BBC lawyers are preparing a robust defence to Donald Trump’s $10bn claim, expected to seek his testimony about his conduct around the Capitol unrest and a related speech. The approach could put him under oath in US proceedings, shifting focus from the broadcaster to his actions.
Pam White, a former PC injured in the 1983 Harrods incident, urges ministers to formally honour emergency workers harmed on duty. Marking 42 years, she calls for a dedicated award and recognition for colleagues and civilians who died in the incident.
Britain will rejoin the Erasmus programme, restoring EU student exchanges. Ministers plan to widen access, including apprentices and those from lower‑income backgrounds. Grants and fee waivers are expected, with placements across Europe resuming from 2027, aiding a practical reset with Brussels.
Ministers outline a BBC funding overhaul from 2028: free access for people on benefits, paid for by higher charges on other households. Ads and paywalls for big shows are being considered as the licence fee is phased out in favour of an iPlayer‑centred model.
Britain will rejoin the Erasmus programme from 2027, restoring funded study exchanges across Europe. UK students can spend a year abroad with reciprocal fee waivers for EU visitors. Ministers say it widens opportunity and skills; universities broadly back the move, with costs and implementation still to be set.
Ministers are weighing reforms to the BBC’s funding, with a consultation on options including advertising or subscriptions and free TV licences for benefit claimants. The plan aims to ease costs for low-income households while deciding the broadcaster’s future model.
Campaigners demand a ban on cutting engineered stone for kitchen worktops after UK cases of silicosis emerged. They urge mandatory workplace health tests, a national register of cases, stronger HSE enforcement and better protections for young tradespeople.
Neonatal nurse Sarah Alcock, a new mum whose daughter Chloe arrived 15 weeks early in March, is volunteering to work over Christmas to support an overstretched unit. In recognition of her dedication to families and colleagues, she and her family receive a festive getaway as thanks.
Labour’s workers’ rights overhaul cleared its final parliamentary stage, setting up implementation next year. Plans curb exploitative zero‑hours contracts, give day‑one rights to sick pay and parental leave, strengthen unfair‑dismissal protections and expand flexible working. Business groups warn of costs.
FIFA has performed a U-turn, reducing ticket prices for next year’s World Cup finals after criticism over affordability. Cuts will apply across categories, easing costs for travelling supporters and domestic fans, following pressure over pricing concerns.