Criminal Justice System

Daniel Khalife: Escapes are just one symptom of a failing prison system

— Escapes are rare, and overshadow the security breaches going on inside prisons every day.

Science

The UK has joined the EU’s Horizon science funding scheme – but if we want the UK to lead, the hard work has just begun

— The deal will bring relief to UK scientists after Brexit led to uncertainty over funding and collaborative projects.

UK Economy

The UK economy’s COVID bounceback was stronger than we thought – but here’s why people are still feeling financial pain

— An economist explains why new official figures have eased the gloom surrounding the UK economy, but haven’t fully dispelled all fears.

UK Politics

The Conservatives have seized on cars as a political wedge – it’s a bet on the public turning against climate action

— Today, as in the past, pro-car sentiment is a backlash against nascent environmental protest.

RAAC

School concrete crisis: How RAAC has been used well beyond its expiry date

— Modern building materials are often designed with a limited design life. Exceeding that limit – and not properly maintaining the structures – is risky.

Russia

Ukraine war: Two good reasons the world should worry about Russia’s arms purchases from North Korea

— Despite the UN sanctions against North Korea, Russia is apparently trading weapons and technology which could help Pyongyang’s missile programme.

Politics

There’s no age limit for politicians − As people live longer, should that change?

— While there are minimum age requirements for people who want to hold political office in the US, there are no limits on when someone must retire.

Ukrainian Refugees

Why thousands of Ukrainian refugees in the UK are now homeless

— Schemes to house Ukrainian refugees are set to last for three years. But halfway through, they are already proving unsuccessful.

2024 US Presidential Election

8 GOP candidates debate funding to Ukraine, Trump’s future and – covertly, with dog whistles – race

— From immigration and federal spending to Ukraine and the state of American schools, eight GOP presidential candidates had a lot to say.

Environment

Let’s protect nature, but not merely for the sake of humans

— Environmentalists highlight our lasting impact on Earth. While some see recovery and advocate human-centric care, others stress the importance of protecting habitats for all species. Some argue that no matter what humans do, life will persist. Is that right?

Public Health

Air pollution linked with global rise in antibiotic resistance

— A recent study suggests that air pollution could be facilitating the spread of antibiotic resistance. This global study analysed data from 116 countries, further emphasising the need for improved air quality.

Refugees

Bibby Stockholm: Legionella is not the only health threat on the asylum barge

— Asylum seekers were evacuated from the Bibby Stockholm barge due to legionella bacteria. The barge, which has been controversial for its cramped conditions and impact on the local community, is feared to increase the risk of mental health issues and infectious diseases among residents.

Immigration

Hiring refugees is not just ‘doing a good thing’ – research shows it can also help businesses

— Refugees can help fill labour shortages and skills gaps, while also boosting diversity and competitiveness.

War in Ukraine

Western firms still doing business in Russia finance the war

— Some Western companies have continued operating in Russia since it invaded Ukraine, while others have left the country altogether. By still doing business in Russia they finance the war.

Immigration

Sending UK asylum seekers to Ascension Island is a legal non-starter – if the government really is planning to do it

— The UK government is briefing that a remote patch of land in the South Atlantic, Ascension Island, could become a processing hub for people crossing the Channel in small boats.

Analysis

The EU is making overtures for a post-Brexit defence collaboration with the UK – but London isn’t listening

— The UK government is reluctant to sign a treaty or cooperate formally with the EU, despite the latter’s interest and the urgent need due to the Ukraine crisis.