Stories from london · United Kingdom

WPP Group has ceased accepting advertising business that could obstruct Paris Agreement goals. The decision follows reports that the group provided services to maintain the public image of the oil industry through deceptive advertising strategies. This move complies with an internal policy established by the group in 2022. The shift comes as oil giants continue to expand production while promoting climate solutions that lack substantive implementation. The London-based WPP Group has been the leading advertising agency for the US oil industry over the last decade. Since the Paris Agreement took effect, four companies—ExxonMobil, Chevron, Saudi Aramco, and BP—have spent approximately $1.5 billion on advertising across US television and social media channels. The report notes this spending occurs alongside shifts in global energy strategies.

Fiaz Mughal, founder of Muslims Against Antisemitism and Faith Matters, expressed concern regarding the prospect of more pro-Palestinian marches. Mughal stated that there needs to be real leadership within British Muslim communities to address antisemitism.

NatWest reported quarterly profits of £2 billion. The bank lifted its revenue forecast for the year. Increased borrowing costs resulting from the Iran War helped fuel the rise in profits. NatWest Bank has reported a surge in profits following its return to private ownership from taxpayer control. The bank's results come as mortgage lending remains a primary revenue driver for the high street institution. Analysts noted the bank must report its actual financial performance despite potential public perception issues regarding mortgage-driven earnings.

More than 7,000 children under the age of six were suspended during the 2024-25 school year in England. New data shows children with special educational needs, including those with autism or ADHD, are four times more likely to be suspended.

A search commissioned by the RSPB found that 750,000 people aged 16 to 29 engage in regular birdwatching. Among Gen Z, the number of people listing birdwatching as a hobby is ten times higher than in 2018.

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.