UK lawmakers oppose conversion therapy ban
When the House of Lords debated a bill which aims to ban conversion therapy in the UK, 29 members opposed it, while 15 supported it.Christian Concern (CC) expressed gratitude for the opposition, citing concerns over religious freedom and free speech, and criticised the bill's potential impact on private conversations and parental rights. The bill defines conversion therapy broadly and threatens violators with fines. Its sponsor, Baroness Burt, argued for a nuanced approach, distinguishing between therapy and genuine counselling. However, CC disputed this, claiming that potential police involvement was not clearly addressed. The bill now heads to the House of Commons for further consideration; CC and others continue to advocate against its passage.
Police find body in hunt for suspect in Clapham chemical attack
The body of a man found in the River Thames is believed to be that of Abdul Ezedi, a suspect in a chemical attack on a woman and two girls in Clapham. While formal identification is pending, Commander Jon Savell expressed confidence in the identification. The attacked woman remains hospitalised, with critical injuries including loss of sight in one eye. Her friends are fundraising for her recovery and reuniting with her daughters. The manhunt for Ezedi prompted a substantial public response, with 500 calls providing information. Ezedi, believed to have travelled from Afghanistan to the UK in 2016, had a prior relationship with the victim. The attack with a corrosive substance was possibly motivated by a breakdown in their relationship.
Tate and Lyle faces criticism for rebranding
Lyle's Golden Syrup has faced criticism from some people for its rebranding, which has removed a Biblical image. The iconic picture of a lion and bees, referencing the biblical story of Samson, has been replaced with a more modern version. Some argue that the move disregards the brand's heritage, and ask if there is still a place for Christians in the UK. Tate and Lyle apologised for any upset caused but emphasised that religion played no role in the decision. Despite the redesign, the original image (the oldest continuous one in the world) will remain on the classic tin. The update has been defended as a necessary step to appeal to a modern audience while retaining nostalgia. The company has given assurances that the story of Samson and the tin's heritage will endure.
Schools given new guidance on curbing phone use
The Government has issued new guidelines aimed at curbing mobile phone use in schools to improve behaviour and minimise disruptions. The move follows previous calls for phone bans. Education secretary Gillian Keegan emphasised the need for consistency across schools but hinted at potential legislation if the guidelines prove ineffective. While some students see benefits in limited phone access, the Association of School and College Leaders doubts the effectiveness of the guidelines, considering existing school policies. Critics argue that the Government should focus on more pressing issues, such as funding and special needs. The announcement coincides with calls for tighter regulations on children's social media access following a tragic incident. However, the Government remains cautious about restricting phone access for under-16s. Despite differing school policies across the UK, complete phone bans are rare, and the UN has highlighted global concerns about phones' negative impacts on education.
