Scotland: Afghan medical students win UK visas to beat Taliban
Twenty Afghan women, whose medical studies were abruptly halted when the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, will finally resume their education in Scotland after years of uncertainty. The women, banned from universities by the Taliban, have been granted visas under a unique scheme involving the charity Linda Norgrove Foundation, the UK Home Office, and the Scottish government. They will study at prestigious universities across Scotland. Some were just one exam away from qualifying as doctors when the Taliban imposed the ban, while others had years of hospital experience. The women, who spent their time in hiding and studying English, are excited about their new opportunities in Scotland, where they will be treated as residents, allowing them to study without paying tuition fees and receive student loans. This breakthrough came after prolonged advocacy efforts to adjust visa rules and open a resettlement pathway for vulnerable Afghan women.
Chancellor to raise taxes and cut spending in October?
Rachel Reeves is preparing to implement a tough October budget that includes tax increases, spending cuts, and stricter benefit policies. Despite stronger-than-expected economic growth in early 2024, she faces a significant budget deficit, with government borrowing reaching £3.1 billion last month, more than double the amount from the previous year. Reeves had already announced initial cuts, including the scrapping of winter fuel payments for most pensioners and halting plans for social care reform. The upcoming budget is expected to raise more revenue from inheritance and capital gains taxes, maintain a 1% increase in public spending with cuts in some departments, and uphold the two-child benefit cap. Despite improved economic performance, the Treasury insists that the financial situation remains dire, with borrowing on track to exceed forecasts. Reeves argues that she inherited the worst public finances since World War II, and further tough decisions are necessary to address the substantial 'black hole' in the budget.
Church leader dead after triple stabbing in Manchester
Alberta Obinim, a beloved church leader in Manchester's Ghanaian community, tragically lost her life in a triple stabbing at her family's home on 18 August. Alberta, 43, was known for her vibrant personality and dedication to the Blessed Baptist Temple, where she and her husband Joshua, who is now in critical condition along with their daughter, led the women’s wing. The police quickly responded to the incident, arresting a suspect believed to be known to the victims. The attack has deeply shocked the local community, with tributes pouring in for Alberta, remembered as a loving mother and a joyful presence. Detective superintendent Toby Facey expressed the police's commitment to supporting the affected families and uncovering the full details of the incident. The investigation continues, with increased patrols in the area and a call for witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to assist with inquiries. The community is mourning the loss of a cherished leader and praying for the recovery of the injured.
Romania: further investigations of Andrew Tate’s activities
The authorities have intensified their investigation into internet influencer Andrew Tate, who faces serious charges, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors, and money laundering. Recently, masked police conducted raids at his property near Bucharest, as part of an ongoing probe by Romania's anti-crime agency. Tate, along with his brother Tristan and two Romanian women, were arrested in 2022 and have since been formally indicted. While they have consistently denied all allegations, claiming a lack of evidence and a political conspiracy, they remain under strict legal restrictions, including house arrest and a ban on leaving the country. The case has garnered significant attention due to Tate's divisive online presence, where he promotes misogynistic views to millions of followers: he has already been banned by various social media platforms. The trial's start date is yet to be determined, following a lengthy preliminary legal process.
