A man was handed a lengthy prison sentence, with several individuals describing harrowing experiences that contributed to his conviction.

Sweltering conditions are expected to last several days with meteorologists warning of potentially record-breaking temperatures, prompting health agencies to issue alerts and urge sensible precautions to beat the heat.

A new report highlights how officials overlooked serious wrongdoing due to worries about seeming prejudiced, prompting high-level apologies and proposals for stronger legislation, improved record-keeping and greater accountability.