News

UK News
IMF raises UK growth forecast: The International Monetary Fund has upgraded its forecast for UK economic growth to 1.3% in 2026. However, it warns that higher energy prices, inflation and borrowing costs could weigh on the economy next year.

A second wave of early prison releases is under way in England and Wales, with around 2,000 prisoners expected to be released this month as the government attempts to ease overcrowding. The policy has renewed debate over public safety and pressure on probation services.

The Home Secretary has announced expanded police support for people in public life and a review of protective security arrangements. The measures come amid growing concerns about threats and intimidation directed at public figures.

MI5 chief Ken McCallum has warned that Russia and Iran are intensifying hostile activities against Britain. He also raised concerns about cyberattacks, threats to national security and the potential misuse of artificial intelligence.

The government has launched a public inquiry into the deaths of two Jewish men killed in an attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester in October 2025. The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the attack and relevant security evidence.

At least 183 homes along England’s coastline have been lost to coastal erosion over the past 16 years, according to newly reported figures. The findings highlight the continuing risks facing coastal communities as authorities confront the effects of erosion and climate change.

World News
Ukraine has reported fresh Russian attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv despite diplomatic efforts to encourage a ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticised Moscow’s actions, while European leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine.

The International Monetary Fund has forecast global economic growth of 3.1% in 2026, supported partly by investment in artificial intelligence. However, conflicts, high oil prices and mounting government debt threaten the outlook.

Escalating regional conflict is raising concerns about oil shipments and energy prices. The IMF has warned that a prolonged crisis could intensify inflation and weaken global economic growth.

Yemen’s Houthi movement has reported further military activity involving Saudi Arabia, including alleged airstrikes and missile attacks. The developments have heightened concerns about regional security and commercial aviation.

Two commercial vessels were reportedly struck by drones off Bulgaria’s coast, with one ship sinking. Bulgarian authorities said 11 sailors were missing, prompting renewed concern about maritime security in the Black Sea.

Hurricane Simon and Tropical Storm Rachel have killed five people along Mexico’s Pacific coast. Rescue teams have used helicopters to evacuate people as flooding and infrastructure damage affect the region.

Authorities have temporarily closed Argentina’s side of the famous Iguazu Falls after unusually high water levels. The surge has been linked to weather conditions associated with El Nino.

Britain’s domestic intelligence chief has warned that Russia and Iran are intensifying hostile activities against the UK. Officials have raised concerns about cyberattacks, sabotage and threats to sensitive sites.

Australian engineer Robert Pether has been released from an Iraqi prison. He has maintained his innocence and described the difficult conditions he experienced during his detention.

Eight people were injured in a stabbing at a shopping mall in South Korea, according to a report citing Reuters. Police arrested a suspect and began investigating the circumstances and motive behind the incident.
News briefing compiled from reports available on 13 October 2026. Some details may change as further information emerges.

City reporter
LONDON: Motorists and learner drivers are facing a series of changes to driving regulations, with new rules covering driving test bookings, vehicle inspections and road safety.
From 2026, learner drivers in England, Scotland and Wales can make only two changes to a car driving test booking. Since 12 May, they have also been required to book, change or cancel their own tests, while moving a test is restricted to the three nearest test centres under rules introduced on 9 June.
Meanwhile, from 14 October, updated MOT requirements allow certain vehicles fitted with halogen headlamps to use approved LED replacement bulbs, provided the required approval sticker is present and complaint.
The Government has also outlined wider road-safety proposals, including changes concerning eyesight tests for older drivers, drink-driving limits and training for young motorists. Some of these remain proposals rather than rules already in force. Drivers are advised to check official government guidance to establish which changes apply to them and when.

Staff reporter
LONDON: Reform UK has come under renewed scrutiny following allegations of racist remarks, prompting questions about the party’s commitment to tackling discrimination and promoting inclusive politics.
The party, which has sought to strengthen its position in British politics by appealing to voters concerned about immigration and national identity, faces pressure to address concerns over language and conduct associated with its representatives and supporters.
Critics argue that remarks targeting people on the basis of race or ethnic background risk deepening divisions within British society. They have called on the party’s leadership to make its position clear and ensure that any allegations of racist behaviour are investigated properly.

Health reporter
The amount of time children in England spend on screens at school could be harming their “physical and developmental health”, a group of more than 150 clinicians has warned.
GPs, pediatrician and other specialists said in an open letter to Education Secretary Lucy Powell and Health Secretary Yvette Cooper that tablets and laptops are being used without a full understanding of their long-term health impacts, including on eye health.
The clinicians said they are prescribing glasses, hearing aids and speech therapy to children “for a problem that is unintentionally being made worse in our schools”.
The government said it was consulting on screen time guidance for children aged five to 18 but that technology could be a powerful learning tool if used properly.
Many children now spend longer on screens in the classroom than is recommended in a 24-hour period, the letter said, adding: “As a country, we need to wake up to this now, and start rolling back screen use in schools before the damage compounds further.”