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King Charles has been forced to cancel a series of engagements after a brief hospital visit due to side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment. Despite the setback, the 76-year-old monarch returned to Clarence House, where he resumed work as usual. Sources close to the King described the hospital visit as a “most minor bump in a road that’s very much heading in the right direction.” To ensure his continued recovery remains on track, engagements scheduled for Birmingham have been canceled. However, insiders emphasized that there was “no drama” surrounding the visit and that it was simply part of his treatment process. “As many can vouch, such things are not unexpected with these kinds of conditions,” a source said. Buckingham Palace released a statement confirming the situation: “Following scheduled and ongoing medical treatment for cancer this morning, The King experienced temporary side effects that required a short period of observation in hospital. His Majesty’s afternoon engagements were therefore postponed. His Majesty has now returned to Clarence House, and as a precautionary measure, acting on medical advice, tomorrow’s diary programme will also be rescheduled. His Majesty would like to send his apologies to all those who may be inconvenienced or disappointed as a result.” The King has been open about his diagnosis while maintaining his medical privacy. Though no further details on the side effects were provided, they are understood to be temporary and not uncommon for patients undergoing similar treatments. King Charles spent the evening at Clarence House, where he was described as being in “good form.” He continued working on state matters, reviewing documents and making calls from his study. The hospital visit took place at the London Clinic, where he had previously received care. He traveled to and from the facility by car as usual, without Queen Camilla accompanying him. A spokesman addressed the postponements, stating, “His Majesty was due to receive Credentials from the Ambassadors of three different nations this afternoon. Tomorrow, he was due to undertake four public engagements in Birmingham and is greatly disappointed to be missing them on this occasion. He very much hopes that they can be rescheduled in due course and offers his deepest apologies to all those who had worked so hard to make the planned visit possible.” Buckingham Palace has indicated that no further updates are expected as this is not considered a major development. However, minor adjustments may be made to next week’s schedule as needed. The decision to announce the changes later in the day was due to the need for consultation with his medical team and staff regarding whether the engagements should go ahead. Despite his illness, King Charles has maintained a demanding schedule, continuing his royal duties while undergoing treatment. His diagnosis was publicly announced in February, and though the specific type of cancer has not been disclosed, it was confirmed that it was unrelated to the prostate surgery he underwent in January. It was also previously revealed that the cancer was caught at an early stage. Since returning to public duties in April, the King has participated in high-profile events, including the D-Day commemorations in France, hosting state visits for the Emperor of Japan and the Emir of Qatar, and an extensive tour of Australia and Samoa with Queen Camilla—all while receiving outpatient cancer treatment. While his schedule remains largely intact, there may be slight adjustments to prioritize his continued recovery, particularly in preparation for an upcoming state visit to Italy in just over a week. Queen Camilla has previously expressed her frustration that her husband refuses to slow down, but sources insist that his schedule is managed in close consultation with his medical team to ensure his health remains the top priority. “The reaction of any patient to medical treatment can be unpredictable, and it makes sense to make minor adjustments as necessary,” one insider said. Those close to the King believe that maintaining his public and state duties has been beneficial to his overall well-being. He remains deeply appreciative of the support, encouragement, and kind words from the many people he has met throughout his engagements. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-03-28

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States has revoked at least 300 visas of foreign students as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to curb pro-Palestinian demonstrations on university campuses. "Maybe more than 300 at this point," Rubio said while speaking to reporters during a visit to Guyana. "We do it every day, every time I find one of these lunatics." Rubio was asked to confirm how many student visas had been canceled as part of the administration’s crackdown on rhetoric that it deems anti-Israel. His comments followed the arrest of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University, who was taken into custody by masked, plain-clothes officers outside her residence in Boston, Massachusetts. A video of the arrest, showing Ozturk being led to an unmarked car, quickly went viral, sparking protests online. Ozturk, a Fulbright Scholar on an F-1 student visa, is enrolled in a doctoral program for Child Study and Human Development at Tufts. When asked why her visa was revoked, Rubio responded, "Here's why: I've said it everywhere, and I'll say it again. If you apply for a student visa to come to the United States and you say you're coming not just to study, but to participate in movements that vandalize universities, harass students, take over buildings, and cause chaos, we're not giving you that visa." It remains unclear whether Ozturk has been formally charged with any crimes. Rubio did not specify the allegations against her but acknowledged that she had participated in pro-Palestinian protests. She also co-authored an opinion piece in the Tufts student newspaper last year, calling on the university to divest from companies linked to Israel and to recognize "Palestinian genocide." Ozturk’s lawyer, Mahsa Khanbabai, argued that her client’s arrest was politically motivated. "Based on patterns we are seeing across the country, her exercising her free speech rights appears to have played a role in her detention," Khanbabai told Reuters. This latest arrest is part of a broader trend of actions taken against international students who have expressed support for Palestine. Trump officials have cited the Immigration and Nationality Act as the legal basis for these deportations, arguing that it allows the State Department to remove non-citizens deemed "adversarial to the foreign policy and national security interests" of the US. The crackdown is in line with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January, aimed at combating what his administration has classified as antisemitism. Since then, the White House has revoked $400 million in federal funding for Columbia University over allegations that it failed to address antisemitism on its campus, and it has warned other universities of similar consequences. One of the most high-profile cases involves Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and Columbia University graduate, who remains detained in a Louisiana facility without charges. Ozturk was also transported to a Louisiana detention center, despite a Massachusetts federal judge ordering her detention to take place in-state. The judge has given the government until Friday to provide more details on her arrest. US Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin alleged that Ozturk "engaged in activities in support of Hamas, a foreign terrorist organization that relishes the killing of Americans." However, no formal charges have been announced against her. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat from Massachusetts, strongly criticized the arrest, calling it "the latest in an alarming pattern to stifle civil liberties." She added, "The Trump administration is targeting students with legal status and ripping people out of their communities without due process. This is an attack on our Constitution and basic freedoms – and we will push back." The administration has faced legal challenges over its actions. On Wednesday, a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to halt efforts to deport Yunseo Chung, a Columbia University student and legal permanent resident who immigrated to the US from South Korea as a child. Rubio defended the administration’s stance, stating, "The US gives students visas to earn a degree, not to become a social activist tearing up our campuses." He added, "If you lie, get the visa, and then engage in that kind of behavior once you're here, we're going to revoke it." Based on a report by BBC 2025-03-28 Related Topics: Lawsuit by Hostage Families Targets Campus Activists Over Alleged Support for Hamas A difference between free speech and persecuting Jews Democrats Face Backlash for Supporting Arrested Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil Federal Education Department Investigates 60 Universities Over Antisemitism Allegations Trump’s Bold Stand Against Campus Antisemitism Sends a Clear Message Trump Border Czar: ICE Will ‘Absolutely’ Deport Legal Immigrants Trump Threatens to Cut Federal Funding Over Campus Protests U.S. State Dept to Use AI to Revoke Visas of Foreign Students with Alleged Ties to Hamas

Six Russian tourists lost their lives on Thursday when a tourist submarine sank near the Egyptian resort city of Hurghada. Maj. Gen. Amr Hanafy confirmed the fatalities on the Red Sea Governorate’s official Facebook page, stating that 45 passengers were onboard at the time, including tourists from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, along with five Egyptian crew members. According to Hanafy, apart from the six Russians, all other tourists were successfully rescued. Inside the same Sinbad tourist submarine that sunk off the coast of Egypt in the Red Sea on Thursday morning. This video is from a previous voyage. It gives you a sense of the experience when things don’t go terribly wrong. The governor also noted that four individuals were critically injured and are currently receiving treatment in intensive care at local hospitals. The tragic accident occurred in the waters off Egypt’s eastern coastline and involved a vessel operated by Sindbad Submarines. According to the Russian consulate in Hurghada, the submarine "crashed at a distance of 1 km from the shore" at around 10 a.m. while conducting an underwater excursion to explore the coral reef. The consulate added that most passengers were rescued and taken to nearby hotels and hospitals for further care. Hanafy stated that "investigations by the authorities are underway with the vessel’s crew to determine the cause of the incident," emphasizing that the submarine had a valid operating license and its crew leader possessed the necessary "scientific certificates." In a video shared alongside the statement, Hanafy was seen visiting survivors in hospitals, where some were wrapped in emergency blankets while others remained in their hospital beds. Hurghada, located approximately 480 kilometers (300 miles) southeast of Cairo, is a popular tourist destination known for its Red Sea resorts and diving opportunities. Sindbad Submarines, the operator of the ill-fated vessel, describes itself as an experienced company specializing in underwater excursions. The company’s website states that its submarines are "engineered in Finland to sustain underwater pressure up to 75m, ensuring safety and reliability." It also claims that "oxygen masks are located overhead and life vests under the seats" to ensure passenger safety in emergencies. Sindbad Submarines operates two recreational submarines, each with the capacity to carry 44 passengers and two pilots. The vessels are designed with "sizable round viewing windows" for each passenger, allowing them to observe marine life at depths of up to 25 meters (82 feet) for approximately 40 minutes. The company promotes the experience as an opportunity to explore "500 meters of coral reef and its marine inhabitants" from a "spacious air-conditioned cabin" with "comfortable seats and personal TV monitors." The weather conditions at the time of the accident were reported to be favorable, with clear skies, light winds, and temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Wind speeds were recorded at under 10 kph, according to CNN meteorologists. Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has yet to comment on the incident. The country’s tourism industry is a vital sector of its economy, attracting millions of visitors annually. However, safety concerns have occasionally marred the industry’s reputation. In November, at least 16 people went missing after a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea following warnings of rough seas. The exact cause of that incident remains unknown. As investigations continue into the submarine tragedy, questions remain about the circumstances that led to the vessel's sinking despite its reported safety measures. Based on a report by CNN 2025-03-28

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A post making false and libellous claims has been removed @Chomper Higgot

The Left’s Obsession with Nazi Labels Reveals Their Political Desperation Politics is often described as a tough game, but lately, it seems like many Democrats don’t even understand the rules they’re supposed to be playing by. Instead of engaging in substantive debate, their go-to tactic has become a reckless and absurd strategy: labeling any and all opposition as Nazis. The left’s overuse of this accusation is not just hyperbole—it’s their favorite insult. Donald Trump has been compared to Hitler, Elon Musk has been branded a Nazi, and swastikas have even been painted on Teslas. The latest political infighting within the Democratic Party proves that their self-destructive tendencies are in full force, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has become their newest target. Schumer, despite being one of the most loyal Democratic leaders, is under fire from the radical left for the simple act of keeping the government open rather than shutting it down in a show of opposition. The hard left, which now dictates party rules, sees his decision as a betrayal. Ezra Levin, a leader of the left-wing group Indivisible, declared, “He led the charge to wave the white flag of surrender.” But he made it clear that his group “has no intention of surrendering to Trump, Musk and congressional Republicans.” The pressure campaign against Schumer is further fueled by a memo from MoveOn, a far-left group funded by George Soros, which states that 90% of its members believe Democrats “should throw out the usual playbook and take aggressive action to combat the Trump administration.” The memo also claims that for most of its supporters, opposing Trump is more important than any specific policy stance. The message is clear: it doesn’t matter what Democrats stand for, as long as they stand against Trump. This blind opposition is part of why the Democratic Party has reached a dismal 29% favorability rating. Instead of reconnecting with voters, they continue to alienate them, showing a complete disconnect from reality. Even Schumer, once seen as a Democratic stronghold, is being treated like a traitor. Protesters have taken to demonstrating outside his home—an intimidation tactic usually reserved for Republicans. What makes this even more absurd is that Schumer has been anything but a Trump ally. He has supported virtually every major policy pushed by Joe Biden, including the costly Green New Deal initiatives that contributed to soaring inflation and the open-border policies that have resulted in an estimated 15 million illegal crossings, many involving hardened criminals. He was also one of Biden’s most vocal defenders, insisting that the president was mentally sharp long after it was obvious to the world that he was not. Schumer’s loyalty to the party even extended to international politics. As the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in American history, he went so far as to call for regime change in Israel during its war with Hamas, aligning himself with Democratic activists who wanted to exert control over Israeli policy. Despite all this, Schumer is still under siege from the left. He has dedicated his career to the Democratic Party, yet unless he submits to their every demand, he too risks being labeled a Nazi sympathizer. This reckless name-calling has become the left’s favorite smear. Turn on the news or browse social media, and it won’t take long to see the word "Nazi" thrown around as an insult aimed at Trump, Musk, or their supporters. The term has been cheapened by overuse, losing its historical weight and significance. Once, there was an unspoken understanding that likening political opponents to Nazis was not only ignorant but also diminished the true horrors of Hitler’s reign. That understanding has been discarded. If everything is Nazi-related, then nothing is. Hitler’s atrocities, including the Final Solution that led to the murder of six million Jews and a war that resulted in 50 million deaths, are being trivialized. Deporting violent criminals, for instance, is now enough to earn Trump the label of fascist—one step away from being a Nazi, according to leftist rhetoric. Even Judge Patricia Millett, sitting on the D.C. Court of Appeals, stooped to this absurdity, claiming that “Nazis got better treatment under the Alien Enemies Act” than Venezuelan gang members facing deportation. This level of historical distortion is not only irresponsible but dangerous. It reveals a disturbing trend where those who constantly cry "Nazi" are the ones exhibiting authoritarian tendencies themselves. The left’s activists, who eagerly deface public spaces with swastikas, seem far more fascinated with Nazi imagery than those they accuse. Their obsession isn’t rooted in history or morality—it’s projection. There is no evidence to suggest that Trump, Musk, or anyone in their circles harbors Nazi sympathies. The charge is a baseless fabrication. Meanwhile, it’s the radical left’s foot soldiers who seem to have an affinity for drawing swastikas, painting them on Teslas, statues, and buildings. This isn’t just irony—it’s a revealing glimpse into who truly harbors authoritarian impulses. Based on a report by NYP 2025-03-27

A striking shift in migration patterns has emerged as more migrants are now fleeing into Canada from the United States rather than attempting to cross southward. Sources told The Post that President Trump’s renewed crackdown on illegal immigration has led to a significant increase in northbound crossings, with migrants opting to "self-deport" rather than face the risk of being apprehended by U.S. immigration authorities. Homeland Security sources confirm that migrants are now running scared with Trump back in office. In a remote area of Washington state, border agents are seeing an average of five migrants illegally crossing into Canada each day. Even before the new administration fully took over, the numbers were already rising. Official data from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police shows that 40 migrants crossed illegally from Washington into British Columbia in January, while Border Patrol agents in the U.S. recorded 30 crossings in the opposite direction during the same period. Many of those now heading north had initially entered the U.S. from Mexico and had obtained some form of temporary status while awaiting court decisions on their immigration cases. However, fearing that their cases may not be ruled in their favor, they are making desperate attempts to reach Canada before U.S. authorities can detain and deport them. “They technically have some sort of status as of right now, and the agents do know they’re intending to cross illegally into Canada,” said a source. “But they’re also trying to get out of the United States to avoid any immigration consequences that may happen if their case isn’t adjudicated in their favor.” Even the most remote sections of the 5,500-mile-long U.S.-Canada border are now witnessing an increase in northbound migration. In Alberta, Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police recently encountered nine migrants, including children, braving the harsh February winter to cross from the U.S. The New York Times reported that Canadian authorities have caught around 20 illegal migrants in Alberta this year, compared to just seven in the previous year. This trend marks a dramatic reversal from the situation under the Biden administration, during which record numbers of migrants surged illegally into the U.S. from Canada. Federal data shows that roughly 23,700 illegal migrants were apprehended crossing from Canada into the U.S. last fiscal year, a massive jump from the 2,200 recorded in 2022. However, these figures still pale in comparison to the more than one million illegal crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border last year. In response, the Trump administration has placed pressure on Canada to bolster its border security, warning that failure to address the rising migrant flow and illicit fentanyl smuggling could result in 25% tariffs. In turn, Canadian border authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on fraudulent asylum claims and have taken steps to prevent migrants from exploiting lax visa policies. Canada has pledged $900 million to strengthen its border security efforts, including the acquisition of two Black Hawk helicopters and drones. Additionally, visa restrictions have been tightened to close loopholes that previously allowed migrants to fly into Canada before attempting to cross illegally into the U.S. As both countries step up their enforcement measures, the shifting migration dynamics signal a new era in border security, with Canada now becoming an increasingly sought-after refuge for those seeking to avoid U.S. immigration consequences. Based on a report by NYP 2025-03-27

Jeremy Corbyn Slams Starmer's Government, Calls Spending Cuts a 'Disgrace' Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has fiercely criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government over proposed spending cuts, describing them as a "disgrace" and an "enormous disappointment." Corbyn, now an independent MP, led the Labour Party in a vastly different direction compared to Starmer, who once served in his shadow cabinet before making a concerted effort to distance himself from his former leader. During a discussion with Sophy Ridge, Corbyn took aim at Starmer's plans to slash the benefits bill by £5 billion annually, arguing that such measures unfairly target the most vulnerable in society. Starmer has defended the cuts by asserting that too many people are out of work and the welfare budget has become unsustainable. However, Corbyn strongly disagreed, saying the decision would take money away from "the very poorest disabled people in our society," likening it to the era of austerity policies. He warned that the tightening of eligibility criteria for personal independence payments would not only leave recipients struggling but would also place a heavier burden on families, particularly women, who would be forced to give up employment to care for their loved ones. "Who's it going to be?" Corbyn asked. "Usually women and families, who will give up jobs in order to care for somebody. There's already wholly disproportionate levels of poverty among families. The poverty is appalling." Corbyn’s scathing remarks highlight growing tensions over the government's economic policies, with critics arguing that the cuts will only deepen hardship for those already struggling. Starmer’s approach has been met with resistance from some within the Labour movement who fear it signals a retreat from the party’s traditional commitment to social welfare. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-03-27

Inside the Trump White House’s Growing Resentment Toward Europe The recent leak of a White House Signal group chat was more than just an intelligence blunder—it revealed a deeper frustration within Donald Trump’s administration about what officials see as Europe’s chronic dependency on American military power. A stunning moment in the chat occurred when Vice President JD Vance hesitated as his colleagues, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, debated striking Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. Vance, messaging from an economics event in Michigan, voiced his reservations. “I think we are making a mistake,” he wrote. He pointed out that while only 3% of U.S. trade flows through the Suez Canal, Europe relies on it for 40% of its trade. He worried that the American public might not grasp the necessity of the strikes and questioned whether the president realized how inconsistent this was with his stance on Europe. Vance suggested waiting a month before moving forward. His resistance, however, was quickly countered by his colleagues, who reassured him while simultaneously taking aim at transatlantic allies. Hegseth, without hesitation, agreed with Vance’s underlying skepticism of Europe, writing, “I fully share your loathing of European freeloading. It’s PATHETIC.” White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller reinforced the point, stating, “As I heard it, the president was clear: green light, but we soon make clear to Egypt and Europe what we expect in return.” In the end, Vance fell in line with the majority, but not before making his frustration clear. “I just hate bailing Europe out again,” he said. While the conversation shocked European officials, the underlying sentiment is nothing new. U.S. frustration with Europe’s defense spending has been a bipartisan issue for decades. As far back as the 1960s, President John F. Kennedy called out European allies for failing to meet their obligations. In 2011, Barack Obama’s Defense Secretary, Robert Gates, warned that NATO’s future was bleak unless its members increased their military spending. Both Trump and Joe Biden have continued to press the issue. Even before last year’s presidential election, British and European defense experts had anticipated that if Kamala Harris won, she too would echo similar frustrations, though in a more diplomatic manner. Trump has gone further than his predecessors, even threatening to withhold military aid from NATO members who fail to meet their financial commitments. That pressure has led to some European nations ramping up their defense budgets. Yet within Trump’s circle, Vance’s resentment toward Europe appears to go beyond just military spending. He sees European leaders not just as freeloaders but as an elite class disconnected from American values. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in February, he stunned European officials with his scathing remarks: “If you’re running in fear of your own voters, there is nothing America can do for you—nor for that matter is there anything that you can do for the American people who elected me and elected President Trump.” Vance’s worldview has been shaped over years alongside a group of like-minded advisors, many of whom, like him, are veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. They returned home disillusioned with American interventionism and now occupy key positions in the administration. In the leaked Signal chat, two names stood out: Andy Baker, a former foreign service officer and Vance’s national security adviser, and Dan Caldwell, an Iraq War veteran with ties to both Hegseth and Vance. Caldwell has been a leading advocate for a doctrine of “restraint,” which rejects both Reagan-era peace-through-strength policies and Obama-style global engagement. This hardline stance has alienated even some of Trump’s natural allies. Nigel Farage, a longtime Trump supporter, was particularly angered when Vance seemed to dismiss Britain as a “random country that has not fought a war in 30 or 40 years.” Although Vance later denied the comment, Farage was blunt in his assessment. “I was angry about that,” he said. “The Republican party as a whole is—well, it’s America first. I mean, that’s what they feel, and that’s what they believe, and they think Europe’s been taking the mickey out of it for 60 years.” However, Farage noted that Vance’s background might make him even less sympathetic to Europe than Trump himself. “I’ve never known JD to be anti-British,” he said, “but he is less pro-British than Donald Trump.” This growing rift between the U.S. and its European allies raises questions about the future of transatlantic relations. If Trump’s administration views Europe as an unreliable partner, the continent may have to prepare for a future where American military and economic support is no longer a guarantee. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-27

Rep. Maxine Waters made controversial remarks over the weekend, suggesting that former President Donald Trump should deport his wife, Melania Trump, while criticizing his administration’s stance on birthright citizenship. Her comments, made during a protest against the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) cost-cutting initiative in Los Angeles, quickly sparked debate. During her speech, Waters attacked Trump’s efforts to challenge birthright citizenship, referencing Melania Trump’s immigration background. “When he [Trump] talks about birthright, and he’s going to undo the fact that the Constitution allows those who are born here, even if the parents are undocumented, they have a right to stay in America, if he wants to start looking so closely to find those who were born here and their parents were undocumented, maybe he ought to first look at Melania,” Waters said. “We don’t know whether or not her parents were documented. And maybe we better just take a look.” Melania Trump, however, was born in Slovenia in 1970, making her ineligible for birthright citizenship under the U.S. Constitution. She moved to New York City in 1996 on a travel visa before securing an H1-B visa to work legally as a model. She later obtained U.S. citizenship in 2006 after marrying Donald Trump. Notably, she became the first naturalized U.S. citizen to serve as First Lady and the second foreign-born First Lady in American history, following Louisa Adams, the wife of John Quincy Adams, who was born in England. Melania Trump also sponsored her parents’ citizenship, which they obtained in 2018. Her mother, Amalija Knavs, passed away in January 2024. Waters’ remarks seemed to misunderstand the meaning of birthright citizenship, which is granted under the 14th Amendment to individuals born on U.S. soil. The amendment states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” This provision does not apply to Melania Trump, as she was born outside the U.S. Trump and his supporters have argued that the original intent of the 14th Amendment was to grant citizenship to formerly enslaved individuals and should not apply to modern immigrants who enter the U.S. illegally. In January, Trump signed an executive order ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, arguing that the policy has incentivized illegal immigration. Waters, known for her strong opposition to Trump, continued her criticism, referencing tech billionaire Elon Musk. “We are here because we are not going to let Trump, we’re not going to let Elon Musk, his co-president, or anybody else take the United States Constitution down,” she declared to the crowd. Waters has built a reputation as one of Trump’s fiercest critics, gaining national recognition for urging liberals to confront members of his administration during his first term. Her latest speech, however, drew scrutiny for its factual inaccuracies and personal attack on the former First Lady. Based on a report by BBC 2025-03-26

Is Labour inching toward a version of Donald Trump’s “drill, baby, drill,” or is the party still caught in a cycle of policy indecision? A fresh wave of confusion has emerged as Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar appears to advocate for “new oil and gas” while the party insists there has been no shift from Ed Miliband’s ban on developing new fields. Sarwar’s remarks have raised eyebrows, particularly as he called for the use of “new oil and gas” to reduce reliance on costly imports—an argument backed by industry experts who claim that tapping into fresh reserves could supply nearly half of Britain’s energy for the next 25 years. The timing is notable, given reports suggesting that developing new fields could inject a staggering £150 billion into the UK economy. However, Labour sources were quick to clarify that there has been no official deviation from Miliband’s policy. According to the party, Sarwar’s mention of “new oil and gas” was not a call for fresh drilling but rather a reference to maximizing output from existing fields. His comments followed a push from Offshore Energies UK (OEUK), the body representing the oil and gas industry, which has urged Labour to reconsider its stance. OEUK argues that reversing Miliband’s ban on new drilling could unlock at least three billion additional barrels of oil from UK waters, bringing total North Sea reserves to seven billion barrels—almost half of the 15 billion needed to sustain Britain’s energy supply until 2050. Sarwar, who has previously clashed with Labour leadership over energy policy and welfare issues, stopped short of outright opposing the current ban. Instead, he emphasized the urgent need to “maximize our existing resources,” stating: “The choice is more expensive imports from despotic regimes like Russia or new oil and gas, then the answer must be oil and gas.” He framed this as a critical moment for Britain, adding: “This is a generation-defining moment, we must rise to it to deliver the security and prosperity our country needs.” David Whitehouse, chief executive of OEUK, echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that the UK is on a path toward net zero but arguing that “we will need oil and gas for decades to come. It makes sense for the UK to produce as much as it can itself.” The industry, however, remains frustrated by Labour’s reluctance to embrace new drilling. Many fear that sticking to the current policy leaves Britain dependent on expensive imports, including from the US. Critics also argue that relying on foreign oil and gas is environmentally counterproductive, as North Sea energy production is significantly cleaner. With a Scottish Parliament election just over a year away and increasing pressure on net zero commitments, Labour’s current stance may not hold for long. Even the SNP, now free from Nicola Sturgeon’s Green-influenced policies, has adopted a more flexible approach, promising to judge new field applications “on their merits.” As the debate rages on, Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay made his party’s position clear: “We are in favour of using all of the country’s resources.” For now, Labour continues to walk a fine line, caught between its green commitments and the growing economic and political pressure to secure domestic energy supplies. The real question is whether the party’s policy will evolve—or whether it will continue to straddle the line between drilling and dodging. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-27

World Athletics has announced a groundbreaking move to implement genetic testing for all female track and field athletes, a decision that could significantly impact gender eligibility rules in Olympic sports. The announcement was made by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe during a council meeting at the World Indoor Championships in Bangalore, India. Under this new policy, female athletes will be required to undergo a one-time cotton swab or dried blood spot test before being allowed to compete in World Athletics events. Coe confirmed that the organization is in the process of identifying a provider to handle the testing program. The issue of gender eligibility has been at the center of Olympic debates in recent years, especially as more transgender athletes have competed in high-profile events and as increased scrutiny has been placed on female athletes with differences in sex development (DSD). The discussion intensified during the Paris Olympics when officials from a banned boxing organization alleged, without evidence, that two female competitors had male XY chromosomes. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has so far refrained from implementing a universal policy on transgender and DSD athletes, opting instead to leave such decisions to individual sports federations. Additionally, the IOC has historically opposed genetic testing, arguing that it is dehumanizing. However, the controversy surrounding gender eligibility at the Paris Games has heightened pressure on the IOC to establish a definitive stance on the matter. Most candidates in the recent IOC presidential election, including Coe himself, have pushed for a clear policy on gender eligibility. Newly elected IOC President Kirsty Coventry has stated her intention to form a task force to explore potential guidelines regarding transgender and DSD athletes. Coe defended the necessity of World Athletics’ new testing plan, emphasizing that it is about protecting the integrity of female competition. "This we feel is a really important way of providing confidence and maintaining the absolute focus on the integrity of competition," he stated. "It’s pretty clear testing will be for athletes to compete in the female category. The process is very straightforward, frankly very clear, and it’s an important one." Coe has a history of making bold and sometimes controversial policy decisions within the Olympic community. He spearheaded World Athletics' initial ban on transgender athletes from female categories in 2023 and made headlines again by introducing a financial reward of $50,000 for Olympic gold medalists. The latest announcement is yet another move that challenges the IOC’s current stance on gender policies. The testing program is set to be implemented in time for the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September. As the sporting world reacts to this policy shift, the debate over gender eligibility in athletics is likely to continue, with World Athletics taking a definitive step toward reshaping the future of women’s sports. Based on a report by WP 2025-03-27

Labour MPs have voted against a proposed ban on the government purchasing solar panels with alleged ties to modern slavery, sparking criticism from Conservative politicians. The amendment, aimed at preventing Britain’s new publicly owned energy company, GB Energy, from buying products suspected to be made using forced labour, was put forward by peers concerned about human rights abuses in China’s Xinjiang region. China, which dominates the global solar panel supply chain, produces around 80% of the world’s panels. The Xinjiang region, where Uyghur Muslims have reportedly been subjected to forced labour and human rights abuses, is responsible for up to 40% of the world’s polysilicon, a key component in solar panels. Despite these concerns, Labour MPs, under the party whip, voted to reject the amendment, which would have prevented public money from funding any company associated with forced labour. The amendment was defeated by 314 votes to 198, with no Labour MPs breaking ranks to support it. However, several Labour MPs, including Rachael Maskell and Alex Sobel, abstained from the vote. The decision was met with strong opposition from Conservative MPs, who argued that Britain should take a harder stance against modern slavery in supply chains. Andrew Bowie, the Shadow Energy Secretary, highlighted the historical significance of the vote, stating, “It was on this day in 1807 that the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act received royal assent. And 218 years on, Labour MPs are going to be whipped to allow the state to directly fund imports of goods built by slave labour in China.” Bowie argued that the amendment was about protecting vulnerable people, particularly the Uyghur Muslims of Xinjiang, and ensuring that Britain's net zero ambitions were not achieved at the cost of human rights violations. Former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who has been sanctioned by China, echoed these concerns. He declared, “Many in this House will not stop until the Government faces up to one thing and one thing only: not one life through modern slavery is worth a lower cost of a solar panel. And that should be an epitaph of this ridiculous position the Government is in.” Despite rejecting the amendment, ministers have insisted that steps will be taken to ensure more stringent procurement processes for GB Energy. This includes appointing a senior figure within the company to oversee ethical supply chains and requiring companies to conduct their own supply chain assessments. Energy Minister Michael Shanks reassured Parliament that “this government is absolutely committed to confronting and tackling modern slavery in energy supply chains.” He emphasized that GB Energy would take a leading role in ensuring transparency and ethical sourcing. A £200 million investment into GB Energy, announced last week, will fund the installation of solar panels on schools and NHS hospitals as part of the UK’s goal to achieve net zero electricity by 2030. While ministers insist that no materials in government-procured panels will come from forced labour, critics argue that stronger safeguards—similar to those in the United States—are necessary. In the U.S., goods from Xinjiang are presumed to be made using forced labour unless proven otherwise, resulting in an import ban. Matthew Pennycook, a housing minister, reiterated the government's stance, stating, “We need to see action across the whole of the energy industry and that’s why we’re working across government to tackle the issue of forced labour in supply chains.” When pressed on whether he could guarantee that materials would not be sourced from forced labour, he replied, “Absolutely.” A 2023 report from the Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice at Sheffield Hallam University found overwhelming evidence that major solar panel manufacturers in Xinjiang have recruited and employed forced labourers. The study revealed that in 2020, China supplied 75% of the world’s solar-grade polysilicon, with nearly half of that production coming from the Uyghur region. Concerns over forced labour in supply chains are not limited to solar panels. In December, *The Telegraph* reported that tomato and pepper products sold in British supermarkets were secretly produced using forced labour in China, further fueling calls for stricter regulations. The rejection of the amendment has ignited a wider debate about ethical sourcing and the UK’s commitment to combating modern slavery. While ministers have pledged to address these concerns through improved procurement policies, critics argue that without a legal ban, there is still a risk that public funds could support unethical labour practices abroad. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-27

President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday a new plan to impose 25% tariffs on all imported cars, intensifying an ongoing global trade war just weeks after previous tariffs caused market turmoil and raised concerns about a possible recession. "I think our automobile industry will flourish like it hasn't before," Trump said. The newly announced tariffs will impact an industry that employs over a million workers in the United States and depends on a supply chain deeply connected to Mexico and Canada. Experts have previously warned that these tariffs could drive up car prices for American consumers. Earlier this month, Trump had already imposed 25% duties on a significant portion of U.S. auto imports from Mexico and Canada, though he later delayed some of those auto-related tariffs. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt previewed the latest round of tariffs on Wednesday, leading to an immediate dip in U.S. stock markets. Following the announcement, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 130 points, or 0.3%, while the S&P 500 declined 1.1%. The Nasdaq, which is heavily weighted toward technology stocks, dropped by 2%. The auto industry took a hit as well, with shares of Tesla, led by Trump advisor Elon Musk, closing down 5.5%, while General Motors saw a 3% decline. According to a Cato Institute analysis of data from the U.S. International Trade Commission, Canada and Mexico are the two largest suppliers of finished motor vehicles and car parts to the United States. In 2023, these two countries accounted for nearly $120 billion worth of U.S. motor vehicle imports, representing approximately 47% of all such imports for the year. A similar share of auto parts imports also came from Canada and Mexico, the analysis found. Trump’s latest tariffs come just days before he is expected to introduce a new wave of duties on April 2, a date he has referred to as "liberation day," signaling a major shift in U.S. trade policy. He has repeatedly stated that the new tariffs aim to establish reciprocal trade relationships. However, speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump suggested that the final rates might be adjusted based on the tariffs imposed on U.S. goods by other countries. "I may give a lot of countries breaks," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "I'm embarrassed to charge them what they've charged us." This latest move follows a series of tariffs Trump imposed earlier in March, including increased duties on Chinese imports, raising tariffs on goods from the country to 20%. Days later, he implemented sweeping tariffs on all aluminum and steel imports. These actions triggered retaliatory tariffs from China, the European Union, and Canada, fueling a trade war that has rattled financial markets and sparked fears of an economic downturn. Economists largely predict that tariffs will lead to higher prices for consumers, as importers typically transfer part of the tax burden to buyers. At a press conference in Washington, D.C., last Wednesday, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell attributed a "good part" of recent inflation to the effects of tariffs. Based on a report by BBC 2025-03-27

A post promoting the virtues of Trump or Putin being Alpha males has been removed along with an unapproved source @beautifulthailand99 The topic is also not about historical events inculding who the nuclear weapons belonged to in Ukraine before 1996, but is about: Updates and events in the War in Ukraine 2025 Any more diversion attempts will be removed

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that dramatically alters the U.S. election system by requiring individuals to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. The order also includes broad changes to mail-in voting and election equipment, raising concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement and the legality of such sweeping reforms. Election law experts quickly pointed out that Trump’s directive is likely to face legal challenges, as courts have previously blocked states from imposing similar proof-of-citizenship requirements for federal elections. Under existing law, individuals registering to vote must swear under penalty of perjury that they are U.S. citizens. Legal experts argue that adding a documentary requirement could prevent millions of eligible voters from registering, particularly those without immediate access to the required identification. The order instructs the Election Assistance Commission (EAC), an independent federal body, to revise voter registration forms and mandate documents such as U.S. passports or government-issued IDs that explicitly confirm citizenship. However, only about half of Americans held passports as of last year, according to the State Department, and certain forms of identification listed in the order—such as REAL IDs and military identification cards—do not always indicate citizenship. Additionally, birth certificates are not included as an acceptable form of proof under the directive, further complicating the registration process for many eligible voters. Trump has long promoted the idea that noncitizens vote in U.S. elections, despite a lack of significant evidence supporting such claims. Federal law already makes it a crime for noncitizens to vote, and election officials routinely review records to ensure compliance. Legal scholars swiftly criticized the executive order, asserting that Trump lacks the authority to impose these changes. “A whole lot of this is illegal,” said Sean Morales-Doyle, director of the Voting Rights Program at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law. He noted that the president does not have jurisdiction over the Election Assistance Commission or the management of elections. Justin Levitt, a constitutional law scholar at Loyola Law School, echoed this view, stating, “The president’s got almost no power over federal elections. One of the things that was very clear during my time in the last administration is how little authority the president has over elections—by design.” The Constitution delegates election oversight to Congress and the states, granting them control over the "times, places, and manner of holding elections." Republican lawmakers have also pursued a legislative path toward a proof-of-citizenship requirement with the introduction of the SAVE Act. Unlike Trump’s order, the bill would allow voters to use birth certificates to verify citizenship. However, election officials and voting rights advocates argue that such measures still risk disenfranchising voters who lack access to their documents. Beyond voter registration requirements, the executive order makes additional sweeping changes to election procedures. It prohibits the use of voting machines that rely on QR codes, potentially forcing states to replace costly election equipment. It also mandates that all ballots must be received by Election Day, directly challenging states that currently allow mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted if received later. The order further directs the Department of Government Efficiency and other federal agencies to scrutinize state voter rolls in an effort to identify ineligible voters. Levitt pointed out that past Republican efforts to uncover widespread voter fraud have largely been unsuccessful, raising questions about the feasibility of such a directive. With legal challenges expected to mount, the executive order’s future remains uncertain. Experts anticipate that courts will once again intervene, as they have in previous cases involving voter registration and election law changes at the federal level. Based on a report by NBC News 2025-03-27

Prince Harry has expressed his shock after stepping down as patron of Sentebale, the charity he co-founded to support young people with HIV and AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana. His resignation follows a dispute between the charity’s board of trustees and its chair, Sophie Chandauka, who has taken legal action to remain in her role. Harry, the younger son of King Charles, established Sentebale in 2006 alongside Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, naming it after the local word for "forget-me-not" in memory of his mother, Princess Diana, who passed away in a Paris car crash in 1997. The organization has played a significant role in supporting vulnerable children in southern Africa, a cause close to the prince’s heart. The charity is now facing turmoil, as both Harry and Prince Seeiso have left their roles, along with the entire board of trustees. In a joint statement, they expressed sadness over their departure, stating it was “with heavy hearts” that they had made the decision “until further notice.” They emphasized that the trustees had acted in the best interests of the organization in calling for the chair to step down. “Although we may no longer be patrons, we will always be its founders, and we will never forget what this charity is capable of achieving when it is in the right care,” the statement read. The details surrounding the internal conflict remain unclear, but Chandauka responded with strong remarks, seemingly aimed at Prince Harry. “Everything I do at Sentebale is in pursuit of the integrity of the organisation, its mission, and the young people we serve,” she stated, as reported by Britain’s PA Media news agency. She claimed to have reported the trustees to the UK’s Charity Commission and alleged that a UK court had issued an injunction preventing her dismissal. However, a source familiar with the situation told CNN that no such court order had been issued. Chandauka’s statement went further, making pointed accusations. “My actions are guided by the principles of fairness and equitable treatment for all, regardless of social status or financial means. There are people in this world who behave as though they are above the law and mistreat people, and then play the victim card and use the very press they disdain to harm people who have the courage to challenge their conduct.” She framed the dispute as “the story of a woman who dared to blow the whistle about issues of poor governance, weak executive management, abuse of power, bullying, harassment, misogyny, misogynoir – and the coverup that ensued.” For Harry, this resignation marks the end of a deeply personal commitment. Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to California with his wife, Meghan, and their two children, he has maintained his support for many of his charitable projects, including Sentebale. His decision to step back is a significant blow, given his long-standing dedication to the charity. Harry first became inspired to help Lesotho’s vulnerable youth during a visit to the kingdom in 2004. The country has some of the world’s highest HIV and AIDS rates, and in 2020, Harry reflected on his deep connection to the cause, saying he had been “struck by the hardship and challenges so many children faced.” He described Sentebale as a tribute to both his own mother and Prince Seeiso’s late mother. Over the years, Harry has returned to Lesotho multiple times, most recently in October, when he attended a fireside discussion about the charity’s impact. His work in Africa extends beyond Sentebale, as he has long championed various humanitarian efforts across the continent. Britain’s Charity Commission has acknowledged concerns about Sentebale’s governance and is currently “assessing the issues to determine the appropriate regulatory steps.” Meanwhile, Sentebale has not formally accepted resignations from its royal patrons and has described the situation as part of an ongoing “recalibration of the board” in line with the charity’s “ambitious transformation agenda.” Based on a report by CNN 2025-03-27

A number of trolling posts removed including misleading information. The topic. The Dangerous Cost of Speaking the Truth

The Dangerous Cost of Speaking the Truth In modern Britain, calling out the obvious has become a risky business. There should be nothing controversial about condemning a terrorist group as “disgusting.” Yet, time and again, people are being punished for speaking plain truth. Take NHS nurse Jennifer Melle, for example. She was reprimanded by her hospital in Surrey for referring to a male paedophile as “Mr.” The individual, known only as Patient X, identifies as a woman. He is also a convicted child sex offender. Yet it was Melle, not the criminal, who faced consequences. Her crime? Stating biological reality. When the offender was brought to her hospital for treatment, she called him “Mr.” That sounds both polite and factually accurate. But in today’s Britain, preferring truth over fantasy is apparently an offence worthy of punishment. Now, another case has emerged. Damon Joshua, a sewage worker, lost his job at Severn Trent Water after he condemned Hamas. Marking the first anniversary of Hamas’s October 7 attack, he posted an image of the Israeli flag on an internal staff site along with his thoughts. “It’s a year since Israel was horrifically attacked by a group of violent and disgusting terrorists,” he wrote. He urged colleagues to “stand in solidarity” with their “Jewish, Israeli and Zionist” peers against “the evils of Islamist terror.” The response? His post was removed by management, who claimed that “the terminology was very derogatory.” In other words, it is now unacceptable to be rude about Hamas. Apparently, offending a convicted paedophile or a terrorist organization is a graver offence than their own actions. Welcome to Britain, where acknowledging biological reality or calling terrorists “disgusting” can get you in trouble. Once, you had to say something genuinely offensive to be reprimanded. Now, simply stating the truth is enough to land you in hot water. The basic facts—that men are men and terrorists are vile—are now controversial. The case of Damon Joshua is particularly revealing. If there is one thing almost everyone should agree on, it is that Hamas are bad people. Legally, this is indisputable: Hamas is designated a terrorist organization in the UK. And yet, declaring this publicly is enough to spark outrage. Activist Niyak Ghorbani has learned this the hard way. Born in Iran, he regularly attends “pro-Palestine” marches in London, holding a placard that reads “Hamas is Terrorist.” The result? He has been jeered at, shoved, and even arrested by the Met Police—not for breaking the law, but for his “own safety.” The police justified their actions by saying they wanted to “prevent a breach of the peace.” What they really did was silence a man for stating what UK law already affirms. If law enforcement were doing their job properly, they wouldn’t be targeting people like Ghorbani. Instead, they should be asking why certain groups become violent at the mere mention of Hamas’s terrorist status. It is now seen as controversial—even suspicious—to call Hamas terrorists. Some on the left prefer to use words like “resistance” or “fighters,” as if Hamas were merely engaged in a noble struggle. The BBC, too, has infamously avoided calling Hamas what they are. Shortly after the October 7 attack, BBC journalist John Simpson insisted that it was not the network’s role to tell people “who are the good guys and who are the bad guys.” Yet, when it comes to Brexit voters or Trump supporters, the BBC has never shied away from making moral judgments. Somehow, when it comes to Hamas, neutrality is suddenly paramount. Why this hesitation? Part of it stems from deep-seated anti-Israel sentiment among certain influential circles. Many dislike Israel so intensely that they refuse to condemn the group that regularly terrorizes it. But there is another factor at play: the fear of being labeled “Islamophobic.” British society has become so anxious about offending Islam that even criticizing Islamist terrorism has become taboo. Many people now believe that anything linked to Islam—whether it be the niqab, grooming gangs, or Hamas—must be handled with extreme caution. The growing push for Labour’s new definition of “Islamophobia” will only make this worse. If implemented, it could become even harder to discuss issues that reflect poorly on Islam, even when those issues involve terrorism. It’s time to push back against this absurdity. Reality must be defended. If you have a penis, you are a man. And if you pick up a gun to kill Jewish civilians, you are a disgusting terrorist. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-26

UPDATE: Gaza Residents Stage Rare Protests Against Hamas, Demand End to War In a rare display of dissent, hundreds of Palestinians took to the streets in multiple locations across Gaza on Tuesday to protest against Hamas rule and call for an end to the ongoing war. Demonstrators, chanting slogans such as “Hamas out” and “We want to eat,” expressed their frustration with the terror group’s governance and the devastating toll of the conflict. Footage from Beit Lahia, a town in northern Gaza, showed hundreds of residents holding signs reading “Stop war” and “Children in Palestine want to live.” Protesters chanted against Hamas, labeling its members as “terrorists” and demanding their removal from power. Other demonstrations erupted across the Strip, with reports of gatherings in front of the Indonesian Hospital, where some protesters waved white flags as a symbol of peace. Large protests against Hamas's fascism in Gaza today, with thousands demanding dignity, an end to the war & destruction, and calling on the terror group to "get out." Listen to Palestinians in Gaza; cover these demonstrations; be their voice; amplify their cries. Down with Hamas! Later in the day, another demonstration broke out in the Jabalia refugee camp, where dozens of protesters burned tires while chanting, “We want to eat.” As news of the protests spread, further demonstrations were reported, including in Khan Younis, a major city in southern Gaza, where residents were filmed chanting “Down with Hamas” and calling for an end to the fighting. Although Hamas did not release an official statement regarding the protests, some media outlets in Gaza affiliated with the group framed the demonstrations as “protests for stopping the war,” deliberately omitting the calls for Hamas’s removal. Public dissent against Hamas is uncommon in Gaza due to the group’s strict control over the territory, which it has ruled since violently ousting the Palestinian Authority nearly two decades ago. While individual expressions of frustration have become more frequent since the war began, large-scale demonstrations against Hamas remain rare. However, these latest protests highlight growing dissatisfaction among Gaza’s residents as they grapple with the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis. Based on a report by NYP 2025-03-26

@frank83628 yet another troll post has been removed, yet another of your posts that offers nothing to the topic of discussion other than deflect a credible link. Once more and you will also be removed yet again.

A nursing assistant who meticulously planned to bomb a hospital and an RAF base has been sentenced to life in prison. Mohammad Farooq, 29, of Hetton Road in Leeds, had intended to carry out a devastating attack at St James's Hospital in January 2023 after previously plotting to target RAF Menwith Hill near Harrogate. A terrorist who planned to blow up Leeds Hospital & RAF base has been sentenced to life in prison. Mohammad Farooq, 29, walked into Leeds hospital with pressure cooker he planned to blow up the hospital where he worked. Farooq was jailed for a minimum of 37 years in prison. Farooq was found guilty at Sheffield Crown Court of preparing acts of terrorism. During the trial, jurors heard how he sought to “kill as many nurses as possible” by detonating a pressure cooker bomb inside the hospital. At sentencing, Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb imposed a life sentence with a minimum term of 37 years. The judge emphasized that nearly 10 kilograms of explosives had been packed into the device, highlighting the potential devastation. "You were disillusioned in your own life, both personally and professionally, having failed to achieve the standard of work to become a nurse," the judge remarked. The court heard that Farooq had been consuming “anti-West propaganda” on TikTok and had downloaded terrorist manuals, including instructions on how to construct a bomb. Despite being employed as a nursing assistant at the hospital, Farooq harbored deep resentment towards colleagues. In a chilling move, he sent a text message to a nurse, falsely claiming there was a bomb on the ward. The prosecution argued that this was not an attempt to warn staff and patients, but rather to trigger an evacuation so he could maximize casualties. "He wanted to detonate the bomb when the canteen was full of nurses and walk out," the judge stated. However, his attack was thwarted by a passerby, patient Nathan Newby, who engaged him in conversation outside the hospital and ultimately diffused the situation. The judge praised Mr. Newby’s intervention, calling his courtroom testimony “the most remarkable the court has ever heard.” She stated that Farooq openly admitted his intent to kill during their exchange. "The kind thoughtfulness of a passing stranger saved you and the people you targeted," she told Farooq. "Mr. Newby’s actions prevented an atrocity." During the trial, the court also learned that Farooq had initially set his sights on RAF Menwith Hill, believing it to be a viable target due to its association with UK and US military intelligence. However, he abandoned the plan, fearing the base was too well protected, and instead turned his attention to the hospital. Farooq was arrested outside St James’s Hospital with the pressure cooker bomb, which was reported to be twice as powerful as those used in the 2013 Boston Marathon attack. Prosecutors described his radicalization, stating that he had become immersed in an “extremist Islamic ideology” and was seeking “his own martyrdom” through mass murder. Jonathan Sandiford KC, the lead prosecutor, also noted that Farooq had a history of grievances against former colleagues and had engaged in a campaign of harassment against them. Det Supt Paul Greenwood, head of investigations for Counter Terrorism Policing North East, commended the sentencing, stating: “Farooq came dangerously close to harming innocent people. Thanks to the bravery of Nathan Newby, he never fully realized his plans and has instead been forced to face the long-term consequences of his extreme ideology and deep-seated grievances.” Prof. Phil Wood, chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, reflected on the harrowing events of that morning. “Today's sentencing helps us continue to move on from the events of that day. It was an extremely difficult time for staff and patients, and I remain immensely proud of the calm and professional way in which they responded to keep everyone safe.” He expressed gratitude to law enforcement and reiterated his appreciation for Mr. Newby’s courageous actions. “I would again like to thank the police for their support during the incident and throughout the investigation, and I am extremely grateful to Nathan Newby for his courage and initiative that morning.” Farooq will now spend at least 37 years behind bars, serving time for a crime that could have led to mass casualties if not for the quick thinking of an ordinary citizen. Based on a report by BBC 2025-03-26

LGBT Youth Scotland, a taxpayer-funded charity operating in schools across Scotland, has come under fire after a whistleblower alleged that volunteers were instructed to advise self-harming children to use “clean razor blades” rather than discouraging them from harming themselves. According to the whistleblower, managers at the charity defended the practice, arguing that if self-harm was a child’s “coping mechanism,” it would be wrong to “take that away from them.” The individual, who had applied to volunteer with the organization, described these instructions as “shocking and callous.” They stated that when they questioned the policy in October 2023, they were dismissed by managers who insisted that some children had no other way of coping. The whistleblower feared that such guidance could easily be misinterpreted by vulnerable young people as encouragement to continue self-harming. The complaint was reported to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR), which launched an inquiry into LGBT Youth Scotland. While the regulator has since dropped the investigation, it confirmed that it had engaged with the charity on the issue and that policies had been reviewed. However, OSCR declined to specify what changes had been made, stating only that it was “satisfied” with the charity’s response. The complaint about self-harm guidance was one of 13 concerns raised about LGBT Youth Scotland, obtained by The Times through a freedom of information request. Other concerns focused on the charity’s support for puberty blockers and its promotion of gender ideology in schools. Despite safety concerns leading to the ban of puberty blockers in certain cases, LGBT Youth Scotland had previously described such medical treatments as “wonderful.” The charity receives over £1 million in taxpayer funding annually and is active in hundreds of schools. In addition to its work promoting LGBT inclusion, it operates youth groups, one-on-one support services, and an online chat service for children. Critics argue that its increasing influence in Scottish schools is contributing to what they describe as a “systematic erosion of child safeguarding.” Ash Regan, an Alba Party MSP and former SNP minister, raised concerns in the Scottish Parliament about the role of LGBT Youth Scotland in education. “Mental health issues are serious, requiring professional clinical support, not left to volunteers trained in normalising dangerous practices,” she said. Regan also criticized OSCR for its lack of transparency regarding the inquiry and questioned who was overseeing the real-world impact of organizations like LGBT Youth Scotland on children. The controversy over self-harm advice is just one in a series of scandals linked to the charity. Last year, Rosie Millard, chairwoman of the BBC’s Children in Need, resigned over the organization’s handling of a £466,000 grant awarded to LGBT Youth Scotland. She accused Children in Need’s chief executive, Simon Antrobus, of “dithering and delay” before ultimately cutting ties with the charity due to fears of bad publicity. LGBT Youth Scotland has also faced scrutiny over past associations with individuals convicted of child abuse. In 2009, its former chief executive, James Rennie, was jailed as part of what was then described as Scotland’s largest paedophile ring. More recently, it emerged that convicted sex offender Andrew Easton had contributed to a “coming out” guide for the charity in 2010. Easton, who was not an employee or volunteer of LGBT Youth Scotland, later pleaded guilty to sharing indecent images of children, including babies. In response to the ongoing criticism, LGBT Youth Scotland recently updated its articles of association, seemingly expanding its remit beyond its previous focus on supporting 13 to 25-year-olds. OSCR stated that it had not needed to use its formal powers in its investigation, meaning it was not required to publish a report on its findings. It insisted that it was satisfied with the charity’s response, which included reviewing and updating key policies. However, there remains confusion over whether the specific complaint about self-harm guidance was addressed. OSCR stated that it had engaged with the charity on the matter, while a spokesman for LGBT Youth Scotland suggested that the complaint had not been part of the review. The spokesman said: “Some complaints that OSCR will have received will not have been shared with LGBT Youth Scotland as they will have deemed them either unsubstantiated or unverifiable, irrelevant, or outside of the purview of a tightly governance-focused inquiry.” Despite the regulator’s assurances, concerns about LGBT Youth Scotland’s influence in schools continue to grow. Critics argue that an organization receiving substantial public funding must be subject to greater scrutiny, particularly when dealing with vulnerable children. The allegations surrounding self-harm guidance have only intensified the debate over the charity’s role in Scottish education and child safeguarding. Based on a report by The Times 2025-03-26

The Labour government’s proposal to impose VAT on private school fees faces a significant legal challenge that could ultimately force Sir Keir Starmer and his cabinet to abandon the controversial policy. Next week, some of the country’s most respected legal minds will present arguments before the High Court, questioning whether the tax violates fundamental rights protected under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This case raises broader concerns about parliamentary sovereignty, the role of education in society, and the rights of children. Should the government lose, it would not only be an embarrassment for Starmer but a potentially devastating blow to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Many misunderstand what would happen in the event of a loss. Contrary to government claims, the courts would not be overturning a taxation policy. Instead, the ruling would likely result in a “declaration of incompatibility,” acknowledging that the tax conflicts with existing laws, including Education Acts, charity legislation, and human rights protections. Labour itself has committed to upholding human rights in its manifesto, further complicating its position. The law is clear: no child should be denied access to education or discriminated against based on their special educational needs or their parents’ religious beliefs. If the court finds the VAT policy incompatible with these principles, the issue would return to Parliament for resolution. This would reaffirm, rather than undermine, democratic governance. Even if the UK were to leave the ECHR, it is expected that a British Bill of Rights would preserve these fundamental protections. A central criticism of this legal challenge is that human rights law should not have the power to overturn a tax policy that has parliamentary approval and was part of Labour’s election manifesto. However, this argument misrepresents the case. A ruling against the government would not repeal the tax but would require Parliament to address the legal conflict, reinforcing democratic principles rather than eroding them. Another common misconception is that the case is about a supposed right to attend elite private schools such as Eton. That is not the issue at hand. The claimants argue that the tax disproportionately affects special needs students and families with religious convictions, including several Christian schools involved in the case. Wealthier institutions will likely absorb the cost increase, while smaller schools and vulnerable families will suffer the most. Ironically, the policy may shield elite schools from competition by allowing them to pass on VAT while reclaiming it on capital expenses. Education is compulsory, which means children have certain rights. A child with special needs cannot simply be placed in an unsuitable school. Similarly, a Jewish child cannot be forced into a Christian school, and vice versa. These rights are deeply embedded in British legal history and have long been upheld in a pluralistic society that values diversity in education. For centuries, education has been legally recognized as a charitable purpose, much like welfare and religion. Schools, along with nurseries and universities, have traditionally been exempt from taxation as part of a social contract that acknowledges their public benefit. The idea that parents who choose to educate their children privately should be penalized is a departure from this long-standing norm. This approach is not unique to Britain—most Western nations exempt education from taxation. Even in New Zealand, where a small tax is levied on school fees, it is offset by a tax credit. The government’s decision to impose VAT on school fees midway through an academic year has already had dire consequences. Schools have closed, children have been forced to leave their schools, and in many cases, there are no suitable alternatives available. This is not just an inconvenience—it is a reckless policy that undermines well-established rights and disrupts the lives of families across the country. A more measured approach would have been to implement the policy gradually, with exemptions for certain schools and students. Instead, the government appears to have introduced the measure hastily, without proper consideration of its impact. Claims that it will raise £1.6 billion for state schools have been widely challenged. The real outcome has been chaos, with additional strain placed on the already struggling special needs education system. Given the strength of the legal arguments against the VAT plan, there is a significant possibility that the government will lose this case. If that happens, the responsibility will fall squarely on the shoulders of Bridget Phillipson, whose mishandling of the issue may force Labour to reconsider its approach. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-26 Related Topics: Private Schools Struggle as Labour’s VAT Policy Triggers Closures Looming Crisis: Private Schools Face Closures Amid VAT Hike Top Oxfordshire Prep School to Close Amid Controversial VAT Policy on Private Education England’s Special Educational Needs Crisis: A System in Desperate Need of Reform Legal Challenge Against Private School VAT Policy Deems It Discriminatory

Under a new definition proposed by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, individuals from various faith groups—including Sikhs, Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and even atheists—could be recognized as victims of Islamophobia if they are perceived as Muslim. Rayner’s initiative aims to broaden the scope of protections against anti-Muslim hatred by ensuring that those mistakenly identified as Muslim are also covered. As part of this effort, Rayner has established a working group to provide recommendations on defining and addressing Islamophobia. The five-member advisory panel, chaired by former Conservative Attorney General Dominic Grieve, will guide ministers on the appropriate language to describe and combat discrimination targeting Muslims or those assumed to be Muslim. The group's terms of reference, published on Monday, emphasize that their work will also consider the merits of adopting a formal, non-statutory definition of Islamophobia. The document states: “This should include advice regarding the merits of government adopting a non-statutory definition of unacceptable treatment of Muslims and anyone perceived to be Muslim, including what a proposed definition should be.” Rayner’s proposal follows previous controversies surrounding attempts to define Islamophobia. Critics have argued that past definitions were overly broad, risking constraints on free speech, effectively creating a de facto blasphemy law that could suppress legitimate criticism of Islam. However, Rayner maintains that the new definition will balance protections against discrimination while upholding the right to free speech. She underscored the necessity of such measures, noting that “too many British Muslims have faced discrimination and hatred due to their religion.” The terms of reference further recognize that individuals from other religious or non-religious backgrounds often face hostility due to mistaken identity. “There are often cultural markers which are adopted by wider faith communities like Sikh, Hindu, Jain, and Buddhists which are used to attack communities that are mistakenly identified as Muslim. This is also true of people of no faith,” the document states. Anticipating concerns over free expression, the terms explicitly reaffirm the right of British citizens to critique religious beliefs and practices. “Any proposed definition must be compatible with the unchanging right of British citizens to exercise freedom of speech and expression – which includes the right to criticise, express dislike of, or insult religions and/or the beliefs and practices of adherents,” the document clarifies. The working group will operate behind closed doors, with its advice remaining confidential. According to the terms of reference, the group will meet monthly, providing private updates to ministers without making its deliberations public. Alongside Grieve, the panel includes Professor Javed Khan, managing director of the think tank EQUI and former head of Barnardo’s; Baroness Shaista Gohir, chief executive of the Muslim Women’s Network UK; Akeela Ahmed, co-chair of the British Muslim Network; and Asha Affi, an independent consultant. Grieve has previously engaged in discussions on Islamophobia, having written the foreword to a 2018 report by an all-party parliamentary group, co-chaired by Wes Streeting. The report, adopted by the Labour Party, defined Islamophobia as “rooted in racism” and described it as “a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.” At the time, Grieve praised the report for its thorough research and contribution to the debate on tackling Islamophobia. Grieve’s political history also includes a notable clash with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who stripped him of the Tory whip in 2019 after he rebelled against Brexit legislation. He later ran as an independent candidate in the general election that year. With Rayner’s working group now moving forward, the debate over the definition of Islamophobia—and its implications for free speech—continues to be a contentious issue in British politics. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-26 Labour’s Islamophobia Policy