Pound falls as borrowing costs rise to highest since 2008
The British pound has dropped to its lowest level in nine months, following a rise in UK ten-year borrowing costs to their highest point since 2008. These elevated costs could lead to tax increases or spending cuts as the UK government works to meet borrowing targets. The Government, awaiting forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) in March, emphasised the importance of stable public finances for economic growth. Opposition figures criticised current borrowing strategies, with some calling for more fiscal discipline to build resilience. Globally, rising borrowing costs, partly influenced by uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs, have contributed to inflation concerns and investor unease. Experts warn these trends could disrupt investment promises and necessitate recalibrated spending plans.
'Violent sexual predator' jailed
A predator who groomed an under-age girl online and tried to murder her in the street has been jailed for 43 years. Ellis Dismore, 24, had sent threatening and disturbing voice messages to members of his victim's family before he repeatedly stabbed her, police said. The knife attack in broad daylight in Middlesbrough in June 2023 was captured on a passing motorist's dashcam, and the teenager was saved when members of the public stepped in to help. Dismore was found guilty of attempted murder and more than twenty other offences against young girls including stalking and making indecent photographs of a child. After he sent her relatives a series of chilling messages, the police were told about what was happening. A CPS spokesperson said: 'Ellis Dismore is a dangerous and violent sexual predator who manipulated his young victims into sexual activity through fear and intimidation. We sincerely hope that the part they have each played in jailing such a dangerous man will bring them some measure of comfort.'
Minister's warning over impact of digital travel permit
Northern Ireland’s economy minister, Conor Murphy, has warned that the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme could severely impact tourism. Starting this week, visitors from 48 additional countries must apply for an ETA, costing £10 per person, before entering the UK. The digital permit, linked to passports, is valid for two years and allows multiple stays of up to six months. Murphy is lobbying Westminster to exempt Northern Ireland from the scheme, emphasising that 70% of international tourists arrive via the Republic of Ireland and could be discouraged by this added cost and process. He suggested a seven-day exemption for short-term visitors, highlighting tourism’s significant contribution to the Northern Ireland economy in 2023 and its importance as a peace process success story. Tour operators and tourism bodies voiced concerns that the added expense could deter visitors from visiting iconic destinations like the Giant’s Causeway. The Government, defending the ETA as a streamlined, secure system, has pledged to work with the tourism industry to address concerns.
What’s the problem with the home-schooling bill?
The proposed Children’s Welfare and Schools Bill raises serious concerns for Christian parents and home educators in the UK. Critics, such as Steve Beegoo of Christian Concern, argue that the bill threatens parental freedoms, increases state overreach, and places undue suspicion on home-educating families. The bill includes measures like assigning unique identifiers to children, maintaining local registers, and requiring detailed reports of educational arrangements, including religious instruction. Critics worry this data could be misused or disproportionately target Christian families. Parents could face inspections to justify their educational choices, with penalties for non-compliance, such as fines or imprisonment. Local authorities might prevent parents from withdrawing children from schools, presuming guilt without evidence. This is particularly concerning for parents opposing ideologies, such as transgenderism, which conflict with their beliefs. Christian Concern highlights the rushed nature of the bill, calling it a significant intrusion into family life. It urges prayer, advocacy, and action to protect parental rights and ensure children are raised in environments aligned with biblical values.
