China taxes condoms to boost birth rates
China introduces a 13% VAT on contraceptives while exempting childcare services, aiming to reverse a declining population. Experts debate the policy's effectiveness and potential risks.
China introduces a 13% VAT on contraceptives while exempting childcare services, aiming to reverse a declining population. Experts debate the policy's effectiveness and potential risks.
Zohran Mamdani becomes New York's 111th mayor, pledging a radical economic rights agenda including rent freezes, free buses, and municipal stores. Discover his full policy platform.
The Trump administration has halted all federal childcare payments to states, demanding proof of 'legitimate' spending. This follows a freeze on Minnesota's funds based on unverified fraud claims.
Donald Trump suspends federal childcare funding to Minnesota, alleging widespread fraud. He targets Governor Tim Walz and Rep. Ilhan Omar in a racist tirade. Full story on the political fallout.
A severe Arctic freeze is set to bring snow, ice and temperatures as low as -12°C to the UK from New Year's Eve, with Met Office warnings for travel disruption. Stay informed.
The Met Office warns of a severe Arctic freeze hitting the UK, with temperatures plunging to -8°C and snow disrupting travel. Stay informed on the latest weather warnings and health alerts.
The Trump administration suspends federal childcare funding to Minnesota, citing fraud. Governor Tim Walz calls it a political move, noting years of prior prosecutions.
An Arctic deep freeze grips Canada with temperatures plunging below -50°C, while the US experiences record-breaking Christmas warmth. The extreme weather patterns are set to persist.
A federal judge has halted the Trump administration's move to slash over $230m in homeland security grants from states resisting immigration crackdowns. Read the full ruling details.
Experts reveal if trendy freeze-dried produce is a nutritional powerhouse or a sugary snack. Discover the pros, cons, and how to enjoy them wisely.
UK business leaders warn of a prolonged private sector slump until Spring 2026, driven by pre-Budget investment freezes and hiring pauses. Explore the CBI data and economic impacts.
Five London boroughs are among six councils given permission to raise council tax above 5% in 2026/27. Some have pledged not to, despite facing major budget gaps. Read the latest on the Fair Funding Review.
Labour MP Oliver Ryan argues third-party litigation funding is becoming a volume-driven model, citing the Post Office scandal where £46m went to funders, not victims. Read his call for reform.
Croydon Council is set for a £120m funding boost over three years after a historic government review. The new Fair Funding 2.0 model aims to better reflect local need, but the borough's massive debt remains a challenge. Read the full story.
A new 'Fair Funding' formula reshapes council finances, boosting deprived areas. But with most councils still hiking tax, is the crisis over? Explore the winners, losers, and impact on your bill.
Top executives at the European Investment Bank signal a continued hiring freeze for 2025, even as a major dealmaking surge is predicted for 2026. Explore the strategic reasons behind the caution.
A damning report reveals a Queensland childcare worker's predatory abuse could have been halted on five separate occasions by authorities. Read the full investigation.
Joshua Dale Brown, an alleged childcare paedophile, has been hit with 83 new charges. Police reveal the scale of the investigation. Read the latest developments.
Exclusive City AM polling reveals deep public discontent with Labour's budget, with most seeing tax threshold freezes as a broken manifesto promise. Discover the full fallout.
A growing 'triple-decker sandwich generation' faces immense pressure caring for children and ageing parents amid political and economic turmoil. Explore the crisis affecting millions.
Exclusive polling reveals a majority of UK voters believe Chancellor Rachel Reeves broke Labour's manifesto and should resign over her controversial Budget. Read the full verdict.
President Trump announces indefinite asylum pause following fatal National Guard shooting. Read the latest developments and expert warnings about immigration policy changes.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirms state pension-only recipients won't pay tax this parliament, but experts warn of fairness issues for other retirees. Learn the implications.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves urged to justify income tax threshold freeze raising £8bn, while PM condemns two-child benefit limit as a 'moral failure'. Read the latest budget analysis.
Rachel Reeves' debut budget as Chancellor triggers fierce debate with personal tax allowance freezes and the retained two-child limit. Critics argue the measures disproportionately impact lower earners.
Sir Keir Starmer insists Labour 'kept to our manifesto' despite announcing 43 tax rises in Rachel Reeves' budget. Discover how income tax thresholds and pensions changes will affect you.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves extends the tax threshold freeze until 2031. Use our calculator to see how much more tax you will pay as your salary increases.
Resolution Foundation analysis reveals Rachel Reeves's budget tax threshold freeze will disproportionately impact lower-income households. Discover the full economic consequences.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces scrutiny over Labour's tax manifesto pledge as leading think tanks question budget decisions. Follow live updates and analysis.
Rachel Reeves' Budget freezes push millions into higher tax bands, with young graduates facing a 57% marginal tax rate. Discover the impact on your finances.