July 20, 2025

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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

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Latest news and developments in Home

Kemi Badenoch's missteps are a 'total disaster' for Conservatives, say insiders

Kemi Badenoch's missteps are a 'total disaster' for Conservatives, say insiders

May 28, 2025
The Conservative Party in the UK is facing challenges, especially after losing many local election seats and party members switching to Reform UK. Kemi Badenoch, the party leader, has been under scrutiny, though most do not believe she is the main issue.

Key Facts:

  • Kemi Badenoch became the leader of the Conservative Party less than seven months ago.
  • Local elections at the start of the month were disappointing for the Conservatives.
  • The party has been losing councillors at a rate of about two per day since the local elections.
  • Six councillors have shifted their allegiance from the Conservatives to Reform UK recently.
  • The party has lost 44 councillors since polling day.
  • One independent councillor has joined the Conservatives since May.
  • The trend of losing councillors is seen as a sign of weakening for the Conservative Party.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
More than £1bn earmarked for battlefield tech

More than £1bn earmarked for battlefield tech

May 28, 2025
The UK Ministry of Defence plans to spend over £1 billion on technology to make battlefield decisions quicker and more effective. This funding is part of the government's defence review, which also aims to raise defence spending. Key technologies include a Digital Targeting Web that uses satellites and drones, and a focus on cyber defence and attacks, reflecting lessons from current conflicts.

Key Facts:

  • The UK will invest over £1 billion in developing battlefield technology.
  • The government plans to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with the goal of increasing it to 3% later.
  • A Digital Targeting Web will help soldiers by providing fast information using satellites, aircraft, and drones.
  • The Defence Secretary highlighted the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and software, learning from Ukraine's experience in its conflict.
  • The UK military has experienced more than 90,000 cyber-attacks in the past two years.
  • A new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command will oversee cyber operations and electronic warfare.
  • The UK's offensive cyber-attacks and defensive measures are part of adapting to modern warfare tactics.
  • The government's increased spending on defence stems from reallocating funds from cuts to the foreign aid budget.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Widely mocked, wildly celebrated - how Chelsea won the Conference League

Widely mocked, wildly celebrated - how Chelsea won the Conference League

May 28, 2025
Chelsea won the UEFA Conference League by defeating Real Betis 4-1. This victory added to Chelsea’s record of winning all five major UEFA club tournaments. The win was celebrated as an important achievement for the team.

Key Facts:

  • Chelsea won the Conference League by beating Real Betis 4-1.
  • This victory makes Chelsea the first team to win all five major UEFA club tournaments.
  • The win was Chelsea's first trophy since the FIFA Club World Cup in February 2022.
  • Chelsea made significant team changes throughout the tournament, averaging 8.5 lineup changes per European game.
  • The Conference League requires English clubs to go through a playoff round to enter.
  • Key players like Cole Palmer played crucial roles, setting up goals and contributing to the win.
  • The victory is viewed as a platform for Chelsea as they head into next season’s Champions League.
  • Throughout the tournament, 18 Chelsea players participated in more Conference League games than Premier League matches.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
GB's Jarman & Evans win silver in mixed team event

GB's Jarman & Evans win silver in mixed team event

May 28, 2025
Great Britain's Jake Jarman and Ruby Evans won a silver medal in the first mixed team event at the European Gymnastics Championships in Leipzig. The event combined male and female gymnasts for the first time in a major championship, with Germany winning gold and Italy taking bronze.

Key Facts:

  • Jake Jarman and Ruby Evans represented Great Britain.
  • They won silver in the first-ever European mixed team gymnastics event.
  • The competition took place in Leipzig, Germany.
  • Jarman excelled on the high bar; Evans performed well on the beam.
  • Germany’s Timo Eder and Karina Schoenmaier won gold.
  • Italy's Manila Esposito and Lorenzo Casali won the bronze medal.
  • Less than 0.1 points separated the top two teams in the final.
  • This mixed team event will be introduced at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
England's Morris out of Euros after second ACL injury

England's Morris out of Euros after second ACL injury

May 28, 2025
Ella Morris, a defender for England, injured her knee and will miss Euro 2025. She had just been called up to the senior team but now needs surgery. Manchester City's Laura Blindkilde Brown will replace her in the squad.

Key Facts:

  • Ella Morris suffered a knee injury (ACL) during training with the England team.
  • The ACL injury means she will miss Euro 2025 and require surgery.
  • Morris was a recent call-up from the Under-23 squad for Nations League games.
  • This is Morris's second ACL injury; the first was at age 17.
  • Laura Blindkilde Brown has been called up to replace Morris in the England squad.
  • England is also without goalkeeper Mary Earps, who retired recently.
  • FIFA is studying if hormonal changes cause more ACL injuries in women.
  • England will play Portugal at Wembley and then face Spain.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Butt-lift injector banned from carrying out procedures

Butt-lift injector banned from carrying out procedures

May 28, 2025
A BBC investigation revealed that Ricky Sawyer, who performed Brazilian butt-lift (BBL) procedures, has been banned from carrying out cosmetic procedures in England and Wales due to their risky nature. The court issued an injunction after evidence showed these procedures led to serious injuries, with Sawyer performing surgeries without proper qualifications or legal approvals.

Key Facts:

  • Ricky Sawyer, a self-proclaimed beauty consultant, has been banned from performing cosmetic procedures in England and Wales.
  • The Brazilian butt-lift (BBL) involves injecting a large amount of dermal filler into the buttocks.
  • A BBC investigation found Sawyer doing these risky procedures in a London office building.
  • The court's injunction stops Sawyer from performing or helping to perform invasive cosmetic procedures.
  • Nearly 40 women reported serious medical issues, like infections, after treatments by Sawyer.
  • The court's decision was influenced by disturbing video evidence and pictures showing severe injuries.
  • Sawyer cannot have the related surgical tools or medicines unless prescribed for personal use.
  • Sawyer has 21 days to contest the court's injunction.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Five arrested over protests at Gal Gadot filming

Five arrested over protests at Gal Gadot filming

May 28, 2025
Five people were arrested in London for allegedly disrupting the filming of Gal Gadot's movie, "The Runner." The protests are reportedly linked to Gal Gadot's support for Israel, and police acted to prevent further disruptions and address legal concerns.

Key Facts:

  • Gal Gadot is filming a new movie called "The Runner" in London.
  • Five protesters were arrested for allegedly interrupting the filming.
  • The police said the protests targeted the film because Gadot is Israeli.
  • The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic & Cultural Boycott of Israel supports a boycott of Gadot's films.
  • Protests occurred at different places in London recently.
  • Police used Section 241 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act, which deals with blocking access to workplaces, as grounds for arrest.
  • Two arrests relate to past protests, while three are linked to recent activities.
  • The police state they respect peaceful protests but will act if there is serious disruption or crime.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Kneecap axed from TRNSMT festival over police concerns

Kneecap axed from TRNSMT festival over police concerns

May 28, 2025
The Irish rap group Kneecap has been removed from performing at the TRNSMT festival in Glasgow due to police concerns about safety. This decision followed the arrest of a band member for a terror charge and controversial comments made by the group at a previous event.

Key Facts:

  • Kneecap is an Irish-language rap group that was scheduled to perform at the TRNSMT festival in Glasgow.
  • Police Scotland expressed concerns about a possible need for significant policing if they performed.
  • A band member was charged with a terror offense for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah-supporting flag at a London event.
  • The group faced criticism for comments made at a past show about violence towards politicians.
  • The group is still scheduled to play at the Glastonbury festival.
  • Kneecap plans to set up another show in Glasgow to compensate for the festival cancellation.
  • TRNSMT promoters confirmed the group's removal due to police safety concerns.
  • The band member charged, known as Mo Chara, is set to appear in court on June 18.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Liverpool parade crash charge + Trump tariff chaos

Liverpool parade crash charge + Trump tariff chaos

May 28, 2025
Announcements were made by the UK police and US courts regarding incidents in Liverpool and involving tariffs by former US President Donald Trump.

Key Facts:

  • UK police made announcements related to a crash at a parade in Liverpool.
  • Charges have been filed in connection to the Liverpool parade crash.
  • In the US, courts issued announcements concerning former President Donald Trump and tariffs.
  • The situation involves complexities around international trade policies.
  • The news was shared on a program called Newscast on BBC Sounds.
  • The information was released on May 29, 2025, and will be available for over a year.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Are (even more of) Israel’s allies turning against them?

Are (even more of) Israel’s allies turning against them?

May 28, 2025
The European Union (EU) has criticized Israel, saying its military actions in Gaza exceed what is needed to fight Hamas. This statement suggests some of Israel's allies may be questioning its actions.

Key Facts:

  • The EU made a statement criticizing Israel's actions in Gaza.
  • The EU said Israel's strikes "go beyond what is necessary" in its conflict with Hamas.
  • Criticism from the EU indicates a possible shift in support from some of Israel’s allies.
  • The news release on this topic was made available on May 28, 2025.
  • The discussion about Israel and its allies is part of a BBC Newscast episode.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Raducanu 'not demotivated' by another heavy Swiatek defeat

Raducanu 'not demotivated' by another heavy Swiatek defeat

May 28, 2025
Emma Raducanu lost to Iga Swiatek in the second round of the French Open, with scores of 6-1, 6-2. This marks Raducanu's fifth consecutive loss to Swiatek and she has yet to win a set against her. Despite this, Raducanu remains motivated and sees the match as a reminder of the improvements she needs to make.

Key Facts:

  • Emma Raducanu lost to Iga Swiatek in the second round of the French Open.
  • The match scores were 6-1, 6-2, marking Raducanu's fifth loss against Swiatek.
  • Raducanu is the 41st-ranked player, while Swiatek is ranked number five in the world.
  • Raducanu has never won a set in her matches against Swiatek.
  • Iga Swiatek, from Poland, is known as the "Queen of Clay" for her strong record at the French Open.
  • Raducanu recently returned to the top 50 in world rankings after a period of injuries.
  • Raducanu expressed that she is not discouraged and recognizes areas where she needs to improve.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
UK prosecutors say 21 charges authorised against Tate brothers

UK prosecutors say 21 charges authorised against Tate brothers

May 28, 2025
UK prosecutors have confirmed that Andrew and Tristan Tate face 21 charges, including rape and human trafficking, once they return to the UK. These charges were approved after evidence was provided by Bedfordshire Police, but their extradition can only happen after legal matters in Romania are settled.

Key Facts:

  • Andrew and Tristan Tate face a total of 21 charges, with Andrew facing 10 charges and Tristan 11.
  • These charges include rape, actual bodily harm, and human trafficking.
  • The charges were authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in 2024.
  • The extradition warrant was issued after reviewing evidence from Bedfordshire Police.
  • The Tate brothers are under investigation in Romania for similar charges, which they deny.
  • They were first arrested in Romania in December 2022 and have since faced other allegations.
  • Their return to the UK is pending until Romanian legal matters are resolved.
  • They have been allowed to travel and have stated they aim to clear their names.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Debt-hit rustler steals 73 ewes from neighbour

Debt-hit rustler steals 73 ewes from neighbour

May 28, 2025
A farmer named Hywel Williams from Carmarthenshire admitted in court to stealing 73 pregnant sheep from his neighbor, Rhodri Llyr Evans, due to financial stress. The sheep were found on Williams' land and at other locations after being reported missing, leading to his 12-month suspended sentence and a requirement to pay compensation.

Key Facts:

  • Hywel Williams, a 40-year-old farmer, stole 73 ewes from his neighbor.
  • The theft was partly due to Williams facing financial difficulties.
  • Some sheep were found on Williams' land; others were found at an abattoir and an auction market.
  • A local tip-off in March led to the discovery of the stolen sheep.
  • Williams said he deeply regretted his actions and felt ashamed.
  • The court heard that livestock theft was common in the area between April 2024 and March 2025.
  • As a consequence, Williams received a 12-month suspended sentence and must perform 250 hours of unpaid work and pay over £5,000 in compensation.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Man Utd booed off after defeat in Malaysia

Man Utd booed off after defeat in Malaysia

May 28, 2025
Manchester United lost 1-0 to the ASEAN All-Stars in a post-season match in Malaysia. Their head coach, Ruben Amorim, thinks the loss and the boos from the crowd could motivate the players. The team recently completed a tough season, finishing 15th in the Premier League.

Key Facts:

  • Manchester United lost 1-0 to the ASEAN All-Stars in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  • Ruben Amorim, United's head coach, feels the boos could benefit the team.
  • United finished 15th in the Premier League with 42 points, their worst since the 1973-74 season.
  • United failed to qualify for the Champions League after losing the Europa League final.
  • A transfer of Wolves striker Matheus Cunha to United is in process, but not confirmed.
  • United's tour in Asia is expected to generate about $10 million for the club.
  • Veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton is set to sign a one-year contract extension with United.
  • United is competing with Chelsea to sign Ipswich striker Liam Delap.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Have Trump's tariff dreams been shattered?

Have Trump's tariff dreams been shattered?

May 28, 2025
A news segment titled "Have Trump's tariff dreams been shattered?" was released by BBC Sounds on May 29, 2025. The segment is available for over a year and discusses the effectiveness of tariffs imposed during Trump's presidency.

Key Facts:

  • The podcast episode is titled "Have Trump's tariff dreams been shattered?"
  • It was released by BBC Sounds on May 29, 2025.
  • The episode is available for listening for over a year.
  • It discusses tariffs, which are taxes on goods imported into a country.
  • The focus is on tariffs imposed during the presidency of Donald Trump.
  • The episode is part of the Americast series on BBC Sounds.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Is the Trump-Musk bromance now over?

Is the Trump-Musk bromance now over?

May 28, 2025
The relationship between former President Donald Trump and technology entrepreneur Elon Musk has reportedly faced challenges. Musk has publicly disagreed with Trump on certain issues.

Key Facts:

  • Elon Musk is a well-known figure in the technology industry.
  • Donald Trump served as the President of the United States.
  • The two have had a previously friendly relationship.
  • Musk has publicly expressed disagreements with Trump.
  • The specific issues of disagreement were not detailed in the article.
  • This content was made available on BBC Sounds on May 28, 2025.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Cats distinguish owner's smell from stranger's, study finds

Cats distinguish owner's smell from stranger's, study finds

May 28, 2025
A study by Tokyo University of Agriculture found that cats can tell the difference between their owner's smell and a stranger's smell. The research showed cats spent more time sniffing the scent of unknown people compared to their owner's scent, indicating they can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar humans based on smell.

Key Facts:

  • The study involved 30 cats presented with different smell samples.
  • Odours were collected from the owner, a stranger, and from a clean swab.
  • Cats sniffed the stranger's scent longer than their owner's scent or a clean swab.
  • Cats use their strong sense of smell to recognize and interact with other cats.
  • It is not yet clear if cats can identify specific people by smell.
  • Cats also rubbed their faces against the tubes, a behavior to mark their scent.
  • Previous studies show cats can recognize human voices and body language.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
'I don't think they have daughters' - French Open night session debate reignites

'I don't think they have daughters' - French Open night session debate reignites

May 28, 2025
The French Open has not featured a women's singles match in its primetime night sessions since 2023, with a total of only four women's matches in night slots since the sessions began in 2021. Former tennis player Ons Jabeur and the WTA highlight this disparity and call for more balance in match scheduling to better showcase women's tennis.

Key Facts:

  • Jack Draper will play Gael Monfils in the French Open night session on Thursday.
  • Since 2021, only 4 out of 44 night session matches at Court Philippe Chatrier have been women's singles.
  • The last women's night match was Aryna Sabalenka vs. Sloane Stephens in 2023.
  • Ons Jabeur, a former tennis player, criticizes the lack of women's matches in primetime slots.
  • The French Tennis Federation has not officially commented but plans to discuss this soon.
  • FFT president Gilles Moretton stated that the best match for spectators is chosen for night sessions.
  • The WTA encourages balanced scheduling to highlight both women's and men's tennis.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
BBC Verify examines footage of chaos at aid site in Gaza

BBC Verify examines footage of chaos at aid site in Gaza

May 28, 2025
BBC Verify investigated a chaotic incident at an aid distribution center in Gaza where 47 people were reportedly injured. This center, run by a US and Israeli-backed group, aims to distribute aid without using the UN.

Key Facts:

  • The event took place at an aid distribution center in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza.
  • 47 people were reportedly injured during the chaos at the site.
  • The distribution center is operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
  • This foundation uses American security contractors.
  • The group seeks to provide aid independently of the United Nations (UN).
  • BBC Verify examined footage and details related to the incident.
  • The UN Human Rights Office commented on the situation.
  • BBC Verify team involved includes Merlyn Thomas, Shayan Sardarizadeh, Joshua Cheetham, Sherie Ryder, with graphics by Mesut Ersoz.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Police 'increasingly concerned' for missing Cole Cooper

Police 'increasingly concerned' for missing Cole Cooper

May 28, 2025
Police are looking for Cole Cooper, a 19-year-old who has been missing since May 7. His family and police are worried since Cole hasn't been in touch, which is unusual. Police are actively investigating and asking people with information to come forward.

Key Facts:

  • Cole Cooper, 19, was last seen on May 7 in Longcroft, Falkirk.
  • Police have spoken with people at over 200 homes and reviewed over 1,000 hours of CCTV footage.
  • The last confirmed sighting from CCTV was on May 4 around Nisbet Drive and Cumbernauld Road.
  • Cole is described as 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, with short brown hair, last seen wearing a black jacket and black jogging bottoms.
  • Family considers the disappearance unusual, expressing worry about potential harm.
  • A recent search involved community members, helicopters, and drones to find Cole.
  • Police are asking anyone in the Glasgow Road area who may have seen something to share information.
  • Cole has connections to the Falkirk, Denny, Cumbernauld, and Paisley areas.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories