Home News - The Actual News

How one woman's racist tweet sparked a free speech row

May 25, 2025

Lucy Connolly was sentenced to 31 months in jail for a tweet that called for violence against asylum seekers, which was viewed over 310,000 times. Her case sparked a debate about free speech limits and the legal system, but a court upheld her sentence, saying it was not too harsh.

Key Facts:

Lucy Connolly wrote a tweet asking for asylum seeker hotels to be set on fire.
The tweet followed a false rumor linking an immigrant to killings in Southport.
Connolly had about 9,000 followers on social media at the time.
The tweet was viewed 310,000 times before it was deleted a few hours later.
A court sentenced her to 31 months for inciting racial hatred.
The Court of Appeal judges refused to reduce her sentence.
Connolly's appeal was supported by the Free Speech Union.
The case highlighted concerns about free speech and police actions online.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Farage commits to reinstating winter fuel payment

May 25, 2025

Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has pledged to restore winter fuel payments for pensioners and remove the cap on benefits for families with more than two children if the party gains governmental power. This comes as the Labour Party, led by Sir Keir Starmer, faces internal pressure and considers changes to these policies as well.

Key Facts:

Reform UK wants to bring back full winter fuel payments for pensioners.
Reform UK plans to remove the limit on benefits for families with more than two children.
The winter fuel payment is a lump sum of up to £300 for older pensioners.
More than 10 million pensioners did not receive full winter fuel payments last year.
The two-child benefit cap affects most families with more than two children born after April 2017.
Sir Keir Starmer has indicated interest in changing these policies but has not set a timeline or method.
Labour Party figures, including Gordon Brown, have criticized the two-child benefit cap.
Reform UK says it will fund these changes by cutting net zero projects and stopping the use of hotels for asylum seekers.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

The Papers: Child benefit cap 'to be lifted' and fires 'twist'

May 24, 2025

The UK government plans to remove the cap on child benefits, which limits financial help to two children per family. This change could cost around £3.5 billion. Meanwhile, there are investigations into arson attacks linked to the UK politician Sir Keir Starmer with possible connections to Russia.

Key Facts:

The UK government plans to eliminate the two-child benefit cap.
Removing the cap could cost about £3.5 billion.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage may also commit to scrapping this cap and restoring full winter payments.
Arson attacks connected to Sir Keir Starmer are under investigation for possible Russian involvement.
Three men, two Ukrainians and one Romanian, are charged in connection to these fires.
Sir Alan Bates, a former postmaster, criticizes the government over Post Office scandal compensation issues.
Strictly star Wynne Evans apologized for a comment he made on the show, denying any sexist intention.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

How Arsenal's comeback queens achieved the unthinkable

May 24, 2025

Arsenal's women's football team won the Women's Champions League for the first time in 18 years by beating Barcelona 1-0 in the final held in Lisbon. This significant victory came after a challenging season in which the team had to progress through three rounds of qualifying and interim manager Renee Slegers led them to this unexpected triumph.

Key Facts:

Arsenal Women's team won the Champions League final against Barcelona with a score of 1-0.
This was the first time in 18 years that Arsenal won the Women's Champions League.
Renee Slegers started as the assistant manager and later became the permanent manager, leading the team to victory.
Arsenal was considered unlikely to win, especially after losing matches earlier and changing their manager.
The team played 15 games in the Champions League, the most ever by a team before winning the trophy.
Arsenal managed to overturn first-leg defeats against Real Madrid and Lyon to reach the finals.
Key club figures and fans attended the final, showing strong support for the team.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

$Bordeaux 'out of order' in fracas with Pollock$

Bordeaux 'out of order' in fracas with Pollock

May 24, 2025

In the Champions Cup final, there was an incident after Bordeaux-Begles beat Northampton 28-20, where Bordeaux players confronted Northampton's Henry Pollock. Northampton's director of rugby accused Bordeaux's players of inappropriate behavior, and the situation is under review by officials.

Key Facts:

Bordeaux-Begles defeated Northampton 28-20 in the Champions Cup final.
After the match, there was a confrontation involving Bordeaux prop Jefferson Poirot and Northampton player Henry Pollock.
Northampton director of rugby Phil Dowson described the incident as involving "foul play."
Pollock, a 20-year-old player, was upset by the incident.
Bordeaux's Mathieu Jalibert mentioned that tensions arose due to comments he felt were disrespectful towards his club.
The incident may be reviewed by a citing commissioner if considered a possible red card offense.
Pictures on Bordeaux's Instagram showed a player mimicking Pollock's previous try celebration, adding to the tension.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

New rules may take unfinished housing sites off developers

May 24, 2025

New government rules could let local councils take over housing sites left unfinished by developers. Developers will need to meet building deadlines and report progress yearly to get planning permission. The aim is to build 1.5 million new homes in England by 2029.

Key Facts:

Developers may lose land to councils if they leave housing sites unfinished for too long.
Before getting planning permission, developers must agree to timelines and report progress each year.
The government wants to build 1.5 million new homes in England by 2029 to help tackle the housing crisis.
Developers who repeatedly miss targets could lose future permissions and face financial penalties.
A Planning Reform Working Paper outlining these rules will be published soon.
Housing charity Shelter supports the plans, highlighting the need for more social housing.
There are 1.3 million families on social housing waiting lists, and a record number of people in temporary accommodation.
The government plans to test mixed-tenure housing developments to speed up building affordable homes.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Amorim to give Man Utd fans 'apology' for poor season

May 24, 2025

Ruben Amorim, the head coach of Manchester United, plans to apologize to the club's fans after their final Premier League match against Aston Villa. Manchester United's season has been tough, and they will not participate in Europe's top football competitions next season. Amorim feels it's important to thank the fans despite the difficult year.

Key Facts:

Ruben Amorim became Manchester United's head coach in November.
Manchester United will play their final Premier League game against Aston Villa.
The team lost the Europa League final to Tottenham, ending hopes for the Champions League.
This season, Manchester United had one of their worst domestic performances since the 1973-74 season.
The club will miss playing in European competitions next season for only the second time since 1990.
Amorim plans to apologize to fans at Old Trafford instead of following the usual lap of appreciation.
Fans are protesting against how the club is run by the owners, the Glazer family.
Despite the challenges, club officials believe most fans support Amorim as the right person to lead a revival.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

'We're in the Premier League baby'

May 24, 2025

Sunderland AFC won the Championship play-off final against Sheffield United with a last-minute goal by teenager Tommy Watson. This victory means Sunderland is promoted to the Premier League, ending their eight-year absence from the top league.

Key Facts:

Sunderland AFC defeated Sheffield United with a final score of 2-1.
Teenager Tommy Watson scored the winning goal in the 95th minute.
The match determines who moves up to the Premier League from the Championship.
Sunderland returns to the Premier League after being out for eight years.
Fans are excited about Sunderland playing against their local rivals, Newcastle United.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

'Aberdeen savour the most perfect game ever played'

May 24, 2025

Aberdeen won the Scottish Cup for the first time in 35 years, defeating Celtic in a penalty shootout. The victory guarantees Aberdeen a spot in European football until December, which is worth around £6 million.

Key Facts:

Aberdeen won the Scottish Cup by beating Celtic in a penalty shootout.
This win ended a 35-year wait for Aberdeen since their last Scottish Cup victory.
The game finished 1-1 in regular time, with Aberdeen winning 4-3 on penalties.
Around 20,000 Aberdeen fans celebrated the victory.
Aberdeen's win secures them a place in European football until December.
The financial benefit of this win is estimated to be at least £6 million.
Celtic had previously defeated Aberdeen convincingly in their season matches.
The victory was a surprise as Celtic were the favorites, having won all 14 prior matches at Hampden under manager Brendan Rodgers.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

'How my pet hamster led me to my future wife'

May 24, 2025

Chris Davies bought a hamster named Popcorn for his daughter, Lily, which unexpectedly helped him through a tough time after a breakup. Popcorn's affection and viral TikTok videos led Chris to connect with Carrie, who he is now engaged to marry.

Key Facts:

Chris Davies bought a hamster named Popcorn for his daughter.
After experiencing a breakup, Popcorn helped Chris cope with his anxiety.
Videos of Popcorn's affectionate behavior became popular on TikTok, gaining over 140,000 followers.
Chris and Lily wrote a book about Popcorn, published in May 2024.
Through TikTok, Chris connected with Carrie, a fellow Cardiff resident.
Chris and Carrie discovered they lived near each other and shared a love for animals.
Chris and Carrie are now engaged and plan to marry in December.
Their wedding cake will include a tribute to Popcorn.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Bordeaux mix beauty and beast to shatter brave Saints

May 24, 2025

Bordeaux defeated Northampton to win the Champions Cup final. Northampton's Henry Pollock played well, but Bordeaux's strong team made the difference, and some of Pollock's scores were disallowed.

Key Facts:

Bordeaux won the Champions Cup final against Northampton.
Henry Pollock, a player for Northampton, had previously won 14 out of 17 games this season.
Despite performing well, some of Pollock's tries were ruled out by officials.
Bordeaux's strong performance included scoring an average of 42 points per game in knockout stages.
Northampton was level with Bordeaux at 20-20 by halftime.
Bordeaux used a strong mix of starters and substitutes to maintain energy and secure the win.
Coach Phil Dowson claimed Bordeaux players targeted Pollock after the game.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Iranian director speaks out after Cannes triumph

May 24, 2025

Iranian director Jafar Panahi won the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his film "It Was Just an Accident." Panahi, who has faced imprisonment and a film-making ban in Iran, spoke against the Iranian regime's restrictions and called for freedom and unity among Iranians. The film, inspired by his time in prison, highlights abuses of power.

Key Facts:

Jafar Panahi, an Iranian director, won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Panahi has been imprisoned and banned from film-making in Iran.
His film "It Was Just an Accident" is inspired by his personal experiences in prison.
The film addresses themes of state violence and abuse of power.
Panahi was freed from his last prison sentence in February 2023.
This was Panahi's first international festival appearance in 15 years due to a travel ban.
He plans to return to Iran after the festival despite potential legal risks.
The Cannes award ceremony included French actress Juliette Binoche and Australian actress Cate Blanchett.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Shinnie 'could retire today and be a happy man' after Scottish Cup win

May 24, 2025

Aberdeen's football team won the Scottish Cup by defeating Celtic in a penalty shootout, marking their first win in the tournament in 35 years. The victory was especially meaningful for team captain Graeme Shinnie, who has long wished to lead Aberdeen to a cup win.

Key Facts:

Graeme Shinnie captained Aberdeen to a Scottish Cup victory over Celtic on his 300th appearance for the club.
Aberdeen had not won the Scottish Cup for 35 years before this victory.
Shinnie had lost four previous domestic cup finals, including three against Celtic.
Aberdeen's goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel, accidentally diverted a cross into his own goal, allowing Aberdeen to equalize.
Dimitar Mitov, Aberdeen's goalkeeper, saved two penalties during the shootout.
Manager Jimmy Thelin changed the team's formation to a 5-3-2 system, which helped them restrict Celtic's scoring opportunities.
Players and team officials stated that confidence and preparation were key to their victory.
The win is described as a historic achievement and emotional moment for both players and fans.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Monaco pole 'a big thing' for Norris but there's jeopardy

May 24, 2025

Lando Norris earned pole position at the Monaco Grand Prix, which he sees as progress after struggling earlier in the season. He believes this strong performance is a step forward and aims to maintain consistency in upcoming races.

Key Facts:

Lando Norris took pole position at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Norris has been trailing his teammate, Oscar Piastri, in the championship standings.
This was Norris' first pole since the Australian Grand Prix at the start of the season.
Norris beat Ferrari's Charles Leclerc by 0.109 seconds to secure pole.
Norris mentioned that a different driving style and layout of the Monaco track helped his performance.
He emphasized the importance of consistency in achieving better results.
McLaren's team principal praised Norris for his improvement and hard work.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

How Watson went from outcast to Sunderland promotion hero

May 24, 2025

Sunderland defeated Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, with Tommy Watson scoring the winning goal. Watson, who is set to join Brighton and Hove Albion, secured Sunderland's promotion to the Premier League in his last game with the club.

Key Facts:

Tommy Watson is a Sunderland player who has signed to move to Brighton for £10 million.
Watson scored the winning goal in the 95th minute against Sheffield United in the play-off final.
This win secures Sunderland's return to the Premier League after eight years.
In his 22nd game for Sunderland, this was Watson's third goal for the club.
Despite being booed by some fans earlier, Watson was supported by his team.
Sunderland’s Academy of Light has produced several first-team players, including Watson.
Former players like Jordan Pickford and Jordan Henderson have also come from Sunderland's academy.
Sunderland's promotion supports the club's focus on developing young players.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Bethell comments 'twisted to suit agenda' - Stokes

May 24, 2025

Captain Ben Stokes clarified that his comments about cricketer Jacob Bethell returning to the England team were misunderstood as suggesting upcoming selection changes. Stokes explained he was not indicating immediate changes to the team and emphasized communication within the team is separate from public speculation.

Key Facts:

Ben Stokes is the captain of the England cricket team.
Stokes commented on Jacob Bethell possibly returning to the squad for a series against India.
Bethell is currently playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and did not play against Zimbabwe.
Stokes clarified his remarks were not meant to suggest any definite team changes.
Stokes made clear to teammate Ollie Pope that his position was not under threat.
Jacob Bethell showed strong performance in his previous series against New Zealand.
Stokes mentioned that team-related conversations are held with Rob Key and Brendon McCullum.
Stokes stressed the importance of separating public comments from actual team decisions.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Boris and Carrie Johnson announce birth of fourth child

May 24, 2025

Boris and Carrie Johnson have announced the birth of their fourth child, a daughter named Poppy Eliza Josephine Johnson, born on May 21. This new addition makes her Boris Johnson's ninth child.

Key Facts:

Boris and Carrie Johnson have welcomed their fourth child, a daughter named Poppy Eliza Josephine Johnson.
Poppy was born on May 21, as shared by Carrie Johnson on Instagram with photos.
This is the couple's fourth child together and Boris Johnson's ninth overall.
Poppy joins her siblings Wilfred, Frank, and Romy.
Pictures shared include Poppy in a bassinet with her siblings and being held by her parents in the hospital.
Carrie Johnson expressed gratitude to the maternity team at University College London Hospital.
Carrie Johnson mentioned that Poppy might be the last addition to their family, referring to her as the "final gang member."
Boris Johnson was the UK Prime Minister from July 2019 to September 2022.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Bordeaux bulldoze Northampton to win Champions Cup

May 24, 2025

Bordeaux-Begles defeated Northampton Saints 28-20 in the Champions Cup final held in Cardiff. The match was tied at halftime, but Bordeaux's strong second-half performance, led by their forwards, secured their victory. This win marks Bordeaux's first European final victory, as they aim to become French and European champions.

Key Facts:

The final score was Bordeaux-Begles 28, Northampton Saints 20.
The game was played in Cardiff.
Bordeaux's forwards were effective in the second half, helping secure the win.
Northampton was tied with Bordeaux 20-20 at halftime.
Alex Coles scored two tries for Northampton in the first half.
Cyril Caseaux from Bordeaux scored the only second-half try.
Bordeaux previously beat four-time champions Toulouse in the semi-finals.
This was Bordeaux's first victory in a European final.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Could More Government U-Turns Be On The Way?

May 24, 2025

A BBC Sounds program discusses potential changes in the government's financial plans. Hosts Laura and Paddy talk about difficult decisions related to government spending.

Key Facts:

The program's name is "Newscast."
The hosts are named Laura and Paddy.
The program discusses government spending decisions.
It was released on May 24, 2025.
The topic is about potential changes, called "U-turns," in government financial plans.
The episode is available for over a year on BBC Sounds.
The discussion lasts for 24 minutes.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories

Mother and three children die in London house fire

May 24, 2025

A mother and her three children died in a house fire in Brent, north-west London. A 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody. The fire involved two homes and required about 70 firefighters to bring it under control.

Key Facts:

A house fire in Brent, north-west London, killed a 43-year-old mother and her three children: a 15-year-old girl, and two boys aged eight and four.
The fire happened on Tillett Close in the early hours, with emergency services called at about 01:20 BST.
A 41-year-old man was arrested outside the house on suspicion of murder.
Two other people, an elderly woman and a teenage girl, were taken to the hospital, but their conditions are not known.
The fire involved two three-storey terraced houses and was controlled by 03:25 BST.
Approximately 70 firefighters from multiple stations worked to control the fire.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by police and the London Fire Brigade.
Local authorities and community members expressed their condolences and are supporting those affected.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories