British Paralympian set to become first disabled man to LIVE in space
A British Paralympic medalist is set to become the first disabled man to live among the stars. John McFall - who clinched bronze at the 2008 Games in Beijing - could soon be launched into orbit to man the Haven-1 space station as part of a deal between the UK Space Agency and US-based space firm Vast. Haven-1, looking at a launch in less than a year, is set to become the first privately-funded lab to be sent into space. The 45-year-old sprinter became disabled after a horror motorbike accident in Thailand in 2000 forced him to have his right leg amputated. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say After his medal-winning performance in China, Dr McFall retired from athletics and later took up a place at Cardiff University to study medicine. Now an NHS surgeon, he was picked by the European Space Agency (ESA) to enroll in its Fly! Project - a scheme designed to give opportunities to those living with disabilities within the industry. He described the agreement signed with Vast as "incredibly exciting".Dr McFall said: "If we can make this mission happen, it won't just be a milestone for human spaceflight, it will send a powerful message about what people with disabilities are capable of, and that there should be no limit to what you can achieve - on Earth or in space."The Paralympian is now set to become the first Britain to launch into space in over a decade - following on from Tim Peake's mission to the International Space Station in 2015/16. Mr Peake hailed the 45-year-old as "an inspiration" to "everyone who has ever been told there are limits to what they can achieve".He added: "This agreement is a landmark moment for inclusive human spaceflight, and I hope it brings us one step closer to seeing John in space."Space has always pushed the boundaries of what's possible, and John's mission would do exactly that."SPACE - READ THE LATEST:Scientists left astonished by groundbreaking phenomenon on faraway planetsSpace missions could be left in peril after new study reveals unexpected risk to astronaut crewsScientist reveals ‘critical’ setback for Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin after dramatic rocket explosionMeanwhile, Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: "John McFall's story is one of extraordinary determination - as a Paralympian, a surgeon, and a pioneering astronaut."This agreement with Vast brings us one step closer to making history, and to showing the world that space is for everyone."The UK is committed to being at the forefront of inclusive human spaceflight. "This builds on the ground-breaking work John has already done and opens the door to a genuine flight opportunity. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together."Dr McFall was selected to the ESA scheme after beating 257 disabled applicants to secure a spot. Prior to his devastating accident, he dreamed of serving in the Armed Forces. He taught himself to run again while studying Exercise Science at Swansea University, where he was introduced to carbon-fibre running "blades".Alongside his medal in Beijing, Mr McFall also clinched gold in the 100m and 200m at the IWAS World Wheelchair and Amputee Games in 2007 and won the 200m Paralympic World Cup in the same year. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Conservatives demand schools are NOT used as 'vehicles for migrant indoctrination'
The Conservatives will today take aim at the Education Secretary over a “day of welcome” initiative being promoted by a network of primary and secondary schools ahead of "Refugee Week". In a strongly-worded letter to Bridget Phillipson, Laura Trott will say she is “increasingly concerned” about the use of resources, materials and books being used to “push highly politicised messaging” on subjects such as immigration. The Shadow Education Secretary will insist schools should not be used as “vehicles for political indoctrination".Freedom of Information (FOI) requests seen by GB News reveal ministers have met with Schools of Sanctuary to discuss taxpayer funding for the organisation's activities – including proposals for funding to expand its reach into more colleges. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Miss Trott will tell Ms Phillipson: "(It) raises serious questions about the Government’s oversight of the organisation and the extent to which public institutions are facilitating political campaigning in classrooms.” Schools of Sanctuary is an organisation whose stated aim is to turn children into "ethically informed change-makers". The organisation describes the "day of welcome" on Friday, June 12, as “a day of solidarity and learning”, with over 820 schools and 220,000 young people taking part in 2025. Schools of Sanctuary's website claims the day of welcome aims to educate and support refugee pupils, as well as their families. Miss Trott will inform Ms Phillipson she is concerned schools facing acute financial pressures are being “encouraged to give taxpayer-funded money to Schools of Sanctuary” through membership schemes, accreditation and fundraising activities. She will ask the Labour minister to clarify what assessments the Department of Education has made of Schools of Sanctuary resources and activities.The Tory frontbencher will also ask Ms Phillipson to clarify what steps are being taken to ensure there is no politically partisan campaigning.Miss Trott will go on to question whether Whitehall will review and remove inappropriate materials currently being promoted in schools through Schools of Sanctuary. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS‘As a father, I felt sick watching it!' Keir Starmer shares reaction to Henry Nowak footageState pensioners 'priority' for DWP despite 60,000 veterans losing payment boost, Labour claimsBritons recommended to 'cycle more and eat less meat' to hit Net Zero targetsSchools of Sanctuary have promoted children’s books and classroom materials containing messaging aimed at youngsters. One of the books, which is aimed at readers as young as five, illustrated this with a flotilla of small boats filled with cartoon animals, including lions and giraffes. The Shadow Education Secretary will conclude by saying: “There is a growing public concern that activist organisations increasingly view schools as a captive audience through which to advance ideological causes. “It is essential that classrooms remain places of education rather than ideological campaigning.” A spokesman from the Department for Education told GB News: “It is absolutely right that pupils receive a balanced presentation of opposing views on political topics.“That’s why we have published clear guidance to help schools navigate this responsibility and it’s why we require schools to actively promote fundamental British values like democracy, the rule of law, and mutual respect and tolerance. This isn’t optional, it’s the law.”Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Police chiefs launch urgent review into 'two-tier' guidelines after Henry Nowak murder
Police chiefs will launch an urgent review into "two-tier" policing guidelines in the wake of Henry Nowak's murder.MPs have blamed the guidance for the actions of the officers who arrested Mr Nowak, 18, over false claims of racial abuse as he lay dying from stab wounds.He was murdered with a 21cm Sikh knife by Vickrum Digwa, who told officers Mr Nowak had been racist towards him.Gavin Stephens, the chairman of the NPCC, has now pledged to make changes "where needed" - though has insisted the guidelines exist to "improve the quality of policing". TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say While a source close to Shabana Mahmood admitted to the The Times the wording of the guidance was clumsy, adding: "The NPCC is rightly reviewing the wording to ensure there is no ambiguity, so everyone is equal in the eyes of the law."Mr Stephens said: "We also know that people from black communities have the lowest levels of confidence in the police. Recent independent inquiries such as by Baroness Casey have also urged our service to renew its efforts to address racism and discrimination."This historic and ongoing mistrust between the police and black communities risks for example people not reporting things to the police if they are in trouble or aiding our efforts to catch criminals, fight crime and protect all communities."We are listening to legitimate concerns about how some of these commitments are worded or phrased, and where needed we can and will make changes, but this should not detract from the intent, which is to improve the quality of policing."After the release of the bodycam footage of the murder, Sir Keir Starmer said there were "serious questions for police" over the handling of the case, but he rejected of two-tier policing - while his office has denied it exists.The "two-tier" guidelines were brought in last March, when the NPCC published its "anti-racism commitment" document which advised officers to treat criminal suspects differently depending on their ethnicity.The commitment said officers should "respond to individuals and communities according to their specific needs, circumstances and experiences, with understanding that these will be racialised and with the aim of reducing harm. It does not mean treating everyone ‘the same’ or being ‘colour blind’ (racial equality)".It also warned officers to be aware of the risk that the police "criminalise people" and called for the rethinking of policies "that lead to people from different ethnic groups being over-policed, under-protected or marginalised".HENRY NOWAK TRAGEDY - READ MORE:Ex-Met Police detective tears into 'appalling' treatment of Henry Nowak by officersAnti-knife crime campaigner left 'shocked' at murdered Henry Nowak arrest: 'It's unacceptable!'Martin Daubney left in tears over 'heartbreaking' murder of Henry Nowak: 'Sorry is not enough!'Labour MP Jonathan Hinder and then-Conservative MP Robert Jenrick warned of the potential harms of the document when it was first unveiled.Mr Hinder described it as "woke overreach" which risked "badly damaging confidence in our public institutions".And Mr Jenrick said: "We need equality of treatment under the law, not attempts from the police to re-engineer outcomes to achieve equity. If individuals break the law, they must be punished evenly."Anything less creates a two-tier justice system and endangers the public," he warned.Now both the Conservatives and Reform UK have called for the Home Secretary to intervene and prevent the publication of similar police guidance.Chris Philp, the Shadow Home Secretary, said: "This has not happened by accident. It is enshrined in the police’s own so-called anti-racism commitment, published in March 2025. This shameful document urges police forces to treat different ethnic groups differently."He added the document should be "withdrawn" and warned that the "ideology of so-called anti-racism" was dangerous and must end.Zia Yusuf, Reform UK's home affairs spokesman said his party would "end two-tier policing for good" within 100 days of forming a Government by passing "The Equal Treatment Act".Further guidance published by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary - the force under fire over its handling of Mr Nowak's murder - told officers to understand the "impact, trauma and history" of policing ethnic minorities.The guidance was written under the Tories following the 2020 death of George Floyd which was described as a "pivotal moment for policing in the UK, driving the need for real change" - even though it happened in the US.The NPCC has said the anti-racism commitment was not formal policy and outlines the long-term aspirations of an anti-racist police service.A Downing Street spokesman denied two-tier policing exists.The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "There is no such thing as two-tier policing."We expect high standards from police officers, high standards of conduct, and they must treat everyone equally." Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Pollution tax axe raises doubts over Scotland's North Sea green energy revolution
Scotland’s ambitious plans to transform the North Sea into a hub for renewable energy face significant uncertainty following the UK government’s proposal to abolish the Carbon Price Support (CPS) tax. Industry leaders warn that scrapping this pollution tax could result in up to £10 billion in additional costs over the next decade for businesses exporting goods and electricity to the European Union, which imposes charges on imports from countries with weaker carbon pricing. The move risks undermining investor confidence in future North Sea energy projects and could weaken the infrastructure needed to support the nation’s green energy transition. The CPS tax currently acts as an additional charge on carbon emissions, incentivizing companies to reduce pollution and invest in cleaner technologies such as offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture. Scotland is poised to become a major player in Britain’s renewable energy sector, with projections suggesting Scottish wind farms could generate up to 20.5 gigawatts of electricity by 2030, accounting for about 70 percent of the UK’s onshore wind target. This has positioned Scotland as central to the UK’s clean energy future, with significant investments planned in offshore wind and interconnector projects designed to export renewable power. Energy UK, the industry body representing the sector, cautions that removing the CPS tax could deter investment in critical infrastructure, including North Sea interconnectors and hybrid offshore wind assets. These projects are essential for integrating renewable energy into the grid and supporting the UK’s net-zero ambitions. While the government argues that the CPS has fulfilled its purpose by helping phase out coal-fired power stations, critics contend that its removal could jeopardize broader decarbonization efforts and the competitiveness of UK energy exports in European markets. The debate highlights the tension between short-term fiscal policy decisions and long-term climate goals. With Scotland aiming to lead Britain’s green energy revolution, the potential rollback of carbon pricing mechanisms raises concerns about the stability of the investment environment and the UK’s ability to maintain its leadership in renewable energy development amid evolving international carbon regulations.
Legionnaires' victim fears she will never recover
A British holidaymaker from Hull, Donna Jobling, contracted Legionnaires' disease while on holiday in Crete in June 2025, resulting in a life-altering illness that has left her bedridden and struggling with severe pain and fatigue. Jobling, 58, fell seriously ill during her stay at the Sergios Hotel in Hersonissos and was placed in an induced coma in an intensive care unit in Crete before being airlifted back to the UK for further treatment. She was subsequently diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune condition causing muscle weakness and paralysis, which has compounded her ongoing health challenges. Jobling’s condition has severely impacted her daily life, with persistent nerve pain, disrupted sleep, and limited mobility. She spends much of her time in bed and requires full-time care from her husband, Sid, who has taken on the role of her primary carer. Despite regular physiotherapy funded by the holiday provider easyJet, her recovery has been slow, and medical professionals have warned that she may never fully regain her previous health. Jobling expressed frustration and anger at the slow progress but remains determined to stay positive and continue her rehabilitation. The holiday operator easyJet has acknowledged the situation and stated it is supporting Jobling and seeking a swift resolution through the legal process. While there has been no official confirmation that the Sergios Hotel was the source of the Legionnaires' outbreak, inquiries have been made to the venue. The case highlights the serious risks associated with Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling contaminated water droplets, and raises concerns about health and safety standards in holiday accommodations. This incident underscores the profound and lasting impact Legionnaires' disease can have on victims and their families, emphasizing the need for rigorous public health measures and accountability from travel and accommodation providers. Jobling’s ongoing struggle serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by travelers and the importance of thorough investigation and support for affected individuals.
Will the Middle East crisis save Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos empire?
Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos empire faces significant challenges amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, which has introduced both risks and opportunities for the global chemicals and energy conglomerate. The company, heavily invested in petrochemicals and energy infrastructure, is navigating a volatile geopolitical landscape that could reshape supply chains and market dynamics. While instability in the region threatens operational continuity and raw material access, it also presents potential openings for Ineos to expand its influence and secure strategic assets. Ineos, one of Europe’s largest chemical producers, relies on stable energy supplies and global trade routes, both of which are vulnerable to disruption due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The crisis has led to fluctuations in oil prices and concerns over energy security, factors that directly impact Ineos’s cost structures and profitability. However, Ratcliffe’s company has been actively pursuing diversification strategies, including investments in shale gas and renewable energy, which may mitigate some risks associated with regional instability. The Middle East’s importance as a global energy hub means that any prolonged conflict or disruption could accelerate shifts in energy sourcing and manufacturing locations. Ineos’s ability to adapt by leveraging alternative supply chains and investing in innovation could determine its resilience in this uncertain environment. Additionally, the crisis may prompt governments and industries to seek more reliable and localized production, potentially benefiting companies like Ineos that have a strong footprint in Europe and North America. Overall, the unfolding Middle East crisis underscores the fragility of global energy and chemical markets while highlighting the strategic imperatives for companies like Ineos to balance risk with opportunity. How Ratcliffe’s empire responds to these challenges will be closely watched by investors and industry observers, as it could influence the future trajectory of one of the world’s most influential industrial groups.
US and Iran exchange renewed fire as tensions rise over stalled peace talks
Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated following a renewed exchange of fire amid stalled peace negotiations. The latest confrontations occurred in the Gulf region, where both sides accused each other of provocative actions, further complicating efforts to revive diplomatic talks aimed at resolving longstanding conflicts. This flare-up underscores the fragility of the current situation and raises concerns about the potential for broader regional instability. The renewed hostilities come after months of stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence, with both parties struggling to find common ground. The United States has maintained a firm stance on curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while Iran insists on lifting economic sanctions and securing guarantees against future US hostility. The recent exchange of fire marks a significant setback, as it threatens to derail any progress made in diplomatic channels and could prompt retaliatory measures from either side. Regional actors and international observers have expressed alarm at the rising tensions, emphasizing the importance of dialogue to prevent further escalation. The Gulf region remains a strategic and volatile area, with multiple powers vested in its stability. Any military confrontation between the US and Iran could disrupt global energy supplies and exacerbate existing geopolitical rivalries, making the resolution of these disputes a critical priority for global security. The situation highlights the challenges facing peace efforts in the Middle East, where deep-seated mistrust and competing interests continue to hinder conflict resolution. Analysts warn that without renewed diplomatic engagement and confidence-building measures, the risk of a wider conflict remains high. The international community is closely monitoring developments, urging restraint and a return to negotiations to avoid further deterioration of relations.
Henry Nowak protesters accused of 'hijacking' tragedy - as PM says police have 'serious questions' to answer
Protesters at the Henry Nowak event have been accused of "hijacking" a tragedy, prompting strong reactions from political leaders and law enforcement. The Prime Minister stated that police have "serious questions" to answer regarding their handling of the situation. The controversy arose during a public gathering intended to address a recent tragedy, where demonstrators disrupted proceedings, leading to heightened tensions and criticism. The protesters’ actions have sparked debate over the appropriate ways to express dissent in sensitive contexts. Authorities are investigating whether the police response was adequate and proportionate, with the Prime Minister emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency. The incident has raised broader concerns about public safety and the balance between free speech and respect for victims and their families. This event highlights ongoing challenges in managing public demonstrations, especially when they intersect with emotionally charged issues. The government’s call for a thorough review of police conduct reflects growing scrutiny of law enforcement’s role in maintaining order while protecting civil liberties. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for future protests and public events across the country.
'Keir Starmer made us promises - and we thought they'd be kept'
Two boys from Gaza who were brought to the UK for medical treatment have accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of breaking a promise to reunite them with their families and facilitate the transfer of hundreds of other injured children. The boys, who received care in the UK, expressed disappointment that the pledges made to them and their families have not been fulfilled. Their case highlights ongoing concerns about the UK government's response to the humanitarian crisis affecting children injured in Gaza. The boys’ families had been assured that efforts would be made to bring them together and to extend support to other children in need of urgent medical care. However, delays and a lack of clear action have raised questions about the government’s commitment to these promises. The situation underscores the broader challenges faced by injured civilians in conflict zones, particularly children who require specialized treatment that may not be available locally. This development comes amid heightened international scrutiny over the humanitarian response to the conflict in Gaza. The UK government has faced criticism from advocacy groups and opposition figures for not doing enough to expedite medical evacuations and family reunifications. The failure to deliver on these commitments could have significant implications for public trust and the UK’s role in addressing humanitarian needs in conflict-affected regions. The case of the two boys serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of timely and effective government intervention. It also raises urgent questions about how political promises translate into practical support for vulnerable populations caught in crises.
Police pelted with missiles at Henry Nowak protest
Police faced violent clashes during a protest near the Southampton home of Vickrum Digwa, who was recently sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak. Several hundred demonstrators initially gathered outside Southampton Central Police Station before moving to the St Denys area, close to Digwa’s family residence. Officers in riot gear were pelted with chairs, cans, and flares, forcing them to retreat amid the unrest. The protest followed Digwa’s conviction for stabbing Nowak multiple times in December 2025 as the student returned to his accommodation. The incident has drawn significant public and political attention due to the circumstances surrounding Nowak’s death and the police response. Digwa claimed to carry the knife for religious reasons and falsely alleged he was the victim of a racist attack, which led to Nowak’s wrongful arrest at the scene. Newly released bodycam footage shows Nowak repeatedly telling officers he had been stabbed while handcuffed and dying. This footage has prompted an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct and raised serious questions about police handling, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer calling for accountability. The protest also featured political activist Tommy Robinson, who addressed the crowd and highlighted racial tensions, asserting the case involved racial injustice. Demonstrators chanted Nowak’s name and “I can’t breathe,” echoing the teenager’s last words. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the violence and called for respect toward Nowak’s family, who urged against exploiting the tragedy to fuel division or hatred. Mahmood warned that those inciting disorder would face legal consequences. Local officials expressed concern about the political exploitation of the murder. Satvir Kaur, Labour MP for Southampton Test, stressed the importance of addressing knife crime without exacerbating community tensions. The protests underscore ongoing challenges in balancing public grief, demands for justice, and maintaining social cohesion amid sensitive and high-profile criminal cases.