An oil tanker tied to a sanctions‑busting fleet was damaged in the Mediterranean in an incident involving an uncrewed aircraft. A senior figure linked to the Salisbury poisonings was reportedly killed. The development tightens pressure on illicit energy shipments and aligns with Western sanctions.
Robotic surgery is expanding across the NHS. Surgeons guide precision tools that shorten recovery, cut complications and free up beds. Wider use in urgent operations is expected to lift capacity and save millions through shorter stays and fewer readmissions.
Prince William has become patron of the SAS Regimental Association, backing welfare support for serving personnel, veterans and families. The role aims to honour the unit’s achievements and boost care and funding for those connected to it.
Retailers report a weak December, blaming the Chancellor’s £30bn Budget tax rises for dampening spending after Black Friday. With households cautious and costs rising, shops warn the golden quarter is faltering and urge the Treasury to rethink rates relief and measures to boost high-street trade.
Alan Milburn will lead a review urging No 10 to overhaul youth employment, training and pay to avoid a “lost generation”. It will scrutinise the lower youth minimum wage, entry routes and apprenticeships, pushing action to raise prospects, cut insecure work and improve living standards.
David Walliams has been dropped by publisher HarperCollins after an internal investigation into claims he harassed female staff. A junior employee received a five‑figure payout, and colleagues were reportedly told to work in pairs around him. The publisher cited inappropriate conduct concerns.
Children’s author and comedian David Walliams has been dropped by his book publisher following allegations of misconduct towards young women. The move follows complaints under investigation; his representatives have been approached for comment.
Rachel Reeves says she can’t rule out tax rises in 2026, citing global volatility, though she hopes further changes won’t be needed. She says fiscal headroom has improved and signals housing support, including easing mortgage rules for first-time buyers.
EU leaders approved a €90bn multi‑year loan for a neighbouring state, funded via the bloc’s budget after a bid to use frozen assets fell through. Disbursements will be phased and tied to reforms, with audit safeguards. The move aims to stabilise the country’s finances.
EU allies approved a €90bn loan to sustain a partner’s defence and economy for two years. Within hours, an incident in the Mediterranean damaged a tanker linked to a sanctions‑evading shadow fleet. The opposing leader vowed a response, but Western support is set to continue.