More than three thousand two hundred lawyers, including three hundred senior barristers and retired judges, have urged the government to drop plans to abolish some jury trials.
In a letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer they say there is no evidence the proposals will reduce record delays in criminal courts. The changes would allow a single judge to hear some cases where a convicted defendant could face up to three years in prison. Justice Secretary David Lammy says reforms are needed to cut the backlog.
Business owners say they are heartbroken after dozens of retail units were destroyed by a major fire in Glasgow.
More than two hundred and fifty firefighters tackled the blaze which began in a vape shop on Sunday before spreading through the B listed Victorian building next to Central Station. Independent traders have been left without premises after the property collapsed. Rail operators warn disruption will continue while safety inspections at the station are completed.
Eton Town Council has announced details of this year’s May Day Fete, taking place on Monday May 4th at Eton Recreation Ground between midday and 4pm.
The event marks two hundred years since the Glorious Majority act secured Lammas Land for the people of Eton and Eton Wick, keeping it in community ownership. Celebrations will also include the reopening of the refurbished pavilion and new information boards explaining the history of the land.
Donald Trump has threatened to launch harder strikes against Iran if it disrupts global oil supplies any further, after prices reached a four year high this morning.
He said he would not allow what he called a terrorist regime to hold the world hostage or attempt to stop the globe’s oil supply. He also claimed supplies would be more secure without the threat of Iranian ships, drones and missiles, adding the Strait of Hormuz will remain safe.
MPs have voted against a proposal to ban under sixteen year olds from using social media.
The Conservatives had put forward the plan as an amendment to the government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which is currently going through Parliament. The measure had been backed by the House of Lords but was defeated in the Commons by 307 votes to 173 on Monday night after debate.
The government has announced a new definition of anti Muslim hate which includes violence, harassment and prejudicial stereotyping, while insisting the move will not limit free speech.
Ministers say the description is a working definition to help organisations understand and prevent hostility. The guidance is non statutory and has no legal force. Discrimination because of religion or belief is already unlawful under the Equality Act.
A hospital in Slough has been given national recognition for its commitment to patient safety in joint replacement surgery.
Spire Thames Valley Hospital has received gold level status as a National Joint Registry Quality Data Provider after completing a national audit programme. The registry collects orthopaedic data to improve safety and care standards. The hospital director said improving patient safety remains a top priority for staff.
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