The recent Gabon corruption trial has shed light on the deep-rooted issues of embezzlement and graft that have plagued the country for decades.Sylvia Bongo, the former First Lady, and her son Noureddin Bongo were sentenced to 20 years in prison following their absence during the trial, accused of misappropriating state funds amidst allegations of exploitation during political turmoil.
Budget Impact on Small Businesses is a pressing concern as many establishments grapple with the harsh realities of recent fiscal policies.The aftermath of the UK Budget 2023 has left many small businesses feeling “punished,” particularly in sectors like hospitality, where rising National Insurance contributions and business taxes impact profitability.
In today’s FTSE 100 Update, the index opened just shy of the impressive 10,000 mark as traders digested critical news from major players including BAE Systems and SSE.The FTSE 100 index has seen significant movements, particularly with SSE’s shares soaring following its announcement of a £33 billion investment plan aimed at enhancing the UK electricity market.
The voting rules for “I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!” have undergone a significant transformation, particularly for the 2025 I’m A Celebrity series.
The redevelopment of Liverpool Street Station is poised to reshape one of London’s busiest transport hubs, yet its plans have encountered delays.With proposals from Network Rail to partially demolish the station and erect a modern multi-storey tower, the project has faced scrutiny from various stakeholders.
In this London News Roundup, we bring you the most pressing updates and noteworthy developments from England’s bustling capital.As we near the end of 2023, the city faces significant challenges and exciting opportunities in areas like transport strikes London, affordable housing in London, and Mayor Sadiq Khan’s climate strategy.
Fly-tipping fines have become a pressing issue in London, as demonstrated by a recent case involving Loretta Alvarez from Feltham.She received a hefty £1,000 fine from Hounslow Council for leaving a cardboard envelope next to full communal bins.
The London Plan is a comprehensive strategy laid out by the Mayor of London to navigate the intricate landscape of urban development in London over the next two decades.With London facing an unprecedented population growth, projected to exceed ten million residents by 2036, this plan addresses the essential housing strategy needed to accommodate such expansion.
William ‘Billy’ Smith, a 35-year-old man, made headlines this week following a dramatic turn of events surrounding his fraud case.After being sentenced to 45 months for multiple fraudulent offenses at Croydon Crown Court, Smith was mistakenly released, sparking a manhunt in London that lasted three tense days.
The recent issue of wrongful prisoner release has highlighted significant flaws within the UK prison system, shedding light on critical challenges that have risen to prominence.Notably, the mistaken release of fraudster William Smith and convicted sex offender Brahim Kaddour-Cherif has intensified scrutiny on Justice Secretary David Lammy’s oversight, prompting calls for urgent reforms.
