HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has unveiled a significant reform of the pension tax system, effective from April 2025, aimed at correcting the overtaxation of pensioners. This change will automate tax code updates for new private pension recipients, reducing the need for year-end adjustments and refund claims.
Storm Éowyn has caused widespread power cuts across the UK, with severe winds leading to significant disruption. Thousands of homes were left without electricity, particularly in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where conditions were described as 'exceptional'. The Met Office issued multiple warnings, including a rare red alert, as recovery efforts continue amidst dangerous conditions.
Storm Éowyn has caused unprecedented disruption across the UK and Ireland, with record-breaking winds leading to widespread power outages, significant infrastructure damage, and tragic fatalities. Authorities urge caution as recovery efforts face further challenges from incoming weather systems.
Three, a major UK mobile network, experienced a significant outage affecting thousands of customers' ability to make or receive calls. The disruption, exacerbated by Storm Éowyn, also impacted smaller networks relying on Three's infrastructure. The company has apologized and is investigating issues with emergency service connections.
Axel Rudakubana, an 18-year-old from Lancashire, has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 52 years for the murders of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport. The attack, which also left eight other children and two adults seriously injured, has been described as 'the most extreme, shocking and serious crime.' Rudakubana, who pleaded guilty to multiple charges including murder and possession of a knife and poison, had a history of violent behavior and had been referred to the government’s Prevent counter-terrorism programme multiple times. The case has prompted a public inquiry and calls for reforms to better protect children.
US President Donald Trump has mandated the declassification of all remaining government documents related to the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, his brother Robert F. Kennedy, and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Signed on 23 January 2025, the executive order requires a plan for the full release of these documents within 15 days for JFK and 45 days for RFK and MLK. This decision aims to address public interest in transparency and skepticism surrounding the official narratives of these historical events. While some praise the move towards government transparency, others criticize it as a political maneuver. The release of these records is anticipated to shed light on one of the most enduring mysteries in American history, though experts caution against expecting groundbreaking revelations.
Storm Éowyn has caused severe weather conditions across the UK, particularly affecting Northern Ireland and Scotland with wind gusts up to 100mph. The Met Office issued a rare red weather warning, indicating a 'danger to life'. The storm led to widespread disruption, including school closures, public transport suspensions, and thousands of homes without power. Emergency services were overwhelmed with incidents of structural damage and fallen trees. In Scotland, winds exceeded 90mph, causing power outages and travel chaos, with ScotRail cancelling all services and schools closing as a precaution. Coastal flooding and infrastructure damage were also reported. As the storm moves northeast, conditions are easing, but further warnings for snow and ice have been issued for the weekend.
On Thursday, 23 January 2025, Three UK experienced a significant network outage affecting thousands of customers, including users of Smarty and iD Mobile. The issue, starting around 1pm, disrupted phone calls and, in some cases, access to emergency services. Despite initial reports that data services and 999 calls were unaffected, customer complaints prompted an investigation. The outage tracker Downdetector recorded over 10,000 reports, with social media flooded with frustrations over missed appointments and stranded individuals. Three UK apologized and restored services overnight but warned of potential further disruptions due to Storm Éowyn. Ofcom is in contact with Three to assess the situation, and while compensation eligibility remains unclear, guidelines suggest refunds may be appropriate. This incident follows regulatory approval for Three's £16.5bn merger with Vodafone, expected to complete in 2025. Three has deployed additional engineering resources to mitigate further disruptions and advises customers to restart devices or toggle airplane mode to restore service.
In a historic move, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared emergency martial law amidst escalating tensions, citing actions by the opposition Democratic Party as a threat to democracy. This unprecedented declaration since the country's transition to democracy involves stringent restrictions on political activities and media. The political landscape of South Korea is set to face further upheaval as both national and international observers remain on high alert.
Former television presenter Melanie Sykes has discussed her reasons for leaving the TV industry, pointing to her negative experiences on the BBC's 'Celebrity MasterChef' as a major factor. In her memoir 'Illuminated', she criticised judge Gregg Wallace for his unprofessional conduct, which she described as 'jaw-dropping.' Sykes alleged that Wallace's behaviour created a hostile environment on set, and expressed her disappointment after being advised by him that participating in the show would benefit her career. She has since chosen to exit the television industry. In light of these accusations, alongside broader allegations against Wallace from others spanning 17 years, an external review is being undertaken by Banijay UK. Despite calls to suspend 'MasterChef,' the BBC continues to air the show, although Wallace has stepped back from his hosting duties. Sykes and other former contestants are now calling for systemic changes to improve work culture in the television sector.