The Welsh Government's increased council tax premiums on second homes are prompting owners to feel unwelcome, while local populations continue to face significant challenges in affording housing within their own communities. The policy, designed to address housing shortages and price inflation, has intensified a long-standing debate over property ownership.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has outlined a vision for a radical shift in UK governance, advocating for widespread devolution and a new model of public services based on community involvement.
The US Supreme Court has temporarily blocked former President Donald Trump's bid to unilaterally remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. This decision returns the legal challenge to lower courts, maintaining Cook's position for now.
Ford Motor Company has reintroduced human engineers for final quality inspections on its vehicles, reversing a prior shift towards AI-driven systems. The multinational corporation found that artificial intelligence failed to replicate the nuanced expertise of veteran technicians, impacting quality control.
British American Tobacco (BAT) is set to reduce its global workforce by 9,000, approximately 20% of its staff, by January 2025. This restructuring follows a significant decline in traditional cigarette consumption across key markets, compelling the company to pivot towards 'new categories' like vaping and heated tobacco products.
Seoul announced a comprehensive strategy to invest $730 billion into artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing by 2047, aiming to solidify its position as a global technology leader. This initiative follows similar large-scale investments from regional competitors, including Taiwan, China, and Japan, reflecting a broader geopolitical contest for dominance in critical high-tech industries.
Christian Williams, a builder from Neath, was ordered to repay a nominal £1 despite benefiting by £160,000 from fraudulent practices. He left customers with unfinished projects and used their funds, including £30,000 for a roof repair, for personal holidays in Lanzarote.
King Charles's tax payment of £12.9 million for the fiscal year 2024-2025 highlights the unique financial arrangements of the monarch, who is exempt from certain inheritance taxes and pays income tax voluntarily. The Duchy of Lancaster's profits, from which the King derives his private income, are subject to these distinct regulations, often contrasting with standard UK tax laws.
Former US President Donald Trump has issued a threat of 100% tariffs against European nations considering a digital services tax, framing such levies as targeting American technology companies.
The UK Prime Minister's departure initiates a scramble among potential candidates for the chancellorship, a role critical in steering the nation’s economic policy.
A construction company has been fined £50,000 following the death of a worker who fell through an unglazed window at a New Malden building site.
Asian equity markets experienced significant losses following a downturn in the technology sector, with South Korea's Kospi index halting trading for the third time this week to mitigate panic selling.
Qantas Airways has announced its intention to launch direct passenger flights between London and Sydney by late 2025, a journey expected to exceed 20 hours. The airline is betting on passenger demand for ultra-long-haul travel, equipping its A350 fleet with enhanced cabin amenities to mitigate the challenges of such extended flights. This move aims to establish a new benchmark in global aviation connectivity.