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In first address as PM, Sir Keir Starmer remarks, ‘Our work is urgent and we begin it today’
Sir Keir Starmer said, "Our work is urgent, and we begin it today" in his first address to the nation as prime minister. Sir Keir entered Downing Street for the first time as Prime Minister, greeting enthusiastic Labour supporters flying Union, Welsh, and Scottish flags before addressing the country in front of Number 10. Sir Keir stated, "Weariness in the heart of the nation - a draining away of hope, spirit, and belief in a better future."
Labour promises 1.5m new homes—can it deliver?
According to Labour's election campaign claims, building more homes is central to the new government's economic growth strategy. Keir Starmer vowed that Labour would support house building to accomplish its goal of 1.5 million houses over the next five years. This means 300,000 dwellings will need to be created each year, doubling the number built in 2022-23. Labour claims it will accomplish this by shortening planning application delays, assisting first-time buyers and developing the 'ugly' green belt. Is this a realistic pledge?
Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 extend their mobile-sharing deal
Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 have agreed to prolong their existing mobile network-sharing arrangement, which will be extended further if Vodafone's proposed merger with Three UK is approved. The Competition and Markets Authority is now considering a final ruling on Vodafone and Three's proposed merger. Vodafone and Virgin Media O2's new long-term agreement calls for the bigger Vodafone-Three business to sell spectrum to Virgin Media O2, which the firms claim will boost mobile connectivity, choice, and competition.
Mince Pies Recipe: How to Make, Serve, and Customize
Mince Pies have a rich history dating back to medieval times, originating as savory meat pies filled with spices and dried fruits. Over the centuries, they evolved into the sweet, fruity treats we enjoy today during the Christmas season. Significance of Mince Pies: At Creative Group, we cherish Mince Pies as a beloved tradition that brings warmth and nostalgia to our holiday celebrations. These small pastries symbolize the festive spirit and are a must-have on our dessert tables during Christmas gatherings.
Greece begins six-day workweeks for some industries
Greece has implemented a six-day workweek for certain industries to spur economic growth. New legislation, which took effect at the beginning of July, permits employees to work up to 48 hours per week rather than 40. It only applies to enterprises that run 24 hours a day and is optional for employees, who are paid an additional 40% for any overtime.
Netflix accused of greed over ending ad-free tier
Netflix has angered customers once more by discontinuing its cheapest ad-free membership option. The streaming giant has informed subscribers to its £6.99/$9.99 'Basic' tier that it will expire at the end of the month. Users must either upgrade to a more expansive tier or be forced to watch advertisements.
Who should I vote for and what do parties promise?
Polls open in the UK general election in less than 24 hours; have you determined which party will receive your vote? If not, this guide summarizes the major parties' positions on the issues that matter most to voters based on their pledges throughout the campaign. Select your preferred country, political parties, and issues from the drop-down list.
Turn left at the next intersection: Why the US needs a sustainable third party
The past few months of student protests against Israel's war on Gaza, and the way they were suppressed by the authorities and vilified as "violent" and terror-related even by supposedly left-leaning, progressive political leaders, revealed an important truth: the United States desperately needs a viable, left-to-centre-left third party committed to democracy. The issue is no longer limited to Republicans and their open support of Nazism. The response of President Joe Biden and other top Democrats to the student protests demonstrated that even the party that claims to represent the left in America is now trending right and has an unmistakable anti-democratic bent.
Travis Kelce says he invited Taylor Swift onstage and exposes her reaction
Travis Kelce caused a stir among fans when he appeared on stage for the first time with his girlfriend at one of her London gigs - and he's now revealed the roots of the spoof. Travis Kelce has admitted that his surprise appearance at Taylor Swift's London gig was his idea. The 34-year-old American football player debuted on stage with his girlfriend during the Eras Tour event at Wembley Stadium.
Can a Hezbollah-Israel battle cause Lebanon’s civil war?
Hezbollah's efforts to contain, rather than terminate, the low-level struggle with Israel have elicited praise and condemnation from across Lebanon. The schism dates back to the 1975-1990 civil war when political groupings were divided along class and sectarian lines in favour or opposition to the Palestinian armed struggle against Israel, which was undertaken from Lebanon. Now, as Israel threatens all-out war against Iran-backed Hezbollah, sectarian tensions are rising.
Former England and Bath rugby union coach Jack Rowell dies at 87
Steve Borthwick has led tributes to Jack Rowell, the former England and Bath head coach, on his passing at 87. From 1994 to 1997, Rowell coached England, leading the team to 21 victories in 29 Tests and reaching the 1995 World Cup semifinals. Under Rowell's supervision, players like Will Carling, Jeremy Guscott, and Rob Andrew thrived, and England won the Five Nations Grand Slam in 1995 and 1996. Rowell was appointed by the Rugby Football Union following a successful 16-year coaching career at Bath. He led the West Country club to five league crowns and eight knockout cup victories.
Complete Guide to Christmas Pudding: Recipe, Tips, Variations
Christmas Pudding, also known as plum pudding, has been a traditional British dessert for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to medieval England, where it was originally a porridge-like dish made with beef and mutton, along with raisins, currants, prunes, wines, and spices. Over time, it evolved into the rich, fruity dessert we know today. Significance during Christmas: Christmas Pudding is a quintessential part of the British Christmas celebration. It is often made weeks in advance and allowed to mature, which enhances its flavors. The tradition of making the pudding on "Stir-up Sunday," the last Sunday before Advent, involves each family member taking a turn to stir the mixture and make a wish.
