Stories from London · United Kingdom

Ubuntu Linux developer Canonical reports its web infrastructure is currently facing a sustained, cross-border attack. The company has not yet specified the nature of the breach or the specific targets within its infrastructure.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley wrote to Green Party leader Zak Polanski regarding recent actions. Rowley stated he is not intervening in politics but expressed concern that politicians might capitalize on attacks. The intervention follows reports from the Jewish community regarding a perceived lack of protection. Rowley warned that such actions risk sowing further division. The incident follows previous comments by Zak Polanski regarding the perception of anti-Semitism in society. Rowley's defense comes as the force has received commendations from the Prime Minister and others for its handling of the matter. The identity of the perpetrator was not specified. The request comes amid discussions regarding whether protest marches should be banned. A former Met Police officer provided commentary on the call for additional personnel.

Modern genomics pioneer and figurehead Craig Venter died this week. The BBC World Service will discuss his work on the upcoming Inside Science program. His contributions are described as foundational to the field of genomics.

Nigel Farage stated he does not believe Reform UK needs an arrangement with the Conservative Party to win power after the next general election. He addressed comments regarding a potential glass ceiling for his party's polling numbers. Farage noted that the margin of error in current polls is. He maintained that Reform UK can win without the Tories.

The new crime of policing bill includes new measures regarding protests. A discussion noted that a whole-of-society approach is required to tackle issues like antisemitism. The source indicated that government action on visible protests is a key point of focus. British Prime Minister Saqir Stahmer has stated his desire for stricter policing of language used during protests. He suggested that some marches could be banned. Stahmer's comments follow the stabbing of two Jewish men in North London. The head of the Met police was also mentioned.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced an increase in street police presence, including armed officers, to maintain safety. This follows recent security concerns and investigations into potential Iranian involvement in local incidents. Police stated that investigations are ongoing and no definitive conclusions have been reached regarding Iranian links. One student is currently in custody and was hospitalized with minor injuries. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley is considering asking the Home Secretary to ban two major demonstrations planned for later this month. This consideration follows the UK terror threat level being raised to severe. Rowley stated the intention is to reassure Jewish communities that all possible measures are being taken to ensure their safety. The move comes amid discussions regarding resources to tackle anti-Semitism.

Victims' Minister Alex Davies-Jones stated the UK government is acting to combat antisemitism while protecting freedom of speech. Davies-Jones noted that upcoming pro-Palestinian marches are being reviewed by Victims' Ministers. The minister said certain individuals have hijacked marches to cause division and hatred. Davies-Jones noted that while people have the right to protest Israel, some marches have been hijacked by individuals seeking to cause division and hatred. The minister said certain marches normalize anti-Israeli sentiment which in turn normalizes anti-Jewish sentiment. The government is currently reviewing plans for pro-Palestinian marches scheduled for the coming weeks. A UK minister discussed strengthening police presence in Jewish communities and increasing investment in security services.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans to pass new terror laws aimed at shutting down charities that promote antisemitic extremism. The legislation also seeks to restrict how certain groups operate.

British anti-terrorist police are investigating an Islamist group known as Araqat Ashab al-Yamina al-Islamia. The movement emerged in early March following Israeli and American bombings in Iran. Investigators suspect the group is affiliated with Iranian interests.

Retailers warn of a rush on traditional tumble dryers before a law change phases them out to help achieve net zero. Under policies from Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, vented and condenser dryers could be banned in favor of heat pump alternatives.