National News

HMRC Announces Major Pension Tax System Overhaul Starting 2025

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 Ravages UK with Severe Power Cuts and Disruption

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.

Three Network Outage Leaves Thousands Without Service Amid Storm Éowyn

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.

Teenager Sentenced to Life for Taylor Swift-Themed Dance Class Massacre

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.

Trump Orders Full Declassification of JFK, RFK, and MLK Assassination Records

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.