From September, schools in England face limits on branded uniform items, yet families still struggle with costs as council grants dwindle.

With one week left of the school summer holidays in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, families are rushing to buy uniforms for the new term. New rules coming into force in September are designed to cut costs, but many parents still face a heavy financial burden.

Under the new guidance, primary schools in England should not require more than three compulsory branded items. For secondary and middle schools, the limit is four branded items, where one of those is a tie. A branded item is anything unique to the school that cannot be bought in general outlets, including PE kit, bags, and items needed for after-school activities. Even a logo added to a plain item makes it branded, no matter where it was bought.

The changes aim to reduce the expense of school uniforms, which have become a crunch point for many households. New research suggests that more than a quarter of renters have sold personal belongings just to stay afloat, and uniform costs add to the pressure. Charities such as the Salvation Army are running schemes to help parents cope, providing trousers, polo shirts, jumpers, PE kits, and shoes. One parent noted that children grow constantly and often need extra t-shirts for clubs, making costs hard to manage.

However, support for struggling families is patchy. Research shows that of more than 150 English councils, only 22 now offer school uniform grants. This has become a postcode lottery, with council budgets stretched by social services costs and other legal obligations. As one source put it, things that councils do not have to do by law get cut, leaving uniform support among the first to go.

The new rules may help in the long term, but for now, many parents dread the start of the school year as much as their children do, with family finances left battered by the annual back-to-school shop.

Broadcaster Coverage

• ITV: 2m 33s (ITV Lunchtime News)

Key Claims

• Primary schools in England should not require more than three compulsory branded items from September. — ITV
• Only 22 of more than 150 English councils offer school uniform grants. — ITV
• More than a quarter of renters have sold personal belongings to stay afloat. — ITV

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A new daily weight loss pill for type 2 diabetes is now available in UK pharmacies, but not yet on the NHS.

A new daily weight loss pill for people with type 2 diabetes has gone on sale in UK pharmacies. The drug, sold as Fandao, is the second weight loss pill to become available in Britain, and the UK is the first country in Europe to approve it. It is not yet available on the NHS.

The pill works in a similar way to injectable weight loss drugs, by activating the GLP-1 receptor, which slows digestion and reduces appetite. But unlike injections, it is taken as a tablet once a day. It is also said to have fewer restrictions than the existing Wegovy pill, which must be taken on an empty stomach.

It is licensed for adults with a body mass index of 30 or above, or those with a BMI between 27 and 30 who also have a weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. Experts stress it is not a 'miracle pill' and should be used alongside diet and exercise.

Clinical trials suggest the pill leads to an average weight loss of around 11% over 22 weeks, which is less than the injectable versions. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting and headaches. Doctors also warn about the risk of counterfeit versions being sold online.

The availability of the pill comes as new figures suggest around 1.6 million people in the UK have tried weight loss drugs in the past year. There is also evidence that men are more reluctant than women to admit using them, with some feeling ashamed about needing pharmaceutical help.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 5: 4m 31s (5 News with Dan Walker)
• BBC One: 2m 24s (BBC News at One including...)
• ITV: 4m 2s (ITV Lunchtime News)

Key Claims

• A new weight-loss pill called Fandao was made by the company that produces Mounjaro. — Channel 5
• The pill leads to an average weight loss of 11% over 22 weeks. — Channel 5, Channel 5
• The pill is available to people with a BMI of 30, or 27 with a comorbidity such as diabetes. — Channel 5, ITV
• An estimated 1.6 million people in the UK tried weight loss drugs in the past year. — BBC One
• Most patients buy weight loss injections privately. — BBC One

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Prime Minister Andy Burnham is in Kyiv for Ukraine's Independence Day, where he announced the UK will share Storm Shadow missile technology to allow Ukraine to produce its own long-range missiles.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham arrived in Kyiv on Saturday for his first overseas trip since taking office, marking Ukraine's 35th Independence Day from the Soviet Union. He was greeted by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha after travelling by train, and later met President Volodymyr Zelensky. The visit is both ceremonial and substantive, with Burnham announcing that the UK will declassify technology for the Anglo-French Storm Shadow cruise missile, known as Scalp in France, allowing Ukraine to build its own versions domestically.

The decision follows a similar commitment from France and is intended to address dwindling stocks of the missile, which Ukraine has used effectively against Russian command centres, logistics hubs and other hardened targets. The UK has supplied Storm Shadows since 2024, but those stockpiles are finite. By handing over blueprints, Ukraine could eventually establish its own production lines, though experts caution that meaningful output may take six months to a year. Aaron Dawson of King's College London noted that licensing is different from production, and that the immediate challenge for Ukraine remains ballistic missile defence, not offensive deep strikes.

In a speech at the Independence Day ceremony, Burnham praised Ukraine's resilience and said the UK's support would not waver. "Despite Russia's outrageous threats to my country, we will continue our support for Ukraine's defense," he said. He also accepted an award on behalf of the British people, recognising their support for Ukraine. Later, he is due to co-chair a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, a group of mostly European nations backing Ukraine, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Russia reacted angrily to the announcement. A Kremlin spokesperson said the UK was "adding fuel to the fire" and accused Britain of participating in the war on Kyiv's side. The Russian ambassador to London has reportedly left his post without a replacement, a sign of deteriorating diplomatic relations. Burnham dismissed the threats, saying the UK would not be deterred.

The visit comes as Ukraine faces a renewed Russian missile campaign, including a drone strike on a passenger train in the south. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly called for more air defence systems, particularly US-made Patriots, which are in short supply partly due to their use in the Middle East. While the Storm Shadow announcement strengthens Ukraine's offensive capability, analysts stress that protecting cities and infrastructure from ballistic missiles remains the most urgent need as winter approaches.

Broadcaster Coverage

• ITV: 4m 11s (ITV News, ITV Lunchtime News)
• BBC News: 26m 42s (BBC News, BBC News Now)
• Sky News: 11m 36s (Mornings, Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow)
• BBC One: 7m 8s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• Andy Burnham's first international trip as Prime Minister was to Ukraine, where he carried classified British missile technology, including secret designs for Scalp missiles for production in Ukraine. — BBC News, ITV, Sky News
• France has already agreed to share Storm Shadow missile technology. — BBC News
• Ukraine has been using Storm Shadow missiles effectively against Russian targets. — BBC News
• Burnham will chair a session of the coalition of the willing, with French President Macron and German Chancellor Merz attending. — BBC News, Sky News
• Russia warned of consequences for the UK, and the Russian ambassador to London has left and not been replaced. — Sky News

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A state of emergency has been declared as the Hawkeye Fire near Reno forces 90,000 people to evacuate.

The Hawkeye Fire, which ignited on Saturday as a small bush fire, has exploded in size and is now threatening the city of Reno, Nevada, forcing around 90,000 people to evacuate. By Sunday morning, the fire had covered more than 10,000 acres, spreading from the Sierra foothills towards Reno, a city of nearly 300,000 residents. Nevada's governor has declared a state of emergency, and officials say at least six people have been injured, including three first responders.

The fire is reported to be human caused, though the exact origin is still under investigation. Strong winds have made conditions unpredictable, and the fire has come dangerously close to major highways and residential areas. Thousands of residents are without power, and some homes have been destroyed, with pictures of damaged properties circulating on social media.

Evacuation orders and warnings cover about 90,000 people, with roughly half under mandatory evacuation and the rest told to prepare to leave. The Red Cross has opened a shelter, where more than 450 people spent the night, with an additional 300 sleeping in their cars. Local officials have praised the community's response, but warn that the fire is far from contained. Around 800 firefighters are battling the blaze, supported by the Nevada National Guard and helicopters conducting water drops. The fire has burned more than 15,000 acres according to some reports, and no containment has been announced.

Residents have described the chaos of leaving at short notice, with heavy traffic and road closures adding to the difficulty. The fire has also caused significant disruption, with casino hotels filling up quickly and some evacuees being diverted to California. Officials are urging people to stay prepared and follow evacuation orders, as the situation remains fluid.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 7m 29s (BBC News)
• ITV: 1m 48s (ITV Lunchtime News)

Key Claims

• The Hawkeye Fire ignited on Saturday and grew to cover more than 10,000 acres by Sunday morning. — BBC News
• Six people were injured, including three first responders. — BBC News
• The Red Cross shelter housed over 450 evacuees, and 300 more slept in cars outside. — BBC News
• A fire burned more than 50 square kilometres of land. — BBC News, ITV
• The fire was reported as human caused. — BBC News, ITV

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are returning to the UK with their children, with questions over taxpayer-funded security and Meghan's reported acting plans.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are returning to the UK with their children, according to multiple reports, ending months of speculation about a possible move back to Britain. The couple have enrolled their children in a private day school, although the location has not been confirmed. The return comes amid ongoing family tensions and fresh questions about security arrangements and Meghan's potential return to acting.

Reports over the weekend suggested the Sussexes might only stay for a year and are keeping options open, with Canada and Australia mentioned as possible future homes. The Sunday Times reported that the couple have enrolled their children in a day school, which would rule out boarding and suggest a more settled period in the UK. However, sources close to the couple have also indicated they are not committing to a permanent move, and the situation remains fluid.

The question of security has also resurfaced. Prince Harry has fought a long legal battle with the Home Office over the provision of official protection for his family, which was downgraded when he stopped being a working royal in 2020. ITV News reported that the taxpayer looks likely to end up picking up security costs, with senior political figures reportedly feeling that Harry, Meghan and the children should have some form of protection. A source suggested that a degree of royal protection, paid for by the taxpayer, may already have been signed off.

Meanwhile, speculation that Meghan might resume her acting career, possibly in the Netflix series The Gentlemen, appears to have gone quiet. Reports over the weekend suggested she was in discussions for a role, but a subsequent claim from Tina Brown suggested the production team had pulled back due to public backlash. No official confirmation has been made, and the story has faded from the headlines.

The return also raises questions about family relations. A poll reported by the Mail on Sunday found that only 4% of the public think Prince William should make the first move in any reconciliation. The Prince and Princess of Wales are currently in Balmoral with the King and Queen, and it remains unclear whether the Sussexes will be invited to any private family gatherings. One commentator noted that William and Harry are not on speaking terms, and that the King would have to decide on any invitations. The optics of the two brothers being in the same country, but not speaking, could create a media storm.

Queen Camilla's role has also been noted, given Harry's past criticism of her in his memoir Spare. She has reportedly been pragmatic, allowing a private meeting with the King and the Sussexes to take place, and appears to be prioritising her husband's wishes. The situation remains fluid, with the Sussexes expected to arrive imminently and the full implications of their return still unclear.

Broadcaster Coverage

• GB News: 9m 24s (New: The Camilla Tominey Show...)
• ITV: 1m 49s (ITV Lunchtime News)

Key Claims

• Meghan was in discussions with Netflix to star in the third series of The Gentleman. — GB News
• Harry and Meghan enrolled their children in a private day school, according to The Sunday Times. — GB News
• Prince William and Prince Harry are not on speaking terms. — GB News
• Only 4% of the public think William should make the first move in peace talks. — GB News
• The couple might only be in the UK for a year and are considering Canada or Australia. — GB News

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Two police officers and five young men died in a head-on crash on the A66 after a police pursuit was abandoned; the IOPC is investigating.

Seven people died in a head-on collision on the A66 near Middlesbrough in the early hours of Saturday morning. The crash involved a marked police armed response vehicle and a Volkswagen Passat travelling the wrong way down the dual carriageway at South Bank. All seven occupants of both vehicles were pronounced dead at the scene.

The two police officers were named as PC Matthew Blades, 37, and PC Tom Clough, 38. PC Blades was a husband and father of two young boys, and a football coach in his spare time. PC Clough was a former soldier, described by his family as a hero with a fantastic sense of humour. The five people in the Passat were named as Jacob Matuszak, 23, Mackay Saddington, 18, Theo Ray, 17, Michael Robert Cahill, 23, and Cole Robert Worthy, 17.

Cleveland Police said the Passat had been involved in a police pursuit that lasted just under seven minutes. The pursuit was abandoned when the car turned onto the A66 against the flow of traffic. The fatal collision happened about ten seconds later, when the Passat hit the police car, which was not part of the pursuit but had been sent to help locate the vehicle. The Passat is believed to have been using cloned number plates.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation, as is mandatory in any death involving police contact. The IOPC confirmed that officers had sighted a suspicious vehicle and a pursuit began, but that the pursuit was called off before the crash. They are examining the sequence of events, including the decision to abandon the pursuit and the actions of the officers involved.

The Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, said he was devastated to hear of the deaths and offered his thoughts to the families. The Chief Constable of Cleveland Police, Victoria Fuller, paid tribute to the officers, saying they were brave officers who did not return home to their families. A GoFundMe page set up by the police federation raised more than £400,000 for the officers' families.

The incident has also raised concerns about social media content that celebrates dangerous driving. A video posted on TikTok, believed to be from one of the victims, showed a group of young men being pursued by police. The government has called on social media companies to remove such content, with the Prime Minister describing the glorification of dangerous driving for clicks as utterly reprehensible.

The A66 remained closed for much of the weekend as investigators worked at the scene. Tributes were laid by members of the public and serving officers, and a vigil was held in the community. The investigation is ongoing, and the IOPC has urged people to avoid speculation while the facts are established.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 52m 31s (BBC News, BBC News and Weather, BBC News at One including...)
• BBC News: 44m 38s (Signed: BBC News at Six, BBC News, BBC News Now)
• ITV: 32m 26s (ITV Evening News, ITV News at Ten, ITV Lunchtime News, ITV News)
• Channel 5: 11m 44s (5 News with Dan Walker, 5 News at Lunchtime, 5 News Weekend)
• Sky News: 53m 12s (Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow, Sky News Today with Jayne Secker, Sky News Today with Sam Washington, The Wrap With Gillian Joseph, Mornings with Jones and Melbourne, Sky News Today With Matt Barbet)
• Channel 4: 11m 28s (Channel 4 News)

Key Claims

• The call for help to the coastguard was made at around 2.45pm. — Channel 5, Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One
• The emergency response involved police, coastguard, RNLI, ambulance crews and two air ambulances. — BBC News, BBC One, ITV
• Four people, two adults and two children, got into difficulty in the water at Shoreham. — Channel 5, Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, ITV
• Sea conditions around Shoreham were rough due to strong winds. — BBC News, BBC One, ITV
• Police asked the public to stay away from the area. — Channel 5

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At the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing, robots compete in sports and chores, and one has broken the 100m world record.

The second World Humanoid Robot Games are under way in Beijing, with more than 2,000 robots competing in events ranging from boxing and sprints to household chores and firefighting. The Olympic-style competition has already produced a landmark moment: a humanoid robot named Lightning broke the 100m world record, running 9.39 seconds, beating Usain Bolt's human record of 9.58 set in 2009. Another robot, Tiangong Ultra, also beat Bolt's time.

The games are a showcase for China's technological ambitions. Almost every team represents a Chinese company, and the opening ceremony was choreographed to display the country's progress in robotics. "I'm very surprised by the improvements. I feel very proud of our country's technological advancement," one spectator said.

But beyond the spectacle, the event is a serious business. Companies are competing to attract investment, and the pressure is on to show that robots can do more than run and fight. As BBC correspondent Laura Bicker noted, the question investors want answered is not just how fast they can run, but whether they can fold laundry. The robots are also being tested in household tasks, with points lost for dropped items and collisions.

The games also reflect a wider geopolitical race with the United States. China is already a global leader in humanoid robotics, and Washington has taken notice, with Donald Trump moving to restrict imports of some Chinese products. However, the biggest challenge for China is turning these machines into products millions of people want to buy. Currently, robots can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $90,000, but they are still largely limited to dancing and looking impressive.

Experts say the progress is real and will gradually translate into practical applications. "Robots are becoming more and more powerful. They're becoming able to perform more complex tasks," said Alexander Schmidt, a robotics expert. He added that robots are being developed to assist humans in physically demanding tasks, allowing people to focus on more complex work.

The games have also provided moments of comedy, with robots crashing into each other and falling over, much to the delight of the crowd. But the underlying message is clear: humanoid robotics is advancing rapidly, and China is at the forefront.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 18m 19s (BBC News)
• BBC One: 2m 31s (BBC News)
• Channel 5: 40s (5 News Weekend, 5 News at Lunchtime)
• ITV: 2m 7s (ITV Lunchtime News)

Key Claims

• The World Humanoid Robot Games are being held in Beijing for the second time. — BBC News, BBC One
• Robots compete in events including boxing, sprints, household tasks and firefighting. — BBC News, BBC One
• Most participating teams are Chinese companies. — BBC News, BBC One
• A robot named Lightning broke the 100 metre world record before the games began. — Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, ITV
• China is described as a global leader in humanoid robotics. — BBC News, BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Poll finds 10% of Brits say accent bias has held back their career, with many altering their speech at work.

A new poll has found that one in ten people in Britain believe their accent has held them back at work, either by blocking promotion or a pay rise. The research, carried out by More in Common, suggests that accent bias remains a significant issue in the workplace, despite many firms now actively promoting recruitment of employees with a range of accents.

The polling, which covered England, Scotland and Wales, found that 5% of respondents said their accent had cost them a promotion, pay rise or senior role. It also revealed that 13% of those polled admitted changing the way they speak in order to fit in at work. This figure rose to 23% for people with an East London Cockney accent and 20% for Scottish speakers.

Regional differences were also stark. People with a West Country accent reported the highest rate of having their accent mocked or criticised by colleagues, at 15%, closely followed by Geordies at 13%. The findings were discussed by a group of young people from across Britain, who shared their own experiences. One student from Manchester said she felt her accent sounded "less intellectual" than others in seminars, while another said she adapts her accent depending on where she is in the country to avoid assumptions about her intelligence or background.

The issue is not just about personal discomfort. Laura Newman, who has started a community interest company called Common Ground, is working to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds forge careers in the built environment, such as architecture or estate agency. She said the problem is about unblocking pathways and giving people "the rules of the game", adding that "you kind of do have to speak a specific way".

While the poll shows that many people feel the need to change their accent to get ahead, it also highlights a growing awareness of the problem. The research suggests that accent bias remains a real barrier for large numbers of workers, even as companies try to increase diversity. The findings underline the need for employers to look beyond how someone sounds and focus on what they can do.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 2m 52s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• A survey reported that a minority of people in Britain believe accent bias affects their career progression, and some have changed their accent to fit in at work. — BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Lenders' appeal against the FCA's car finance compensation scheme has suspended payments, delaying payouts until at least late next year.

Millions of drivers who were mis-sold car finance face even longer waits for compensation after lenders launched an appeal against the scheme set up by the financial regulator. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been ordered by the court to suspend the scheme, meaning payments that were due to start last month are now delayed.

The scheme, unveiled in March, was designed to compensate people who were mis-sold car finance between 2007 and 2024. It is thought to cost lenders around nine billion pounds, covering both compensation payouts and the cost of running the scheme. An estimated 12 million finance agreements are affected, where many customers were not told that dealers were earning commission on the deals. In some cases, people were charged higher interest rates without being informed, a practice banned in 2021.

Compensation payments, averaging around 830 pounds per finance deal, were expected to begin last month. But the FCA announced that the court had ordered a suspension following the lenders' appeal. The case is now not expected to be heard until early next year, meaning any payments due will be delayed.

The FCA says some claimants who do not qualify for compensation should still be told that by lenders, and people should still apply if they think they have a claim. A spokesperson said: "We recognise this is frustrating for consumers. They've been waiting a long time for their address on this issue. We are confident in our scheme. We think it's the fair outcome for consumers and a proportionate response for firms. But it has been challenged and we have to let that process run through. Hopefully we'll get a judgment by the early part of next year. And then if we're successful consumers will receive their money towards the end of next year."

However, some experts say the dragging process will ultimately leave customers worse off. One expert commented: "There's always seem to be the case. The customer is the least important person in the whole process. So you've got banks fighting lawyers fighting courts and the FCA and at the end of it the customers just have to sit and wait and find out who wins to find out if they're going to get any compensation and how much."

The FCA's official advice is for anyone who thinks they might qualify to complain directly to their lender for free, with guidance available on its website. The delay is a frustrating setback for drivers already waiting a long time, and the process is set to last even longer.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 2m 47s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• A court ordered the FCA to suspend the compensation scheme after lenders appealed. — BBC One
• Compensation payments averaging around 830 pounds per finance deal were expected to start last month. — BBC One
• The case is not expected to be heard in court until early next year. — BBC One

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A clinical trial testing CAR-T immunotherapy for progressive MS has begun, with a Sheffield patient among the first treated.

A new clinical trial using CAR-T immunotherapy for multiple sclerosis has started in Sheffield, offering fresh hope to people living with the condition. The treatment, first developed for some cancers, is now being tested for safety in patients with progressive MS, a form of the disease for which few therapies exist.

MS affects more than 150,000 people in the UK. In the condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks nerves in the brain and spinal cord, damaging nerve cells and their protective coating. CAR-T therapy works by taking some of the patient's immune cells, known as T-cells, and reprogramming them in a lab. They are then put back into the body, where they are designed to find and destroy the immune cells causing the damage.

The trial is being led in Sheffield by the same team that pioneered the use of stem cell transplantation in the UK for MS. It is running in four UK centres and is open to patients with progressive MS who meet certain criteria. Up to 18 people will be recruited worldwide in this first phase, which is focused on testing the safety of the therapy.

Newman, a 40-year-old father of two, was diagnosed with MS six years ago and his mobility quickly declined. In June, he became the first patient in Sheffield and the seventh in the international clinical trial. His treatment was filmed by hospital staff. Speaking about the trial, he said: "It gives me hope that it will stop the MS and from there I can begin my road of recovery."

Experts say it is early days, but if the therapy proves safe and effective, it could be a game changer. One specialist said: "This is really an important trial for multiple sclerosis because we tried to treat patients who have progressive multiple sclerosis at this stage, and in fact, we don't have a lot of therapies for those patients. So if this trial is to prove safe and hopefully the future effective, then it will be a game changer."

If successful, the therapy offers hope of a one-off treatment for MS that could slow or even halt the disease. For Newman, that would mean everything.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 2m 17s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• A clinical trial is testing whether CAR-T immunotherapy is safe for people with multiple sclerosis. — BBC One
• Newman is the first patient in Sheffield and the seventh in an international clinical trial. — BBC One
• Up to 18 people will be recruited worldwide in the first phase of the trial. — BBC One

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The UK's rarest bird of prey, the Montagu's Harrier, has nested successfully for a second year, with six chicks raised by two females and satellite tagging underway.

The UK's rarest bird of prey, the Montagu's Harrier, has enjoyed a second consecutive successful breeding season, with six chicks raised by two different females. The RSPB, which monitors the species, has confirmed the news but is keeping the exact location secret to avoid attracting large numbers of birdwatchers.

This year there are just two nests in the UK, both served by the same male. The male is described as an incredibly special bird, having been ringed as a chick in Wiltshire in 2016. He spent ten days displaying at several thousand feet and attracted two females. Each nest has produced chicks, and the RSPB and local farmers have worked together to protect them, fencing off the nests and leaving crops standing until the young can fly.

The species is under threat from climate change, which is bringing harvests forward. This year's harvest was about a month earlier than in previous years, putting any ground-nesting Montagu's Harrier at risk of being inadvertently destroyed by farm machinery. The RSPB says the birds are on the brink, and climate change is not helping.

To learn more about their migration and survival, two chicks, one from each nest, have been fitted with satellite tags. Each tag weighs just five grams and includes a solar cell. Scientists hope to track where the juveniles go, how they disperse, and whether they return to the UK to breed. The adults migrate thousands of miles to West Africa, but little is known about the first journey of young birds. This tagging will provide crucial data for the first time.

The successful breeding season is a rare piece of good news for a species that had no breeding pairs in the UK for five years. The RSPB is celebrating the six new chicks and the efforts to protect them, while continuing to monitor the threats they face.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 5: 10s (5 News at Lunchtime)
• BBC One: 3m 42s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• Montagu's Harrier nested successfully for the second consecutive year. — Channel 5, BBC One
• RSPB kept the nest location secret to deter birdwatchers. — Channel 5, BBC One
• Climate change is bringing harvests forward, posing a risk to ground-nesting Montagu's Harriers. — BBC One
• Two chicks were fitted with satellite tags to track their migration. — BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

A Nuffield Trust report finds NHS dentistry access is almost impossible, with nearly 600 practices leaving the service in a decade.

A new report from the Nuffield Trust has found that accessing an NHS dentist in England is now almost impossible, with nearly 600 practices withdrawing from NHS dentistry over the past decade. The decline has been particularly sharp in parts of the south west and east of England, raising concerns about growing inequalities in access to care.

The report's message is stark: "We have lost dentistry as a universal NHS service in England." It warns that the service is no longer something that covers everybody, and that a two-tier system has emerged where many people are forced to go private. For those who cannot afford private care, the options are limited to suffering in pain or turning to other parts of the NHS that are not primarily designed for dental problems.

New data shows that one in ten dental practices in England have stopped offering NHS treatment over the past decade, which amounts to around 600 practices handing back their NHS contracts. The picture varies across the country, with Cornwall, Devon and Northamptonshire seeing some of the biggest reductions. In Cornwall, more than a quarter of practices that once offered NHS treatment no longer do so.

The report highlights a combination of increased costs and a lack of dentists willing to treat NHS patients as the main reasons for the decline. Dentists themselves are feeling the pressure. One dentist, Vivac Shah, who runs three practices in Northamptonshire, said he still treats NHS patients even though that side of his business loses him money. "We're subsidizing the NHS system through our private patients and long-term that is not sustainable," he said. He no longer takes on new NHS patients and each year considers ending his NHS contract.

Patients are also affected. Alan, a resident in Somerset, said he gave up trying to get an NHS dentist appointment because it was too difficult and too expensive. "I gave up on it really because it was just too difficult to get in to see anybody," he said. Another patient, Zoe, who has been coming to the same practice for over 20 years, expressed worry for younger generations: "It's worrying, you know, it's not us it's the kids that are coming up. What are they gonna do?"

Dentists like Vivac are calling for a complete overhaul of the contract. "It's been a crisis point for over 10 years. No government seems to be prepared to hold its hand up or to make real reform changes that take into account what dentists want," he said. "I see this as a slow death."

The government says it is committed to improving access to NHS dentistry, but with hundreds of practices leaving the system, the contract is no longer deemed fit for purpose by those dentists who are still trying to provide those services.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 5: 18s (5 News at Lunchtime)
• BBC One: 3m 36s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• Nearly 600 dental practices have withdrawn from NHS dentistry over the last decade. — Channel 5, BBC One
• The decline in NHS dentistry has been particularly sharp in the south west and east of England. — Channel 5
• Access to NHS dentistry in England is now almost impossible. — Channel 5
• In Cornwall, more than a quarter of practices that once offered NHS treatment no longer do so. — BBC One
• Dentists are subsidizing NHS work through private patients. — BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

BBC reports from Taliban-run Afghanistan five years after takeover, showing hardline rule and women's restrictions.

Five years after the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan, the BBC has gained rare access to the country, offering a detailed look at how the hardline Islamist movement is governing a nation in crisis. The report, filmed in northern Afghanistan, follows Taliban Governor Abdullah Sarhadi, a former Guantanamo Bay inmate now responsible for enforcing strict Sharia law across his region.

During the visit, locals brought their problems to the governor, who quickly issued decrees. One case stood out: an 18-year-old woman seeking a divorce from her husband, accusing him of beatings and abuse. Under Sharia law, a woman initiating divorce often requires her husband's consent and may have to repay the dowry. The husband demanded four times the original amount, and the woman's family refused to pay the $30,000 he wanted. The governor ruled that she should not seek divorce, only warning the husband of punishment if there was further abuse.

The report also features a woman who protested in the week the Taliban came to power. She had a successful career and an active life, but now meets in secret to protect her identity. Asked why the Taliban restrict women, she said: "I think the Taliban are scared. They are scared of educated women. They know educated women won't give birth to ignorant beings such as the Taliban."

The Taliban had promised change upon returning to power, but five years on, the country is run by men, for men. The report questions whether the Taliban can govern a country in crisis, noting that while they proved they could survive as an insurgency, their ability to rule remains uncertain.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 11m 51s (BBC News)
• BBC One: 4m 8s (BBC News at One including...)

Key Claims

• The Taliban governor in northern Afghanistan is a former Guantanamo Bay detainee. — BBC News, BBC One
• The governor advised an 18-year-old woman not to proceed with a divorce. — BBC News, BBC One
• A woman who protested the Taliban takeover now lives in secret and believes they fear educated women. — BBC News, BBC One
• Taliban policies today are similar to the hardline interpretation of Sharia they imposed in the 1990s. — BBC News, BBC One
• The woman's family refused to pay the $30,000 demanded by her husband. — BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Leaders have pledged support for Europe's front line, reaffirming their commitment to regional security and stability.

Leaders have pledged their support for Europe's front line, with a message of unwavering solidarity. One leader said: "We are with you in this struggle all the way heart and soul." The commitment was reported as part of ongoing efforts to ensure regional security and stability.

The broadcast gave few details about the specific context or which leaders were involved, but the quote underscores a collective promise to stand by those defending Europe's borders. The report was brief, and no further information was provided about the nature of the pledge or the front line in question.

The message comes at a time when European security remains a priority for many nations, and the pledge is seen as a reaffirmation of existing commitments.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 5: 9s (5 News at Lunchtime)

Key Claims

• Leaders pledged support for Europe's front line. — Channel 5

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A year after the government announced a review into Post Office prosecutions, no reviewer has been appointed, with victims' representatives calling the delay a scandal within a scandal.

A year has passed since the government announced a review into the handling of prosecutions of Post Office staff, but no reviewer has been appointed. Victims' representatives say the delay amounts to a scandal within a scandal.

The review was announced exactly one year ago, but according to those representing the victims, nothing has happened since. The lack of progress has raised concerns about whether the review will ever be properly implemented.

A spokesperson for the victims said the failure to appoint a reviewer was deeply disappointing. The delay, they argued, only adds to the suffering of those who were wrongly prosecuted during the Post Office Horizon scandal.

The government has not yet commented on the delay. Meanwhile, the review remains in limbo, with no clear timeline for when a reviewer might be named or when the review might begin its work.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 5: 8s (5 News at Lunchtime)

Key Claims

• A review announced a year ago has not had a reviewer appointed. — Channel 5
• Victims' representatives called the delay a scandal within a scandal. — Channel 5

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The National Centre for Reptile Welfare has seen calls about exotic creatures in luggage more than double, but its director says the rise may reflect growing awareness rather than more stowaways.

Holidaymakers returning to the UK are being urged to check their suitcases after a sharp increase in reports of exotic creatures stowing away in luggage. The National Centre for Reptile Welfare says the number of calls it has received from people who discovered such animals after coming home has more than doubled over the past year.

In an interview, the centre's director, Chris Newman, said the most common finds are house geckos, which account for about half of all cases. But he added that snakes, scorpions, spiders, frogs, toads, newts, salamanders, and praying mantises can also sneak into bags and travel back to Britain.

Newman cautioned that the rise in calls may not mean more animals are actually arriving. The centre only began specialising in stowaway cases four or five years ago, and he said growing public awareness of its work could be skewing the numbers. With around 95 million trips made abroad from the UK each year, he said it was unsurprising that some animals slip through.

He stressed that anyone who finds a creature should try to contain it rather than release it into the wild. Releasing non-native species can harm the animals themselves and pose a risk to native wildlife. The centre runs a 24-7 emergency line, and callers are asked to send a photo so the animal can be identified and collected.

Newman also advised checking clothing and shoes before packing, as geckos often hide in garments hung in wardrobes, while toads and frogs may climb into trainers. Simple checks could help reduce the number of accidental stowaways entering the country.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 3m 4s (BBC News Now)

Key Claims

• Calls about exotic creatures found in luggage have more than doubled over the past year. — BBC News
• House geckos account for about 50% of the animals found. — BBC News
• The director said the increase in calls may be due to the centre becoming better known, not necessarily more stowaways. — BBC News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

The US has imposed 50% tariffs on $20bn of Canadian goods after trade talks collapsed, with Canada vowing to retaliate dollar for dollar.

Trade negotiations between the United States and Canada collapsed over the weekend, prompting Washington to impose 50% tariffs on a range of Canadian goods worth $20 billion. The move escalates a bitter dispute that has already reshaped relations between the two neighbours, with Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney promising to match the tariffs dollar for dollar.

Both sides blame each other for the breakdown. The US accuses Canada of seeking last-minute changes and rowing back on previous commitments, while Canada says the American demands were unrealistic and intrusive. President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to accuse Canada of wanting "the benefits of being a state without being one" and claimed Canadian farmers had charged US farmers "massive amounts of tariffs" for years. He ended his post with "No more."

Carney, speaking after the US announcement, said a trade war was not Canada's choice but his country was ready to retaliate after being attacked. "You're at war when you get attacked. We got attacked," he said. Canada will impose matching tariffs on US imports from 8 September, affecting a similar volume of trade. The Canadian government has also stressed that it has the reserves and resilience to withstand the pressure.

The tariffs cover a wide range of goods, from steel and electronics to hockey sticks and, bizarrely, false beards. The impact will be felt on both sides of the border. The US and Canada are each other's largest trading partners, and many American states, including Minnesota, Michigan and Maine, are heavily exposed to Canadian trade. These states also have competitive Senate races ahead of the midterm elections, making the dispute politically sensitive for the White House.

Analysts note that the collapse follows months of intense negotiations that began in July. Both sides accused each other of stepping back from previous commitments. The tone has been sharpened by Trump's repeated suggestions that Canada should become the 51st US state, a notion Carney has firmly rejected. "As you know from real estate, there are some places that are never for sale," he said during a White House visit in May.

Despite the heated rhetoric, some observers point out that Trump has a history of using tariffs as a negotiating tool and may eventually soften his stance. However, the current trajectory points to a prolonged trade war. A recent poll suggested that 56% of Canadians want Carney to hold firm, and there is cross-party support in Canada for retaliation. The dispute also comes at a time when Trump is facing pressure over rising living costs and the ongoing conflict with Iran, leading some to suggest he may be using the trade fight to distract from other issues.

For now, the two countries are locked in a standoff that threatens to harm both economies. As one analyst put it, "It's good for nobody." The distance between the two countries may be small, but the gulf has rarely been wider.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 5m 57s (BBC News, BBC News Now)
• Channel 4: 3m 48s (Channel 4 News)
• Sky News: 6m 4s (The Wrap With Gillian Joseph)

Key Claims

• The US and Canada failed to reach a trade deal, and 50% tariffs on Canadian goods have taken effect. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, Sky News
• Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney said the US tariffs will be matched dollar for dollar. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, Sky News
• Trump accused Canada of long targeting US farmers with high tariffs in a Truth Social post. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4
• Each country accused the other of seeking last-minute changes that caused the trade talks to collapse. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4
• A poll suggested 56% of Canadians want Mark Carney to hold firm against the US. — BBC News, BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Newly promoted Hull City began their Premier League return with a 2-0 win over Manchester United, their first league victory over the club in 52 years.

Hull City began their return to the Premier League with a stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester United, a result that few predicted and one that will be remembered for years. The newly promoted side, who came up through the play-offs, were widely tipped to struggle, but they produced a disciplined and determined performance to claim their first league win over United in 52 years.

The goals came from Shemy Ajayi and new signing Nobel Mendy, with seven Hull players making their Premier League debuts. United, managed by Michael Carrick, struggled to create clear chances and were left to rue a flat display. Marcus Rashford, back after a loan spell at Barcelona, was introduced at half-time but could not turn the game around.

Hull's defence was impenetrable, and the home fans celebrated long after the final whistle. To cap a miserable day for United, their supporters were left stranded in Humberside after trains were cancelled. Carrick admitted his side had not clicked, saying: "Mistakes can happen in football, I think. It's over a period of time what you need to be good at and you need to be judged, so we'll look at it and we'll improve from it for sure."

The result was the first shock of the new season and a dream start for Hull, who will hope to build on this momentum. For United, there is plenty of work to do before their next fixture.

Broadcaster Coverage

• ITV: 11m 27s (ITV Evening News, ITV News)
• BBC One: 6m 14s (BBC News at One including..., BBC News, BBC News and Weather)
• Sky News: 9m 41s (Sky News Today with Sam Washington, Sky News Today With Matt Barbet)
• BBC News: 4m 3s (BBC News Now)

Key Claims

• Leicester City drew their opening League One match against Notts County, with Jadon Joseph scoring for Leicester. — ITV, ITV1 ITV Evening News
• Bolton Wanderers returned to the Championship after seven years, with Thierry Gale scoring a goal reminiscent of Lamine Yamal. — ITV, ITV1 ITV Evening News
• Middlesbrough beat Lincoln City 2-1, with two goals from new signing Will Lanchere, who cost £20 million from Spurs. — ITV, ITV1 ITV Evening News
• Arsenal beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield, scoring after 24 seconds and with Martin Odegaard scoring the third goal. — BBC One, ITV
• Bristol Rovers lost to York City after being undone late in the match. — BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

The US Treasury Secretary calls it 'the greatest coordinated economic isolation in history' as President Trump issues threats to allies and the war with Iran drags on.

The United States has announced a new round of sanctions aimed at isolating Iran, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent describing it as "the greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world". The move comes as President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb a key US ally, Oman, for negotiating with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.

The war between the US and Iran, which began in February, has reached a stalemate. A 60-day ceasefire deal signed in June has all but collapsed, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The deadline passed with no progress towards a broader peace agreement.

In a phone call with Fox News, President Trump threatened to "bomb the S out of" Oman if the Gulf country got in the way of Washington's efforts to strike a peace deal with Iran. Oman, a US ally, has been trying to broker a separate deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping channel that has been largely closed since the war began. Speaking at the White House later, Trump said of Oman: "I don't think they'd behave very well, but we'd handle them very easily, just like we do others."

The new sanctions, announced by Mr Bessent, are designed to force US allies and China to choose sides. "You are either with us or against us," Mr Bessent told CNBC. He said the Treasury would target any entity that does business with Iran, including transferring money, buying oil, or conducting seaborne ship transfers. President Trump called the measures "the most crushing economic operation ever taken against any country".

Iran's foreign minister dismissed the sanctions as a diversion from America's own economic problems, which include record debt and surging interest costs. Experts say Iran is already one of the most heavily sanctioned countries on earth, making it unclear how much more pressure these new measures can apply. The real target appears to be China, which buys over 80% of Iran's oil exports. However, China has already signalled it will not bow to US pressure.

The economic impact of the war is being felt globally. Oil prices have risen, Brent crude reaching around $90 a barrel. Bond yields have spiked in the US, Europe, and the UK, raising borrowing costs for governments and households. In Iran, the economy is in deep crisis: inflation is running at over 300%, the currency has hit record lows, and ordinary Iranians describe a life of limbo and uncertainty. Some told Channel 4 News they have sold personal belongings just to get by, and that public executions of protesters have deepened fear and anger.

President Trump's frustration is also being directed at other allies. He has threatened to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea after it refused to support US military operations against Iran. In Gaza, Trump's peace plan has been rejected by Israel, and his envoy Jared Kushner's latest visit yielded no breakthrough. With midterm elections just 78 days away, the president faces growing domestic pressure over a conflict he promised to end quickly.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 6m 5s (BBC News, BBC News and Weather)
• BBC News: 19m 1s (Signed: BBC News at Six, BBC News, BBC News Now)
• Channel 4: 16m 33s (Channel 4 News)
• ITV: 8m 5s (ITV Evening News, ITV News at Ten)
• BBC Two: 16m 33s (Newsnight, followed by Weather)

Key Claims

• A 60-day diplomatic window for the US and Iran to negotiate an end to their war expires on Monday. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, ITV
• President Trump threatened to bomb Oman if it obstructed a US peace deal with Iran. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, ITV
• Oman is negotiating with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. — BBC News, BBC One
• Trump said he was not in a hurry to reach a deal and was not concerned about midterm elections, but the issue is causing him problems with voters. — BBC News, BBC One
• Trump is frustrated by the lack of progress towards a deal with Iran. — BBC News, BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Repeated exam paper leaks in India have led to student suicides and protests, forcing the education minister to resign.

India is reeling from a series of exam paper leaks that have triggered student suicides and nationwide protests, culminating in the resignation of the education minister. The leaks, which affected exams run by a federal agency under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, have become a lightning rod for anger over corruption, unemployment, and a creaking education system.

The human cost is stark. Rajesh, a third-generation army veteran, lost his daughter Riya to suicide after her medical entrance exam was cancelled because the paper had leaked. Riya, a top student who dreamed of becoming a military doctor, had told her father: "Papa, the paper was leaked. What will I do if it's cancelled? Where will I go now? What about all my hard work?" She took her life a few weeks later. More than 20 people have died by suicide in connection with the leaks, according to reports, with over a dozen of them students.

Students have poured onto the streets in protest, with the so-called "cockroach protests" becoming a symbol of defiance. They have faced tear gas and pellet guns but have not relented. Their demands include educational reforms, accountability for the leaks, and action on the broader crisis of youth unemployment. At coaching institutes like the Kinematics Institute in Dehradun, teachers worry not just about results but about students' mental health. As one teacher, Deepak, put it: "If a child is happy in the class, then only the child will be able to take interest in science and mathematics."

The political fallout has been significant. The education minister was forced to resign, a rare concession from a government that has enjoyed a strong majority for over a decade. The prime minister has promised fast-track courts and stricter punishments for those behind the leaks, but protesters say this is not enough. They are now pushing for wide-ranging reforms to the education system, particularly for government schools that serve the poor.

The crisis is set against a backdrop of severe youth unemployment. Nearly 40% of Indians aged 15 to 29 are out of work, and a college degree is seen as a gateway to security and prestige. With a youth population of around 370 million, the pressure on the government is immense. The protests, led by Gen Z, show no sign of easing, and the government is on the back foot as it tries to respond to a movement that has already claimed a minister's scalp.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 13m 34s (Mornings, Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow)

Key Claims

• More than twenty suicides were reported in connection with exam paper leaks. — Sky News
• The education minister was forced to leave office due to protests. — Sky News
• Nearly 40% of young people aged 15 to 29 were unemployed. — Sky News
• The youth population in India is about 370 million. — Sky News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

After the driest summer on record, the UK is building its first new reservoir in 35 years, but experts warn it will not meet projected demand.

The UK is facing a stark shortfall in water storage capacity after the driest summer on record, with no new large reservoir built in 35 years. The first new project, Havant Thicket in Hampshire, is now under construction, but experts warn it will barely dent the projected demand.

Climate change is expected to bring wetter winters and drier summers, making reservoirs essential for storing winter rain. Population growth and new demand from data centres mean the UK will need an extra 5 billion litres of water a day by 2050, according to projections.

Historically, the UK built more than 30 large drinking water reservoirs between the 1950s and 1970s. Since privatisation, no new reservoir has been completed until now. Havant Thicket, being built by Portsmouth Water, is the first in 35 years. The site was chosen for its clay soil, which holds water well. The reservoir will hold up to 9 billion litres, but construction is complex, with daily lab analysis of the clay as embankments are layered.

Beyond technical challenges, projects face environmental concerns and local opposition. Red tape has scuppered several schemes. The government has designated some reservoirs as nationally significant infrastructure projects, which bypasses many planning hurdles, but only two of ten proposed reservoirs qualify. Thames Water's proposed White Horse reservoir in Oxfordshire, 15 times larger than Havant Thicket, is not due for completion until 2040.

Even if all ten reservoirs are built on time, they would provide only an extra 700 million litres a day, far short of the 5 billion needed. Proposals for a water grid to transfer water from the wetter north and west to the drier south are seen as increasingly necessary, though expensive and complex. The report concludes that the UK cannot wait another 35 years to sort out its water supply.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 6m 18s (Mornings, Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow)

Key Claims

• No large drinking-water reservoir has been completed since privatisation until the Havant Thicket project. — Sky News
• The UK will need an extra 5 billion litres of water a day by 2050 due to population trends and data centre demand. — Sky News
• Ten planned reservoirs would provide only 700 million litres of water a day, far short of the projected need. — Sky News

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Families pay tribute to two police officers killed in a wrong-way crash near Middlesbrough, as an investigation continues and public donations pass £345,000.

Two police officers who were killed in a wrong-way crash on the A66 near Middlesbrough have been remembered by their families as heroes. PC Tom Clough and PC Matthew Blades died in the early hours of Saturday morning when their marked armed response vehicle was hit by a Volkswagen Passat travelling the wrong way down the dual carriageway. The five young men in the Passat also died.

The Passat had been fitted with cloned number plates, which alerted police. Officers pursued the car for about seven minutes through residential streets of Middlesbrough before the chase was called off as the Passat joined the A66 in the wrong direction. Ten seconds later it collided with the police vehicle. The officers were on the correct side of the road.

PC Clough's family said he was "our hero" with a fantastic sense of humour, and that he had served his country as a soldier. PC Blades' wife described him as her "beloved husband" and "the most devoted father" to their two young sons, adding that he gave his life in the line of duty.

The five men in the Passat were named as Michael Robert Cahill, 23, Theo Ray, 17, Cole Robert Worthy, 17, Jacob Matusiak, 23, and Makai Saddington, 18.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating. It has said the Passat had cloned plates and that police had received reports about incidents involving the car. Investigators will examine police radio recordings, CCTV and social media accounts. The BBC has reported on a TikTok video believed to show one of the deceased, Makai Saddington, in a car being pursued by police. The video appears to show the car driving illegally on footpaths and across parkland.

The crash comes a week after five teenagers died in a similar wrong-way crash in Ireland. There has been concern about a TikTok trend of driving the wrong way. The Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner has urged people not to share rumours or speculate. The Prime Minister has also urged people not to speculate on social media. Ministers have called on social media companies to take down content that celebrates dangerous driving.

Public donations to support the officers' families have passed £345,000. A silent prayer vigil is planned for 4pm. Part of the A66 has been reopened. Tributes have been left at the scene.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 15m 29s (The Wrap With Gillian Joseph, Mornings, Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow)
• ITV: 2m 51s (ITV News)
• BBC News: 3m 4s (BBC News)

Key Claims

• Two officers were killed when a car with cloned plates travelled the wrong way down the A66 after a seven-minute pursuit. — BBC News, ITV, Sky News
• An online appeal for the officers' families raised over £200,000 in less than 12 hours. — ITV, Sky News
• Police called off the pursuit ten seconds before the crash. — BBC News, ITV, Sky News
• The Passat was believed to be using cloned number plates. — ITV, Sky News
• A TikTok video believed to be Saddington's showed a car being pursued by police. — BBC News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Police are running targeted operations to disrupt gangs, drugs and weapons before Notting Hill Carnival's 60th anniversary, expecting around two million attendees.

Police have stepped up their preparations for the 60th anniversary of the Notting Hill Carnival, running targeted operations to disrupt gangs, drugs and weapons before the street festival begins. Around two million people are expected to attend the bank holiday weekend event, and officers say they want to prevent the violence and disorder that has marred previous years.

Sky News joined Metropolitan Police officers on patrol in West London, where they were carrying out stop-and-search style operations. One vehicle was flagged for failing to stop in the NW6 area. The aim, officers said, is to identify potential criminals before they reach the carnival and disrupt their plans.

"We found that there's a lot of success last year upon doing operations like this and we want to stay on top of it this year," one officer said. "If we can get in disrupt these individuals from going to Notting Hill so that Notting Hill can run smoothly and it can be the celebration that it's intended to be."

The approach appears to have had an impact in previous years. More than 500 arrests were made during the carnival period last year, with around 280 of those, a quarter, coming from special operations in the lead-up to the weekend. This year, the focus is on gangs, drugs and weapons, with a significant police presence planned for the event itself.

Carnival organisers are also preparing, making costumes and staging what they describe as Europe's biggest street party. "It's just a celebration of both Caribbean culture and inclusive of people who would like to be involved in the Caribbean culture," one organiser said. "That's food, that's music, that's dancing and it's just a really joyous occasion."

This year's event carries extra significance as it marks 60 years since the first Notting Hill Carnival, a celebration of Caribbean culture and the Windrush generation. Police insist they are not trying to dampen the festivities, but to ensure they run safely for everyone involved.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 2m 32s (Mornings)

Key Claims

• Around two million people were expected to attend the carnival. — Sky News
• More than 500 arrests were made during the previous year's carnival. — Sky News
• A quarter of the arrests made during last year's carnival came from pre-emptive operations. — Sky News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

China's trade surplus with the EU widens in July, while Brussels probes JD.com's Ceconomy takeover and Beijing blocks data handover.

The European Union and China remain locked in a trade dispute that shows no sign of easing, despite three months of talks agreed in June. New figures for July show China's trade surplus with the EU widening again, while Beijing has ordered its companies to refuse to hand over commercially sensitive information to EU investigators probing a major Chinese takeover in Germany.

According to the latest data, China extended its trade surplus with all but three EU countries in July compared with the same month a year earlier. The surplus with Sweden was four times larger, while Malta, Romania and Finland saw increases of 166%, 94% and 93% respectively. Looked at from the other side, Germany's deficit with China grew by 86% and Poland's by 31%.

The European Union has accused Beijing of subsidising exports and flooding European markets with cheap goods. In June, the two sides gave themselves three months to try to avoid a trade war. But those talks appear to have made little progress. One BBC correspondent said that, unless something secret was happening behind closed doors, the figures showed the situation was deteriorating.

Part of the problem is that while the EU has managed to reduce imports of some lower value goods by imposing taxes, the picture is very different further up the value chain. Exports of Chinese electric vehicles surged in July: up 365% to France, 530% to the Netherlands, 618% to Hungary, 329% to Spain, and even in Germany, a powerhouse of the automotive industry, they rose by 40%. Hybrid exports also increased.

The dispute has also spilled over into the EU's foreign subsidies rules. Brussels is investigating JD.com, China's largest retailer, over its proposed 2 billion euro takeover of Ceconomy, the German parent company of MediaMarkt. But Beijing has instructed Chinese companies not to hand over the sort of financial information EU officials have requested. The Chinese government says the investigation is being used to suppress Chinese companies wanting to export to Europe. It has questioned why information from Chinese banks should be provided to EU investigators.

Many analysts side with China on the broader question of electric vehicles. They argue that European, Japanese, American and South Korean carmakers dropped the ball on EVs. China ramped up production years ago with huge government incentives, making its vehicles cheaper and better. The result is that Chinese EVs are now competitive and are expanding overseas. The fault, these analysts say, lies with European car companies that treated EVs as a distant prospect rather than a present reality.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 5m 26s (BBC News)

Key Claims

• China's trade surplus with EU countries grew in July compared with a year earlier, with all but three EU nations seeing an increase. — BBC News
• Chinese electric vehicle exports to several EU countries rose sharply in July, with notable increases to France and the Netherlands. — BBC News
• China instructed companies to withhold commercially sensitive information from EU investigators looking into JD.com's takeover of Ceconomy. — BBC News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

At least 30 people died when a rubbish dump collapsed onto homes in Conakry after heavy rain; 15 injured, rescue ongoing.

At least 30 people have been killed after a large pile of rubbish at a waste site in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, collapsed onto nearby homes. The accident happened early on Sunday morning, at around 2 a.m. local time, after a period of heavy rain, according to the government.

Another 15 people were injured in the collapse. Emergency teams are still searching through the debris for anyone who may be trapped or missing. One woman told local media that her five children had died in the disaster.

The site has a history of trouble. The same landfill saw a similar deadly collapse in 2019. The latest event has raised fresh concerns about the safety of informal settlements built close to waste dumps in the city.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 31s (BBC News)

Key Claims

• According to the government, 30 people died in the Conakry landfill collapse. — BBC News
• At least 15 people were injured in the collapse. — BBC News
• The collapse occurred at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday after heavy rain. — BBC News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Zelensky says wartime elections would divide Ukraine, while sacked former defence minister Fedorov calls for a vote.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that it would be too dangerous to hold elections in Ukraine while the country remains at war with Russia. Speaking on Ukraine's flag day, he said that holding a vote would be difficult and would divide and potentially destroy the country. His focus, he said, was on winning the war.

His warning follows repeated calls from his former defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, to hold a nationwide election. Fedorov was sacked last month after a falling out with the president, who has been in power since 2019. In an interview, Fedorov insisted that elections were a democratic necessity: "We are the only ones who will decide what we do going forward. That's what democracy is all about. If I cannot share my ideas and be open about them, then what are we fighting for?"

Fedorov denied that his push for a vote was driven by personal ambition. "It's definitely in my vested interests because I want this war to be over and Ukraine to become a successful country," he said, but he added that if he were thinking about his political future, he would not have made the statement. He also rejected suggestions of presidential corruption, saying: "In all the time that I worked with him, not a single time I received from him any tasks that would go against the law."

Fedorov, who was praised for transforming the battlefield with long-range drone strikes against Russia, described a crisis of governance, inefficiency and a loss of trust through corruption. He is heading to the United States to ask Elon Musk for extended access to the Starlink network, which Ukraine relies on for drone operations. On British support, he welcomed the supply of tanks, training and a promised 120,000 drones, but said governments were "lagging behind on the reality on the ground" and that delivery of aid needed to be faster.

Dmytro Khrushchev, the consul general of Ukraine in San Francisco, added that elections were also constitutionally barred during wartime. "Under our constitution, elections are not allowed during the war," he said. "To make it happen, it will require changes to the constitution, which the parliament has to vote, three-fourths of a parliament." He also noted that part of the country is occupied by Russia, so excluding those people from a vote would require further constitutional changes.

Khrushchev said most Ukrainians were not calling for elections. "The majority of the people are not calling for elections," he said. "The number one task everybody wants is they want a war to end." He said people's priority now was surviving a potentially difficult winter, with Russian attacks on infrastructure expected.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 3m 33s (BBC News and Weather)
• BBC News: 10m 34s (BBC News)

Key Claims

• Fedorov said he would go to the United States to meet Elon Musk to seek support for extending Starlink access into Russian airspace. — BBC News, BBC One
• Fedorov was dismissed last month after a falling out with the president. — BBC One
• Zelensky said that holding elections would be difficult and could divide and destroy the country. — BBC One
• Ukrainian law prevents elections during wartime unless the constitution is changed, which requires a three-fourths parliamentary vote. — BBC News
• Part of Ukraine is occupied by Russia, so elections cannot be conducted across the whole territory. — BBC News

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American driver Kyle Kirkwood won the first IndyCar race on the streets of Washington DC, held to mark America's 250th anniversary.

The streets of Washington DC were transformed into a racetrack this weekend for the first professional motorsport event in the city's history. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix, part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of the United States, saw 25 drivers race 147 laps around a 1.7 mile circuit wrapping past the US Capitol, the National Mall and other landmarks.

President Donald Trump waved the green flag to start the race, and later took a victory lap in his armoured limousine. The event, which he had championed as a key part of the anniversary, attracted tens of thousands of spectators each day, with official estimates of around 100,000 on race day.

The circuit was a demanding one: 200 manholes were welded shut, the road was resurfaced, and drivers navigated seven tight corners at speeds of up to 190 miles per hour. The race distance was extended from the usual for a street course to 250 miles, matching the anniversary theme. For many drivers, this was a new and uncertain challenge. As two-time IndyCar champion Joseph Newgarden put it, "Super unique, you might never see this again."

Among the drivers, the mood was one of excitement and caution. Mario Andretti, the former F1 and IndyCar champion, told the BBC that the course offered both fun and serious demands. "You have to have that sort of calculated aggression," he said. "You have to be aggressive to be competitive, but it has to be more calculated."

From the first practice session to the final lap, the event drew huge attention. The race itself saw several incidents, including a collision between Armstrong and Rasmussen. But at the front, a clear winner emerged. Kyle Kirkwood, driving for Andretti Global, crossed the finish line first. He had taken the lead from Grozier in a bold move and controlled the final laps. Kirkwood later said: "This is one of the biggest race wins that I've ever had, maybe the biggest."

The race was not without controversy. Some residents questioned the cost of the event, saying the money could have been spent on education and healthcare. Others embraced the spectacle as a fitting tribute. "I think it is going to be a great weekend and one that we'll remember," one spectator said.

The event also served to promote the sport. Newgarden, who has won the Indianapolis 500, hoped the race would attract new fans. "I think an event like this will bring people back to IndyCar racing," he said. "It is a once-in-a-lifetime type deal."

Kirkwood's win was a popular one, and not only because he was the home favourite. He had been out of the headlines for a while, and the victory on such a historic day made it special. The race was the final major event of the country's 250th anniversary celebrations, and it went off without a major incident.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 16m 36s (BBC News)
• GB News: 2m 25s (New: Patrick Christys Tonight Late...)
• BBC One: 2m 29s (BBC News and Weather)

Key Claims

• More than 200 manholes were welded shut to prevent them from flying off during the race. — BBC News, GB News
• The circuit is 1.7 miles long and wraps around historic monuments including the US Capitol. — BBC News
• Drivers will complete 147 laps at high speed. — BBC News, BBC One, GB News
• There are 18 teams participating in the race. — GB News
• 280,000 fans are expected for the race weekend. — BBC News, GB News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Erling Haaland debuted a new buzz cut for Manchester City's season opener against Bournemouth, but failed to score as City won 2-1.

Manchester City's Erling Haaland turned heads for a reason other than his goals in the team's season opener. The striker, known for his long golden locks, revealed a clean buzz cut before the match against Bournemouth, instantly making the haircut the biggest talking point of the Premier League weekend.

Haaland had filmed the transformation, showing his hair being shaved off before he called a series of famous friends to surprise them. One such call was to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who had earlier advised against cutting his hair. Zlatan's reaction was blunt: he asked if Haaland had lost a bet and complained that he had erased his number.

The buzz cut prompted comparisons with Haaland's father Alfie, and fans were quick to joke about the new look. On social media, clips of his past lookalike competitions and even a drugs bust in Ecuador, where a man resembling Haaland was arrested, were shared as evidence of how iconic his image had become.

On the pitch, the new style did not seem to help his scoring touch. Haaland failed to find the net, but City still came from behind to win 2-1. The result was less of a headline than the hairline, however. As one broadcaster put it, the biggest story in the Premier League that day was not a scoreline but a hairline. The match itself saw Bournemouth take the lead before City fought back, leaving fans and pundits more interested in Haaland's haircut than the three points.

Broadcaster Coverage

• ITV: 3m 29s (ITV Evening News, ITV News)

Key Claims

• Erling Haaland debuted a new haircut at Manchester City's first match of the season. — ITV
• Erling Haaland failed to score in the match. — ITV
• Manchester City came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1. — ITV
• Haaland shared a video of his hair being cut and showed it to friends. — ITV
• Zlatan Ibrahimovic had advised Haaland never to cut his hair. — ITV

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The Premier League opened with Newcastle and Liverpool drawing 2-2 at St James's Park, after a tribute to Kevin Keegan.

The Premier League season opened this weekend with a round of emotional matches, but the game that carried the deepest resonance was at St James's Park, where Newcastle United and Liverpool came together to honour Kevin Keegan, the former England forward who died of cancer last month. Keegan was a legend at both clubs: a player of European pedigree at Liverpool and a manager who brought swagger and flair back to Tyneside.

Before kick-off, players from both teams united in a minute of appreciation, and former players from his era were present to say goodbye. The match that followed was described as a fitting tribute. Newcastle took the lead after just four minutes through Anthony Alanga, a goal that echoed the attacking instincts Keegan loved. Liverpool replied in the second half with a finish from Cody Gakpo, but Newcastle quickly retook the lead when Joe Willock scored on the counter-attack and celebrated with Keegan's trademark raised arm. With the match deep in stoppage time, Liverpool were awarded a penalty, which was converted, and the final score settled at 2-2. The result meant neither of Keegan's old clubs lost, a detail that seemed fitting on such an emotionally charged afternoon.

Elsewhere in the league, Manchester City came from a goal down to beat Bournemouth 2-1 at the Etihad. A late header from Mark Gaye levelled the score, and then in injury time Josko Gvardiol's winner was allowed to stand after a VAR review. It was Enzo Maresca's first win since replacing Pep Guardiola as City manager. In the other match, Brighton thrashed Aston Villa 4-0 at the Amex. Jack Hinshelwood scored twice in under two minutes to complete an emphatic home win, with Villa also having a player sent off.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 4: 2m 22s (Channel 4 News)
• ITV: 1m 34s (ITV News)

Key Claims

• Newcastle beat Liverpool 2-1. — Channel 4
• Kevin Keegan died recently, reportedly of cancer. — Channel 4, Sky News
• Man City beat Bournemouth 2-1. — Channel 4
• The match ended in a draw after a stoppage-time penalty. — ITV
• Joe Willock celebrated in the style of Kevin Keegan. — ITV

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

The government has unveiled plans to let English mayors take over some major planning decisions to speed up housebuilding and growth.

The government has announced plans to give elected mayors in England new powers to overrule local councils on significant planning decisions, in an effort to boost housebuilding and economic growth.

The change would allow mayors to call in and direct decisions on large developments, including housing schemes with more than 150 homes, commercial projects of more than 15,000 square metres, and buildings over 10 storeys high. Mayors would also be able to charge a levy on developments to help fund infrastructure, a model already used to pay for the Elizabeth line in London.

London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, already has similar powers, but has not met his housing targets. Ministers say the measures are an essential part of the toolkit that mayors need to deliver new homes and regeneration. One Conservative mayor argued that regional leadership makes it easier to find suitable locations for development.

The plans have drawn criticism from several political parties. The Conservatives said the move would take away the rights of councils to make decisions in their own communities. The Liberal Democrats accused the government of silencing residents, Reform described it as centralisation in disguise, and the Greens suggested Labour was giving more power to developers.

A property expert warned of deeper problems in the housing market, including leasehold issues and the reluctance of both builders and first-time buyers. ITV News reported that the power to approve major energy projects, such as wind and solar farms, could also be included by 2028, and that there are concerns about areas without mayors being left out.

The government says decisions will still need to be in line with existing local plans. It has promised to build 1.5 million new homes over this Parliament, but with only about a quarter of the target achieved so far, the initiative is seen as part of an effort to speed up delivery.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 2m 57s (BBC News)
• BBC One: 10m 19s (BBC News, BBC News and Weather)
• ITV: 4m 40s (ITV Evening News, ITV News)
• Channel 5: 21s (5 News Weekend)

Key Claims

• Mayors would be able to intervene in developments exceeding 150 homes, 15,000 square metres of commercial space, or 10 storeys in height. — Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, ITV
• Mayors would be allowed to charge a levy on developments to fund infrastructure, similar to the Elizabeth line. — BBC News, BBC One
• The government promises to deliver 1.5 million new homes over the current Parliament. — BBC News, BBC One
• Sadiq Khan already has similar powers but has not met his housing targets. — BBC News, BBC One
• The policy has been criticised by the Tories, Liberal Democrats, Reform and the Greens. — BBC News, BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

England and Wales Cricket Board is investigating Brydon Carse after video showed him in handcuffs following a nightclub incident.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has opened an investigation after videos on social media appeared to show England and Durham bowler Brydon Carse being led away by police in handcuffs. The incident is reported to have happened at a nightclub in Derby, just hours after Carse played in Durham's win over Derbyshire.

In the footage, first reported by The Telegraph, Carse is seen in a white t-shirt, surrounded by police officers. Two other England centrally contracted players, former Test captain Ben Stokes and bowler Matthew Potts, are also shown leaving the same bar. It is understood that Carse was not arrested and was not charged, but the reason he ended up in handcuffs remains unclear.

The ECB has confirmed it is looking into the reports. The timing is sensitive. Carse is due to play for England in the second Test against Pakistan at Lord's next week.

This is not the first time English cricket has faced questions about the behaviour of its players. The board has recently had to deny accusations of a drinking culture after a spate of damaging late night incidents. These include white ball captain Harry Brook being hit by a bouncer in New Zealand, a boozy beach break during the Ashes, and more recently, Stokes and Gus Atkinson breaking a team curfew.

With the new allegations surrounding Carse, expect more pressure on the ECB to show they can control their top players. The board has not yet commented further on the specific case, and no statement has been made by Carse himself.

The investigation will continue as the England squad prepares for the Lord's Test, with questions likely to follow about the player's availability and the broader state of discipline within the team.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 1m 44s (BBC News and Weather)

Key Claims

• Carse was not arrested or charged in connection with the incident. — BBC One
• Carse is in the England squad for the second Test against Pakistan at Lord's next week. — BBC One
• The ECB is investigating reports that Carse was involved in an incident at a Derby nightclub. — BBC One

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New GPS restriction zones will confine released violent and sexual offenders to small areas, with victims consulted on boundaries and breaches leading to recall.

The government has announced plans to confine serious violent and sexual offenders to small geographical areas after they are released from prison, using GPS tracking. The new "restriction zones" will be introduced in October and will require offenders to remain within a defined perimeter, which could be just a few miles wide. Boundaries will be set in consultation with victims, and offenders will be electronically tagged and subject to immediate recall if they leave the zone.

This goes further than existing exclusion zones, which only ban offenders from specific locations such as a victim's home or workplace. Under the new system, offenders will be confined to a set area, giving victims greater freedom and reducing the risk of unexpected meetings. The Ministry of Justice has already shown a hypothetical example for Coventry city centre with a perimeter of 2.2 miles, taking about 20 minutes to walk from top to bottom.

The move comes as the government continues to ease prison overcrowding through early release schemes. The Justice Secretary says the restriction zones will give victims confidence to get on with their lives. But survivors' groups have expressed concerns about how the scheme will be enforced, who will be included, and whether already stretched probation officers will have the resources to manage it. The government has said it is investing £700 million in probation and recruiting more officers, but campaigners are demanding a zero-tolerance approach to breaches, with immediate arrest and recall.

The case of a victim who died after meeting her abuser in a shop highlighted the limitations of the existing system. The abuser had been given an exclusion zone but it did not prevent the meeting. The new policy aims to address such failures, but questions remain about the technology, the exact definition of serious offences, and the impact on offenders' ability to find housing or employment, which is crucial for rehabilitation.

Ministers say the policy is designed to protect victims and reduce the chance of unwanted contact. However, the lack of details on enforcement and the strain on probation services mean many details are still to be resolved before the scheme starts in October.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 13m 46s (Mornings with Jones and Melbourne, Sky News Today With Matt Barbet, The Wrap With Gillian Joseph)
• Channel 4: 6m 44s (Channel 4 News)
• Channel 5: 17s (5 News Weekend)

Key Claims

• A scheme starting in October will tag serious violent and sexual offenders and send push notifications if they approach boundaries. — Channel 5, Channel 5, Channel 4, Sky News
• Offenders would have to remain within a set geographical area after release. — Channel 4, Sky News
• The probation service may lack the resources and staff to enforce the restrictions. — Channel 4, Sky News
• The government is investing 700 million pounds in the probation service. — Sky News
• Restriction zones would be designed to account for access to housing and work. — Sky News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Norris triumphed at Zandvoort, beating Verstappen's early exit and Antonelli to claim a second straight win.

Lando Norris delivered a determined performance to win the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, securing back-to-back victories for the first time in his career and reigniting his bid to retain the world title.

Starting from pole position, Norris faced tricky conditions after rain cleared. Red Bull's Max Verstappen, racing at his final home event before the circuit leaves the calendar, crashed out on the first lap, leaving the Orange Army without their talisman.

At the restart, Norris lost the lead to Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli, who led for much of the race. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton in his Ferrari fought his way forward despite a pit-stop strategy he criticised, saying: "Big way of wasting time, guys. Good job." The seven-time champion took the front but could not sustain the pace on older tyres.

Norris reclaimed the lead and took the chequered flag, matching the position he started from. The win reinforces his championship challenge, having topped the standings for much of the season. After the race, Norris said: "Probably one of my better wins. We had to fight for it well, but the pace was very strong and managed things incredibly well today."

The race marked the final Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, a track known for its unpredictable weather. Formula One returns from its summer break with Norris now closing the gap in the drivers' standings.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 3m 2s (BBC News, BBC News and Weather)

Key Claims

• Lando Norris won the Dutch Grand Prix, securing back-to-back victories. — BBC One
• The Dutch Grand Prix was the last Formula One race at Zandvoort. — BBC One
• Max Verstappen failed to finish the race, crashing out on the first lap. — BBC One
• Lewis Hamilton advanced despite a poor pit-stop strategy. — BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

CrossCountry cancelled nearly all trains after a power cut at its Birmingham control centre, but says a full service should resume tomorrow.

Rail passengers across Britain faced major disruption today after CrossCountry cancelled nearly all of its services following a power cut at the company's control centre in Birmingham.

Travellers arriving at stations were met with notice that trains were not running. One passenger described being told there was no service to Cheltenham. Another couple, travelling with parents, said they had to change their plans and worry about overcrowding on alternative services. They added that they would now get back much later with Avanti, which was a real shame.

The power cut knocked out the systems used to manage CrossCountry's services. The disruption stretched across the country, from Scotland to the south-west, although services between Peterborough, Cambridge and Stansted Airport were running close to normal.

CrossCountry serves more than 100 stations, but today services on almost all of its routes were withdrawn. The company has apologised and said it is working to restore services as a priority in time for Monday morning's rush hour.

The disruption comes just months after CrossCountry was ranked Britain's worst train operator for passenger satisfaction. There are also questions being raised about why backup generators and contingency plans did not work. One commentator asked why it was not possible to transfer control to another switching centre.

The company said it aims to have a full service running again tomorrow.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 3m 54s (BBC News, BBC News and Weather)
• Channel 5: 18s (5 News Weekend)

Key Claims

• CrossCountry cancelled most of its services due to a power cut at its control centre, causing disruption across the UK, though some routes operated near normal. — Channel 5, BBC One
• CrossCountry was recently ranked as Britain's worst train operator for passenger satisfaction. — Channel 5, BBC One

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

FIFA president Gianni Infantino refuses to resign after a Sky News confrontation, while CONCACAF asks him to skip a youth event and Nordic federations lose confidence.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has refused to resign despite a growing revolt against his leadership. He was confronted by a Sky News reporter at a private airport in the Dominican Republic, where he had flown for a youth tournament. Instead of answering questions about his failed plan to sell off a stake in the World Cup, he made jokes about hairlines and told the reporter, "See you at the hairdresser."

The confrontation came as pressure mounted. Infantino, who is seeking a fourth term as FIFA president next March, has been travelling the world to shore up support. But several FIFA associations, particularly in Europe and the Caribbean, have turned against him. In a sharply worded letter, the president of CONCACAF, Victor Montagliani, asked Infantino not to attend the youth tournament in the Dominican Republic, saying his presence would “undermine the technical nature of this important youth development activity.” Montagliani, who is also a FIFA vice president and a potential successor, later declined to say whether Infantino should resign.

Further pressure has come from six Nordic football associations, who said they have lost confidence in Infantino's decision-making. The unravelling began when Infantino floated a secret plan to sell up to 20 per cent of the World Cup's commercial rights to private investors. That plan was widely condemned by supporters' groups and federations as a way to sell football's soul. A petition by worldwide fans has been added to calls for his resignation.

Despite all this, Infantino says he is happy with the support he has received. In a brief statement after the confrontation he said: "I think overall positive very very happy with all the support I get here and also some questions that are coming, but obviously these questions are obvious in view of what is out there in the media and the important thing is that we can of course with clear conscience answer all the questions in the right way."

Infantino's allies include Donald Trump, who backed his handling of the recent World Cup, but analysts point out that Trump's support is unreliable and may not save him. The battle for FIFA's future now appears to be a matter of when, not if, a vote of no confidence will be triggered. The next FIFA presidential election is due in March next year.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 31m 58s (Mornings with Jones and Melbourne, Sky News Today with Sam Washington, The Wrap With Gillian Joseph)

Key Claims

• Infantino arrived in the Dominican Republic by private jet from Doha. — Sky News
• Infantino is engaging in shuttle diplomacy to secure a fourth term as FIFA president. — Sky News
• Supporters groups worldwide have petitioned for Infantino's resignation, accusing him of making a mockery of football. — Sky News
• Infantino avoided answering questions and made a joke about a reporter's hair. — Sky News
• Infantino has not explained his plans to invite private money into football. — Sky News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

A small British power plant was shut down for four days in a cyber attack reportedly linked to Iran, with no risk to the wider grid.

Reports from the Sunday Telegraph, confirmed by the government, say hackers with links to Iran disabled a small-scale UK power plant for four days last month. The incident is believed to be the first time such a facility has been successfully shut down by an Iran-affiliated group in Britain.

The government confirmed that a small energy generator was affected, but stressed there was no threat to the wider energy system. Officials have not named the specific plant, citing security concerns.

The UK's electricity grid relies on many smaller generators, including gas-fired and hydroelectric plants, to balance supply and demand, especially with renewable sources that vary with weather. The outage did not cause noticeable disruption, but cyber security experts warn that the attack highlights vulnerabilities in critical national infrastructure.

A government statement said: "The UK has a highly resilient energy system. We work closely with the energy sector to protect infrastructure and ensure the highest security standards." The government also confirmed that power companies have been advised about the possibility of further attacks.

Experts stress that cyber attacks from state-linked groups are not uncommon, with Iran, Russia and North Korea all considered threats. This incident, while not critical in its impact, shows the importance of proactive security measures and collaboration between government, industry and cybersecurity specialists. If a similar attack had struck a more vital facility during a period of peak demand, the consequences could be far more serious.

Broadcaster Coverage

• ITV: 2m 21s (ITV News, ITV Evening News)
• Channel 5: 19s (5 News Weekend)

Key Claims

• Iranian-linked hackers reportedly shut down a UK power plant; the government confirmed a small generator was impacted, and it is believed to be the first such successful attack. — Channel 5, ITV
• The government said there was no risk to the wider energy grid. — ITV
• Cyber attacks from state-linked actors are not unusual, including from Iran, Russia, and North Korea. — ITV
• Power companies have been advised about the threat of further attacks. — Channel 5

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

The Tories attack Labour's mansion tax and council tax revaluation while Andy Burnham's listening tour confronts borrowing pressure and fiscal rules.

The Conservative Party is aggressively campaigning against Labour's proposed mansion tax and council tax revaluation, warning that the government could soon be sending "council tax police" into family homes. The push comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham begins a public listening tour and the Treasury grapples with borrowing figures that came in £2.3bn higher than predicted last month, pushing UK government debt to nearly £3 trillion.

Burnham has sought to project an approachable, down-to-earth image during his first month in office. He has unveiled a string of cost-of-living promises and is spending time on a carefully managed listening tour, reportedly visiting places such as Port Talbot in Wales. But the feel-good start faces scrutiny as the government's fiscal headroom appears thinner than anticipated. The Prime Minister has ruled out changes to income tax, national insurance and VAT, and has agreed to stick to the fiscal rules set out by his predecessor, Keir Starmer.

The office has also sought to the Conservative front bench has framed the mansion tax and council tax revaluation as a "super tax" that would hurt hard-pressed families and could be expanded over time. A Conservative guest on GB News's Camilla Tominey Show suggested the government would use the tax to target a wider group than initially announced. They argued that Tony Blair and Ed Miliband had both previously been forced to back down over similar plans, and that Labour's proposal had "explosive" political consequences.

There is also disagreement over what the PM will do on wealth taxes. One GB News panel discussion proposed a 10% levy on inheritance across all estates to fund social care, replacing the current 40% rate on moderately wealthy people. That idea drew cautious support from some commentators, but the fiscal maths suggests even a 30% levy may not cover the full cost.

The BBC's Newsnight offered a less combative view of the fiscal picture. While a source at the fiscal figures were negative, the channel argued that inflation had not taken off in the way predicted a few months ago, leaving Burnham with slightly more headroom than feared. It also underlined that the Prime Minister faces hard choices on welfare, early prison releases and small boat crossings, and questioned whether he has the "steeliness" to make them.

The overall mood is that Burnham's early positive polling and goodwill is fragile. The government continues to insist it will be honest with the public about difficult decisions. But opposition parties say the plans are unworkable and unfair. The election year will likely hinge on whether Burnham can turn his listening tour into a credible budget that preserves the old left's enthusiasm without breaking the government's own fiscal red lines.

Broadcaster Coverage

• GB News: 13m 16s (New: Patrick Christys Tonight Late..., New: The Camilla Tominey Show...)
• BBC Two: 12m 13s (Newsnight, followed by Weather)

Key Claims

• Andy Burnham's approval rating jumped by about 10 points to around 13 points. — GB News
• The triple lock has made pensions 70 billion pounds a year more expensive than in 2019-20. — GB News
• Government borrowing exceeded forecasts by £2.3bn, with UK debt reaching nearly £3 trillion. — BBC Two
• Burnham ruled out raising income tax, national insurance and VAT, and agreed to stick to existing fiscal rules. — BBC Two
• The Labour government plans to send council tax officials into homes to revalue properties and impose higher taxes. — GB News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Coverage of the delicate balance of Prince Harry's possible return to royal events, focusing on William's likely reaction and Queen Camilla's conciliatory role.

A panel discussion on royal family dynamics has raised fresh questions about the possible reconciliation between Prince Harry and the rest of the family, and how it might affect the Prince of Wales. The conversation, which aired on GB News, focused on the private meeting at Highgrove that reportedly involved the King, Queen Camilla, Prince Harry, Meghan and their children, and what that could mean for future family events.

The biggest question, according to the panel, is what Prince William will do. If he avoids events where his brother is present, he may be seen as unreasonable, even though public opinion appears to be on his side. One speaker noted that the Prince and Princess of Wales are far more popular than the Sussexes in opinion polls, which could protect William from criticism.

Queen Camilla also came under scrutiny. Despite being criticised in Harry's memoir, she was reportedly willing to attend the Highgrove meeting and appears to be acting as a pragmatist, supporting her husband and keeping the peace. The panel wondered how she might navigate the situation in the future, but suggested she would not suddenly start briefing the press.

The discussion also identified potential flashpoints. Next year marks the 30th anniversary of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. The Invictus Games, which Harry has long supported, are due in Birmingham in July 2027, conveniently clashing with the Queen's 80th birthday. But the panel said many private conversations would be needed before any public reconciliation could take place, and William would only consider such a step when he is ready.

Formal royal events, such as Trooping the Colour, may already have solved some awkward questions. Since the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022, only working royals take part in the official procession, which keeps non-working members of the family out of the carriages. Even so, the general sense from the discussion was that any move towards reconciliation would be difficult and would need to be handled with great care.

Broadcaster Coverage

• GB News: 7m 44s (New: The Camilla Tominey Show...)

Key Claims

• The Prince and Princess of Wales are more popular than Prince Harry and Meghan in opinion polls. — GB News
• Only working royals have taken part in Trooping the Colour processions since the Platinum Jubilee in 2022. — GB News
• Prince Harry wants the King to attend the Invictus Games in Birmingham in July 2027. — GB News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

The Home Office has published a nine-page guide for asylum seekers stating that rape, child abuse and harassment are illegal, prompting criticism from all sides.

The Home Office has issued a nine-page booklet for asylum seekers called "Understanding Behaviours and Expectations in the UK", which makes clear that rape, sexual harassment, domestic abuse and sex with a child under the age of 16 are serious crimes. It also states that men and women are equal under UK law and that both people must agree to sex or sexual contact.

The guidance, which was published this week, is designed to explain the country's laws and customs to people arriving to claim asylum. It warns that those who break the law could go to prison, lose their support and accommodation, and that it may affect their asylum claim. It also includes helpline numbers for victims.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham defended the booklet when challenged, saying: "If you break UK law, you will be removed from the country." He added that the government is explicit about UK laws and societal norms, and that people are made aware of them.

But the publication has prompted strong reactions from all sides. The Conservative Party said that anyone who needs this leaflet does not belong in Britain. Reform UK said the booklet is a scandal and shows that the government knows asylum seekers are a menace. The Green Party and refugee charities warned that it fuels hostility, suspicion and racism, and reinforces negative stereotypes.

The Home Office said the guidance is not new and has been in use for some time, but its wider publication has now sparked political debate. A Home Office spokesperson said that those who do not abide by UK law will face consequences, including refusal of their asylum claim and removal.

Meanwhile, the government has also been highlighting figures showing French police have prevented small boat crossings in the Channel, including a 43% drop in arrivals this year compared to last. That appears to be part of a wider strategy to reduce numbers and discourage people from making the journey.

The pamphlet remains at the centre of a debate about what is expected of people who come to the UK and what the state must do to protect women and children.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC Two: 20m 50s (Newsnight, followed by Weather)
• GB News: 50m 44s (New: Lee Anderson's Real World, New: GBN Tonight, New: Patrick Christys Tonight Late..., New: The Camilla Tominey Show...)
• BBC One: 11m 45s (BBC News at One including..., BBC News)
• ITV: 12m 16s (ITV Lunchtime News, ITV Evening News, ITV News at Ten, ITV News)
• BBC News: 6m 57s (Signed: BBC News at Six, BBC News)
• Sky News: 16m 58s (The Wrap With Anna Botting, Mornings with Jones and Melbourne, Sky News Today with Sam Washington)
• Channel 5: 3m 15s (5 News at Lunchtime, 5 News with Dan Walker)

Key Claims

• Over a third of Britain's nightclubs have closed since 2020. — BBC Two
• The Prime Minister ordered a cut to business rates for pubs and music venues. — BBC Two
• The government announced the closure of 13 migrant hotels. — GB News
• RAF Barnum in Thetford will house 1,200 migrants from countries including Iran, Eritrea, Sudan and Afghanistan. — GB News
• The government reported a 43% decrease in boat crossings. — Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, GB News, ITV, Sky News

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →

Shadow minister Mike Wood defends Kemi Badenoch's refusal to count a Reform pact, arguing the Conservatives offer a clear alternative to Labour and Reform.

Kemi Badenoch's description of a future coalition with Reform UK as "monstrous" has been defended by a shadow cabinet minister, who insisted the Conservative Party was the only credible alternative to a Labour-led government.

Mike Wood, the Shadow Cabinet Office Minister and Conservative MP for Kingswinford and South Staffordshire, was interviewed on GB News after Badenoch made the remark at the Edinburgh Fringe. He dismissed the idea that the party would need a deal with Reform, saying the answer was "a Conservative government that's got a clear plan" on the economy, borders, and other national challenges.

When pressed on whether a pact might be necessary given current polling, Wood pointed out there was no election this week and argued the party's job was to persuade voters to back a Conservative majority. He contrasted this with what he called the "progressive alliance" of Labour, Liberal Democrats, and Greens, which he said was "clearly not the answer."

Wood also criticised Reform, claiming they did not have credible answers on borders, the economy, services, or welfare. He said Labour had shown it had no plan when it entered government, whereas the Conservative Party under Badenoch had a plan to tackle real challenges.

The interview touched on fears that the right is divided, with Wood acknowledging the frustration of voters but focusing instead on attacking the current Labour-led government, which he said was being propped up by a progressive alliance. He defended the Conservative approach of ruling out electoral coalitions before an election, saying it was not a good idea to talk about such deals prematurely.

The comments underline the continuing tensions between the Conservative and Reform parties, with Badenoch seeking to position her party as the main right-of-centre alternative while Reform seeks to lure disaffected voters.

Broadcaster Coverage

• GB News: 3m 12s (New: The Camilla Tominey Show...)

Key Claims

• Reform Party was reported to lack credible answers to the country's challenges. — GB News
• A Labour-Liberal-Green coalition was reported as not an acceptable alternative. — GB News
• The Conservative Party's goal was reported to be a majority, with electoral pacts not to be discussed before an election. — GB News

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A new documentary, Thank You For Listening, charts country singer Joshua Ray Walker's treatment for colon cancer and his return to health.

A new documentary, Thank You For Listening, follows Texan country singer Joshua Ray Walker through his treatment for colon cancer and his recovery. Walker, 32, was diagnosed with the disease that had already taken the lives of his father and grandfather. The film is soundtracked by his album Ain't Dead Yet, which he started writing after his diagnosis and finished after receiving the all clear.

In the documentary, Walker speaks openly about his family history of cancer, the shock of his own diagnosis in his thirties, and the guilt he felt about the burden his illness placed on loved ones. He also describes being restaged to stage four and told he had two to five years to live, before later learning he was cancer free.

Walker, who has been cancer free for a year and a half, also discusses his support for the LGBTQ+ community and his discomfort with political rollbacks in his home state of Texas. The film, directed by the culture correspondent Minnie Stevenson, grapples with big themes: mortality, art, and what remains when the music stops.

The documentary's title, Thank You For Listening, reflects Walker's gratitude for the life he now leads, travelling the world and playing to audiences who want to hear his songs. As he puts it, the life he gets to live is "really, really close to what I want it to look like".

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 4: 5m 5s (Channel 4 News)

Key Claims

• Joshua Ray Walker was diagnosed with cancer at age 32, and his father and grandfather also died from the disease. — Channel 4
• Walker wrote his album Ain't Dead Yet while facing the possibility of death from cancer, and completed it after learning he survived. — Channel 4
• Walker has been cancer free for a year and a half. — Channel 4

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Prime Minister Andy Burnham has delayed a decision on North Sea drilling, prompting accusations of flip-flopping and exposing Labour splits.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has declined to commit to new North Sea oil and gas drilling, instead delaying the decision and drawing accusations that he is repeating the fence-sitting habits of his predecessor. The announcement, made on Monday, set back any move to expand domestic fossil fuel production and has left both sides of the energy debate unhappy.

Mr Burnham's delay was reported to stem from concerns about the "optics" of embracing fossil fuels at a time when the government is also pushing its net zero agenda. This has triggered criticism from those who want to see domestic energy maximised, as well as from his own political opponents, who compare him unfavourably to the previous prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, who was often mocked for sitting on the fence.

During a heated discussion, former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng argued that Mr Burnham would ultimately need to drill in the North Sea to secure the country's energy resources, but that he would avoid taking a clear side because of ideological divisions within his own party. "There are fundamental ideological splits within his coalition, the left, on the North Sea," Mr Kwarteng said. He predicted Mr Burnham would "fudge it" and not come down on one side.

Former Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon dismissed the idea that Burnham is flip-flopping, pointing out that he has been in office for only a few weeks and that Parliament is in recess. He said answers would come in September. But Mr Kwarteng insisted that the problem would not disappear, describing an irreconcilable gap between those who want to exploit the resources and environmental campaigners who oppose new licences.

The issue is complicated by the Labour manifesto's apparent promise to ban new exploration licences. When asked about this, the Energy Secretary at the time, Ed Miliband, was described as "incredibly pragmatic" by a guest on one evening programme, who said he had supported tiebacks and other extensions that allowed more extraction. That guest said he was personally in favour of developments such as Rosebank and Jackdaw, and that the UK would need oil and gas until at least 2050.

However, the original manifesto commitment is now seen as a constraint. One interviewer pointed out that if Mr Burnham wants to drill more, he cannot do so without breaking the manifesto, which could trigger a general election. This leaves the prime minister caught between a wing of his party that demands a green transition and those who fear job losses and energy insecurity.

The debate also touched on other issues, including early release of prisoners, with Mr Burnham having previously said he could not interfere with the scheme but now expressing confidence that serious offenders could be excluded. That was used as further evidence of him shifting position on key policies.

No final decision on North Sea drilling has been made. The government has not given a date for when the delay will be lifted, leaving the issue to simmer as parliament returns from its summer break.

Broadcaster Coverage

• GB News: 9m 25s (New: GBN Tonight, New: The Camilla Tominey Show...)

Key Claims

• Andy Burnham delayed a decision on North Sea drilling, citing the optics of embracing fossil fuels. — GB News
• There was an ideological split within Labour over North Sea drilling, with the left opposed and the right in favour. — GB News
• Labour's manifesto commitment against new licences limits Burnham's ability to change course. — GB News

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Manchester City came from behind to defeat Bournemouth 2-1 at the Etihad, scoring twice in the final minutes.

Manchester City began their Premier League campaign with a dramatic late comeback against Bournemouth at the Etihad. The home side dominated possession for long periods but fell behind to a powerful strike from Bournemouth's Marcus Tavernier. Erling Haaland missed a simple chance in the early stages, and his usual scoring touch seemed to desert him as the match wore on.

New manager Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola after a decade of trophies, watched his side struggle to turn control into goals. The breakthrough for City finally came from Mark Gahy, who nodded in a Ryan Churkey corner. Minutes later, Churkey set up Josko Gvardiol to score what proved to be the winner, although the goal was initially flagged for offside. A VAR review overruled the decision and the goal stood.

City had left it late, but they had won. The result gave Maresca his first Premier League win and showed his side's resilience, but also exposed their difficulty in breaking down a well-organised defence. Bournemouth, who had taken a shock lead, were left to rue the late reversal.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 1m 13s (BBC News)

Key Claims

• Manchester City secured a late win over Bournemouth at the Etihad. — BBC One
• Bournemouth took the lead with a goal from Marcus Tavernier. — BBC One
• City's winning goal was confirmed after VAR overruled an offside flag. — BBC One

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Ukraine's former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov is pressing for wartime elections, but President Zelensky says they would be too dangerous while the war continues.

Ukraine's political crisis has deepened after President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected calls for wartime elections, following a public push by his sacked defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, who says the country faces a governance crisis and democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia.

Fedorov, who was dismissed last month after just six months in the job, had called for elections in a video statement, arguing that Ukraine must restore its democratic process even under conditions of prolonged war. He criticised corruption and inefficiency within the government, saying that the old system protects itself, fears change and rewards loyalty over initiative.

In a follow-up interview with the BBC, Fedorov stood by his call and denied that it handed a gift to Moscow. He said it was his moral right to start the conversation, adding: "If I cannot share my ideas and be open about them, then what are we fighting for?" He also refused to rule out running for president, though he said his statement was not about personal ambition.

President Zelensky pushed back, telling the BBC that holding an election during an active war would divide and potentially destroy the country. His presidential term legally ended in May 2024, but martial law prevents a vote under Ukraine's constitution. Zelensky has previously said elections could only happen once a ceasefire and security guarantees are in place.

The political confrontation unfolded as parliament confirmed Zelensky's pick for defence minister, Yevgeny Kamara, amid protests from supporters of Fedorov. Anti-corruption agencies also raided offices linked to the president's inner circle, including a deputy head of the presidential office, adding to the pressure.

Ukrainians are split on the idea. A recent poll suggested about half support holding elections now, but many experts warn that a vote could be logistically impossible given the millions of Ukrainians abroad, soldiers on the front line and people in occupied territories. Both Russia and some Western allies have called for elections, but for different reasons, which complicates the issue further.

Fedorov, seen as a modernising, tech-friendly figure, was credited with developing Ukraine's drone programme. He remains popular, but even some of his own supporters question whether an election at this moment is wise. As one MP put it, the consequences could be catastrophic.

The coming weeks will show whether this political crisis fades or becomes the biggest challenge to President Zelensky's leadership since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC News: 21m 40s (BBC News, BBC News Now, Signed: BBC News at Six)
• Sky News: 34m 47s (Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow, Sky News Today with Jayne Secker)
• BBC One: 9m 51s (BBC News, BBC News and Weather)
• Channel 4: 13m 54s (Channel 4 News)

Key Claims

• Fedorov was the first senior Ukrainian political figure to call for elections during the war. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, Sky News
• Fedorov's dismissal in July led to protests and calls for his reinstatement. — BBC News, BBC One, Sky News
• Around one million troops are at the front line, making voting difficult. — BBC News, Sky News
• Fedorov was popular and credited with driving innovation, especially the use of drones. — BBC News
• Anti-corruption agencies raided presidential offices in Kyiv. — BBC News, Sky News

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Darren Myles, 60, has been selected to represent Great Britain in slalom skateboarding at the World Skate Games in Paraguay this October.

Darren Myles, 60, set to represent Great Britain at World Skate Games

Darren Myles, a 60-year-old skateboarder from Plymouth, has been selected to represent Great Britain in slalom skateboarding at the World Skate Games in Paraguay. It will be his first time competing for his country on an international stage.

Myles has skated for most of his life, but in his 50s began to struggle with some of his old tricks. He decided to pursue a new direction and took up slalom skateboarding, a form of downhill racing, in his late 50s. He described the early days as an "eye-opener", saying the steep hills and the speed of other riders were intimidating at first, but everyone was friendly and offered help and advice.

He will now take on the best in the world in a setting very different from his usual training ground in Plymouth. Myles says he is proud to represent Britain in a sport he never thought he would compete in, and notes that skateboarding has become more respectable since his younger days.

Speaking about his achievement, he said: "I've learned that life carries on after 60 just keep at it, keep learning, I think it's amazing what you can do at any age really."

The World Skate Games take place in October, where Myles will aim to show that it is never too late to become an international athlete.

Broadcaster Coverage

• ITV: 1m 59s (ITV News)

Key Claims

• Darren Myles will represent Great Britain in slalom skateboarding at the World Skate Games in Paraguay in October. — ITV
• Myles took up slalom skateboarding in his late 50s. — ITV
• Myles is proud to represent Great Britain in slalom skateboarding. — ITV

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Russia has recalled its ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, with no replacement announced, after his posting ended in July.

Russia has recalled its ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, with no replacement announced. The move was confirmed by the Russian side, although it appears to have been planned in advance, as his posting ended in July.

Mr Kelin has been a controversial figure in London, often repeating what critics saw as Kremlin propaganda lines and being openly dismissive of the UK. Earlier this year he did not deny that Russia was tracking British submarines, but questioned why his country would be interested in what he called outdated weapons.

His name has now been removed from the official website of the Russian embassy in London, though no successor has been named. British diplomatic sources have sought to play down the development, saying a gap between ambassadors is not unusual and has affected British postings too, including in Italy. When asked if this could signal a worsening of an already strained relationship, those sources said it was a question for Moscow.

The recall comes after the Russian embassy last week warned of consequences when it accused Britain of escalating the war in Ukraine by supplying drones to Kyiv.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 1m 22s (BBC News)

Key Claims

• Russia recalled its ambassador to Britain, Andrei Kelin, in a scheduled move after his posting ended in July, with no replacement announced. — BBC One
• A senior British diplomatic source said the ambassador recall was not an unusual move between ambassadors. — BBC One

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The Leeds Liverpool canal at Bingley has been closed for two weeks because of low water levels, but the locks are due to reopen on Monday.

One of the most famous stretches of the Leeds Liverpool canal has been closed at Bingley, near Bradford, for two weeks because water levels have dropped too low. The Five Rise Locks, a staircase of locks popular with narrowboat users, are due to reopen on Monday, but the dry weather has left some boaters stranded and pushed others to pay hundreds of pounds to leave the waterway.

The closure has been a test of patience. One boat owner said they had been stuck before: 'We've been trapped three times in the past five and a half years and we were stuck twice for ice.' They described it as part of the rhythm of canal life, adding that boaters can plan for delays and stay near the facilities they need.

Two boats from the South Pennine Boat Club had to be lifted out of the canal by crane at a cost of roughly £1,200 each, while three others remained trapped. The closure is also being felt by businesses. The Five Rise Locks Cafe said it still has enough local customers, walkers and cyclists, so it has not been hit as hard as boat clubs or holiday companies that depend on passing trade.

Water levels are being monitored, and some closed sections may get short windows to move boats, but not for long. The last time this stretch of canal closed, it lasted months rather than days. Monday's reopening will help some boaters, but other parts of the waterway network remain shut for much longer.

For now, the message to boaters is to check conditions before travelling. As the report puts it, being stuck on a canal is still better than being stuck on a motorway or in an airport.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 5m 6s (Mornings with Jones and Melbourne, Sky News Today With Matt Barbet)

Key Claims

• Bingley Five Rise Locks were closed for two weeks due to low water levels. — Sky News
• The locks were scheduled to reopen on Monday. — Sky News
• Craning a boat out of the water costs around £1,200 per boat. — Sky News

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Sudan's civil war has killed and maimed schoolchildren in El Obeid, with drone strikes, sexual violence and child recruitment reported.

In the Sudanese city of El Obeid, the war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has taken a devastating toll on children. A drone strike on a fuel tanker outside a school reverberated through the building and killed a year 8 schoolgirl. The glass from the strike still lies scattered in the schoolyard. Multiple schools across the city have been damaged since the war began in 2023, either from direct strikes or nearby attacks, and yet many students still attend classes. More than eight million children across Sudan are out of education.

Aid workers report that children as young as six have been victims of sexual violence by RSF members. One teenager told Sky News she was gang raped at 18 by RSF soldiers who control her town. Another girl, Mesa, was in her final year of secondary school when an RSF shell hit the building and killed her classmates. Her brother Ibrahim joined the military three months ago; his mother says he is only 17. He said: "If you stay home, you die. If you go and fight, you die. So better to enlist and die."

In a women's dormitory turned displacement camp, children are being led in playtime. Ten-year-old Ali cannot play because a shrapnel injury in his leg means he cannot walk. His mother brought him to El Obeid for treatment, leaving six older children behind in their frontline hometown. The camp has been hit by a missile too, and families live within shrapnel-marked walls. Every room houses families reckoning with their new circumstances. Three children are born into Sudan's war every minute, and every minute conditions become more unbearable.

Despite the constant danger, families who can afford it send their children to school, seeking a sense of normalcy. The city is full of children doing adult jobs, selling fuel on the roadside or bicycles in the market, while the lucky ones enjoy a game of football. But the sense of normalcy is shattered by the drones circling overhead, and cars are tucked under trees to avoid them.

In the embattled city, the Catholic cathedral of Our Lady Queen of Africa stands between a mosque, military barracks and a national security building. At the base of its highest tower, a headless statue of Mary embodies the desecration of the war. The vicar general said: "In the Catholic Church we always support peace and pray in the name of peace." The Pope addressed pilgrims on the same Sunday, expressing concern for Sudan and renewing his appeal for humanitarian corridors for civilians. A priest was killed in the Nuba Mountains three months ago, and the cathedral itself has been marked by bullets and shrapnel. Parishioners, many displaced, gather for mass, holding onto faith as a source of strength. One said: "My house collapsed at the start of the war and I was taken to a school shelter. Thieves then looted my house and tore it apart. I now don't have a home. My home is in the sand."

Broadcaster Coverage

• Sky News: 14m 22s (Mornings, Sky News Today with Jayne Secker, Mornings with Jones and Melbourne)

Key Claims

• A drone strike hit a fuel tanker outside a school in Al-Obaid, killing a schoolgirl. — Sky News
• More than eight million children in Sudan are out of education. — Sky News
• Aid workers have reported that children as young as six are victims of sexual violence in Sudan. — Sky News
• A mother said her son who joined the military may be only 17 years old. — Sky News
• The war in Sudan has entered its fourth year, with hundreds of thousands of estimated deaths. — Sky News

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Death toll from Russian double-tap strike on Kryvyi Rih shopping centre rises to 16, with an investigation into the mall's operators under way.

Rescuers in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih have pulled another body from the rubble of a shopping centre hit by Russian drones on Friday, bringing the death toll to 16. The attack, which also wounded 130 people, has been described by President Volodymyr Zelensky as a cynical and despicable double-tap strike: a first drone hit the busy mall in mid-afternoon, and a second struck about half an hour later as emergency workers were on the scene.

Ukraine's interior minister has said the director of a supermarket within the complex is being investigated for suspected criminal negligence after the shop reportedly continued to operate despite air raid warnings. The investigation comes as questions are asked about why the shopping centre was still open when the attack happened. Nine people remain missing, and more than 60 are still being treated in hospital, many of them children.

The attack has drawn international condemnation. The European Commission's vice president said it showed the absolute and utter depravity of Moscow's war, calling it terror by design. France's President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to send additional interceptor missiles to Ukraine to help defend against aerial attacks, a move welcomed by Kyiv as it struggles with a shortage of air defence systems.

Meanwhile, Russia has continued its bombardment. Ukraine's air force said Moscow launched more than 200 drones overnight, mainly targeting Kyiv and Odesa. In response, Ukraine has stepped up its own drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, causing fuel shortages and long queues at petrol stations in Moscow. President Vladimir Putin has threatened to respond by targeting the most sensitive sectors of Ukraine's economy, but Ukrainian officials say they will keep up the pressure.

The attack on Kryvyi Rih, President Zelensky's hometown, has become a symbol of the war's toll on civilians. The double-tap tactic, designed to hit rescuers, has been condemned as a violation of the laws of war. As the investigation into the shopping centre's operators continues, Ukraine is pressing its allies for more air defence support, warning that without it, more lives will be lost.

Broadcaster Coverage

• Channel 4: 33s (Channel 4 News)
• BBC One: 4m 59s (BBC News and Weather)
• BBC News: 19m 3s (BBC News)
• Sky News: 1m 6s (Sky News Today with Sam Washington)

Key Claims

• A Russian attack on a shopping centre in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih killed at least 14 people and injured more than 120, including 11 children. — BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, Sky News
• Four people were killed in Mykolaiv, three of them children. — BBC One
• Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil facilities have led to fuel shortages and petrol queues in Moscow. — BBC News, BBC One
• Russia launched more than 200 drones overnight. — Sky News
• Ukraine said it would respond to the attack. — BBC News

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Prince Harry and six co-claimants must pay an initial £9.5m to the Daily Mail's publisher after losing their privacy case, as they prepare to return to the UK.

Prince Harry and six other high-profile claimants have been ordered to make an initial payment of £9.5 million to the publisher of the Daily Mail after losing their privacy case. The High Court ruling, which came as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex prepare to return to the UK, also allows Associated Newspapers to seek further costs, potentially pushing the total bill to £34.5 million.

The case, which concluded in July, saw the claimants, including Sir Elton John, Baroness Doreen Lawrence and Elizabeth Hurley, fail to prove allegations of unlawful information gathering. Mr Justice Nicklin described the conduct of the claimants as 'unreasonable to a high degree', and said the case had been flawed from the start. The judge accepted arguments that there had been unsupported claims and that a key witness had been discredited.

The ruling is a significant setback for Prince Harry, who had made the case a central part of his campaign against the tabloid press. The initial payment is due within seven days, and while the claimants have insurance covering up to £16.2 million, the final bill could leave them substantially out of pocket.

The legal costs come as Harry and Meghan prepare to move back to the UK with their children, Archie and Lilibet, who are enrolled in a British school. The couple will live in a private residence outside London, and there are no plans for them to resume royal duties. The King was reportedly told of the decision on Sunday and is said to welcome the chance to see more of the Sussex family.

Security arrangements remain unclear. The Prime Minister said the couple's security is a private matter, but the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) is expected to reassess their protection needs. Harry has previously lost a legal challenge over the level of taxpayer-funded security he receives.

Reports have also emerged that Meghan is in talks to return to acting, with a possible role in Guy Ritchie's Netflix series The Gentlemen. However, later reports suggest the offer may have been withdrawn following backlash. The couple's team has not commented.

Public reaction to the return has been mixed, with a YouGov poll suggesting a third of Britons are against the move. The return also raises questions about the relationship between Harry and his brother, Prince William, who remain estranged.

Broadcaster Coverage

• BBC One: 38m 29s (BBC News and Weather, BBC News at One including..., BBC News)
• ITV: 39m 27s (ITV News at Ten, ITV Lunchtime News, ITV Evening News)
• BBC News: 52m 8s (BBC News, Signed: BBC News at Six)
• GB News: 2h 1m 8s (New: Patrick Christys Tonight Late..., New: GBN Tonight, New: Lee Anderson's Real World)
• Sky News: 1h 5m 25s (Mornings, Sky News Today with Gareth Barlow, Sky News Today with Jayne Secker, The Wrap With Anna Botting, Mornings with Jones and Melbourne, Sky News Today with Sam Washington, Sky News Today, The Wrap With Gillian Joseph)
• Channel 5: 35m 38s (5 News with Dan Walker, 5 News at Lunchtime)
• Channel 4: 19m 35s (Channel 4 News)
• BBC Two: 29m 19s (Newsnight, followed by Weather)

Key Claims

• Harry and Meghan's children have been enrolled in a UK school. — Channel 5, Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, BBC Two, Channel 4, GB News, ITV, Sky News
• The family will move to a home outside London, not a royal residence. — Channel 5, Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, Channel 4, GB News, ITV, Sky News
• The family will remain non-working members of the royal family. — Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, ITV, Sky News
• The King was informed of the plans on Sunday and welcomed the opportunity to see the family privately. — Channel 5, BBC News, BBC One, BBC Two, Channel 4, GB News, ITV, Sky News
• Prince Harry previously said he would not feel safe bringing his family back without police protection. — GB News, ITV

Explore the full cross-channel evidence timeline and quotes on Broadcast Prism →