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Cooper backs PM over 'island of strangers' remark

May 13, 2025

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper supported Prime Minister Keir Starmer's use of the phrase "an island of strangers" regarding immigration, stating that it highlights the need for integration and stricter immigration controls. Some Labour MPs criticized the phrase as divisive, but Cooper and Downing Street rejected comparisons to historical speeches by Enoch Powell.

Key Facts:

Yvette Cooper defended Prime Minister Keir Starmer's speech on immigration.
Starmer said the UK risks becoming "an island of strangers" without stricter immigration controls.
Some Labour MPs criticized the language as divisive, but Cooper disagreed.
Cooper emphasized the importance of integration and English language tests for migrants.
The phrase drew comparisons to Enoch Powell's controversial 1968 speech, which Cooper and Downing Street rejected.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said he understood the context but would not use the same language.
Conservative Robert Jenrick agreed with the need for controlled immigration.
Labour MP Nadia Whittome argued the language risked increasing racial abuse and asked for more careful language.

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UK on track for driest spring on record with no rain in sight

May 13, 2025

The UK is experiencing its driest spring on record, with unusually warm and sunny weather dominating. The Environment Agency warns there is a medium risk of drought this summer unless significant rain arrives soon.

Key Facts:

The UK is having its driest spring on record, with an average rainfall of just 80mm compared to the usual 229mm.
Some areas like Greater London, Hampshire, and Yorkshire have had no rain for 20 days.
High pressure is causing settled, dry, and mostly sunny weather, likely to continue for at least another 10 days.
There is a medium risk of drought this summer according to the Environment Agency.
Reservoirs are currently around 80% full, which is less than the 90% from last spring.
In 2022, the UK experienced a drought with hosepipe bans affecting 19 million people.
Temperatures are expected to be above average, reaching the low to mid-twenties in most areas.
The Environment Agency is monitoring the situation and may consider water use restrictions if dry weather persists.

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'Bamboozled' Draper recovers to reach Rome quarters

May 13, 2025

Britain's Jack Draper won a tough match against France's Corentin Moutet at the Italian Open, reaching the quarter-finals. Despite losing the first set, Draper came back to win 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 in Rome.

Key Facts:

Jack Draper is currently ranked fifth in the world in tennis.
Draper played against Corentin Moutet and won in three sets: 1-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Draper had a challenging start but adjusted and won the match.
There was a brief incident involving a video review, which Draper won.
Moutet questioned a call during the match but wasn't satisfied with the video review.
Draper will next face Carlos Alcaraz, a top player who has won major tournaments.
Draper previously won his first Masters 1000 title this season.

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Who is Peter Sullivan and why was he jailed?

May 13, 2025

Peter Sullivan was in prison for 38 years, believed to be one of the longest wrongful imprisonments in British history, after being wrongly convicted of murdering Diane Sindall in 1986. His conviction was overturned after a Court of Appeal hearing, revealing flaws in the initial police investigation.

Key Facts:

Peter Sullivan was jailed for 38 years for a murder he did not commit.
Diane Sindall, the murder victim, was a 21-year-old woman from Wirral.
She was last seen alive leaving work at the Wellington pub in 1986.
Her body was found the next morning in Birkenhead, after she ran out of petrol and began walking home.
Evidence from the BBC and court documents was key in understanding what happened and eventually overturning Sullivan's conviction.
The murder led to significant fear in the area and increased measures for women's safety.
Merseyside Police interviewed 3,000 people during their investigation.
The case prompted the first "Reclaim the Night" march on Merseyside, advocating for women's safety.

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Pro-Gaza streamer says he was detained at US airport

May 13, 2025

Hasan Piker, a well-known online personality, says he was detained by officials at a US airport due to his political views. US authorities denied targeting him for his beliefs and described the inspection as routine.

Key Facts:

Hasan Piker has over six million followers on platforms like Twitch, Instagram, TikTok, and X.
Piker claims he was detained by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport after returning from France.
He states he was questioned about his views on the Middle East and political topics, including Donald Trump.
US official Tricia McLaughlin said the inspection was routine and not related to Piker's political beliefs.
Customs and Border Protection stated they were following the law and released Piker promptly after the inspection.
Piker expressed concern that his questioning aimed to intimidate him and silence dissenting voices.
His experience follows similar incidents where US immigration officials detained pro-Palestine student protesters.
The White House has mentioned a crackdown on anti-semitism on college campuses, referencing immigration enforcement actions.

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Tory Lanez: How the Megan Thee Stallion shooting trial played out

May 13, 2025

Rapper Tory Lanez, serving a 10-year prison sentence for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in 2020, was stabbed 14 times by another inmate and is currently recovering in a hospital. The incident is under investigation by prison officials, and Lanez is reported to be in stable condition.

Key Facts:

Tory Lanez was stabbed 14 times by a fellow prison inmate.
Lanez sustained injuries to his back, torso, head, and face and suffered two collapsed lungs.
The stabbing occurred at the California Correctional Institution, about 75 miles north of Los Angeles.
Lanez is serving a 10-year sentence for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in 2020.
Despite his injuries, Lanez can breathe unassisted and is said to be in good spirits.
Prison officials are investigating the attack but have not disclosed a motive.
During the 2022 trial, Megan Thee Stallion testified that Lanez shot her after a party.
The case has sparked significant public interest and divided opinions among fans and hip-hop artists.

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I became a cocaine addict after retiring, Sir Bradley Wiggins says

May 13, 2025

Sir Bradley Wiggins, a former professional cyclist and Olympic champion, has spoken about his struggles with cocaine addiction following his retirement in 2016. Wiggins, who quit cocaine a year ago, shared that his addiction harmed his family and himself, but he is now recovering with support from people like Lance Armstrong.

Key Facts:

Sir Bradley Wiggins is a retired British cyclist and the first British winner of the Tour de France in 2012.
He has won five Olympic gold medals in cycling.
After retiring, Wiggins developed a cocaine addiction, which he quit a year ago.
His addiction was severe enough that his family feared for his life.
Lance Armstrong, a disqualified cyclist, has supported Wiggins in his recovery from addiction.
Wiggins talked about the 'Jiffy-bag' scandal, which involved a mystery medical package sent in 2011, but investigations did not prove any wrongdoing.
Wiggins was declared bankrupt in June 2024.
Wiggins has spoken publicly about difficult experiences in his past, including issues with his father and being groomed by a coach.

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Sir Chris Hoy says cancer in 'stability period'

May 13, 2025

Sir Chris Hoy, a former Olympic cyclist, was diagnosed with terminal cancer after it spread to his bones. Although doctors initially expected him to have two to four more years, Hoy says he is currently in a stable period of treatment and is feeling well.

Key Facts:

Sir Chris Hoy is a six-time Olympic cycling gold medalist.
He announced he had terminal cancer after it spread from his prostate to his bones.
Hoy is undergoing treatment and has been given two to four years to live.
He feels stable and says the cancer is not heavily impacting his daily life.
Hoy is on constant medication and treatment but continues to enjoy life.
He retired from professional cycling in 2013.
Hoy is known for his achievements in cycling, including 11 World Championship golds.

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Macron to travel to UK for French state visit in July

May 13, 2025

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit the UK for a state visit hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle from July 8 to July 10. This visit aims to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties between the UK and France, following the King and Queen's visit to France in September 2023.

Key Facts:

French President Emmanuel Macron will visit the UK from July 8 to 10, 2024.
King Charles and Queen Camilla will host the visit at Windsor Castle.
The visit will focus on improving trade, cultural, and defense relations between the UK and France.
The visit follows a successful UK state visit to France in September 2023.
King's recent speech to the French Senate highlighted support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion.
The visit will be an attempt to reinforce ties amid discussions on Ukraine and tariffs from the US.
State visits are planned with input from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
The last French state visit to the UK was in 2008 with President Nicolas Sarkozy.

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England Euros bid boosted as Hemp, Stanway and Greenwood return

May 13, 2025

Three key England players, Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway, and Alex Greenwood, have returned to the squad after recovering from injuries. They will join upcoming Women's Nations League matches against Portugal and Spain. This is an important development as the manager plans for the Euro 2025 tournament.

Key Facts:

Lauren Hemp, Georgia Stanway, and Alex Greenwood had knee surgeries and are back in the England squad.
The manager, Sarina Wiegman, has missed several key players due to injuries during the Nations League matches.
England will face Portugal on May 30 and Spain three days later in the Women's Nations League.
The upcoming matches are the last international camp before finalizing the squad for Euro 2025.
Hemp finished the Women's Super League with the most assists despite her five-month injury break.
Greenwood has been a key player for England, usually playing as a center-back or left-back.
Stanway has played in midfield for England in past major tournaments.
Time is limited for some players to recover fully before the European tournament begins on July 2.

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Novak Djokovic splits with coach and former rival Andy Murray after six months

May 13, 2025

Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic have ended their coaching partnership after working together for six months. During this time, Djokovic reached the semifinals of the Australian Open but had a challenging season by his standards. Both Murray and Djokovic expressed gratitude and well-wishes for each other as they part ways.

Key Facts:

Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic decided to end their coaching relationship by mutual agreement.
Murray started coaching Djokovic in November.
Djokovic reached the semifinals of the Australian Open under Murray's guidance.
Djokovic struggled in the 2025 season, losing early in four out of five tournaments.
Djokovic was defeated in the Miami Open final by 19-year-old Jakub Mensik.
Djokovic plans to compete in the Geneva Open and has not won a match on clay this year.
The coaching partnership lasted through only four tournaments, concluding after the Miami Open.

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How assisted dying laws could change across the UK

May 13, 2025

Lawmakers in Scotland and the UK are considering bills to legalize assisted dying. The proposed laws set conditions for terminally ill adults to choose this option, with strict safeguards to prevent abuse.

Key Facts:

Scottish lawmakers will discuss and vote on a bill allowing assisted dying.
To qualify in Scotland, applicants must be terminally ill, over 18, live in Scotland for over a year, and have the mental ability to decide.
If the bill gets enough support in Scotland, it will move forward for more detailed consideration.
Some Scottish political leaders oppose the bill, while others support it.
In England and Wales, a similar bill was introduced by MP Kim Leadbeater.
The English bill requires applicants to be over 18, terminally ill, and expected to die within six months.
Applicants must make two declarations to end their life and have assessments by two doctors.
The English proposal includes serious penalties for dishonesty or coercion in the decision.

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Child obesity clinics seeing BMIs over 50

May 13, 2025

A recent study found that many children visiting weight clinics in England come from poor areas and have health issues, such as autism or liver disease. These clinics, set up since 2021, offer support for mental health and dietary needs and are using new technology like smart scales.

Key Facts:

A study in England found many children at weight clinics are from poor areas.
More than 4,800 children have been referred to these clinics since 2021.
Clinics help children with severe obesity, offering mental health and health advice.
Over 40% of the children in the clinics live in the most deprived neighborhoods.
24% of the children have autism, and 23% have a learning disability.
Some clinics use smart scales connected to apps for tracking weight trends.
In another study, weight loss jabs showed a 5-16% weight loss in children over 12 years.
BMI, or Body Mass Index, helps determine healthy weight based on height.

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Green & Cummins return for Test Championship final

May 13, 2025

Australia has announced its 15-man cricket squad for the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's, starting on June 11. Cameron Green and Pat Cummins are notable inclusions after recovering from injuries, and Cricket Australia is considering preparations as some players may participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) before the final.

Key Facts:

Australia's World Test Championship final against South Africa begins on June 11 at Lord's.
Cameron Green and Pat Cummins return to the squad after recovering from injuries.
Pat Cummins missed previous matches due to the birth of his child and an ankle injury.
Josh Hazlewood is back in the team after a hip injury.
Teenager Sam Konstas is included in the squad.
Some players might play in the IPL, which ends eight days before the test final.
Cricket Australia is coordinating with the government and India's cricket authorities about security as players may return to the IPL.
The IPL will resume on May 17, with the final scheduled for June 3.

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Man arrested after fires at homes linked to PM Keir Starmer

May 13, 2025

A man was arrested on suspicion of trying to set fires that could endanger lives at homes connected to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Police believe the fires are suspicious and are investigating if they are linked as part of a counter-terrorism effort.

Key Facts:

A 21-year-old man was arrested by police on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger lives.
The fires occurred at properties linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The first fire was reported on Thursday and involved a car on the street of Starmer's Kentish Town home.
A fire occurred at the Islington property on Sunday, where firefighters assisted one person to safety.
Another fire took place early Monday at Starmer’s Kentish Town home, damaging the entrance.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation as a precaution due to Starmer's high-profile status.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer thanked emergency services for their efforts.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated she was briefed but could not provide further details.

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Man City's 'humble' rising star who still shops with his mum

May 13, 2025

Nico O'Reilly, a young football player for Manchester City, has made a significant impact in his first season with the senior team. O'Reilly started in Manchester City's youth academy and recently broke into the first team, playing in an unusual position due to team injuries.

Key Facts:

Nico O'Reilly is a new and promising player for Manchester City.
He joined Manchester City's academy when he was eight years old.
O'Reilly has been part of the first team since the start of the current season.
He played most of his 18 games this season as a left-back, not his usual position due to team injuries.
O'Reilly has scored five goals and made two assists this season.
He captained Manchester City's Under-18 team to a Premier League title in 2023.
Manchester City has experienced a challenging season, losing their league title to Liverpool.
The team is fighting to finish in the top five to qualify for the next season's Champions League.

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'I was on my last chance' - cricketer's anorexia battle

May 13, 2025

Arul Suppiah, a former professional cricketer, struggled with anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder, after retiring from sports. He noticed his health was declining and took steps towards recovery with help from health professionals and supporters, emphasizing the importance of eating for his well-being.

Key Facts:

Arul Suppiah is a former Somerset cricketer who set a T20 bowling record in 2011.
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that can affect anyone and involves severe dieting and other challenging behaviors.
Suppiah's struggles began with a health kick in 2017 that became an unhealthy obsession with weight loss.
He experienced significant weight loss, faintness, and was consumed by 'The Voice', his internal thoughts encouraging disordered eating.
Initial attempts at recovery were motivated by others' expectations, but later he focused on his own health.
Suppiah's recovery included eating small meals, seeking understanding through case studies, and joining support groups.
He also lives with other mental health conditions such as depression and OCD.
Suppiah mentioned that the pressure in professional sports might have contributed to his mental health challenges.

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MSPs to vote on assisted dying in Scotland

May 13, 2025

Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) will soon vote on a proposal to legalize assisted dying for terminally-ill adults in Scotland. The bill allows those with a terminal illness to seek medical help to end their lives if they are over 18 and judged mentally fit by two doctors. The vote is set to be close, with no party instructions influencing how MSPs decide.

Key Facts:

MSPs are set to vote on legalizing assisted dying for the third time in Scottish history.
The proposed law allows terminally-ill adults to request medical help to end their lives.
To be eligible, a person must be at least 18 years old and assessed as mentally fit by two doctors.
The vote in the Scottish Parliament will be a "free vote," meaning MSPs can vote independently of party lines.
A simple majority is needed for the bill to move to the next stage, where changes can be suggested.
The Scottish government remains neutral on the issue, although some key leaders oppose the bill.
Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur, who introduced the bill, emphasizes the "strict eligibility criteria."
Some supporters believe the bill will safeguard vulnerable people, while opponents express concerns over potential coercion and defining terminal illness.

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Sycamore Gap pair were quizzed in homophobia case

May 13, 2025

Two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, were suspects in a police investigation into alleged homophobic incidents around the same time they cut down the Sycamore Gap tree at Hadrian's Wall. Although police gathered evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided not to press charges against them due to a lack of evidence and challenges in identifying the individuals responsible.

Key Facts:

Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers were convicted of cutting down the Sycamore Gap tree on September 27, 2023.
They were also suspects in a series of alleged homophobic assaults in Cumbria that happened around the same time as the tree incident.
A victim reported an incident on September 18, 2023, where he was verbally abused and had icing sugar thrown into his car.
The victim provided police with a description and partial registration number of the suspect vehicle.
Cumbria Police conducted an investigation but faced difficulties due to a registration number mismatch and identifying the suspects.
Police found video evidence of other homophobic incidents on a suspect's phone and arrested two men for hate-motivated assaults.
The CPS decided not to charge the men due to insufficient evidence and time elapsed since the incidents.
The victim challenged the CPS decision but the decision not to prosecute was upheld.

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'I was drugged and raped by my husband for years'

May 13, 2025

A woman named Kate discovered that her husband had been drugging and raping her while she was asleep. Despite initial hesitation to press charges, Kate eventually went to the police, leading to an investigation and eventual charges against her husband.

Key Facts:

Kate's husband confessed to drugging and raping her over a period of years.
He had been putting sleeping medication in her tea to abuse her while she was unconscious.
After his confession, Kate suffered from health issues, including weight loss and panic attacks.
Kate initially decided not to proceed with the police case but later changed her mind.
Her husband's confession was recorded by a psychiatrist and shared with others in his community.
Initially, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) did not charge him, but Kate requested a review.
Following the review, the CPS decided to charge Kate's husband, admitting the initial decision was incorrect.

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