Year: 2026

Madame President, in November of last year, this Council adopted Resolution 2803, which conveyed a robust message of global backing for President Trump's comprehensive 20-point plan concerning Gaza. As noted by High Representative Mladenov, significant progress has been achieved, which we acknowledge. However, the success of these efforts hinges on the actions taken by the involved parties. It is imperative that all parties honour their commitments. The ceasefire must be upheld, with Israel adhering to the obligations outlined in the 20-point plan, which includes a gradual withdrawal of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) from Gaza. Concurrently, Hamas is expected to fulfil its promise to dismantle its arsenal and terror infrastructure. Furthermore, a credible transition to Palestinian-led gov...

Increased Traffic as Summer Draws to a Close As summer comes to a close, a significant number of drivers are expected to hit the roads this week. Whether returning from a festival, concluding a holiday, or embarking on a final day trip, the influx of vehicles will be substantial. However, the costs associated with driving, from fuel expenses to parking fees, can accumulate swiftly. With a bit of foresight and planning, motorists can effectively manage their expenses and steer clear of unforeseen charges. Finding the Best Fuel Prices Fuel prices can fluctuate considerably from one petrol station to another, often within a short distance. To maximise savings, drivers should consider utilising apps and websites that provide Fuel Finder data. These resources allow you to swiftly identify the c...

Planning Application Approved for Grenfell Tower Demolition The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has successfully submitted an application to the Planning Inspectorate, which was accepted for examination on 27 May 2026. This application pertains to the significant undertaking of dismantling Grenfell Tower, a structure that originally stood at 24 storeys. The demolition work began in September 2025, carried out under permitted development rights. The approval of this application followed a thorough written representations procedure. During this process, members of the public, statutory consultees, and various interested parties were afforded the opportunity to express their views and concerns regarding the application. This engagement was crucial in ensuring that all pe...

Sainsbury's Launches Modern Work Experience Programme for Young People New Opportunities for Young People Sainsbury’s is set to launch an ambitious “Modern Work Experience Programme” aimed at providing approximately 10,000 work experience and skills opportunities for young individuals across the UK. This initiative seeks to empower young people by helping them gain valuable experience, build confidence, and prepare for the workforce, starting from October this year. Targeting schools with higher rates of free school meal uptake, as well as communities where youth face significant barriers to employment, Sainsbury’s is committed to reaching those who may struggle to connect with employer networks and career opportunities. This initiative aligns with recent educational reforms introduced b...