Stories from London · United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is projected to suffer a £35 billion economic loss due to the ongoing Iran war.

BP reported profits of $3.2 billion, driven by exceptional performance in its oil and trading business. BP reported underlying quarterly profits of $3.2 billion between January and March. This figure represents more than a doubling of the company's previous underlying profit levels. The amount is approximately $5.4 billion NZD, according to the report. Research analyst Ashley Kelty of Panmure Liberum told the BBC that oil company profits are expected to continue rising. Results for the second quarter are also anticipated to be stronger. Second quarter results for BP and other companies are expected to be higher than previous analyst expectations. This represents the company's first financial result since the start of the Iran War. BP reported profits of $3.2 billion, an increase from $1.4 billion in the previous year. The company's earnings more than doubled compared to the prior year.

A cross-party motion to launch an investigation into Sakeas Dharma was defeated in the UK Parliament last night. The commentator suggested the matter may be over for now, though it could cause future political consequences. No formal investigation into the Prime Minister's conduct has been initiated at this stage. A Conservative motion calling for an inquiry was defeated in the House of Commons. The motion failed despite a Labour rebellion and several abstentions. Sir Keir Starmer is facing pressure regarding the Madison Row incident following the vote. Fifteen Labour MPs voted in favor of an opposition motion to refer the Prime Minister to the Privileges Committee. Fifty-three Labour MPs did not vote on the motion, including Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper who was in Washington. Other members of the party were noted as being critical of the government.

Italian tennis player Janik Sinner defeated Britain's Cameron Norrie with a score of 6-2, 7-5 in under 90 minutes. The victory allows Sinner to advance in the tournament and extends his winning streak.

The Tony Blair Institute has called for a block on individuals with anxiety, depression, and ADHD from claiming benefits. Projections suggest pension costs could rise from approximately 5% of GDP to 7.8% by 2070. This increase represents an additional £85 billion per year. Reform UK has publicly expressed interest in scrapping the triple lock system. Under this proposal, some individuals would be required to work an additional five years to receive the same payout. Under this model, people would build a personal fund through work, education, or caring responsibilities. This fund could be drawn upon during unemployment, retraining, or family care periods. The remaining balance would later convert into a pension based on retirement timing and total contributions. The reforms are estimated to save 66 billion pounds annually by 2070.

The Stroke Association estimates more than 1,200 patients in England and Northern Ireland missed opportunities for life-altering treatment in the three months ending December.

Snooker player John Higgins secured a victory despite facing difficulties with ball contact caused by poor chalk. Higgins continues to use traditional triangle chalk, whereas most other players have transitioned to a brand called Tawam.

A report has urged the Labour Party to introduce immediate legislation to slow the proliferation of sickness and disability benefit claims linked to mental health. The report claims the current welfare system is no longer fit for purpose.

London Zoo has acquired a new state-of-the-art animal hospital funded by a £20 million gift. A new Wildlife Health Centre will be built at the London Zoo's Regents Park site. The facility will provide services including ultrasounds for pregnant animals and postmortems on porpoises. The announcement was made during a state dinner attended by King Charles and Queen Camilla. The facility aims to address declining wildlife populations. The centre aims to demonstrate the value of conservation work and inspire future generations. The source noted that the identity of the benefactor remains unknown. The center follows historical precedents of animal arrivals at the zoo, such as a baby elephant from India in 1949. Catherine England, the society's chief executive, is associated with the institution. The initiative comes as wildlife populations continue to decline.

Home Office Minister Jess Phillips told MPs that a growing number of migrants are making false allegations of domestic abuse. Phillips appeared before the Home Affairs Select Committee to address findings from a BBC investigation.