing when buses charge and discharge, these systems help keep the grid reliable and ensure vehicles are ready for their daily routes. As this technology expands, parked electric vehicles could serve as valuable backup resources for the electricity system.
Transportation innovation is becoming part of the energy solution. (Shutterstock)
AI for clean energy initiatives
AI is rapidly transforming cities by revolutionizing how energy is used and managed. Google, for example, has slashed cooling energy at its data centres by up to 40 per cent using AI that fine-tunes fans, pumps and windows more efficiently than any human operator.
Organizations like the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), in collaboration with NVIDIA, Microsoft and others, have launched the Open Power AI Consortium, which is creating open-source AI tools for utilities worldwide.
These tools will enable even the most resource-constrained cities to deploy advanced AI capabilities, without having to start from scratch, helping to level the playing field and accelerate the global energy transition.
The result is not just cleaner air and lower energy bills, but a path to fewer blackouts and more resilient homes.
Mohammadamin Ahmadfard receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Mitacs Inc. for his postdoctoral research at Toronto Metropolitan University.
PM call with King Abdullah II of Jordan: 22 June 2025
The Prime Minister spoke to His Majesty the King of Jordan Abdullah II this morning.
The Prime Minister spoke to His Majesty the King of Jordan Abdullah II this morning.
Following US strikes on Iran overnight, he reiterated that Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security and they must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon.
They called on Iran to return to the negotiating table in pursuit of a diplomatic solution.
Turning to Gaza, they underlined their support for an immediate ceasefire to end the intolerable circumstances facing civilians there.
The Prime Minister offered his strong support to King Abdullah, adding that wider regional stability in the Middle East must be a priority.
The Prime Minister spoke to the Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Haitham bin Tarik al Said, this morning.
The Prime Minister spoke to the Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Haitham bin Tarik al Said, this morning.
Discussing the developments in the Middle East overnight, they agreed on the grave threat posed by Iran’s nuclear programme and reiterated calls for them to return to the negotiating table.
An escalation of the conflict is in no-one’s interests and the focus must be on de-escalation, they added.
Both leaders agreed that the situation in Gaza is intolerable, and we must maintain momentum behind reaching an immediate ceasefire there.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
Press release
UK invites British nationals to complete booking portal for government-organised flight out of Israel and OPTs
The Foreign Office has invited vulnerable British Nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) to register their interest in a flight to help them depart.
The UK is preparing a flight to transport vulnerable British nationals and their dependants out of Israel and the OPTs early next week.
The UK government has today launched a flight registration form for British nationals to register their details and interest in the flight.
Further flights will be considered depending on demand, and the latest security situation.
The Foreign Office has invited British Nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) to register their interest in a flight to help them depart.
All British Nationals who have already registered via the Register Your Presence portal will automatically be contacted and provided with a link to the booking portal. The FCDO is urging all those interested in flights back to the UK to register their presence now, if not done so already, so that they can receive details.
Those with greatest need will be prioritised for flights. British nationals plus their non-British immediate family members travelling with them are eligible. All passengers must hold a valid travel document. Non-British immediate family members will require valid visas/permission to enter or remain that was granted for more than six months.
The FCDO will contact those who are allocated a seat on the flight directly and British Nationals should not make their way to the airport unless they are contacted.
An FCDO spokesperson said:
This is a perilous and volatile moment for the Middle East.
The safety of British Nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories continues to be our utmost priority – that’s why the UK government is preparing flights to help those wanting to leave.
Working closely with the Israeli authorities, our staff are continuing to work at pace to assist British Nationals on the ground and ensure they receive the support they need”.
Those eligible for the flights will be expected to pay for their seat – and payment will be taken on registration via the flight booking form. This fee will be refunded to those who are not allocated a seat. This is in line with our approach to previous charter flights from the region.
Commercial flights are continuing to operate from Egypt and Jordan, and international land border crossings to these countries remain open.
The situation remains volatile and the government’s ability to run flights out of Israel and the OPTs could change at short notice.
Responding to news of US attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Green Party co-leader Adrian Ramsay MP said:
“We utterly condemn the reckless attacks on Iran by the United States that can only lead to further dangerous conflict in an already volatile region. There is no international legal basis for this unilateral action that poses a serious threat to international peace and security.
“Our prime minister has shamefully decided to echo the rhetoric of Trump and Netanyahu rather than condemn the indefensible aggression of both Israel and the US. Keir Starmer has further implied that it is justifiable for the Iranian regime to be bombed back to the negotiating table. I fully recognise the brutal nature of the Iranian regime but this unilateral action is no way to build peace and risks making the UK once again complicit in escalating a Middle East crisis.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK Launches Global Talent Drive to Attract World-Leading Researchers and Innovators
New taskforce and £54m fund will attract world-class researchers and their teams to the UK and comes ahead of the launch of government’s modern Industrial Strategy
Global talent taskforce launched to attract world’s exceptional talent to relocate to the UK, supporting the success of our Industrial Strategy sectors.
New Industrial Strategy coordinated taskforce will hunt for top talent to relocate to grow UK economy and boost public services as part of Plan for Change.
£54 million talent scheme to attract world-class researchers to the UK confirmed, on top of recent £25m backing to attract top AI talent.
The brightest minds in the world will be welcomed to bring their talents the UK, the Government has announced today [Sunday 22 June], supported by £54 million in fresh backing to bring the world’s top science and tech talent here.
As the UK competes for the highest skilled individuals in priority industries, the launch of the government’s Global Talent Taskforce signals a greater focus on targeting and attracting the brightest and best talent to supercharge growth, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change.
The Global Talent Taskforce will support researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, top tier managerial and engineering talent and high-calibre creatives to relocate and work closely with the UK’s international presence to network and build a pipeline of talent who want to come to Britain.
The move comes ahead of the launch of government’s modern Industrial Strategy tomorrow, and intends to bolster homegrown talent with cutting edge, highly skilled expertise from around the world to work in the key sectors identified in the Strategy.
It will also build on commitments in the recent Immigration White Paper to expand eligible institutions for the High Potential Individual visa and fast-track the brightest and best talent into UK high growth and strategic industries, such as in the science and technology sectors.
The launch of the Taskforce and £54m Global Talent Fund, which will attract world-class researchers and their teams to the UK, covering relocation and research costs over five years starting this year, sends a clear signal to exceptional talent and businesses that the UK seeks to continue its global leadership in growth-driving sectors.
The Global Talent Fund will be allocated over the coming weeks, via UKRI, to leading universities and other research organisations. These organisations will use their expertise to select and target the researchers, aligned to the overarching objectives of the scheme and in support of our industrial strategy priorities.
These initiatives will support the Government’s Plan for Change to deliver increased investment and more secure, skilled jobs for working people across the country, alongside an immigration system which restores control of the UK’s borders.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:
“A key part of our Plan for Change is making sure Britain is the best place in the world to do business – we are a strong, connected market and have a lot to offer the best and the most inventive minds.
“Competition for elite global talent is high, and by establishing this Taskforce we are solidifying our position as the first choice for the world’s brightest sparks, as well as turbocharging innovation in medicines and inventions of the future, boosting British business and putting money in working people’s pockets.”
Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:
“Genius is not bound by geography. But the UK is one of the few places blessed with the infrastructure, skills base, world-class institutions and international ties needed to fertilise brilliant ideas, and turn them into new medicines that save lives, new products that make our lives easier, and even entirely new jobs and industries. These endeavours are the Plan for Change writ large.
“My message to those who are advancing new ideas, wherever they are, is simple. We want to work with you, to support you, and to give you a home where you can make your ideas a reality we all benefit from.”
Reporting directly to the Prime Minister and Chancellor, the Global Talent Taskforce will:
Facilitate support researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, top tier managerial and engineering talent and high-calibre creatives to relocate.
Work to identify and approach top talent to move to the UK.
Work closely with the UK’s international presence to network and build a pipeline of talent who want to come to Britain.
Alongside this Government-backed work, two new fast-track research grant routes have been announced by the National Academies – including £30m from the Royal Society for a Faraday Discovery Fellowship accelerated international route, part-funded by their £250 million DSIT endowment. The Royal Academy of Engineering has announced a similar fast track international route, as part of its £150 million Green Future Fellowships endowment from DSIT – this funding will ensure the UK competes for the best global talent in science and research.
This announcement also comes hot on the heels of the launch of two sets of fellowships directed towards attracting top talent to the UK:
Turing AI ‘Global’ Fellowships, which will provide £25m of funding for world-leading academics to build a team and conduct groundbreaking AI research at a UK organisation.
Implementing a UK-based expansion of the Encode: AI for Science Fellowship – which embeds world-class AI researchers into cutting-edge scientific labs, accelerating the pathway to industry, and enabling talent to spend one year immersed in intensive exploration, feedback, and development cycles. New talent are expected to arrive in the UK on this scheme by Autum 2025.
Taken together, this means over £115m of funding dedicated to attracting top talent to the UK.
Editors Notes
This announcement will have no impact on net migration.
The new Taskforce will showcase the UK’s strong business environment offer, including our R&D base, business ecosystem, political stability, standard of living, and diversity to ensure the most talented individuals choose the UK to live, work and create wealth. The Global Talent Taskforce will be located in DBT with support from other departments.
The £25 million Turing AI Global Fellowships will be delivered by UKRI and are an expansion of their prestigious Turing AI Fellowship programme. Fellows can receive up to £5 million in fellowship funding over five years.
The £54 million Global Talent Fund comes over five years, starting in 2025/26. The fund, administered by UKRI and delivered by research organisations, will cover 100% of eligible costs, including both relocation and research expenses, with no requirement for match funding from research organisations. The initiative also includes full visa costs for researchers and their dependants, removing significant financial and administrative barriers to relocation.
The UK’s association to Horizon Europe has opened more opportunities for British scientists and researchers, providing access to extensive funding streams. The government welcomes the EU’s recent announcement of a €500 million package of new funding to attract the world’s top talent and the news that researchers will be able to apply via the Choose Europe grants to come and work in the UK.
Supportive Stakeholder Quotes:
Vivienne Stern MBE, Universities UK Chief Executive, said:
“The government’s Global Talent Taskforce and Fund will play a vital role in supporting the delivery of the industrial strategy. These initiatives will attract the best and brightest from around the world to accelerate growth across the UK’s key sectors, which are underpinned by our great universities.
“UK universities are already pivotal players in attracting global talent and the creation of the Taskforce and Fund will further leverage their role in building our future technologies and driving long-term growth.
“Attracting global talent is a goal that ultimately benefits communities across the country, making us all better off. We look forward to working closely with government to deliver these important initiatives and to help realise the full ambition of the UK’s industrial strategy.”
Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society, said:
“These are positive steps to position the UK as an open and attractive destination for research and innovation talent.
“Together, the funding schemes announced today offer a bridge for some of the world’s most exciting researchers to come to the UK, develop their work and build close collaborations that benefit the whole country.
“The new combined Global Talent Taskforce is another welcome sign that Government is looking seriously at the barriers faced by skilled scientists and researchers seeking to relocate. The Society has long called for a coordinated approach across Whitehall for attracting and retaining international talent. Addressing the sky-high upfront costs of the visa system should be the top priority.”
Dr Andrew Clark, Executive Director, Product, at the Royal Academy of Engineering, said:
“The Academy’s role is to create and lead a community of outstanding experts and innovators to engineer better lives. The first round of our Green Future Fellowships attracted enormous interest from engineers, scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs around the world, all seeking to develop and scale long-term solutions to the climate crisis. Adding a fast-track route for international applicants will ensure that the Green Future Fellowships programme is always open to the best global talent. We are pleased to be part of a growing, joined-up effort to attract such talent to the UK.”
77 years ago today, the HMT Empire Windrush docked in Essex – marking the beginning of the Windrush generation’s arrival here in the UK.
Their hard work and determination helped rebuild Britain and brought so much to our country – from the economy to culture and cuisine.
And while today is a chance to celebrate, it is also a reminder of the appalling injustices of the Windrush Scandal.
People who have every right to live in the UK were wrongly denied access to NHS treatment, housing and other services simply because they didn’t have the right documents to prove it. Innocent people were made homeless, detained and even deported simply because they didn’t have the right documents.
Sri Lankan great Angelo Matthews bowed out from the longest format after the first Test between the hosts and Bangladesh at the Galle International Stadium. In 119 Tests, Mathews has amassed 8214 runs at an average of 44.4, while picking 33 wickets. He was given a guard of honour by the Bangladesh side as he made his way back for the final time in whites.
“Since I announced my retirement, I can’t believe the love that I have received so far. I am certainly overwhelmed. Ever so grateful to all those who supported me right throughout. It wasn’t an easy journey; there were a lot of ups and downs, happiness and sadness. But through it all, I was able to do it because of the support that I have received,” said Matthews post-game.
Mathews made his Test debut in 2009. He captained Sri Lanka in 34 Tests, including a famous win in Headingley in 2014, and is currently Sri Lanka’s third leading run-getter in the longer format after Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene.
“(Emotional?) Well, obviously. Retiring from the best format, the format that I loved playing. It’s time for the younger players to take the baton and drive Sri Lanka through. We certainly have the young talent in the dressing room. I should congratulate Bangladesh, they’ve had a wonderful Test match,” he added.
Matthews also reflected on what were his favourite memories were during his long Test career, to which he replied, “The win against England in England and whitewashing the Australians in Sri Lanka 3-0, that was a huge highlight and honour achieved by the entire team. I am thankful to all the players who have supported me throughout, the coaches, and all the fans for being there with me. The love that I have received, thank you so much.”
In the end, the first Test of the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle ended in a tense draw, marked by a dramatic final session.
Sri Lanka, chasing a target of 296 in 37 overs, chose to play defensively and finished at 72/4, surviving a late spin assault led by Taijul Islam, who took 3-23, including key wickets of Angelo Mathews—playing his final Test—and Dinesh Chandimal.
Strategy to be published after ‘disappointing’ UK Spending Review settlement.
A Medium Term Financial Strategy will be set out next week in the aftermath of a “disappointing” UK Spending Review and welfare reforms that will reduce Scotland’s budget.
Finance Secretary Shona Robison will outline the five-year strategy and accompanying action plan to ensure public money is focused on Scottish Government priorities.
The Finance Secretary said:
“This government has delivered a balanced budget every year while taking steps to improve the overall sustainability of our finances. This is despite a deeply challenging financial situation caused by rising global instability, persistent higher inflation and over a decade of UK austerity.
“Our disappointing settlement at the recent UK Spending Review has made the situation worse, short-changing the Scottish Government by £1.1 billion in our day-to-day funding compared with UK Government departments. This comes on top of reductions in our funding worth hundreds of millions of pounds as a result of the UK Government’s proposed welfare reforms and failure to fully fund its employer National Insurance increase.
“In this context, it is important that we take action to maximise funding targeted at frontline services such as our NHS.”
Background
The Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) will outline the approach to ensuring Scotland’s finances remain on a sustainable footing. It will be accompanied by a Fiscal Sustainability Delivery Plan, setting out the actions being taken in support of the MTFS. Both documents will be presented by the Finance Secretary in a statement to Parliament on Wednesday 25 June.
Under the UK Spending Review the Scottish Government’s day-to-day spending is set to grow by 0.8% over the next three years, compared with 1.2% average growth for UK Government departments. Had this funding grown in line with UK Government overall spending, the Scottish Government would have £1.1 billion more to spend on day-to-day priorities over the next three years.
The Scottish Spending Review and a new infrastructure pipeline will be published alongside the 2026-27 Scottish Budget later this year.
A female driver was arrested last night following investigations into an incident earlier this month when a police officer was struck by a car at a driver testing station.
Just before 4pm on Monday 9 June (Kings birthday public holiday), a Ford Falcon sedan was stopped at a driver testing site on Curtis Road, Munno Para.
The female driver allegedly drove off at speed, hitting a police officer, and then colliding with another vehicle a short distance away.
The officer sustained a leg injury and has since returned to work.
Enquiries identified the Ford sedan was stolen from Freeling in May.
Following extensive investigations, police attended a northern suburbs address yesterday evening, Saturday 21 June, and allegedly found the woman hiding in a caravan in the rear yard.
The 33-year-old woman was arrested and charged with illegal use, driving disqualified, recklessly cause harm to another, leave the scene of a crash and numerous other traffic offences.
She was refused police bail and will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Monday 23 June.
Farington, England, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Over the past 30 days, XRP has been trading within a narrow range of $2.05 to $2.33, with the $3.00 resistance level proving difficult to break. This period of price consolidation coincides with the launch of PFMCrypto’s innovative XRP cloud mining contracts—a move that has quickly garnered strong interest from long-term holders and new market participants alike.
Despite a series of bearish signals—such as a decline in XRP Ledger network activity, shrinking open interest in futures markets, and persistently weak technical indicators—PFMCrypto’s product launch has injected renewed momentum into the XRP ecosystem.
Breaking the mold: Cloud mining designed specifically for XRP
Unlike traditional mining that relies on proof-of-work (PoW), XRP uses a consensus protocol, making conventional mining methods infeasible. PFMCrypto addresses this challenge by introducing a simulated cloud mining model that allows users to earn XRP rewards through mining contracts.
PFMCrypto is a remote digital asset mining platform where users rent computing power from PFMCrypto’s high-performance, environmentally friendly mining facilities. Supporting a range of cryptocurrencies—including XRP, DOGE, BTC, LTC, and SOL—the platform eliminates technical and financial barriers, making passive income more accessible than ever.
Key Features of PFMCrypto’s XRP Cloud Mining Contracts
– No Hardware Required: Accessible to all users without the need for mining equipment or technical setup
– Daily Payouts: Earn mining rewards daily based on your contract participation
– Secure Custody: Assets are protected under PFMCrypto’s industry-grade security standards
– Flexible Contract Durations: Choose from short-, mid-, or long-term options to match your investment strategy
Flexible Mining Plans Catered to All Investors
PFMCrypto offers over 10 different contract options, giving users the freedom to select the plan that best suits their needs.
Examples include:
$10 Mining Contract – 1-day term – Earn $0.60 daily
“PFMCrypto’s timely product release may serve as a catalyst for helping XRP overcome its current market stagnation. It has boosted investor sentiment and stimulated renewed demand in both spot and derivatives markets,” said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. “The product is designed to align with XRP’s architecture while providing real, transparent value to users.”
How to Start Mining on PFMCrypto:
Register: Sign up now and receive a $10 welcome bonus plus $0.60 daily login rewards
Select a Contract: Use your bonus to activate a mining plan or choose one that fits your budget
Start Mining: Activate your contract and let PFMCrypto handle the rest. Mining rewards are automatically credited to your account
About PFMCrypto
Founded in 2018, PFMCrypto is dedicated to transforming the traditional cryptocurrency mining landscape. For years, crypto mining was reserved for tech-savvy users with custom rigs and stable electricity. PFMCrypto makes it possible for anyone to earn XRP, BTC, SOL, or DOGE in real time—without technical knowledge or large upfront investments.
For everyday users, PFMCrypto offers a legitimate path to increase their crypto holdings, generate steady income, and weather volatile markets.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.
Farington, England, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Despite growing enthusiasm in the XRP community, the long-awaited $10 milestone remains out of reach. XRP continues to fluctuate between $2.05 and $2.33, showing signs of consolidation rather than breakout. In response, PFMCrypto has introduced a new 1-day XRP cloud mining contract, providing holders with a smart and simple way to generate daily income—even as they wait for the next major price surge. New users receive a $10 signup bonus, enabling them to start mining XRP with no upfront investment.
Unlike traditional mining that relies on expensive hardware and technical know-how, PFMCrypto’s XRP cloud mining model is fully remote and designed to simulate yield through proprietary infrastructure and AI-driven optimization. The newly launched 1-day mining contract is the most accessible option yet, letting users activate a plan using their $10 welcome bonus and receive $0.66 in daily XRP rewards—with no cost, no setup, and no risk.
This short-term mining model allows XRP holders to earn predictable returns while staying engaged during sideways markets.
Key Features of PFMCrypto’s XRP Cloud Mining Contracts
– No Hardware Required: Accessible to all users without the need for mining equipment or technical setup
– Daily Payouts: Earn mining rewards daily based on your contract participation
– Secure Custody: Assets are protected under PFMCrypto’s industry-grade security standards
– Flexible Contract Durations: Choose from short-, mid-, or long-term options to match your investment strategy
Flexible Plans for All Investors
PFMCrypto offers over 10 unique mining contracts to suit every investor profile—from curious beginners to seasoned holders seeking high-yield options:
$10 Contract – 1 Day – Earn $0.66 (free with signup bonus)
For long-term XRP holders, these plans offer a practical way to remain active in the ecosystem and generate steady returns while the token builds momentum toward higher price targets.
Select a Mining Contract: Activate a plan using your bonus or choose your own
Start Mining: Sit back and earn—rewards are credited daily, automatically
A Smarter Way to Wait: Income While XRP Consolidates
Founded in 2018, PFMCrypto has been at the forefront of cloud-based crypto mining, democratizing access to passive income through secure, AI-powered, and environmentally conscious infrastructure. The platform is built to help users mine leading cryptocurrencies—like XRP, BTC, SOL, and DOGE—without the need for expensive rigs or in-depth technical knowledge.
“The path to $10 may take time, but XRP holders shouldn’t have to wait empty-handed,” said a PFMCrypto spokesperson. “Our 1-day mining contracts are designed to give users a simple, low-risk opportunity to generate daily XRP returns—while staying engaged with the ecosystem.”
Don’t wait for the next rally to start earning—activate your XRP mining contract today at https://pfmcrypto.net
Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.
Two men have been injured in a serious crash at Meadows overnight.
About 2am Sunday 22 June, police and emergency services were called to Morris Road at Meadows following reports that a car had collided with a tree.
The driver of the Toyota ute, a 28-year-old man from the Mid North, sustained life threatening injuries while his passenger, a 47-year-old man from Meadows was critically injured. Both men were transported to hospital for treatment.
Morris Road is currently closed between Brookman Road and Arunga Road while Major Crash investigators examine the scene. Road users are asked to avoid the area.
“Today, tens of thousands of people marched through the streets of our capital with one clear message: the Genocide in Gaza must stop – now. I was proud to stand alongside so many others who refuse to look away from the horror and injustice unfolding before our eyes.”
“We have to be clear and say this loud – our government is not just complicit but active participants. Entire neighbourhoods reduced to rubble. Hospitals targeted. Children buried beneath collapsed buildings
“The many thousands on the street today were clear: this is not self-defence, this is collective punishment. The UK must immediately end arms sales to Israel, support an urgent and permanent ceasefire, and back a full international investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
“The people of Gaza need more than our solidarity – they need action. That’s why I marched today, and why Greens across the country will continue to speak out until justice, safety, and freedom are secured for all Palestinians and Israelis alike.”
“We cannot allow political cowardice to stand in the way of human rights. The world is watching – and history will remember where we stood.”
“Today, tens of thousands of people marched through the streets of our capital with one clear message: the Genocide in Gaza must stop – now. I was proud to stand alongside so many others who refuse to look away from the horror and injustice unfolding before our eyes.”
“We have to be clear and say this loud – our government is not just complicit but active participants. Entire neighbourhoods reduced to rubble. Hospitals targeted. Children buried beneath collapsed buildings
“The many thousands on the street today were clear: this is not self-defence, this is collective punishment. The UK must immediately end arms sales to Israel, support an urgent and permanent ceasefire, and back a full international investigation into war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
“The people of Gaza need more than our solidarity – they need action. That’s why I marched today, and why Greens across the country will continue to speak out until justice, safety, and freedom are secured for all Palestinians and Israelis alike.”
“We cannot allow political cowardice to stand in the way of human rights. The world is watching – and history will remember where we stood.”
London, UK, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —DRML Miner, a UK-based cloud mining provider, today announced the official launch of its innovative zero-cost cloud mining platform, designed to make cryptocurrency mining accessible, sustainable, and profitable for users across the globe.
With the cryptocurrency market experiencing renewed interest and mining becoming increasingly challenging for individuals, DRML Miner aims to remove traditional barriers such as expensive hardware, high electricity costs, and technical complexity. The platform’s fully automated mining system, powered by 100% renewable energy, allows anyone to mine Bitcoin (BTC), Dogecoin (DOGE), or Litecoin (LTC) instantly, without prior mining experience or upfront investment.
The company’s easy-to-use interface, fast registration process, and free $10 starter contract enable users to begin earning daily rewards immediately. By leveraging global green energy resources, DRML Miner ensures its operations remain both profitable for users and sustainable for the environment.
“At DRML Miner, our mission is clear — to democratize cryptocurrency mining and make it truly accessible to everyday people,” said Alyssa Taylor, Advertising Manager at DRML Miner. “We believe everyone should have the chance to benefit from the blockchain economy without the hassle of costly hardware, hidden fees, or complex setups. With DRML Miner, mining is now simple, secure, and zero-cost to start.”
Platform Highlights and Key Benefits
✅ Instant $10 Free Mining Contract Every new user who registers at https://drmlminers.com/ receives a complimentary $10 mining plan, allowing them to start generating crypto rewards right away — with no credit card required.
✅ 100% Renewable Energy Mining DRML Miner operates high-efficiency mining farms in Iceland and Kazakhstan, utilizing only clean, renewable energy sources. This commitment reduces the carbon footprint and supports a greener blockchain ecosystem.
✅ Global Reach and Multilingual Support The platform is accessible in over 100 countries and supports multiple languages, catering to both novice users and experienced crypto enthusiasts seeking a hassle-free passive income stream.
✅ Flexible Plans and Upgrade Options Users can continue mining for free or choose to upgrade to higher-yield contracts at any time, unlocking greater daily returns with flexible terms that fit every budget.
✅ Referral Program and Community Engagement Through DRML Miner’s robust affiliate program, users can invite friends and earn commission bonuses, transforming word-of-mouth into an additional revenue stream. The company also runs community campaigns, cashback offers, and exclusive promotions to reward loyal miners.
A Timely Solution for the Crypto Community
Since its initial rollout earlier this year, DRML Miner has attracted thousands of users eager to explore a risk-free entry into crypto mining. As blockchain adoption grows and traditional mining costs soar, DRML Miner’s affordable, clean-energy approach offers a compelling alternative for passive crypto earnings.
“We see tremendous demand for simple, eco-friendly mining solutions,” added Taylor. “By combining advanced technology with sustainable energy, we provide users a dependable way to earn crypto without contributing to excessive energy consumption.”
To learn more and join the growing DRML Miner community, visit the official website at https://drmlminers.com/.
About DRML Miner DRML Miner is a UK-based cloud mining company dedicated to providing safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible cryptocurrency mining services. Regulated and compliant with UK standards, DRML Miner empowers individuals to participate in the digital currency market easily and profitably, without upfront costs or technical know-how.
For media inquiries, please contact: DRML Miner Advertising Manager info@drmlminer.com 10 Hollies Road, Allestree, Derby, England drmlminers.com
London, UK, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —DRML Miner, a UK-based cloud mining provider, today announced the official launch of its innovative zero-cost cloud mining platform, designed to make cryptocurrency mining accessible, sustainable, and profitable for users across the globe.
With the cryptocurrency market experiencing renewed interest and mining becoming increasingly challenging for individuals, DRML Miner aims to remove traditional barriers such as expensive hardware, high electricity costs, and technical complexity. The platform’s fully automated mining system, powered by 100% renewable energy, allows anyone to mine Bitcoin (BTC), Dogecoin (DOGE), or Litecoin (LTC) instantly, without prior mining experience or upfront investment.
The company’s easy-to-use interface, fast registration process, and free $10 starter contract enable users to begin earning daily rewards immediately. By leveraging global green energy resources, DRML Miner ensures its operations remain both profitable for users and sustainable for the environment.
“At DRML Miner, our mission is clear — to democratize cryptocurrency mining and make it truly accessible to everyday people,” said Alyssa Taylor, Advertising Manager at DRML Miner. “We believe everyone should have the chance to benefit from the blockchain economy without the hassle of costly hardware, hidden fees, or complex setups. With DRML Miner, mining is now simple, secure, and zero-cost to start.”
Platform Highlights and Key Benefits
✅ Instant $10 Free Mining Contract Every new user who registers at https://drmlminers.com/ receives a complimentary $10 mining plan, allowing them to start generating crypto rewards right away — with no credit card required.
✅ 100% Renewable Energy Mining DRML Miner operates high-efficiency mining farms in Iceland and Kazakhstan, utilizing only clean, renewable energy sources. This commitment reduces the carbon footprint and supports a greener blockchain ecosystem.
✅ Global Reach and Multilingual Support The platform is accessible in over 100 countries and supports multiple languages, catering to both novice users and experienced crypto enthusiasts seeking a hassle-free passive income stream.
✅ Flexible Plans and Upgrade Options Users can continue mining for free or choose to upgrade to higher-yield contracts at any time, unlocking greater daily returns with flexible terms that fit every budget.
✅ Referral Program and Community Engagement Through DRML Miner’s robust affiliate program, users can invite friends and earn commission bonuses, transforming word-of-mouth into an additional revenue stream. The company also runs community campaigns, cashback offers, and exclusive promotions to reward loyal miners.
A Timely Solution for the Crypto Community
Since its initial rollout earlier this year, DRML Miner has attracted thousands of users eager to explore a risk-free entry into crypto mining. As blockchain adoption grows and traditional mining costs soar, DRML Miner’s affordable, clean-energy approach offers a compelling alternative for passive crypto earnings.
“We see tremendous demand for simple, eco-friendly mining solutions,” added Taylor. “By combining advanced technology with sustainable energy, we provide users a dependable way to earn crypto without contributing to excessive energy consumption.”
To learn more and join the growing DRML Miner community, visit the official website at https://drmlminers.com/.
About DRML Miner DRML Miner is a UK-based cloud mining company dedicated to providing safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible cryptocurrency mining services. Regulated and compliant with UK standards, DRML Miner empowers individuals to participate in the digital currency market easily and profitably, without upfront costs or technical know-how.
For media inquiries, please contact: DRML Miner Advertising Manager info@drmlminer.com 10 Hollies Road, Allestree, Derby, England drmlminers.com
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Scientists comment on a real-time forecast of heat related deaths during the 19-22 June 2025 heatwave.
Prof Hannah Cloke, Professor of Hydrology, University of Reading, said:
“This is a simple, rapid analysis that uses an already understood relationship between heat and excess mortality, and applies the numbers from the ECMWF forecast for average daily temperatures for this weekend. While this isn’t peer reviewed science, it does highlight something we already understand well, that hot weather over a long period kills people. Every one of these figures is an individual person, with a family and a community that will be devastated by their early death. This is no less a tragedy than a plane crash or an outbreak of a deadly disease.
“Climate change is making heatwaves more common, longer and hotter in the UK, but no-one should die because they are unprepared for hot weather or because their home heats up and kills them. While we should urgently curb emissions to reduce the heating of our planet, saving lives in the future, we can save lives now by adapting our homes and practices so that people don’t die needlessly in hot weather. With better planning, building regulations, and early warnings leading to action, we can stop people from getting dangerously overheated and dying.
“The study notes a limitation that it does not consider temporal attenuation of temperature. Hot weather is less dangerous if you are able to cool off. You could save a life by checking on a vulnerable or elderly person and helping them to cool down, if just for a few hours. Shading windows or changing your plans to avoid the fiercest daytime heat could be the difference between life and death.”
Dr Chloe Brimicombe, Climate Scientist and Heat Specialist and Freelance Consultant, said:
“This real time analysis although alarming is accurate and can be taken into account through syndromic surveillance (real time tracking) by the health service. It is consistent with patterns we see with other UK heatwaves and is good to see this transparency.
“Heatwaves might be silent killers but they also subtly impact every part of our society from how we shop to hospital admissions to productivity and our pets and wildlife too. And we need a policy response that brings everyone together and tackles it across society not just the health sector.”
‘Real-time forecast of heat-related excess mortality during the 19-22 June 2025 heatwave in England and Wales’ byGaryfallos Konstantinoudiset al.was published at 00:01 UK time on Saturday 21 June.
Declared interests
Prof Hannah Cloke: “works with and advises the Met Office and Environment Agency and a Fellow of ECMWF which provided the forecast data used in the study.”
The House of Commons narrowly passed the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill on June 20, a significant step toward legalising assisted dying in England and Wales. The bill must still pass through the House of Lords before it can become law. So far, the debate has centred on a key question: should people already facing a terminal prognosis have the legal right to choose when to end their lives?
The discussions, both in Parliament and among the wider public, have often focused on personal stories of dying – some shared as examples of a “good” death, others as cautionary tales of suffering. When speaking to the BBC after the bill passed, MP Kim Leadbeater, who introduced the legislation, described the current situation as a “failing status quo.” She argued that the law must change to offer more control and compassion at the end of life.
The concept of a “good” death already shapes the country’s end-of-life care policy. Current practice encourages patient choice, comfort and dignity usually guided by the question: what matters most to you?
Through advance care planning, patients can express preferences for their care, such as refusing resuscitation or declining further treatment. But these choices are usually framed in terms of what not to do. Assisted dying, by contrast, introduces a new ethical dimension: it’s not about withholding treatment, but about actively intervening to end life.
View from the clinic – and bedside
Over the past 15 years of conducting ethnographic research on end-of-life care in England, I’ve seen just how deeply people are affected when asked to contemplate their future – or the future of someone they love.
Some patients are decisive: they know what they don’t want, and they say so clearly. Others apologise for being a burden. Some find it too difficult to plan at all. In fact, fewer than 3% of UK adults have documented advance care plans.
Clinicians, too, face challenges. I’ve seen doctors wish patients would recognise when treatment has become futile – and patients, in turn, hope doctors will take the decision to “just stop”. There can be deep mistrust, with some fearing they’ll be “given up on”. These tensions are unlikely to disappear if assisted dying is legalised; in fact, they may become more pronounced.
Who would be eligible?
In England, the legal definition of “terminal illness” is a life expectancy of six months or less, and that’s the threshold used in this bill. It excludes people with incurable but long-term conditions who may be suffering, but aren’t likely to die within half a year.
This six-month cut-off also assumes that doctors can accurately predict how long someone has left. But Marie Curie, the end of life charity, called that definition “outdated” and “arbitrary,” highlighting how it fails to reflect clinical reality.
More recently, research examining nearly 100,000 patient records from London found that prognosis is least reliable when predicting survival over the “weeks to months” time-frame – exactly the bracket covered by the bill. Doctors are more confident estimating if someone has less than two weeks or more than a year. Anything in between is often described, quite literally, as “the length of a piece of string”.
A step forward – with complexities ahead
The bill’s passage in the Commons reflects a growing desire to give people more choice, control and clarity at the end of life. For many, it marks a long-overdue recognition of both suffering and the right to self-determination.
Yet while the vote signals strong support for greater autonomy in dying, the everyday realities of predicting prognosis and navigating complex end-of-life decisions remain uncertain. The practical and ethical challenges are far from resolved.
Erica Borgstrom receives/has received funding for her research from the National Institute of Health Research, the UKRI Economic and Social Research Council, Marie Curie, the Foundation for the Sociology of Health and Illness, NHS England & NHS Innovation, and End of Life Doula UK.
The House of Commons narrowly passed the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill on June 20, a significant step toward legalising assisted dying in England and Wales. The bill must still pass through the House of Lords before it can become law. So far, the debate has centred on a key question: should people already facing a terminal prognosis have the legal right to choose when to end their lives?
The discussions, both in Parliament and among the wider public, have often focused on personal stories of dying – some shared as examples of a “good” death, others as cautionary tales of suffering. When speaking to the BBC after the bill passed, MP Kim Leadbeater, who introduced the legislation, described the current situation as a “failing status quo.” She argued that the law must change to offer more control and compassion at the end of life.
The concept of a “good” death already shapes the country’s end-of-life care policy. Current practice encourages patient choice, comfort and dignity usually guided by the question: what matters most to you?
Through advance care planning, patients can express preferences for their care, such as refusing resuscitation or declining further treatment. But these choices are usually framed in terms of what not to do. Assisted dying, by contrast, introduces a new ethical dimension: it’s not about withholding treatment, but about actively intervening to end life.
View from the clinic – and bedside
Over the past 15 years of conducting ethnographic research on end-of-life care in England, I’ve seen just how deeply people are affected when asked to contemplate their future – or the future of someone they love.
Some patients are decisive: they know what they don’t want, and they say so clearly. Others apologise for being a burden. Some find it too difficult to plan at all. In fact, fewer than 3% of UK adults have documented advance care plans.
Clinicians, too, face challenges. I’ve seen doctors wish patients would recognise when treatment has become futile – and patients, in turn, hope doctors will take the decision to “just stop”. There can be deep mistrust, with some fearing they’ll be “given up on”. These tensions are unlikely to disappear if assisted dying is legalised; in fact, they may become more pronounced.
Who would be eligible?
In England, the legal definition of “terminal illness” is a life expectancy of six months or less, and that’s the threshold used in this bill. It excludes people with incurable but long-term conditions who may be suffering, but aren’t likely to die within half a year.
This six-month cut-off also assumes that doctors can accurately predict how long someone has left. But Marie Curie, the end of life charity, called that definition “outdated” and “arbitrary,” highlighting how it fails to reflect clinical reality.
More recently, research examining nearly 100,000 patient records from London found that prognosis is least reliable when predicting survival over the “weeks to months” time-frame – exactly the bracket covered by the bill. Doctors are more confident estimating if someone has less than two weeks or more than a year. Anything in between is often described, quite literally, as “the length of a piece of string”.
A step forward – with complexities ahead
The bill’s passage in the Commons reflects a growing desire to give people more choice, control and clarity at the end of life. For many, it marks a long-overdue recognition of both suffering and the right to self-determination.
Yet while the vote signals strong support for greater autonomy in dying, the everyday realities of predicting prognosis and navigating complex end-of-life decisions remain uncertain. The practical and ethical challenges are far from resolved.
Erica Borgstrom receives/has received funding for her research from the National Institute of Health Research, the UKRI Economic and Social Research Council, Marie Curie, the Foundation for the Sociology of Health and Illness, NHS England & NHS Innovation, and End of Life Doula UK.
Using terrorism legislation against non-violent protestors is deeply authoritarian
More in External Affairs
Following news reports that the UK plans to proscribe Palestine Action, the Scottish Greens warned of the deeply authoritarian implications of using terrorism legislation to go after non-violent protesters.
“Labour’s use of terrorism legislation against non-violent protesters is deeply authoritarian, and it’s astonishing that a former human rights lawyer is doing this.
“Palestine Action have been accused by Keir Starmer of ‘vandalism’ – which the RAF said would have no impact on their operations. It’s obviously absurd that throwing red paint on things could cause a group to be listed alongside Al Qaeda, ISIS and Russia’s Wagner Group, with membership carrying a 14-year prison sentence.
“Human rights groups like Amnesty International have rightly raised significant concerns over this aggressive use of powers that should be reserved for only the most extreme and dangerous organisations.
“And while Labour pull out all the stops to prosecute these protesters, they continue to train, arm and support Israel as it regularly and openly commits war crimes as part of an ongoing genocide. It’s impossible to overstate how backwards Labour’s priorities are here.”
At about 4am this morning (21 June), a vehicle struck a ground-floor flat in St Aldate’s, Oxford.
We evacuated three of our tenants from the building and have arranged alternative accommodation for them over the weekend.
A structural engineer visited the site this morning and has confirmed that the building is safe. Further investigations will take place on Monday (23 June) to determine what repair work is needed before our tenants can return to their homes.
We’d like to thank our colleagues at ODS for their swift response in securing the building, and the manager of The Head of the River pub for kindly offering a place for our tenants to rest while we arranged alternative accommodation.
Police are investigating a break-in at Port Noarlunga South this morning and have released CCTV of the suspects and their getaway scooter.
Three unknown males attended an address in Aldam Road, Port Noarlunga South about 8.30am on Saturday 21 June. One suspect waited outside on a scooter while two males entered the home and confronted the four occupants.
Three victims were assaulted during the incident and sustained minor injuries.
The offenders stole a Playstation 5 and two wallets before getting back on the silver and black scooter, described as similar to a Yamaha NMAX 155, and heading west along Aldam Road.
They were all dressed in black, with their faces covered.
Southern District CIB detectives are investigating.
Anyone who recognises the trio or scooter or has dashcam or CCTV footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au
Record culture funding uplift to benefit 14 festivals in 2025-26.
Fourteen major festivals across Edinburgh and Glasgow will receive funding increases this year, thanks to a record uplift in the Scottish culture budget.
As part of an overall £4 million increase for festivals in 2025-26 Scottish Budget, this year’s Festival EXPO Fund has awarded a total of £2.8 million across the 14 festivals, up from £1.7 million the previous year.
Festivals Edinburgh will also receive £200,000 via Creative Scotland to support their branding and marketing work to promote the Edinburgh festivals.
Established in 2007, the Scottish Government’s Festival EXPO Fund is designed to support festival innovation and maximise national and international opportunities for the artists who contribute to them. The fund is managed by Creative Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government.
Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said:
“Scotland’s festivals are our cultural shopfront to the rest of the world. As well as offering performers and creatives an unrivalled international platform, they also deliver an annual economic uplift to businesses, jobs and livelihoods right across the country.
“This year’s funding increase for the existing EXPO festivals cohort represents an increase of £1 million across the 14 festivals in Glasgow and Edinburgh, the first in 10 years. It recognises the success of festivals in shaping and supporting hundreds of commissions, enhancing the ambitions of thousands of Scottish artists and attracting audiences in the millions for EXPO-supported work since the fund’s creation in 2007.
“From this foundation we will expand the reach of the EXPO fund across the whole of Scotland, and I am working with festivals across the country through the Strategic Festivals Partnership to realise this commitment.”
Dana MacLeod, Executive Director of Arts, Communities and Inclusion at Creative Scotland said:
“We welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to the Festivals EXPO Fund, providing invaluable support for Scotland’s world-class festivals. The EXPO Fund enables Scotland’s festivals to commission bold ideas, develop creative collaborations and present high-quality programmes for audiences in Scotland and internationally.”
Lori Anderson, Director of Festivals Edinburgh said:
“Today’s announcement is welcome news for our festivals and for Scotland’s cultural sector, ensuring that the guiding principle of the Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund – to showcase Scottish talent to the world on the country’s premier festival platforms – continues to successfully support creative careers.”
A man was arrested after allegedly trying to steal a woman’s car at knifepoint at West Lakes this morning.
About 8.40am on Saturday 21 June, the victim, a woman aged in her 60s, was seated in her parked car in a car park on Bower Road, West Lakes when she was approached by a man.
The man opened her car door, presented a knife and demanded the car keys. The woman screamed, alerting witnesses and the suspect ran away.
It will be alleged he was located a short distance away by patrols.
Police Dog Bandit and Water Operations Police were called in to search the area to locate items discarded by the offender as he fled the scene. PD Bandit located a backpack and other items, while divers are searching the canal and surrounds for the knife believed to have been discarded.
A 19-year-old Semaphore Park man was arrested and charged with aggravated robbery. He will be interviewed by Western District CIB detectives and has not yet applied for bail.
Funding allocated to projects working to enhance equality.
People with learning disabilities are being supported to fulfil their potential through new funding awards totalling almost £1.6 million.
The Learning Disability Support Fund is allocated to community projects working directly with people with learning disabilities to provide opportunities and build a more inclusive society.
The fund will run for 30 months from October 2025, with a total of £325,000 available for the first year and £650,000 in each of the following two years. Recipients of the first round are receiving grants of between £75,000 and £250.000. The charity get2gether is among the successful applicants and has been awarded £108,244 to support its work arranging social activities for people with learning disabilities in safe and friendly locations in Scotland.
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur said:
“We want to create a society where people with learning disabilities can live fulfilling, independent and active lives and this funding will support the important work of get2gether and many other organisations which are working so hard to do just that.
“The grants will be used to provide people with education and information on matters such as accessing health services and developing safe relationships.
“In developing the fund, we have taken into account the views expressed by people with learning disabilities in recent consultation and research and we will work closely with the third sector to ensure it makes a real difference.”
Director at get2gether Mojca Becaj said:
“For a small charity like get2gether, the Scottish Government funding through the Learning Disability Support Fund is truly transformational.
“It will enable us to continue creating safe, inclusive spaces where people with learning disabilities can build friendships, relationships, and confidence as well as provide paid roles where they can step into their first paid employment — these are things that many adults take for granted but are life-changing for our members.
“We’re deeply grateful for the recognition and investment in our work and the opportunity to keep making a real difference to the lives of get2gether members.”
Natalie Kernaghan McCaughey, a get2gether ambassador said:
“I work as an ambassador at get2gether, we are a member-led charity that works with adults with disabilities. We believe everyone deserves love and friendship.
“I am a paid member of get2gether staff team, I have a lived experience of learning disability and autism. My role is to work with other members to create and co-host their own social events and make connections with each other.”
Director of Funds at Inspiring Scotland Erica Judge said:
“We know that the third sector plays a critical role in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities and we are pleased that this fund offers vital longer-term funding, ensuring projects like get2gether can plan their services for the next two and a half years.
“One of the important aspects of this fund is to help ensure people with learning disabilities’ voices are heard. Not only did people with learning disabilities inform and shape the Learning Disabilities Support Fund’s aims, their voice and experience were central to the decision-making process, and they played a key role in selecting which organisations received funding.”
BACKGROUND
Funding Awards
Organisation
Funding Amount
get2gether
£108,244
Project Ability
£81,741
People First (Scotland)
£250,000
Neighbourhood Networks
£91,931
Values Into Action Scotland
£175,061
Scottish Youth Dance (YDance)
£206,106
Dates-n-Mates
£179,318
Values Into Action Scotland – The Scottish Assembly
PROVIDENCE – A British national from Northern Ireland illegally in the United States today admitted to a federal judge that he participated in a multi-state construction and money laundering fraud scheme that netted more than a million dollars, and that he provided false information to gain entry into the United States, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
In pleading guilty to wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, and false statement in a document used to gain entry into the United States, Elijah Gavin, 29, admitted to the following:
Gavin used a variety of different names when he approached and defrauded property owners in Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York by, among other things, misrepresenting to property owners’ construction needs or repairs required on their properties.
Gavin and his co-conspirators formed multiple construction businesses and falsely represented the business’ status, experience, and quality of work; falsely represented their identities and skills to homeowners; and made false representations to property owners regarding the condition of their properties, work they would perform, and the machinery, materials, and equipment needed to perform work.
Between October 2022 and January 2025, Gavin and his co-conspirators defrauded property owners of over one million dollars, including a Rhode Island widow who was defrauded of $850,000, as well as other elderly victims in Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, and a church in New York.
Gavin sent checks to money launderers in New York and California representing funds that were fraudulently obtained from his victims.
Gavin is a fugitive from justice in the United Kingdom who entered the United States illegally. Gavin used a false Electronic System for Travel Authorization application to gain entry into the United States without a visa. Gavin’s ESTA application contained materially false information with respect to Gavin’s criminal history in the United Kingdom.
According to the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Center, Conmen Travelers are groups of Irish or U.K. nationals who entered the United States on pleasure or tourist visas and overstayed their visits or, more commonly, entered the United States illegally. Once in the United States, they go to different cities and states, soliciting construction work. The members often quote a low price, and then, after further inspection, demand much more money and/or convince the homeowner that their homes or business are in need of major repairs. Conmen Travelers often hire day laborers; do not have work authorization documents or pull permits; and do low quality, unnecessary, or incomplete work, sometimes damaging homeowners’ residences.
Gavin has been detained in federal custody since his arrest in New Jersey on January 29, 2025. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 11, 2025. The sentences imposed will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sandra R. Hebert and Taylor A. Dean.
The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Rhode Island State Police, and U.S Diplomatic Security Service.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
