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.

The new MI6 chief warns power is shifting from elected leaders to tech giants and their owners. She highlights risks from opaque algorithms, calls for stronger oversight and values‑led use of advanced tech, and vows sustained backing for Britain’s allies.

At least 15 people were killed at a Jewish event in Sydney. A bystander is hailed for bravery after disarming an attacker. Victims include a 10-year-old girl and a London-born rabbi. Authorities say the father-and-son suspects were stopped; one died, the other is critically ill. Dozens remain in hospital. Leaders condemned it as antisemitic.

The NHS is mounting a pre-Christmas push to vaccinate children against flu, fearing spread to older relatives. School visits are planned, with uptake low and cases rising nationwide. WHO says the UK has entered an early epidemic. Parents are urged to keep symptomatic pupils at home.