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.
Category : Public Policy
US Childcare Funds Frozen by Trump Administration
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.
France Plans Social Media Ban for Under-15s from 2026
France is set to introduce a social media ban for children under 15 from September 2026. The draft bill, championed by President Macron, aims to protect teens from online risks. Read the full details.
New EHRC chair asks critics to 'judge me on what I do'
Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson, the new chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, addresses criticism from LGBTQ+ groups and pledges to uphold rights for all protected characteristics. Read her full response.
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Labour urged to raise criminal responsibility age to 14
Eminent professor backs Lady Hale's call to raise the age of criminal responsibility in England and Wales to 14, citing European norms and rehabilitation success. Failure to act would be a lasting disgrace.
Australia's 2026 New Year Changes: What You Need to Know
From 1 January 2026, Australians will see cheaper prescription medicines, new rules for cash payments, and major state law changes. Discover all the key updates coming into effect.
Europe's Pension Crisis: Protests as Systems Strain
Across Europe, from Paris to Madrid, protests erupt over unsustainable state pensions. Ageing populations and falling birthrates create a perfect storm, forcing governments to confront unpopular reforms. Explore the data and the deepening crisis.
Christmas goodwill challenged by systemic inequality
Brad Chilcott argues that peace this Christmas requires building a more equal Australia, not divisive politics. He highlights how systemic disadvantage fuels discontent.
Free Public Payphones: A Vital Lifeline in the UK
While free calls to Santa from payphones are a festive perk, they highlight the essential role of free public goods for vulnerable groups, from transport to libraries. Discover why their value extends far beyond revenue.
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NSW Proposes New Gun Limits and Protest Curbs
In response to the Bondi terror attack, the NSW government is rushing through laws to limit gun ownership and curb protest rights. Critics warn of kneejerk legislation.
NSW Pushes New Laws After Bondi Terror Attack
NSW Premier Chris Minns recalls parliament to pass urgent legislation on gun control, hate speech, and protest powers following the Bondi terror attack. Learn the key changes.
Australia's $1bn News Deal Crisis: How to Save Journalism
Rod Sims warns Australia's news bargaining code deals are expiring, threatening journalism. Discover three urgent solutions to make tech giants like Google and Meta pay. Read the full analysis.
NSW Passes New Gun Laws and Protest Restrictions
New South Wales parliament fast-tracks sweeping gun control measures and controversial protest bans in response to the Bondi attack. The reforms face opposition from the Nationals and Greens.
HMRC wrongly stopped child benefit for 15,000 parents
New figures reveal HMRC's anti-fraud crackdown wrongly targeted 15,000 legitimate UK families. Discover the full scale of the fiasco and its impact.
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Children bereaved by domestic homicide 'left invisible'
Campaigners condemn the UK government's new violence against women strategy for failing to support children and carers after domestic homicide. Read the full story.
Australia to Fast-Track New Hate Speech Laws
The Australian government announces urgent reforms to combat antisemitism and hate speech following the Bondi Beach massacre. New laws target 'dehumanising' rhetoric.
Ageing UK population to hit young hardest, Lords warn
A House of Lords committee warns that young people will bear the brunt of the UK's ageing population crisis, facing higher taxes and reduced services unless government acts now.
Major Gun Buyback After Bondi Terror Attack
PM Anthony Albanese announces a national firearms buyback, splitting costs with states, following the Bondi beach terror attack. New laws and a register are accelerated.
Trump downgrades cannabis classification in US
President Donald Trump signs an executive order reclassifying marijuana, a major federal policy shift. The move coincides with the Epstein Files deadline and a Kennedy Center renaming controversy.
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Government's New Strategy to Tackle Violence Against Women
The UK government has unveiled a landmark strategy to reduce violence against women and girls. Ministers must now deliver on their bold promises with concrete action and sustained funding.
NSW Parliament recalled for urgent gun law debate
The NSW parliament will be recalled next week to debate urgent gun control legislation, with calls to remove recreational hunting as a valid reason for firearm ownership. Follow the latest developments.
China Taxes Condoms in Bid to Reverse Falling Birth Rate
China ends a 30-year tax exemption on contraceptives, imposing a 13% VAT from 1 January. This 'carrot-and-stick' approach aims to boost the birth rate, but experts doubt its effectiveness. Explore the policy shift and public reaction.
Australia's New Crackdown on Hate Speech After Bondi
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announces tougher hate speech laws and visa powers in response to the Sydney attack. Read the full details of the government's new measures.
Australia's social media ban for under-16s begins
Australia enacts the world's first social media ban for under-16s, forcing tech giants to act. Could this be a blueprint for the UK and other nations grappling with online safety?
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Minns Recalls Parliament to Strengthen NSW Gun Laws
NSW Premier Chris Minns is recalling parliament to enact stricter gun laws, including ownership limits and enhanced police powers, following the Bondi terror attack. Read the full details.
Australia to tighten gun laws after Bondi Beach shooting
Following the deadly Bondi Beach attack, PM Anthony Albanese vows to strengthen Australia's already strict firearms legislation. Explore the laws and proposed changes.
Bondi Shooting Forces Urgent National Cabinet Gun Law Meeting
PM Anthony Albanese convenes crisis talks on Australia's firearm regulations after Bondi terror attack. Calls grow for national reform, echoing the 1996 Port Arthur response.
Australia reviews gun laws after Bondi Beach shooting
Following the Bondi Beach attack, PM Albanese considers tightening Australia's already strict firearm legislation. Explore the laws and potential changes.
Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban Explained
Australia plans to ban social media for under-16s. Our guide explains when it starts, which apps are included, and how it will work. Stay informed on this major policy shift.
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Australia's Under-16 Social Media Ban: The Inside Story
Australia's world-first social media ban for under-16s takes effect 10 December. Discover how the law passed swiftly and which major platforms have agreed to comply.
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