British Isles

Chinese super embassy in London 'could spy on the whole of Europe'

16 Jan 2026
Concerns are growing in the UK over plans for a vast new Chinese embassy in London, amid warnings it could become a major hub for espionage across Europe. Unredacted planning documents reveal a concealed underground chamber…

‘Critical incidents’ at NHS hospitals as winter viruses surge

16 Jan 2026
Six NHS hospital trusts across England have declared critical incidents as winter pressures intensify, driven by rising flu cases, norovirus, Covid, staff sickness, and delayed discharges. Nottingham University Hospitals and Sherwood Forest Hospitals and four others…

UK economy grew by 0.3% in November, beating forecasts

16 Jan 2026
The UK economy recorded stronger-than-expected growth in November, expanding by 0.3% and exceeding forecasts of 0.1%. The rebound, after a contraction in October, was driven largely by renewed industrial output and growth in the services sector.…

Jenrick sacked by Tories, defects to Reform UK

16 Jan 2026
Robert Jenrick’s political journey has taken another dramatic turn after his sacking from the Conservative shadow cabinet and his decision to align himself at once with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. Long known for courting controversy,…