Over 6,000 people died while awaiting adult social care decisions, new figures show. Audits highlight long delays. Campaigners and opposition parties urge a cross‑party fix, pressing the PM to take charge of funding and staffing reforms to end the backlog.
At least 40 people died and more than 115 were injured when a blaze broke out at a Swiss Alps bar on New Year’s Eve, reportedly after a sparkler or candle set the ceiling alight. Authorities are investigating the cause and fire safety as support continues for survivors.
Dame Esther Rantzen urges the public to write to peers ahead of a Lords debate on assisted dying, arguing that blocking reform prolongs avoidable suffering for the terminally ill. She says compassionate correspondence could help pass landmark safeguards-based legislation.
Strasbourg judges have asked the UK to justify stripping Shamima Begum of citizenship, reviving her bid to return. The ECHR’s move draws criticism from Robert Jenrick, while Begum’s lawyers call it a chance to test whether the decision breached human rights and due process.
The PM faces criticism for refusing to seek the deportation of an Egyptian-British activist accused of antisemitic and racist posts. He says due process applies. No 10 has welcomed the individual’s return, prompting debate over free speech, public safety and immigration policy.
Plans to overhaul the CQC’s regime could see some care homes receive full inspections only once a decade. Campaigners warn this risks resident safety and hides poor standards. The regulator argues risk-based monitoring and targeted visits would continue.
Over 8,000 prisoners were released early before Christmas under Labour’s scheme, figures show, including thousands serving two years or more and some with sentences exceeding 14 years. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick says they should still be in custody and criticises the policy.
Readers have raised over £100,000 for Whizz-Kidz, funding around 20 personalised wheelchairs and other mobility aids for children. The Christmas appeal will shorten waiting times and help youngsters gain independence.
Ministers raised the tax threshold on inherited farmland to £2.5m after a U-turn, easing bills for estates. Farming groups argue many family holdings remain exposed and are pressing the government to scrap the levy entirely to safeguard succession.
The Post Office plans a major revamp, expanding branches to plug gaps left by bank closures. New hubs will offer access to cash, small-business support and community services, including prescriptions, to draw people back to town centres and boost high streets.