Jamaica: UN meeting about seabed mining
The UN's International Seabed Authority (ISA) has met to discuss new rules for ocean floor mineral extraction, despite concerns over economic and environmental risks. Supporters argue that deep sea mining will provide essential materials like cobalt and nickel for the global energy transition, while critics fear it could devastate ecosystems and disrupt migratory routes. Twenty-seven countries are calling for a temporary halt. The ISA council will negotiate a ‘mining code’ for regulating ocean floor mining. Nations remain divided on the draft, with many urging a slower process for proper scrutiny. The urgency stems from an expected application by Nauru for a mining licence. Critics argue that deep sea mining's economic viability remains unproven, with rising costs and significant environmental trade-offs.
USA: Trump survives assassination attempt, names running mate
Two days after Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt, he was formally adopted by the Republican party as its nominee for the US presidential election in November. He has chosen JD Vance, a 39-year-old former venture capitalist and Ohio senator, as his running mate. Vance, who came to prominence in 2016 when he published an autobiography entitled ‘Hillbilly Elegy’, at that time compared Trump to Hitler and called him an ‘idiot’. However, since then he has become a steadfast supporter, even attending court to support Trump at his hush money trial. He has blamed Joe Biden for the assassination attempt, citing Biden’s rhetoric against Trump as a contributing factor.
First A Sound of Freedom, now A Sound of Hope
One year after the impactful release of 'Sound of Freedom’, Angel Studios have launched 'Sound of Hope’, focusing on Donna Martin and her church in Texas. Motivated by her mother’s love and dedication, Donna and her husband persuaded their church to adopt 77 children from troubled backgrounds. The film, featuring moving performances by Nika King and Demetrius Grosse, delves into the profound trials and rewards of adoption. The movie’s central Christian message aims to encourage viewers to support foster care and consider adoption. Through her story, the film showcases the transformative power of love and faith in addressing the needs of vulnerable children, offering a message of hope and action to its audience. 'Sound of Hope' seeks to inspire individuals and communities to make a tangible difference in the lives of at-risk children.
A gift of a million prayers for France
Love France is an initiative by International Prayer Connect and its partners, including the World Prayer Centre in Birmingham, aiming to bless, celebrate, and connect the worldwide Christian church with the Church across France as it runs various Christian events, outreaches and activities during the games this Summer. The project’s vision includes mobilising global prayer support for France, celebrating positive developments in the church community, and fostering connections through cultural, artistic, and sporting events. Key activities feature the 'France 1 Million' campaign that invites a gift of a million prayers from the worldwide Church for France this summer. A prayer guide and other resources are being published with daily prayer pointers: see An online prayer and discussion platform app will run for the duration of the main and para-games. See Churches are encouraged to get involved with the Eric Liddell 100 Celebrations, honouring the legacy of the famous athlete and missionary.
Keir Starmer warns Putin - NATO resolve 'bigger than ever'
In Washington, Keir Starmer has issued a stern warning to Vladimir Putin, asserting that NATO's resolve is stronger than ever in the face of Russian aggression. After meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, Starmer reaffirmed the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasising NATO's unity and determination to counter the Russian threat. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has resulted in significant casualties and territorial losses, prompting the West to supply long-range missiles to aid Ukraine's defence efforts. Starmer's visit also involved discussions on enhancing European defence cooperation and addressing the challenges posed by China, reflecting a comprehensive approach to current global security issues. His statements underline a continued commitment to international alliances and a robust stance against any attempts to undermine global stability. This visit marks a significant moment in reinforcing diplomatic ties and strategic partnerships - essential for confronting evolving global threats.
Thousands of prisoners may be released
Keir Starmer has indicated that thousands of prisoners may be released due to severe overcrowding in jails across England and Wales. He criticised the previous Conservative government for their handling of the prison system, which is now almost at full capacity with only 1,400 spaces left out of a total of 88,864. The Ministry of Justice is working on building six new prisons to create 20,000 additional spaces, with 6,000 already completed. However, Starmer’s government is currently reviewing whether to continue this expansion programme. An official announcement regarding the prison crisis is expected soon, highlighting the urgent need to address the issue and find sustainable solutions.
Suspect arrested following triple crossbow murder
A suspect has been found following a manhunt after the wife and two daughters of racing commentator John Hunt were killed in an apparent crossbow attack. The victims, Carol Hunt and her daughters Hannah and Louise, were found with serious injuries and died at the scene. The 26-year-old suspect, Kyle Clifford, who is believed to have been Louise’s boyfriend, was found injured in a north London cemetery and is now receiving medical treatment. The attack involved a crossbow and possibly other weapons. Messages of support from colleagues and figures in the racing world flooded in, expressing their condolences to John Hunt. Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins urged anyone with information to contact the police directly, while requesting privacy for the victims' family.
New Ofwat measures threaten Thames Water’s future
Ofwat, the water regulator, has announced a draft decision on how much water companies in England can raise consumer bills over the next five years. The regulator has imposed stricter oversight on Thames Water, due to its financial crisis and £18bn debt: Thames may need to limit debt, split the company, or seek equity through public listing. Thames had requested a 40% bill hike to stabilise finances, but Ofwat allowed only 21% over five years. Ofwat’s decisions came just hours before the bosses of sixteen water companies met the new environment secretary, Steve Reed, amid rising public anger and political scrutiny over the state of the UK’s water industry, which has also caused outcry over sewage pollution. Reed's proposed measures include ring-fencing water infrastructure funding exclusively for upgrades and changing company rules to prioritise customers' interests.
Two more universities win court orders on Gaza protest camps
Following ongoing Pro-Palestinian demonstrations that have taken place at university and other campuses nationwide, the Universities of Nottingham and Birmingham have secured court orders to end student protests occupying campus areas. The High Court's orders ruled in favour of the universities, determining the students were trespassing and suggesting alternative protest methods. The protests, part of a broader movement across British universities, accuse institutions of being complicit in Palestinian casualties and call for divestment from arms firms. In Birmingham, Mariyah Ali, a named defendant, expressed disappointment but remains committed to her cause, considering an appeal. In Nottingham, former student River Butterworth faced legal action. Mr Justice Johnson concluded that the protesters had no substantial case against the universities and that their human rights were not infringed. The London School of Economics had similarly barred encampments in May.
CofE takes a step towards allowing same-sex weddings
The Church of England’s General Synod has endorsed a plan to allow standalone services for blessing same-sex couples, advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion while accommodating conservative theological views. This decision, part of the Living in Love and Faith initiative, follows years of debate. Although same-sex marriages remain prohibited in Anglican churches, blessings called Prayers of Love and Faith were authorised in February 2023, with the first blessings integrated into regular services starting in December. The new plan permits standalone services for these blessings. Details are still being worked out, and clergy will not be compelled to participate. Additionally, the church will develop 'delegated episcopal ministry' for bishops with differing theological views. The Archbishop of York described the decision as a compromise, emphasising that it provides a way forward for the church. Calls to lift the prohibition on same-sex civil marriages for clergy were acknowledged but not yet addressed. Reactions were mixed: LGBTQ+ inclusion group Together for the Church of England praised the decision, while conservative Anglicans, represented by John Dunnett, criticised it as insufficient. See