Technology News

Welfare U-turn makes spending decisions harder, minister says

July 06, 2025

The Education Secretary explained that the government's recent reversal on welfare changes makes it harder to decide on future spending. Although there is interest in ending the two-child benefit cap, the government must consider the financial impact of such a move.

Key Facts:

The government reversed a decision on welfare changes after pressure from Labour MPs.
The original welfare changes aimed to save £5 billion a year by 2030.
The Education Secretary said removing the two-child benefit cap would be costly.
The two-child benefit cap limits benefits to help families with no more than two children.
This cap affects children born after April 2017.
Decisions about lifting the cap are uncertain due to financial concerns.
The reversal of the welfare changes delays or possibly cancels the planned savings.
The Chancellor faces added pressure ahead of the upcoming autumn Budget.

Source Information

BBC Business

Camp Mystic, now in ruins from Texas floods, was a pillar for generations of women

July 06, 2025

Camp Mystic, a Christian camp in Texas, has been severely damaged by recent floods. Several girls who were at the camp are still missing.

Key Facts:

Camp Mystic is a Christian camp located in Texas.
The camp was badly damaged by floods.
The floods in Texas have been deadly.
Several girls attending Camp Mystic cannot be found after the floods.
The camp has served many generations of women.

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NPR National

A bus route helped this couple's cross-border romance bloom. Tariffs are shutting it down

July 06, 2025

Windsor, Ontario is stopping its bus service to Detroit after several decades. This decision affects people who have relied on the route, including a couple who used it for their cross-border relationship.

Key Facts:

The cross-border bus service connected Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit.
The service has been running for several decades.
Windsor decided to end the bus route.
Tariffs are a reason for stopping the service.
Two regular riders, a couple, shared their thoughts on how this impacts them.

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NPR National

4 things to know about the vaccine ingredient thimerosal

July 06, 2025

The federal government may soon advise against using flu vaccines that contain thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative. Despite most flu shots already being thimerosal-free, a CDC advisory panel suggests using vaccines without this ingredient. The preservative is mainly used in multi-dose vials, but it's been largely phased out due to safety concerns, even though there's no proven harm.

Key Facts:

Thimerosal is a preservative containing mercury and has been used in vaccines since the 1930s.
The CDC’s advisory committee recommended using single-dose flu vaccines without thimerosal for children, pregnant women, and adults.
Most flu vaccines today do not use thimerosal; 94% of the 2024-25 flu shots were thimerosal-free or reduced.
The mercury in thimerosal is called ethylmercury, which breaks down more quickly than methylmercury, the harmful form found in seafood.
Thimerosal helps prevent contamination in multi-dose vials, which are less common now.
Thimerosal's use became less frequent after the 1997 FDA Modernization Act prompted a review of mercury in vaccines.
The committee's decision follows a recent change where Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. replaced all members of the advisory committee.

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NPR Home

Tropical Storm Chantal strengthens slightly as it nears landfall in South Carolina

July 06, 2025

Tropical Storm Chantal has become stronger and is nearing the South Carolina coast. It is expected to bring heavy rain and cause flash floods in parts of South and North Carolina.

Key Facts:

Tropical Storm Chantal is approaching the southeast coast of the United States.
It will bring heavy rain to the Carolinas on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
Tropical storm warnings have been issued in parts of South and North Carolina.
The storm was located 75 miles east of Charleston, SC, and 85 miles southwest of Wilmington, NC.
Maximum sustained winds were recorded at 60 mph, and the storm is moving north at 8 mph.
Rain bands from the storm are reaching the shore, raising concerns about flash floods.
The storm is expected to weaken once it moves over land after making landfall in South Carolina.
South Carolina authorities have warned about possible tornadoes, coastal flooding, and advised against driving on flooded roads.

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NPR Home

Not getting a summer job? Here are eight ways to change that

July 05, 2025

Grace Pickett, who recently completed her A-levels, has been unsuccessful in finding a summer job due to her lack of paid work experience, despite volunteering at a charity shop. Many young people face similar challenges as employers often prefer candidates with specific experience, amid increased job competition and economic factors impacting hiring trends.

Key Facts:

Grace Pickett has been looking for part-time work for two years but hasn't been hired due to her lack of paid work experience.
Grace plans to attend Liverpool John Moores University to study history.
A charity shop volunteering stint didn't suffice for employers seeking more experience.
Online job applications have increased competition for summer jobs.
Increases in the minimum wage and National Insurance have affected hiring.
The percentage of young people working while studying has decreased since the early 1990s.
Many young people find jobs in retail, hospitality, healthcare, warehousing, and office settings.
Dropping off CVs at local businesses can show initiative and may lead to job opportunities.

Source Information

BBC Business

“Every one of us has a responsibility” to divest, to boycott

July 05, 2025

Omar Barghouti, who helped start the BDS movement, believes people should urge governments and companies to stop supporting harmful actions in Gaza. A UN report mentions companies benefiting from violence against Palestinians.

Key Facts:

Omar Barghouti is a co-founder of the BDS movement.
BDS stands for Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions, a campaign promoting various forms of non-violent pressure on Israel.
Barghouti urges public action to push governments and corporations against actions in Gaza.
A UN Special Rapporteur, Francesca Albanese, shared a report about the situation.
The report identifies companies that are making money from the conflict involving Palestinians.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

Footballers and family lay flowers at funeral of Diogo Jota and André Silva

July 05, 2025

Football players and family members gathered in Portugal for the funeral of Diogo Jota and André Silva, who died in a car accident. The brothers were remembered by teammates and local supporters who brought flowers to the ceremony.

Key Facts:

Diogo Jota and André Silva died in a car crash.
Jota was 28 years old and Silva was 25.
Their funeral took place in Portugal on Saturday.
Teammates Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson brought floral tributes.
The ceremony was held at the Igreja Matriz in Gondomar, Portugal.
Locals and fans attended the funeral to pay their respects.

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BBC World

Former Mossad official details how Israel eliminated Iran's military elite

July 05, 2025

A former Mossad official stated that advanced technology and innovation were crucial for Israel in a recent conflict with Iran, which lasted 12 days. Israel reportedly targeted and killed key Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists. The official noted that despite these killings, Iran's military capabilities remain substantial.

Key Facts:

A former Mossad deputy chief highlighted the role of technology in Israel's conflict with Iran.
Israel's initial attack on June 13 targeted top Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists.
Iran believes Mossad has operatives working within its borders.
Despite significant Iranian military figure casualties, Iran maintains a large military force.
The conflict has seen missile exchanges between Iran and Israel, causing casualties and destruction.
Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on various Israeli locations, including Tel Aviv and Haifa.
Emergency workers have been active in Israel, responding to missile strikes and assessing damage.
The ongoing conflict could potentially lead to a prolonged military campaign.

Source Information

BBC World

US aid workers wounded, says Gaza Humanitarian Foundation

July 05, 2025

Two American aid workers with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) were injured in an attack involving grenades in Khan Younis, Gaza. The attack was blamed on Hamas, and the GHF reported that no other workers or civilians were hurt. The attack occurred as debates continue over a ceasefire plan and aid distribution methods in the region.

Key Facts:

Two US workers from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation were injured in a grenade attack.
The attack happened during aid distribution in Khan Younis, Gaza.
GHF claims Hamas is responsible for the attack.
The injured workers are in stable condition and receiving medical care.
Since GHF started, over 400 Palestinians have been killed collecting aid, according to the UN and local doctors.
Hamas has shown willingness to discuss a ceasefire with Israel.
Hamas wants the GHF aid system replaced by UN-led efforts.
The ongoing conflict began after Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Source Information

BBC World

Diogo Jota and André Silva's funeral held in Portugal

July 05, 2025

Diogo Jota and André Silva were honored at a funeral in Gondomar, Portugal, following their deaths in a car accident. Many family members, friends, and well-known football players attended the service. The accident happened while the brothers were traveling from Spain back to Liverpool.

Key Facts:

Diogo Jota and André Silva died in a car accident in the Spanish province of Zamora.
The funeral took place in Gondomar, Portugal, where they were from.
Jota was 28 years old and Silva was 25 years old at the time of their death.
Hundreds of people, including famous football players, attended their funeral.
The brothers were traveling back for Jota's pre-season training when they died.
Jota had recently married Rute Cardoso and they had three children together.
Jota played as a striker for Liverpool FC and was known for his goal-scoring ability.
Many attendees had to watch the service from outside due to the large number of people.

Source Information

BBC World

Liverpool team join family of Diogo Jota, brother for funeral in Portugal

July 05, 2025

The funeral for footballer Diogo Jota and his brother took place in Gondomar, Portugal, after they died in a car crash in Spain. Family, friends, and people from Jota's football club, Liverpool, attended the service. Spanish police are investigating the crash, which involved no other vehicles.

Key Facts:

Diogo Jota and his brother died in a car crash in Spain, near Zamora.
The funeral was held at Igreja Matriz church in Gondomar, Portugal.
Jota's teammates from Liverpool and other football players attended the funeral.
The crash happened as the brothers were heading to catch a boat to England.
Spanish police think a blown tire might have caused the crash, but they are still investigating.
Jota had just married his long-time partner and had three children.
The brothers' bodies were returned to Portugal after being identified by family.
Jota started his football career in Gondomar and played for Liverpool.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

Australian PM vows 'full force of law' after arson attack at synagogue

July 05, 2025

An arson attack took place at a synagogue in Melbourne, Australia, where a man set the front door on fire. The incident did not cause any injuries, as around 20 people inside were evacuated safely. The Australian Prime Minister has promised to take strong legal action against such antisemitic crimes, which have increased recently due to tensions linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Key Facts:

A man set fire to the front door of a Melbourne synagogue while about 20 people were inside.
The people inside the synagogue were evacuated safely, and no one was hurt.
Police are investigating if this attack is connected to an incident at a Jewish-owned restaurant the same night.
The Australian Prime Minister promised strong action against those responsible.
There have been more antisemitic attacks in Australia recently, tied to tensions from the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The Australian government has appointed a special envoy to combat antisemitism.
New laws have been passed in Australia to strengthen action against hate crimes.
Protests and increased tension have been observed in both Jewish and Muslim communities in Australia.

Source Information

BBC World

Opinion: A royal seal of approval

July 05, 2025

Starting next year, the Prince and Princess of Wales will give Royal Warrants, which are special approvals for certain products and services. King Charles III and Queen Camilla have already granted more than 400 of these approvals, influencing choices in luxury brands.

Key Facts:

Starting next year, the Prince and Princess of Wales will grant Royal Warrants.
Royal Warrants are approvals that indicate certain goods and services are favored by the British monarchy.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla have already granted over 400 Royal Warrants.
Items with these warrants include brands like Bentley, Jaguar, and Burberry.
The list also includes unique items like brooms from A. Nash and services like Milborrow Chimney Sweeps.
A survey found that 19% of U.S. voters would prefer the British monarch over their current U.S. President.
More than a third of young Americans aged 19 to 29 favor bringing back a monarchy.

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NPR Home

‘End is near’: Will Kabul become first big city without water by 2030?

July 05, 2025

Kabul may run out of water in the next five years, as a new report highlights severe groundwater depletion due to overuse and climate change. The city's aquifers could dry up by 2030, affecting millions of residents and causing severe water shortages and contamination.

Key Facts:

Kabul's groundwater levels have dropped by 25 to 30 meters in the past decade.
Water extraction in Kabul exceeds natural recharge by 44 million cubic meters each year.
Nearly half of Kabul's bore wells, which provide drinking water, are dry, according to UNICEF.
80% of the groundwater is unsafe for consumption due to contamination.
Kabul's population has grown from less than one million to six million since 2001, increasing water demand.
The divide between wealthy and poor residents is worsening, as richer people can afford deeper wells.
Approximately 120,000 unregulated bore wells exist in Kabul, adding to the water management challenges.
The water crisis could displace approximately three million residents by 2030 if not addressed.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

Dalai Lama says he hopes to live another 40 years on eve of 90th birthday

July 05, 2025

The Dalai Lama, approaching his 90th birthday, expressed hope to live until 130. He also confirmed that his successor will be chosen following traditional Tibetan Buddhist methods, which clarifies ongoing speculation. China asserts its own claim over the process, but the Dalai Lama insists Tibetans will choose his successor.

Key Facts:

The Dalai Lama said he hopes to live to 130 years old.
He made this statement ahead of his 90th birthday.
Followers held a ceremony offering prayers for his long life.
He confirmed that his successor will be chosen according to past Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
The Dalai Lama has set up a foundation to recognize his future reincarnation.
Chinese officials argue they should approve his successor via a traditional lottery involving a "golden urn."
Since 1959, the Dalai Lama has lived in Dharamshala, India, after leaving Tibet due to a failed uprising against China.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

Tech Now

July 05, 2025

The article discusses a program featuring Ione Wells as she investigates the case of children who were taken from their families during Chile's military dictatorship. It looks into whether technology can help many families solve the mystery of what happened to their lost children.

Key Facts:

Ione Wells investigates the issue of Chile's stolen children.
These children were taken during Chile's military dictatorship.
The investigation seeks to find if technology can aid families in getting answers.
The story is part of a broader tech program.
The program "Chile's Lost Children" first aired on July 5, 2025.
It is available to watch for 11 months.
The episode lasts 25 minutes.

Source Information

BBC Tech

Is it OK to cry at work?

July 04, 2025

A recent discussion focuses on whether it's okay to cry at work, inspired by a public figure, Rachel Reeves, who appeared emotional in a political setting. Experts argue that showing emotion in the workplace is becoming more accepted, with emotional intelligence viewed as a strength rather than a weakness.

Key Facts:

Rachel Reeves appeared emotional during a political event, which affected financial markets temporarily.
Both men and women report crying at work for various personal and professional reasons.
Some people feel pressure to hide emotions in certain work environments, particularly male-dominated ones.
Experts now often see emotional intelligence, which means understanding and expressing emotions, as a positive trait in the workplace.
Supportive work environments can lead to happier and more motivated employees.
Crying at work is no longer widely seen as a sign of weakness, according to some career experts.
Personal stories from various professionals highlight that showing emotion at work can be acceptable and even beneficial.

Source Information

BBC Business

Don’t rely on Medicaid? Tax bill will drive up costs to your healthcare too

July 04, 2025

The "One Big Beautiful Bill," a new budget law backed by President Donald Trump, includes significant cuts to Medicaid and is expected to increase healthcare costs. The bill could lead to the closure of many hospitals, particularly in rural areas, and leave millions without health insurance.

Key Facts:

The bill plans to cut about $1 trillion from Medicaid over the next ten years.
It was passed in the House mostly along party lines, with just two Republican Representatives voting against it.
Experts predict the cuts will cause healthcare costs to rise for patients and could force hospitals to close.
Nearly 12 million people might lose health insurance by 2034 due to reductions in Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.
Rural hospitals are expected to suffer the most, with possible funding reductions of 20% in half of the states.
About 20% of Americans live in rural areas where Medicaid is essential for healthcare funding.
As many as 338 hospitals could close in the U.S., with nearly 800 already in financial difficulty.
The bill includes $50 billion for rural hospitals to help with financial stress, but it might not be enough to prevent closures.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

Several people killed in multistorey building collapse in Pakistan

July 04, 2025

A five-story building in Karachi, Pakistan, collapsed, killing at least eight people and injuring nine others. Rescue teams are searching for more people trapped in the rubble. The building was in a poor area of Karachi with a history of construction issues.

Key Facts:

A five-story building collapsed in the Lyari neighborhood of Karachi, Pakistan.
At least eight people died, and nine others were hurt in the incident.
It happened around 10 a.m. local time on a Friday.
Up to 100 people were estimated to live in the building.
Rescuers are searching for additional people who might be trapped.
The narrow street made it hard for rescuers to bring in heavy equipment.
Building collapses are common in Pakistan due to poor construction standards.
Karachi is known for illegal building work and weak safety rules, leading to frequent incidents.

Source Information

Al Jazeera

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