PA: British Isles & Ireland
Friday, 13 February 2026 09:59
Economy grows by worse-than-expected 0.1%
The UK economy grew by just 0.1% in the final quarter of 2025, below the 0.2% forecast by many economists, according to the Office for National Statistics. The figure mirrors growth in the previous quarter, reinforcing…
Friday, 13 February 2026 09:57
Inquests show spread of deadly synthetic drugs
Highly potent synthetic opioids known as nitazenes are being linked to a growing number of deaths across the UK, with 286 inquests connected to the drugs by March 2025. Experts warn they can be many times…
Friday, 13 February 2026 09:54
Synod: Archbishop's first address
In her first address to General Synod as Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally spoke of humility, responsibility, and hope amid significant challenges facing the Church. She reflected that when 'the wind and waves are rocking the…
Thursday, 05 February 2026 21:39
Are Starmer’s days as PM numbered amid fury over Mandelson?
Labour MPs have warned that Keir Starmer’s leadership is under serious threat following intense backlash over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the USA. Fury erupted after Starmer admitted he was aware of Mandelson’s…
Thursday, 05 February 2026 21:35
Palestine Action protesters ‘not guilty’ ahead of potential re-trial
Six Palestine Action activists have been cleared of aggravated burglary following a break-in at a UK subsidiary of Israeli defence firm Elbit Systems near Bristol, but several still face the prospect of retrial on other serious…
Thursday, 05 February 2026 21:31
Mahmood defends immigration reforms amid Labour opposition
Home secretary Shabana Mahmood has defended the government’s proposed immigration reforms amid growing opposition from Labour MPs concerned about fairness and workforce impact. The plans would double the standard qualifying period for permanent settlement from five…