22 minutes ago French president abandons electricity tax rise amid pressure from far right

Michel Barnier may still face vote of no-confidence as a result of political paralysis over €60bn in proposed taxationThe French government has promised to scrap proposed tax increases on electricity as it scrabbles to calm its far-right rivals and prevent a political crisis that could see the prime minister, Michel Barnier, toppled in a no-confidence vote as early as next week.“I’ve decided not to raise taxes on electricity,” Barnier told Le Figaro on Wednesday, in a major concession to political opposition groups who are threatening to bring down the unpopular government over its belt-tightening budget. Continue reading...

Politics

34 minutes ago King of Saudi Arabia urges citizens to 'pray for rain' amid severe weather warnings

The prayer for rain, known as Salat al-Istisqa, is typically performed amid a drought or delayed rainfall and has been issued by the Saudi Arabian King on previous occasions

Events

37 minutes ago Pep Guardiola scar visible as Man City boss ponders how to solve crisis before Liverpool clash

Pep Guardiola made headlines after Manchester City's Champions League draw with Feyenoord when he was asked about a mark on his nose after cutting a frustrated figure during the game

Events

43 minutes ago Thousands back 'urgent' calls over warning hospices will shut if £25m black hole not solved

Concerns over how funding shortfall is impacting on care

Events

60 minutes ago Stirling East candidates hit the streets for final week of campaigning

A total of seven candidates have put themselves forward for the seat vacated by now Stirling MP Chris Kane.

Events

66 minutes ago Fake tickets pose 'real risk of harm' to London's New Year's Eve fireworks

The warning comes following the news that the event’s final batch of official tickets will go on sale on Monday, December 2

Events

78 minutes ago UK Championship snooker LIVE: Score and updates as Judd Trump in tense battle with John Higgins

World No 1 Trump takes on four-time world champion Higgins with a place in the quarter-finals at the Barbican Centre in York on the line

Politics

82 minutes ago Adam Peaty: LA Games would be incredible but is it worth ‘Mount Everest’ effort?

Peaty could compete at a fourth Olympics in 2028.

Politics

83 minutes ago Killed by a speeding driver who ran a red light, his wrecked Audi acts as a warning to others

Joseph Brown-Lartey, 25, died when Addil Haroon ran a red light at 80mph at a busy crossroads and smashed into him

Events

86 minutes ago Kylian Mbappe thinks he's RayGun! Real Madrid star ruthlessly mocked on social media after falling on his head during disastrous display in Liverpool defeat

Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo were on target for Arne Slot's men, who are enjoying a dream season under the Dutchman, leading both the league and Champions League standings.

Events