The PM criticised planned strikes by junior doctors amid a severe flu surge, calling the timing “beyond belief” and warning of risks to patients as the NHS faces intense winter pressure. The BMA defends the action, citing chronic staff shortages and pay erosion.

Health chiefs warn the UK could face its worst winter flu crisis within a fortnight as cases and hospital admissions surge. Hospitals are already under severe pressure. Ministers and NHS leaders urge a settlement to the junior doctors’ dispute to prevent further strain.

US authorities plan to make Esta applicants from visa‑waiver nations submit five years of social media identifiers, phone numbers and emails, plus relatives’ details. Officials say it’s for enhanced screening; privacy groups and tourism bodies warn of data risks and a potential hit to visitor numbers.

Starmer urged European leaders to tighten human rights rules to allow tougher migration controls, arguing reforms to the ECHR are needed to stop claims blocking removals and to counter populism. He rejects quitting the convention; critics warn the plan risks diluting protections.