UK close to rejoining Erasmus from January 2027, in a Brexit reset for universities. A deal could be sealed before Christmas, with optimism on both sides and an EU route for UK institutions to apply next year. London seeks a better price after being offered a 30% discount.
Campaigners have launched legal action to halt an NHS-backed trial of puberty blockers involving about 220 participants. A senior Conservative has criticised the plan and urged ministers to stop it, while supporters say the study is regulated and designed to assess safety and outcomes.
Official modelling suggests the drive to hit net zero by 2050 could add about £500 a year to the average household, reflecting higher spending on energy networks and heating upgrades. Ed Miliband faces warnings to reassess timelines and funding to avoid a heavier burden than a slower pathway.
A report by the Runnymede Trust and Reprieve says the UK runs a two‑tier approach to revoking nationality, with over 200 citizenships removed since 2010—well above France. It finds people of colour up to 12 times likelier to lose status, leaving some stranded in detention overseas with cases unresolved.
Labour pledges £3.5bn to tackle homelessness, aiming to halve rough sleeping and stop families being stuck in B&Bs. Housing minister Steve Reed says the plan will make homelessness rare and brief. A shelter estimates 382,600 people are without a secure home this Christmas.
A darts champion is reportedly kept grounded with just £50 a week in pocket money, a leading promoter says. Despite recent title success and earnings, the player’s family insists on normality and discipline.
Critics accuse the PM of edging towards a closer EU relationship after the Chancellor signalled openness to a customs union. Opponents say this defies the 2016 vote; supporters argue it could reduce trade friction and aid growth. The government faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance.
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.
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.
The Fed cut interest rates to a three-year low, its third reduction in a row, saying a softening jobs market now outweighs inflation. Powell said the call was close, policymakers were split, and guidance remains data-dependent amid risks to employment and growth.
World Cup supporters travelling to the US face stricter entry checks: applicants must list five years of social media accounts on visa forms. Posts will be reviewed for security and character, and entry can be refused for offensive or risky content, so travellers are advised to review profiles.