Britain will rejoin the Erasmus student exchange, with costs put at about £8bn over the deal’s life. The PM signed up while declining to specify the long‑term bill. The scheme is intended to widen study placements and deepen links between UK and European universities and research.
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.
Donald Trump is suing the BBC for up to $5bn, alleging a Panorama clip misled viewers and damaged his reputation and business interests. He argues the broadcaster acted unlawfully. The BBC rejects the claim and says it will defend its journalism.
Gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi, killing 15 and injuring others before being stopped by bystanders and police. Questions over prior warnings have sparked scrutiny of Australia’s security briefings, as investigators examine potential overseas involvement.
The King says his cancer treatment will be scaled back in the new year after positive progress, thanking doctors, researchers and well‑wishers. He urges people to take up screening, saying early diagnosis saves lives, and backs a new national tool aimed at improving detection.
Britain should not depend on the US for defence, a minister argues, urging higher spending and stronger industrial capacity to boost capability. The NATO chief separately warned allies to be ready for a more demanding security environment, pressing Europe to step up.
Javier Milei urges the UK to lift restrictions on defence exports to Argentina, arguing closer ties should include access to equipment. Before a planned visit, he claims the Falklands will eventually shift to Argentine control, saying any change should be achieved through diplomacy.
Jordan Bardella pledges to end small‑boat crossings in the Channel with tougher border controls, a new UK–France deal enabling returns at sea, and co‑operation with Nigel Farage. He also promises wider immigration reforms if elected.
Organised networks are exploiting Channel crossings by recruiting or coercing some asylum seekers to carry heroin into Britain, reportedly offering free passage as payment. Officials say detection tech and intelligence are being stepped up, with a focus on disrupting smugglers and safeguarding migrants.
Safeguarding rules are said to be used by schools and councils to brand people with conservative or patriotic views as risks to children, limiting volunteering. A former Royal Marine was barred from coaching. Critics seek clearer guidance, evidence-based decisions and a fair appeals route.