"Boil-in-a-bag" funerals, scientifically known as alkaline hydrolysis, have been introduced in Britain, with Scotland becoming the first region in the country to implement them, the Daily Mail reported. In this method, the body is put in a container, dissolved in water and alkaline chemicals, and flushed down the drains. All that remains are liquid and bones. Experts say these water cremations are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods that use loads of natural gas. The process does in a few hours what a natural decomposition takes two decades to happen. "Boil in a bag" involves placing the dead body in a pressurised steel chamber after wrapping it in a biodegradable shroud mostly made of silk or wool. A slurry comprising &nbsp;95 per cent water and five per cent of an alkaline chemical such as potassium hydroxide is filled into the tank. It is subjected to a temperature of 150°C under pressure to prevent it from boiling. It turns into a liquid, leaving behind soft bones. This water is cooled and treated and flushed into drains and processed like regular wastewater, joining the hydrological cycle.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-behind-sarco-suicide-pod-takes-his-own-life-in-germany-after-being-accused-of-murder-1748943473909">Man behind Sarco suicide pod takes his own life in Germany with help of ‘specialised organisation’</a><h2>Liquid contains no DNA or solid remains</h2>This method has its supporters but is also attracting controversy, mainly because the liquid that remains is returned to the regular water. Scotland is the first to start with water funerals in the UK because, in 2023, 84 per cent of respondents supported its introduction in a survey. Kindly Earth, the company producing alkaline hydrolysis equipment in Scotland, the remaining water has no DNA or solids and is perfectly sterile, and only contains proteins, peptides, sugars and salts. The bones that remain are dried, cooled, and ground into a fine white powder, just like ashes and returned to the family. A water funeral can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sarco-pod-inventor-demonstrates-kairos-kollar-reveals-he-is-working-on-suicide-switch-1766478514128?fbclid=IwY2xjawQScPZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFHRjdTOXNPN1drM04ybWFyc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHtyuKGjohZC9FKihlN7qt1ma2WHW1GWalDFtiYz402wVvaDBryxiQpME6ozh_aem_kRcyMGIP7W9KdL93vSy-CQ">Sarco pod inventor demonstrates Kairos Kollar, reveals he is working on ‘suicide switch’</a>&nbsp;Helen Chandler, General Manager of Kindly Earth, says he is aware that not everyone might choose this process, but it is only about giving families a choice, especially for people who could be "planning ahead for their own funeral". Scottish crematoriums need to secure planning permission and an agreement with Scottish Water to discharge the liquid before they can go ahead with "boil-in-a-bag" funerals. The government plans to hold the first water funeral in the summer of 2026.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Scotland will begin water funerals this year. The alkaline hydrolysis process involves a process that turns the body into water, which is then flushed into a drain, from where it joins the normal hydrological cycle.

"Boil-in-a-bag" funerals, scientifically known as alkaline hydrolysis, have been introduced in Britain, with Scotland becoming the first region in the country to implement them, the Daily Mail reported. In this method, the body is put in a container, dissolved in water and alkaline chemicals, and flushed down the drains. All that remains are liquid and bones. Experts say these water cremations are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods that use loads of natural gas. The process does in a few hours what a natural decomposition takes two decades to happen. "Boil in a bag" involves placing the dead body in a pressurised steel chamber after wrapping it in a biodegradable shroud mostly made of silk or wool. A slurry comprising 95 per cent water and five per cent of an alkaline chemical such as potassium hydroxide is filled into the tank. It is subjected to a temperature of 150°C under pressure to prevent it from boiling. It turns into a liquid, leaving behind soft bones. This water is cooled and treated and flushed into drains and processed like regular wastewater, joining the hydrological cycle. Also Read: Man behind Sarco suicide pod takes his own life in Germany with help of ‘specialised organisation’ Liquid contains no DNA or solid remains This method has its supporters but is also attracting controversy, mainly because the liquid that remains is returned to the regular water. Scotland is the first to start with water funerals in the UK because, in 2023, 84 per cent of respondents supported its introduction in a survey. Kindly Earth, the company producing alkaline hydrolysis equipment in Scotland, the remaining water has no DNA or solids and is perfectly sterile, and only contains proteins, peptides, sugars and salts. The bones that remain are dried, cooled, and ground into a fine white powder, just like ashes and returned to the family. A water funeral can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000. Also Read: Sarco pod inventor demonstrates Kairos Kollar, reveals he is working on ‘suicide switch’ Helen Chandler, General Manager of Kindly Earth, says he is aware that not everyone might choose this process, but it is only about giving families a choice, especially for people who could be "planning ahead for their own funeral". Scottish crematoriums need to secure planning permission and an agreement with Scottish Water to discharge the liquid before they can go ahead with "boil-in-a-bag" funerals. The government plans to hold the first water funeral in the summer of 2026.

Scotland will begin water funerals this year. The alkaline hydrolysis process involves a process that turns the body into water, which is then flushed into a drain, from where it joins the normal hydrological cycle.

Boiling 'dead bodies' in a bag is an eco-friendly funeral, and THIS country is starting them this year

The UK’s ruling party is facing a significant challenge in a traditional stronghold from the Green Party and the Reform Party. Analysts say the rise of alternative political forces reflects growing public demand for change, environmental policies, and governance reforms. The upcoming elections could signal a shift in voter sentiment, testing the dominance of established parties and reshaping the political landscape in key constituencies across the UK.


UK's Ruling Party Facing Tough Challenge From Green and Reform Party in a Traditional Stronghold

Britain will soon be slammed by what is called "Blood Rain", adding to the current woes of people who have hardly had a single dry day this year. Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) has warned that reddish water will fall from the sky in the coming days. However, this is nothing to be concerned about and will happen because of the red Saharan dust sweeping over Europe towards the UK. The dust will mix with rainwater to create "Blood Rain", named after the colour of the water. According to Mark Parrington, Senior Scientist at CAMS, who spoke tothe &nbsp;Daily Mail, the red Saharan dust is expected to pass over southern England and the Channel at higher altitudes in the atmosphere. However, in some places, it will mix with rain and deposit on the ground, leaving a thin red film after the water dries up. The agency is tracking the plume of red dust, which also contains some smoke from crop burning in Equatorial Africa.&nbsp;Parrington added that "large–scale outflow of aerosols to the North Atlantic" is a common occurrence at this time of the year. Strong winds blow the dust from the Sahara and lift it upwards. Once off the ground, this desert dust can travel thousands of miles. He added that it combines with seasonal biomass burning in Equatorial Africa, and the time from January to March is the peak time, as Calima winds transport Saharan dust over the ocean.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/portugal-tsunami-waves-roll-clouds-beach-heatwave-1751367271740">150km-long feature in Portugal appeared to be tsunami waves. It turned out to be...</a> Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-doomsday-cloud-seen-in-maryland-triggers-panic-amid-storm-and-tornado-watch-1752320402522">'Doomsday cloud' seen in Maryland triggers panic amid storm and tornado watch</a><h2>When will Sahara dust reach UK?</h2>CAMS stated that the dust will reach the UK on Tuesday, and form blood rain. However, it will be around for only a couple of hours. But the forecast runs through Wednesday, and more of this dust could cross southern England. The dust will consequently also cover the skies with a red and orange haze, affecting air quality. Also expect red dust to cover car windscreens.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Blood Rain in the UK: Britain will be drenched by red blood rain this week. The skies will also turn red and orange, creating a mystical haze. While it might sound apocalyptic, it is happening because of a regular phenomenon.

Britain will soon be slammed by what is called "Blood Rain", adding to the current woes of people who have hardly had a single dry day this year. Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) has warned that reddish water will fall from the sky in the coming days. However, this is nothing to be concerned about and will happen because of the red Saharan dust sweeping over Europe towards the UK. The dust will mix with rainwater to create "Blood Rain", named after the colour of the water. According to Mark Parrington, Senior Scientist at CAMS, who spoke tothe Daily Mail, the red Saharan dust is expected to pass over southern England and the Channel at higher altitudes in the atmosphere. However, in some places, it will mix with rain and deposit on the ground, leaving a thin red film after the water dries up. The agency is tracking the plume of red dust, which also contains some smoke from crop burning in Equatorial Africa. Parrington added that "large–scale outflow of aerosols to the North Atlantic" is a common occurrence at this time of the year. Strong winds blow the dust from the Sahara and lift it upwards. Once off the ground, this desert dust can travel thousands of miles. He added that it combines with seasonal biomass burning in Equatorial Africa, and the time from January to March is the peak time, as Calima winds transport Saharan dust over the ocean. Also Read: 150km-long feature in Portugal appeared to be tsunami waves. It turned out to be... Also Read: 'Doomsday cloud' seen in Maryland triggers panic amid storm and tornado watch When will Sahara dust reach UK? CAMS stated that the dust will reach the UK on Tuesday, and form blood rain. However, it will be around for only a couple of hours. But the forecast runs through Wednesday, and more of this dust could cross southern England. The dust will consequently also cover the skies with a red and orange haze, affecting air quality. Also expect red dust to cover car windscreens.

Blood Rain in the UK: Britain will be drenched by red blood rain this week. The skies will also turn red and orange, creating a mystical haze. While it might sound apocalyptic, it is happening because of a regular phenomenon.

'Blood rain' to soak UK this week, with skies turning red and orange. Here's what is happening

British exporters are facing a potential hit of up to 4 billion dollars after US President Donald Trump raised baseline tariffs on foreign imports to 15 percent. According to the British chambers of commerce, around 40,000 UK businesses outside protected sectors could be affected.


UK-US Trade: UK Exports Face Up to $4 Billion Tariff Hit 

UK police have questioned former protection officers linked to Prince Andrew as part of an ongoing investigation into security arrangements and related allegations. The development has drawn renewed scrutiny around past royal security protocols, with authorities examining procedural conduct and any potential lapses. Officials have not disclosed further details as inquiries continue under legal and investigative review.


UK Police Question Andrew's Former Protection Officers

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joked about Delhi’s notorious traffic while apologizing for his late arrival at the 2026 India AI Impact Summit held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.


Rishi Sunak's Humorous Take on Delhi's Traffic After Arriving Late at AI Summit

Britain is suspected to have witnessed the first death from cholera in 125 years, with a man in his 80s losing his life. Health experts believe the father of two died of the Victorian disease. He passed away on Tuesday at the George Eliot Hospital in Nuneaton. He fell ill last week and was rushed to the hospital in Warwickshire after his condition deteriorated. There is no confirmation yet that he had contracted cholera, a disease that killed thousands in the United Kingdom during the Victorian era. The doctors suspected that he was sick because of cholera, and so they immediately quarantined him. However, if it turns out to be a case of the water-borne disease, then this would be the first death from it since 1901. Cholera is prevalent in Africa, and many people continue to lose their lives. Initially, they suspected he had norovirus. The UK Health Security Agency has now confirmed that the pensioner contracted a type of bacteria called Non-toxigenic Vibrio cholerae.<h2>The man had not gone out of Britain</h2>The Sun talked to a source close to a family member, who said, "They have no idea how he caught it. They were asked by doctors if he'd been abroad recently, but he hadn't. He lived at home with his youngest son. It was incredibly dramatic. Doctors called them on Sunday and said he could have just hours to live. He clung on until Wednesday but withered away before their eyes." The person said that his eldest son was allowed to see him in full PPE gear.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-food-safety-crisis-how-contaminated-and-ultra-processed-foods-threaten-public-health-1770805799519">India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health</a><h2>Cholera symptoms</h2>Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It can manifest from less than a day to five days. It produces an enterotoxin that causes watery diarrhoea, along with stomach pain and nausea. Patients also go through episodes of vomiting, and it might just appear as food poisoning. As the body keeps losing water, dehydration sets in. If not treated on time, it can prove fatal. During the Victorian era, more than 100,000 people died from it between 1831 and 1865. However, safe drinking water and sanitation practices ended cholera in Britain.&nbsp;

Cholera has claimed the life of a British man in his 80s. He fell sick last week and passed away after his condition deteriorated. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed it was cholera, the first death in 125 years.

Britain is suspected to have witnessed the first death from cholera in 125 years, with a man in his 80s losing his life. Health experts believe the father of two died of the Victorian disease. He passed away on Tuesday at the George Eliot Hospital in Nuneaton. He fell ill last week and was rushed to the hospital in Warwickshire after his condition deteriorated. There is no confirmation yet that he had contracted cholera, a disease that killed thousands in the United Kingdom during the Victorian era. The doctors suspected that he was sick because of cholera, and so they immediately quarantined him. However, if it turns out to be a case of the water-borne disease, then this would be the first death from it since 1901. Cholera is prevalent in Africa, and many people continue to lose their lives. Initially, they suspected he had norovirus. The UK Health Security Agency has now confirmed that the pensioner contracted a type of bacteria called Non-toxigenic Vibrio cholerae. The man had not gone out of Britain The Sun talked to a source close to a family member, who said, "They have no idea how he caught it. They were asked by doctors if he'd been abroad recently, but he hadn't. He lived at home with his youngest son. It was incredibly dramatic. Doctors called them on Sunday and said he could have just hours to live. He clung on until Wednesday but withered away before their eyes." The person said that his eldest son was allowed to see him in full PPE gear. Also Read: India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health Cholera symptoms Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It can manifest from less than a day to five days. It produces an enterotoxin that causes watery diarrhoea, along with stomach pain and nausea. Patients also go through episodes of vomiting, and it might just appear as food poisoning. As the body keeps losing water, dehydration sets in. If not treated on time, it can prove fatal. During the Victorian era, more than 100,000 people died from it between 1831 and 1865. However, safe drinking water and sanitation practices ended cholera in Britain.

Cholera has claimed the life of a British man in his 80s. He fell sick last week and passed away after his condition deteriorated. The UK Health Security Agency confirmed it was cholera, the first death in 125 years.

Deadly disease believed eradicated in Britain claims first life since 1901

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Labour peer Peter Mandelson repeatedly lied about his knowledge of the Jeffrey Epstein files, as the issue resurfaces in British political debate. The remarks have sparked fresh controversy, with opposition figures demanding greater transparency over links to the disgraced financier.


Epstein Files: Starmer Said Mandelson Lied Repeatedly About Epstein Files

Pornhub has blocked access for new users in the UK, allowing only age-verified accounts to view content. The move follows tighter regulations, with no access permitted after the cutoff date without age verification.


Pornhub Blocks New UK Users, Restricts Access to Age-Verified Accounts

Communities across several counties face lengthy clean-up operations following Storm Chandra, with forecasters warning of further issues in the days ahead.

Storm Chandra: UK & Ireland Begin Post Storm Chandra Clean Up

UK PM Pushes Trade Reset with China, Set to Meet President Xi

Large parts of the UK have been hit by strong winds and flooding as Storm Chandra sweeps across the country.


Storm Chandra is the Third Storm to Hit British Isles this Year

A survey in the UK shows that a significant number of young kids starting primary school did not know how to use a book, were not toilet-trained and could not eat or drink independently. Experts have raised concerns that the generations with phones and tablets in their hands were struggling with basic life skills and called for urgent action. The study by early years charity Kindred Squared noted that the kids did not know how to turn the pages of a book, and some of them were even swiping them like phones. Around 26 per cent of the children in their reception class had frequent toilet mishaps, with more than one in three (36 per cent) in the North East having trouble. Nearly 28 per cent of children struggled to eat or drink on their own, the teachers estimated. Most of the staff blamed excessive screentime for the problem, not just the kids, but also the parents.&nbsp;Experts say it is a systemic crisis in the country which needs to be tackled immediately. The government is pushing for more kids to be "school-ready". This would mean achieving developmental milestones, such as being able to eat themselves, basic language skills, use the toilet and being able to dress themselves. One thousand primary staff that are part of the charity found that one in three, 37 per cent, of children are not ready for school at the time of starting reception. This is a significant jump from 33 per cent of such students in 2024.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/perry-county-pennsylvania-boy-shoots-father-nintendo-switch-homicide-1768652664822">Told to go to bed, 11-year-old boy allegedly shoots father over Nintendo Switch</a><h2>Teachers warn of a systemic crisis regarding school children</h2>Talking about the issues they face in the classrooms, the teachers said nearly 2.4 hours of teaching time was going into things that the students could have tackled themselves, but couldn't because they lacked basic skills. Getting them to use the toilet, or changing nappies, took up 1.4 hours every day. Kindred Squared chief executive Felicity Gillespie called it a "systemic crisis". Issues like a lack of enough resources at school, low expectations and the rising cost of living were adding to the problem. They also state that the parents do not have an understanding of when and how to start supporting their children's development.&nbsp;But of the 1,000 parents surveyed, 88 per cent said their child was ready to start school this year, and 35 per cent think their kid is more ready than others. More than 94 per cent of parents want the government to come up with some sort of guidance towards making their children school-ready.

A considerable number of four to five-year-olds in the UK are incapable of using a book and have problems using the toilet, with many of them coming to school in diapers. A survey has found that the problem is aggravated because parents lack the right information.

A survey in the UK shows that a significant number of young kids starting primary school did not know how to use a book, were not toilet-trained and could not eat or drink independently. Experts have raised concerns that the generations with phones and tablets in their hands were struggling with basic life skills and called for urgent action. The study by early years charity Kindred Squared noted that the kids did not know how to turn the pages of a book, and some of them were even swiping them like phones. Around 26 per cent of the children in their reception class had frequent toilet mishaps, with more than one in three (36 per cent) in the North East having trouble. Nearly 28 per cent of children struggled to eat or drink on their own, the teachers estimated. Most of the staff blamed excessive screentime for the problem, not just the kids, but also the parents. Experts say it is a systemic crisis in the country which needs to be tackled immediately. The government is pushing for more kids to be "school-ready". This would mean achieving developmental milestones, such as being able to eat themselves, basic language skills, use the toilet and being able to dress themselves. One thousand primary staff that are part of the charity found that one in three, 37 per cent, of children are not ready for school at the time of starting reception. This is a significant jump from 33 per cent of such students in 2024. Also Read: Told to go to bed, 11-year-old boy allegedly shoots father over Nintendo Switch Teachers warn of a systemic crisis regarding school children Talking about the issues they face in the classrooms, the teachers said nearly 2.4 hours of teaching time was going into things that the students could have tackled themselves, but couldn't because they lacked basic skills. Getting them to use the toilet, or changing nappies, took up 1.4 hours every day. Kindred Squared chief executive Felicity Gillespie called it a "systemic crisis". Issues like a lack of enough resources at school, low expectations and the rising cost of living were adding to the problem. They also state that the parents do not have an understanding of when and how to start supporting their children's development. But of the 1,000 parents surveyed, 88 per cent said their child was ready to start school this year, and 35 per cent think their kid is more ready than others. More than 94 per cent of parents want the government to come up with some sort of guidance towards making their children school-ready.

A considerable number of four to five-year-olds in the UK are incapable of using a book and have problems using the toilet, with many of them coming to school in diapers. A survey has found that the problem is aggravated because parents lack the right information.

Young kids in UK can't turn pages of books and use them like phones, survey finds

Britain and China will aim to revive a "golden era" business dialogue when Prime Minister Keir Starmer visits Beijing next week, three sources familiar with the initiative said, with top company executives from both sides invited to participate.

UK, China to Revive 'Golden Era Business' | London Seeks to Reset Ties with Beijing

UK’s hospitality sector could face business rate hikes of up to 115% by 2028, raising concerns among restaurants, hotels, and pubs. Industry leaders warn that these sharp increases could impact jobs, pricing, and business sustainability.

UK Hospitality Faces Up to 115% Business Rate Hikes by 2028

In a big move, UK has decided to withdraw its last warship- HMS Middleton from West Asia. This is being perceived as a sign of its receding global clout. The UK's move comes at a juncture when tensions in West Asia are mounting. 


UK Removes Final Warship From West Asia Amid Escalating Tensions

France, the UK and Ukraine have signed a declaration of intent on deploying a multinational force after any ceasefire with Russia. The move came at a Paris meeting of Ukraine’s allies, aimed at reinforcing Kyiv’s future security and unity against Moscow.

France, UK & Ukraine Sign Pact on Troop Deployment After Ukraine Ceasefire

The UK unemployment rate rose to 5.1% in the three months to October, with younger workers particularly affected, official data shows.

UK: Young Workers Hit Hard as UK Unemployment Rate Rises to 5.1% 

The UK will launch a military "gap year" scheme, as part of efforts to boost recruitment and reconnect young people with defence, the government said Saturday.

UK Launches Paid Military Gap-Year Scheme Amid Recruitment Struggles 

The United Kingdom is set to launch a military "gap year" scheme, as part of efforts to boost recruitment and reconnect young people with defence, the government said Saturday (Dec 27). The initial pilot scheme, which will launch in March 2026, will offer around 150 under-25s a year of paid experience and training in the armed forces "without a commitment beyond the course". The government hopes to "eventually" expand this to offer over 1,000 places, "subject to interest".&nbsp;The announcement comes after the new head of Britain's armed forces, Richard Knighton, earlier this month issued a call for the country's "sons and daughters" to be "ready to fight" in the face of growing threats, including from Russia.&nbsp;It comes as British defence chiefs attempt to boost recruitment.&nbsp;Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-diplomacy-would-not-work-without-security-zelensky-to-speak-with-allies-before-trump-meeting-1766846371768">‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting</a>&nbsp;"This gap-year scheme will give Britain’s young people a taste of the incredible skills and training on offer across the Army, Royal Navy and RAF (air force)," said John Healey, the UK's defence secretary.&nbsp;"It’s part of our determination to reconnect society with our forces, and drive a whole of society approach to our nation’s defence."&nbsp;The scheme is inspired by a similar scheme in Australia, which the government described as an "exciting model from which to learn".&nbsp;Other European countries have looked to national service in response to the threat from Russia, with France, Germany and Belgium introducing schemes this year.&nbsp;The British government statement outlining the scheme did not mention the salary offered to recruits or how funding will be found to pay for this.&nbsp;Further details about the scheme will follow "in due course", a government spokesperson told AFP.

Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels.

The United Kingdom is set to launch a military "gap year" scheme, as part of efforts to boost recruitment and reconnect young people with defence, the government said Saturday (Dec 27). The initial pilot scheme, which will launch in March 2026, will offer around 150 under-25s a year of paid experience and training in the armed forces "without a commitment beyond the course". The government hopes to "eventually" expand this to offer over 1,000 places, "subject to interest". The announcement comes after the new head of Britain's armed forces, Richard Knighton, earlier this month issued a call for the country's "sons and daughters" to be "ready to fight" in the face of growing threats, including from Russia. It comes as British defence chiefs attempt to boost recruitment. Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels. Also Read: ‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting "This gap-year scheme will give Britain’s young people a taste of the incredible skills and training on offer across the Army, Royal Navy and RAF (air force)," said John Healey, the UK's defence secretary. "It’s part of our determination to reconnect society with our forces, and drive a whole of society approach to our nation’s defence." The scheme is inspired by a similar scheme in Australia, which the government described as an "exciting model from which to learn". Other European countries have looked to national service in response to the threat from Russia, with France, Germany and Belgium introducing schemes this year. The British government statement outlining the scheme did not mention the salary offered to recruits or how funding will be found to pay for this. Further details about the scheme will follow "in due course", a government spokesperson told AFP.

Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels.

UK rolls out paid military gap year as armed forces face recruitment shortfall

As we countdown to the new year, we put the spotlight on the UK Economy for the year gone by and look at the cues to watch for investors and consumers in
2026. The UK economy is closing 2025 on a fragile footing. The year has largely been marked by sluggish growth, sticky inflation and rising Labour market stress.

Elevated Consumer Prices Top Headlines in 2025

The UK economy has faced mounting challenges in 2025, including stubborn inflation, weak growth, high interest rates and pressure on household finances. As policymakers look ahead, questions are growing over whether 2026 will bring relief through rate cuts, improved productivity and stronger consumer confidence.


Spotlight on UK's Economic Struggles in 2025 |Will 2026 Be a Better Year for UK's Economy

The British soldier who died in Ukraine on Tuesday has been named as L/Cpl George Hooley, 28, of the Parachute regiment.

Keir Starmer told the Commons on Wednesday that Hooley had died in a “tragic accident” away from the frontlines while watching a test of “a new defensive capability” with members of the Ukrainian military.

‘He Served With Honour’: Starmer Pays Tribute to British Soldier Killed in Ukraine

Schools have been forced to close or take measures to reduce the spread of illness in recent weeks as a severe strain of flu sweeps through classrooms across the UK.

UK Superflu: Flu Forces UK Schools into Temporary Shutdown

Residents of a small British town are angry with officials who are planning to splurge £450,000 on Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th birthday, when 600 male asylum seekers are due to seek shelter at an army base nearby. The people of Crowborough, East Sussex, are worried for their safety and want authorities to use the money to restore the town centre's CCTV cameras after they were switched off last year, the Daily Mail reported. They are left befuddled to know of plans regarding Pooh's centenary celebrations amid all that is going on in the town. To draw attention to more pressing matters, around 4,000 residents marched on Sunday to protest against Home Office plans to host asylum seekers at the camp.&nbsp;A completely shocked resident told the outlet, "The council says it can't do anything to stop the Home Office from housing the asylum seekers, but they can at least put in cameras to keep us safe. Instead, they're giving half a million to Winnie-the-Pooh." He added that there is "no police station" and "no cameras" in Crowborough. Notably, the Home Office will use the Army Training Camp to accommodate 540 single, adult male asylum seekers. Later, the resident learned about the non-functioning CCTV cameras. Worried residents are spending thousands to safeguard their homes.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/woman-demands-two-free-seats-on-a-plane-because-she-is-claustrophobic-1764589861756">Woman DEMANDS two free seats on a plane because she is claustrophobic</a><h2>CCTVs in Crowborough are not working, people are worried for their safety &nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, defending the plans to splurge £450,000 on Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th birthday celebrations, Wealden District Council said that the "educational and cultural programme" was a way to promote tourism and safeguard the landscape that inspired Pooh's story. Notably, the Ashdown Forest, which surrounds the town, is the inspiration behind the Hundred Acre Wood in Winnie-the-Pooh.&nbsp;Ann Newton, the Conservative Group Leader on Wealden District Council, said she has nothing against Pooh's birthday celebrations. However, spending nearly half a million pounds on it seems too much. "We don't have an ideal world or an ideal situation, and it just seems to be an awful lot of money," she told the Daily Mail. On the other hand, Liberal Democrat Councillor James Partridge defended the birthday plans. "This isn't really about Winnie-the-Pooh, but this is about Ashdown Forest, which is in our trust and we really need to look after it," he said.

Winnie-the-Pooh turns 100: Officials in Crowborough in East Sussex are planning to spend £450,000 on Pooh's birthday celebrations. Residents are not happy and want the money to be used for better purposes, such as making the town safe.

Residents of a small British town are angry with officials who are planning to splurge £450,000 on Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th birthday, when 600 male asylum seekers are due to seek shelter at an army base nearby. The people of Crowborough, East Sussex, are worried for their safety and want authorities to use the money to restore the town centre's CCTV cameras after they were switched off last year, the Daily Mail reported. They are left befuddled to know of plans regarding Pooh's centenary celebrations amid all that is going on in the town. To draw attention to more pressing matters, around 4,000 residents marched on Sunday to protest against Home Office plans to host asylum seekers at the camp. A completely shocked resident told the outlet, "The council says it can't do anything to stop the Home Office from housing the asylum seekers, but they can at least put in cameras to keep us safe. Instead, they're giving half a million to Winnie-the-Pooh." He added that there is "no police station" and "no cameras" in Crowborough. Notably, the Home Office will use the Army Training Camp to accommodate 540 single, adult male asylum seekers. Later, the resident learned about the non-functioning CCTV cameras. Worried residents are spending thousands to safeguard their homes. Also Read: Woman DEMANDS two free seats on a plane because she is claustrophobic CCTVs in Crowborough are not working, people are worried for their safety Meanwhile, defending the plans to splurge £450,000 on Winnie-the-Pooh's 100th birthday celebrations, Wealden District Council said that the "educational and cultural programme" was a way to promote tourism and safeguard the landscape that inspired Pooh's story. Notably, the Ashdown Forest, which surrounds the town, is the inspiration behind the Hundred Acre Wood in Winnie-the-Pooh. Ann Newton, the Conservative Group Leader on Wealden District Council, said she has nothing against Pooh's birthday celebrations. However, spending nearly half a million pounds on it seems too much. "We don't have an ideal world or an ideal situation, and it just seems to be an awful lot of money," she told the Daily Mail. On the other hand, Liberal Democrat Councillor James Partridge defended the birthday plans. "This isn't really about Winnie-the-Pooh, but this is about Ashdown Forest, which is in our trust and we really need to look after it," he said.

Winnie-the-Pooh turns 100: Officials in Crowborough in East Sussex are planning to spend £450,000 on Pooh's birthday celebrations. Residents are not happy and want the money to be used for better purposes, such as making the town safe.

British town to spend £450K on Pooh's birthday: Spend it on security, angry residents demand, as 540 male asylum seekers enter soon

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The United Kingdom has suspended the intelligence sharing with the United States about the alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, after repeated US strikes on such vessels. The United Kingdom considers these attacks to be illegal, and it does not want to be complicit in the US violations of international law.&nbsp;&nbsp;The United Kingdom have been an old ally of the United States, and has a presence in the Caribbean. For a very long time, it had shared intel with the United States to locate vessels suspected of carrying drugs. The intelligence was typically sent to the Joint Interagency Task Force South, which includes representation from several nations that are working together to reduce the drug trade.&nbsp;<h2>UN calls them “extrajudicial killing"&nbsp;</h2>But with increasing attacks, the UK is growing restless about US activity in the Caribbean. As of now, the US military has carried out at least 19 strikes, resulting in the death of at least 76 people. The United Nations High Commissioner last month said that the US air strikes on the Caribbean and the Pacific, “violate international human rights law". The UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, called the operations in the Caribbean "unacceptable" and termed them “extrajudicial killing"&nbsp;France’s foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, also echoed a similar sentiment and expressed concerns about US operations.&nbsp;“We have observed with concern the military operations in the Caribbean region, because they violate international law and because France has a presence in this region through its overseas territories, where more than a million of our compatriots reside,” &nbsp;said Barrot as quoted by Reuters.The Trump administration argues that the US military can legally kill any suspected drug traffickers as they are an imminent threat to national security. They are “enemy combatants” who are in an “armed conflict” with the US. However, legal experts point out the flaw in the argument, even the Law of Armed Conflict will apply to the civilian drug traffickers and designating them as a foreign terrorist organisation does not authorise “extrajudicial killing"&nbsp;

The UK halts intelligence sharing with the US after deadly Caribbean strikes. UN and France condemn the attacks as illegal and “extrajudicial killings.”

The United Kingdom has suspended the intelligence sharing with the United States about the alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, after repeated US strikes on such vessels. The United Kingdom considers these attacks to be illegal, and it does not want to be complicit in the US violations of international law. The United Kingdom have been an old ally of the United States, and has a presence in the Caribbean. For a very long time, it had shared intel with the United States to locate vessels suspected of carrying drugs. The intelligence was typically sent to the Joint Interagency Task Force South, which includes representation from several nations that are working together to reduce the drug trade. UN calls them “extrajudicial killing" But with increasing attacks, the UK is growing restless about US activity in the Caribbean. As of now, the US military has carried out at least 19 strikes, resulting in the death of at least 76 people. The United Nations High Commissioner last month said that the US air strikes on the Caribbean and the Pacific, “violate international human rights law". The UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, called the operations in the Caribbean "unacceptable" and termed them “extrajudicial killing" France’s foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, also echoed a similar sentiment and expressed concerns about US operations. “We have observed with concern the military operations in the Caribbean region, because they violate international law and because France has a presence in this region through its overseas territories, where more than a million of our compatriots reside,” said Barrot as quoted by Reuters. The Trump administration argues that the US military can legally kill any suspected drug traffickers as they are an imminent threat to national security. They are “enemy combatants” who are in an “armed conflict” with the US. However, legal experts point out the flaw in the argument, even the Law of Armed Conflict will apply to the civilian drug traffickers and designating them as a foreign terrorist organisation does not authorise “extrajudicial killing"