In the News
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Omicron sending fewer people to hospital, says South African study
Scientists believe new variant is significantly less severe than original strain
People infected with Omicron have been a third as likely to end up in hospital in South Africa compared with those infected by the Delta variant, according to the most comprehensive analysis so far. Even after accounting for the benefits of increased immunity in the population, scientists...People infected with Omicron have been a third as likely to end up in hospital in South Africa compared with those infected by the Delta variant, according to the most comprehensive analysis so far. Even after accounting for the benefits of increased immunity in the population, scientists...People infected with Omicron have been a third as likely to end up in hospital in South Africa compared with those infected by...
Read the full storycoronavirus | ANALYSIS
Does Britain really have 200,000 new Omicron cases a day?
Yesterday in the Commons, Sajid Javid said two things. He told parliament there were 4,713 confirmed cases of Omicron in total. He also said that the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates that there are 200,000 new Omicron infections a day. This second number would mean we are already exceeding the pessimistic trajectory in the...Yesterday in the Commons, Sajid Javid said two things. He told parliament there were 4,713 confirmed cases of Omicron in total. He also said that the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates that there are 200,000 new Omicron infections a day. This second number would mean we are already exceeding the pessimistic trajectory in the...Yesterday in the Commons, Sajid Javid said two things. He told parliament there were 4,713 confirmed cases of Omicron in total.
Read the full storyCORONAVIRUS
Third of Tory backbenchers ready to rebel against plan B
More than a third of backbench Conservatives are preparing to defy Boris Johnson over new Covid-19 measures today even after the prime minister warned rebels against “complacency”. MPs will vote on plan B restrictions this evening, with Johnson all but certain to face the biggest rebellion of his premiership...More than a third of backbench Conservatives are preparing to defy Boris Johnson over new...More than a third of backbench Conservatives are preparing to defy Boris Johnson over new...
Read the full storycoronavirus
Test supplies run low amid surge in demand
television
Succession — series finale blows the Roy family apart once more
★★★★★
OK, let’s be clear from the outset that the series three finale of Succession did not quite match the rug-pulling, heart-stopping head rush of the last one, when Kendall Roy metaphorically stabbed his father on live television. How could...★★★★★
OK, let’s be clear from the outset that the series three finale of Succession did not...★★★★★
OK, let’s be clear from the outset that the series three finale of Succession did not...
Just 6 rail firms to run on Boxing Day despite pledge
More than 20 train operators will shut down on Boxing Day despite Conservative promises over a decade ago to provide...More than 20 train operators will shut down on Boxing Day despite Conservative promises over a...More than 20 train operators will shut down on Boxing Day despite Conservative promises over a...
Read the full storyThink you’re smarter than a brain surgeon? You might be right
Your day job is probably not rocket science. Nor is it brain surgery. But this does not make you any less intelligent...Your day job is probably not rocket science. Nor is it brain surgery. But this does not make you...Your day job is probably not rocket science. Nor is it brain surgery. But this does not make you...
Read the full storyCORONAVIRUS
The tribes that could make things awkward
Amid predictions that a third of backbench Tories plan to defy the PM over Covid restrictions, Quentin Letts picks out who falls into which group
Gilliam reveals his ‘unspeakable crime’
Terry Gilliam has spoken of his sadness that the Old Vic was “intimidated” into cancelling his production of Into the...Terry Gilliam has spoken of his sadness that the Old Vic was “intimidated” into cancelling his...Terry Gilliam has spoken of his sadness that the Old Vic was “intimidated” into cancelling his...
Read the full storyBreeders ‘mutilate puppy ears’ for celebrity trend
Networks of dog breeders are allegedly offering to mutilate puppies’ ears as part of a trend made popular by...Networks of dog breeders are allegedly offering to mutilate puppies’ ears as part of a trend made...Networks of dog breeders are allegedly offering to mutilate puppies’ ears as part of a trend made...
Read the full storyINTERVIEW
Esther Rantzen on misogyny in broadcasting — ‘women’s roles were as handmaidens’
I have survived decades of change in our industry — more than 50 years. Indeed, I have been working for the BBC, first in wireless, then in television, since 1963. I was one of the first women producer/presenters, and was there when some of the...I have survived decades of change in our industry — more than 50 years. Indeed, I have been...I have survived decades of change in our industry — more than 50 years. Indeed, I have been...
Read the full storyTHE TIMES DIARY
Footnotes on how to party
Yee-ha! The British are coming
They have played American detectives, civil rights leaders and even presidents. Not even Martin Luther King or Abraham Lincoln, two of the most revered figures in US history, were off limits. Now British actors are taking on perhaps Hollywood’s...They have played American detectives, civil rights leaders and even presidents. Not even Martin...They have played American detectives, civil rights leaders and even presidents. Not even Martin...
Read the full storyRED BOX | JOHN KAMPFNER
We need credibility in politics more than we’ve ever needed it before
“No democracy is perfect, and no democracy is ever final.” So said Joe Biden as he opened his Summit for Democracy...“No democracy is perfect, and no democracy is ever final.” So said Joe Biden as he opened his...“No democracy is perfect, and no democracy is ever final.” So said Joe Biden as he opened his...
Read the full storypolitical sketch
Leader’s absence takes sting out of Tory anger
Buckets of salt-water gargle, please, for Mr Speaker. Before the day’s government statement on Covid, Sir Lindsay...Buckets of salt-water gargle, please, for Mr Speaker. Before the day’s government statement on...Buckets of salt-water gargle, please, for Mr Speaker. Before the day’s government statement on...
Read the full storyPHOTOGRAPHY
News in pictures
For more pictures from The Times follow us on Instagram.For more pictures from The Times follow us on Instagram.For more pictures from The Times follow us on Instagram.
Read the full storyBeware of China’s bad Belt and Road deals, says Washington
Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, has launched a thinly veiled attack on President Xi’s global infrastructure programme, warning that “bad deals” threaten to burden developing nations with debt. In a speech in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, Blinken insisted that Washington wants to avoid conflict in Asia, but denounced China’s “aggressive actions” in the...Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, has launched a thinly veiled attack on President Xi’s...Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, has launched a thinly veiled attack on President Xi’s...
Read the full storyworld at five
A generation is losing its childhood as Lebanon collapses around them
newLearning to be a car mechanic may be a dream for some teenagers, but it has become reality for hundreds of children...Learning to be a car mechanic may be a dream for some teenagers, but it has become reality for hundreds of children across Lebanon who cannot go to school. As the country’s economy and society collapse, small, oily figures fill the forecourts of workshops down backstreets of towns along the Bekaa Valley, where most...Learning to be a car mechanic may be a dream for some teenagers, but it has become reality for hundreds of children across...
Read the full storyMacron is abusing power with two-hour TV interview, says presidential rival
newThe main challengers to Emmanuel Macron have accused him of abusing his powers by taking over France’s biggest television channel for a two-hour evening chat that his aides claim has nothing to do with his re-election campaign.The main challengers to Emmanuel Macron have accused him of abusing his powers by taking over France’s biggest television channel for a two-hour evening chat that his aides claim has nothing to do with his re-election campaign.The main challengers to Emmanuel Macron have accused him of abusing his powers by taking over France’s biggest...
Read the full storyRelatives point finger at Amazon over warehouse collapse
Amazon has been accused of putting “productivity before people” after six employees were killed in a roof collapse when a tornado hit a warehouse in Illinois. The online tech giant said that workers at the building in the town...Amazon has been accused of putting “productivity before people” after six employees were killed in a roof collapse when a tornado hit a warehouse in Illinois. The online tech giant said that workers at the building in the town...Amazon has been accused of putting “productivity before people” after six employees were killed in a roof collapse...
Read the full storyNo action on lethal drone strike
American troops involved in a drone strike that killed ten civilians, including seven children, in Kabul in August will not face disciplinary action, officials said yesterday. Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, approved recommendations...American troops involved in a drone strike that killed ten civilians, including seven children...American troops involved in a drone strike that killed ten civilians, including seven children...
Read the full storyCanada promises £24bn for indigenous children taken from families
Canada has promised to pay C$40 billion (£23.7 billion) to compensate indigenous families and children who “lost...Canada has promised to pay C$40 billion (£23.7 billion) to compensate indigenous families and...Canada has promised to pay C$40 billion (£23.7 billion) to compensate indigenous families and...
Read the full storyIsraelis bombed Syria to slow chemical weapons programme, say spies
A series of Israeli air raids on Syria this year was prompted by intelligence that the Assad regime was seeking to...A series of Israeli air raids on Syria this year was prompted by intelligence that the Assad...A series of Israeli air raids on Syria this year was prompted by intelligence that the Assad...
Read the full storyParents lay on children as house was blown away
A broken water pipe was still spouting across the floor as Ronaldo Galvez sifted through the ruin of his house and shop yesterday. He picked a child’s toy from the floor and set it aside, then kicked helplessly at a pile of bricks. Outside, his...A broken water pipe was still spouting across the floor as Ronaldo Galvez sifted through the ruin...A broken water pipe was still spouting across the floor as Ronaldo Galvez sifted through the ruin...
Read the full story
Wild horses roaming Spain are threatened by wolves and man
The largest population of wild horses in Europe is at risk of disappearing as their habitat is eroded by eucalyptus...The largest population of wild horses in Europe is at risk of disappearing as their habitat is...The largest population of wild horses in Europe is at risk of disappearing as their habitat is...
Read the full storyWaitress fired over $4,000 tip
A waitress in Arkansas was sacked after being forced to share a $4,400 tip with all staff at the restaurant. Ryan...A waitress in Arkansas was sacked after being forced to share a $4,400 tip with all staff at the...A waitress in Arkansas was sacked after being forced to share a $4,400 tip with all staff at the...
Read the full storyIMF warns Bank of England against inaction on interest rates
newThe International Monetary Fund has told the Bank of England that it cannot wait much longer to raise interest rates as it warned that inflation could hit a thirty-year high next year. In its annual report on the British economy, the fund said the UK had staged a stronger-than-expected recovery...The International Monetary Fund has told the Bank of England that it cannot wait much longer to raise interest rates as it warned that inflation could hit a thirty-year high next year. In its annual report on the British economy, the fund said the UK had staged a stronger-than-expected recovery...The International Monetary Fund has told the Bank of England that it cannot wait much longer to raise interest rates as it...
Read the full storyTech giants crack down on ads for scams
newFollowing a surge in online scams, Facebook, Microsoft and Twitter are to follow the example of Google and ban any advertisements for financial companies that are not registered with the City regulator Fraud carried out by fake investment firms advertising on search engines or social media has skyrocketed during the pandemic, with losses...Following a surge in online scams, Facebook, Microsoft and Twitter are to follow the example of Google and ban any advertisements for financial companies that are not registered with the City regulator Fraud carried out by fake investment firms advertising on search engines or social media has skyrocketed during the pandemic, with losses...Following a surge in online scams, Facebook, Microsoft and Twitter are to follow the example of Google and ban any...
Read the full storyMinisters ready to protect BT as Drahi raises stake
Patrick Drahi, the telecoms billionaire, has increased his stake in BT to 18 per cent, prompting the government to caution it would “not hesitate to act” to protect Britain’s critical national infrastructure. Drahi, 58, reiterated today that he has no intention of bidding for Britain’s biggest telecoms group and is...Patrick Drahi, the telecoms billionaire, has increased his stake in BT to 18 per cent, prompting...Patrick Drahi, the telecoms billionaire, has increased his stake in BT to 18 per cent, prompting...
Read the full storyPetrol soars as price-cutters take foot off the gas
The Competition and Markets Authority was warned this could happen. Last year, as the watchdog scrutinised EG Group’s proposed £6.8 billion takeover of Asda and the potential implications for the fuel market, three separate submissions claimed...The Competition and Markets Authority was warned this could happen. Last year, as the watchdog...The Competition and Markets Authority was warned this could happen. Last year, as the watchdog...
Read the full storybusiness commentary
Purplebricks and the art of disruption
Companies can struggle to live up to the “disruptor” tag. Not Purplebricks, the self-styled “UK’s leading tech-led...Companies can struggle to live up to the “disruptor” tag. Not Purplebricks, the self-styled “UK’s...Companies can struggle to live up to the “disruptor” tag. Not Purplebricks, the self-styled “UK’s...
Read the full storyComment
When inflation makes a comeback, so does the political blame game
No one has made the transition from no-frills, cheap and utilitarian to must-have, high-margin fashion with more...No one has made the transition from no-frills, cheap and utilitarian to must-have, high-margin...No one has made the transition from no-frills, cheap and utilitarian to must-have, high-margin...
Read the full storymarket update
FTSE 100 rallies after four-day losing streak
Comment
Banks’ great escape reminds us why they can’t just be let loose
Banks would have struggled to pay a bill north of £10 billion to all business owners entitled to compensation for...Banks would have struggled to pay a bill north of £10 billion to all business owners entitled to...Banks would have struggled to pay a bill north of £10 billion to all business owners entitled to...
Read the full storytempus
Informa at mercy of events after big sale
What better way to buy time with investors than promising to hand back a straight £1 billion? Announcing plans to...What better way to buy time with investors than promising to hand back a straight £1 billion?What better way to buy time with investors than promising to hand back a straight £1 billion?
Read the full storyMarket report
Red signal leaves Trainline stuck in the sidings
Since the government revealed plans for its state-run train ticketing app this year, Trainline’s dominance in selling...Since the government revealed plans for its state-run train ticketing app this year, Trainline’s...Since the government revealed plans for its state-run train ticketing app this year, Trainline’s...
Read the full storymorning briefing
Drahi has ‘no intention of taking over BT’
The telecoms billionaire Patrick Drahi has increased his stake in BT to 18 per cent, but reiterated that he has no...The telecoms billionaire Patrick Drahi has increased his stake in BT to 18 per cent, but...The telecoms billionaire Patrick Drahi has increased his stake in BT to 18 per cent, but...
Read the full storyCapita military service is bright spot but market fails to salute
A return to revenue growth at Capita left the market underwhelmed as rising costs and Covid-19 uncertainty continue to put the brakes on its recovery. Shares of the outsourcer fell by 8½p, or 18.7 per cent, to close at 36¾p — less than a tenth of...A return to revenue growth at Capita left the market underwhelmed as rising costs and Covid-19...A return to revenue growth at Capita left the market underwhelmed as rising costs and Covid-19...
Read the full storyNeed to know
Your three-minute digest
overcoming the odds
Rowers get down to business of Atlantic record attempt
How I Made It: Revisited
Ex-Marine swaps cider for apples with organic grocery
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times tech summit
Young tech firms ‘need role models’ on London exchange
football
Aubameyang’s Arsenal future in doubt after being stripped of captaincy
updatedMikel Arteta has refused to confirm whether Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will ever play for Arsenal again having stripped him of the captaincy after his latest breach of disciplinary rules. Arteta, the Arsenal manager, informed Aubameyang of his decision in a face-to-face meeting yesterday morning...Mikel Arteta has refused to confirm whether Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will ever play for Arsenal again having stripped him of the captaincy after his latest breach of disciplinary rules. Arteta, the Arsenal manager, informed Aubameyang of his decision in a face-to-face meeting yesterday morning...Mikel Arteta has refused to confirm whether Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will ever play for Arsenal again having stripped him of...
Read the full storyPremier League
Clubs agree change to sponsorship rules despite Newcastle legal threat
newThe Premier League has approved new rules to prevent inflated related-party sponsorship deals despite angry opposition from Newcastle United, who warned other clubs last week that the regulations could be legally challenged. Newcastle and Manchester City are both understood to have voted against the new rules at a Premier League...The Premier League has approved new rules to prevent inflated related-party sponsorship deals despite angry opposition from Newcastle United, who warned other clubs last week that the regulations could be legally challenged. Newcastle and Manchester City are both understood to have voted against the new rules at a Premier League...The Premier League has approved new rules to prevent inflated related-party sponsorship deals despite angry opposition from...
Read the full storyFormula One | Matt Dickinson
Shameful injustice? No, sporting fairness is in eye of the beholder
newSo, on that outrage of Lewis Hamilton being denied a record eighth Formula One title not so much by Max Verstappen but a highly controversial interpretation of the rules. “What controversy?” a colleague from De Telegraaf replied when I asked him how much debate there had been in the Netherlands since the drama in...So, on that outrage of Lewis Hamilton being denied a record eighth Formula One title not so much...So, on that outrage of Lewis Hamilton being denied a record eighth Formula One title not so much...
Read the full storyFootball | Rick Broadbent
Maradona never arrived, but Raphinha is the most skilful player I have ever seen at Leeds
NFL weekly | charles walford
The 2021 NFL season is playing out like a series of Succession
newIf American cinema loves the story of a sporting underdog — Rudy, The Mighty Ducks and even dear old Happy Gilmore – the US sport-watching public similarly love an against-the-odds victory, not least as drama unfolding before them has not...If American cinema loves the story of a sporting underdog — Rudy, The Mighty Ducks and even...If American cinema loves the story of a sporting underdog — Rudy, The Mighty Ducks and even...
Read the full storyFormula One | Owen Slot
Arise Sir Lewis - a victor in the court of public opinion
Abu Dhabi International airport on Monday morning was a heap of sore heads and faraway smiles. Young men in...Abu Dhabi International airport on Monday morning was a heap of sore heads and faraway smiles.Abu Dhabi International airport on Monday morning was a heap of sore heads and faraway smiles.
Read the full storyGolf | Paul Forsyth
Temporary greens and frostbitten hands – but even winter can’t thwart the demand for non-stop golf
Heard the one about the golfer who only shoots rounds in the 60s? If it gets any colder, he quits. Not very funny...Heard the one about the golfer who only shoots rounds in the 60s? If it gets any colder, he quits.Heard the one about the golfer who only shoots rounds in the 60s? If it gets any colder, he quits.
Read the full storyThe Game Daily | Bill Edgar
Leicester’s historic strike duo that features neither Lineker nor Vardy
Leicester City have fielded many famous forwards, such as Gary Lineker, Jamie Vardy and the all-time top league goalscorer Arthur Rowley, but it is two others at the club who by one measure comprise the greatest scoring partnership. Arthur...Leicester City have fielded many famous forwards, such as Gary Lineker, Jamie Vardy and the...Leicester City have fielded many famous forwards, such as Gary Lineker, Jamie Vardy and the...
Read the full storyChampions League | Henry Winter
Farce of a draw had feel of village bingo being run by vicar after too many sherries
Premier League
Gerrard: Villa could avoid signing unvaccinated players
Formula One | Rick Broadbent
Lose integrity and you end up with WWE on wheels
A lap is a long time in Formula One politics. On Sunday we were heading to a worthy, if slightly dull, climax to a season that had taken an oft-mocked series beyond the realm of the petrolhead. The most technical of sports was going mainstream.A lap is a long time in Formula One politics. On Sunday we were heading to a worthy, if slightly...A lap is a long time in Formula One politics. On Sunday we were heading to a worthy, if slightly...
Read the full storychampions league | tony cascarino
Four English quarter-finalists and Real Madrid out – my last-16 predictions
The Ashes
How champagne in Hutton’s hotel room helped England last recover from a Gabba loss . . . 66 years ago
The situation Joe Root finds himself in now, one down in an overseas series after losing the first Test, is a common...The situation Joe Root finds himself in now, one down in an overseas series after losing the...The situation Joe Root finds himself in now, one down in an overseas series after losing the...
Read the full storyThe Ashes | Steve James
Stokes’s issues are technical – Pope flaws are in his mind
Both players made their entrances into this series with positive statements of intent. The response of Ben Stokes...Both players made their entrances into this series with positive statements of intent. The...Both players made their entrances into this series with positive statements of intent. The...
Read the full storyGymnastics
Nassar victims reach £288m settlement
Sports photography
Times Sport Unseen: A Savage introduction, pints with Kennedy and a thorn in Marler’s side
Bradley says: A happy Charlie Savage, 18, leaves the pitch after making his Manchester United debut in the Champions League against Young Boys. Charlie is the son of the former Leicester City and Derby County player Robbie Savage.
Equipment...Bradley says: A happy Charlie Savage, 18, leaves the pitch after making his Manchester United...Bradley says: A happy Charlie Savage, 18, leaves the pitch after making his Manchester United...
football | Elgan Alderman
Televised draws can only go wrong – and we love it when it does
Racing
Thunderer’s racing tips
fashion
Are you ready to WOW?*
*That’s White on White. Here’s how to make the high-maintenance style work
newLife among antivaxers — on the upside, it’s easy to get a booster
One writer’s tale of moving to a village filled with the unjabbed
BEST OF THE YEAR
The best (and worst) films of 2021
Our critics’ picks of the year, plus a Christmas turkey
newBEST OF THE YEAR
The best (and worst) TV of 2021
Our critic’s picks of the year, plus a Christmas turkey
newROBERT CRAMPTON
You won’t catch me wearing sequins and here’s the reason
I’m delighted Boden has binned sequins. The little plastic so-and-sos find their way by the million into the...I’m delighted Boden has binned sequins. The little plastic so-and-sos find their way by...I’m delighted Boden has binned sequins. The little plastic so-and-sos find their way by...
Read the full storyDR MARK PORTER
Why you should treat a mini-stroke as seriously as a full stroke
This morning it is hard to focus on anything other than Covid, but before Boris Johnson announced changes to the...This morning it is hard to focus on anything other than Covid, but before Boris Johnson announced...This morning it is hard to focus on anything other than Covid, but before Boris Johnson announced...
Read the full storyfirst night | comedy
Bill Bailey — the infectious ease of a master comic
interiors
The best cocktail sets to buy now
newHave you caught the home cocktail bug? You’re not alone — retailers are reporting surging sales as customers get set to ring in the festive season with a bang. “We are seeing a huge trend in drinkware at the moment as customers prepare for...Have you caught the home cocktail bug? You’re not alone — retailers are reporting surging sales...Have you caught the home cocktail bug? You’re not alone — retailers are reporting surging sales...
Read the full storyFIRST NIGHT | THEATRE
Habeas Corpus — Alan Bennett’s 1970s comedy is laboured and outmoded
THREE WAYS
How to avoid a hangover
The quest to find a hangover cure has been hotly contested for decades but researchers at the University of Helsinki...The quest to find a hangover cure has been hotly contested for decades but researchers at the...The quest to find a hangover cure has been hotly contested for decades but researchers at the...
Read the full storyWho knew Ryanair could be funny?
One metric to the good standing of government is who feels beholden to pass judgment from on high. Sure, some in the...One metric to the good standing of government is who feels beholden to pass judgment from on high.One metric to the good standing of government is who feels beholden to pass judgment from on high.
Read the full storyCHRISTMAS 2021
Five of the best Christmas candles
the lowdown
Pierce Brosnan’s hair
BEST OF THE YEAR
The best (and worst) theatre and comedy of 2021
best of the year
The best (and worst) visual art of 2021
BEST OF THE YEAR
The best (and worst) dance, classical and opera of 2021
viewing guide
What’s on TV and radio tonight
MindGames
The Times Daily Quiz
1 Which Disney film title character is a fawn whose father is revered as the Great Prince of the Forest? 2 The...1 Which Disney film title character is a fawn whose father is revered as the Great Prince of the...1 Which Disney film title character is a fawn whose father is revered as the Great Prince of the...
Read the full storyobituary
David Gulpilil
Actor and dancer who starred in the film Walkabout, promoted Aboriginal culture around the world but became isolated from his roots
OBITUARY
Lamine Diack
Former long jumper who as president of the IAAF presided over one of the biggest cover-ups in sport
OBITUARY
‘Rainbow’ George Weiss
‘Dreamer and schemer’ who lived on the fringes of politics and could reduce his friend Peter Cook to hysterical laughter
OBITUARY
Jacqueline Davis
Trailblazing producer of Rumpole of the Bailey known for presenting the cast and crew with her exquisite home-baked cakes
OBITUARY
Hugh Wood
Composer and teacher acclaimed for his chamber music and songs despite his habit of procrastinating
OBITUARY
Anne Rice
FROM THE ARCHIVE
India and the prince
From The Times: December 14, 1921
When the Prince of Wales entered the city of Allahabad, the official capital of the...From The Times: December 14, 1921
When the Prince of Wales entered the city of Allahabad, the...From The Times: December 14, 1921
When the Prince of Wales entered the city of Allahabad, the...
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Births, marriages and deaths
AND as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
2 Thessalonians 3.13 (NIV)
Bible verses...AND as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
2 Thessalonians 3.13...AND as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
2 Thessalonians 3.13...
WEATHER EYE
Scott’s ‘preposterous’ bad luck on polar expedition
It was 110 years ago today, on December 14, 1911, that the Norwegian Roald Amundsen and his team of explorers became the first people to reach the South Pole, beating the British expedition led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott, who arrived just 33...It was 110 years ago today, on December 14, 1911, that the Norwegian Roald Amundsen and his team...It was 110 years ago today, on December 14, 1911, that the Norwegian Roald Amundsen and his team...
Read the full story
Your weekday brain boost
Every Monday to Thursday, a printable page of extra puzzles
Christmas isn’t cancelled as Sturgeon refuses to limit family gatherings
newNicola Sturgeon has said families can enjoy a relatively normal Christmas Day together after deciding not to impose limits on the number of people or households allowed to attend. Places of worship will also remain open but Sturgeon said worshippers should be vaccinated and take a test in advance...Nicola Sturgeon has said families can enjoy a relatively normal Christmas Day together after deciding not to impose limits on the number of people or households allowed to attend. Places of worship will also remain open but Sturgeon said worshippers should be vaccinated and take a test in advance...Nicola Sturgeon has said families can enjoy a relatively normal Christmas Day together after deciding not to impose limits on...
Read the full storycoronavirus
As cancellations start, firms fear collapse of festive trade
Scottish businesses fear that Christmas trade will collapse as consumer confidence drops sharply and Holyrood appears ready to introduce further coronavirus restrictions today. The concern voiced in recent days at Holyrood and Westminster about the spread of the Omicron variant has already resulted in mass cancellations at the hospitality...Scottish businesses fear that Christmas trade will collapse as consumer confidence drops sharply and Holyrood appears ready to introduce further coronavirus restrictions today. The concern voiced in recent days at Holyrood and Westminster about the spread of the Omicron variant has already resulted in mass cancellations at the hospitality...Scottish businesses fear that Christmas trade will collapse as consumer confidence drops sharply and Holyrood appears ready to...
Read the full storycomment | kenny farquharson
Resurrected Labour still on life support in Scotland
It was the ultimate burn. When Sir Keir Starmer did his televised address to the nation on Monday night he did not once mention Boris Johnson. Instead the Labour leader projected the persona — calm, competent, principled — he hopes will propel him into Downing Street. Labour’s lead over the Tories is now as much...It was the ultimate burn. When Sir Keir Starmer did his televised address to the nation on Monday...It was the ultimate burn. When Sir Keir Starmer did his televised address to the nation on Monday...
Read the full storyComment | Alex Massie
Self-ID is a fantasy that hurts trans people
Like other serious crimes of violence, rape is a male crime. This is a judgment of law and of fact. Scots law defines...Like other serious crimes of violence, rape is a male crime. This is a judgment of law and of fact.Like other serious crimes of violence, rape is a male crime. This is a judgment of law and of fact.
Read the full storyCoronavirus
Sturgeon to defy unions and keep schools open
Schools are expected to remain open until Christmas after Nicola Sturgeon defied unions’ demands to close them early.Schools are expected to remain open until Christmas after Nicola Sturgeon defied unions’ demands...Schools are expected to remain open until Christmas after Nicola Sturgeon defied unions’ demands...
Read the full storyNetflix next stage for star Aardman couple
A couple who write songs about books will turn a new page when their latest work is screened worldwide for Christmas by Netflix (Mike Wade writes). Beth Porter and Ben Please, of Wigtown, 20 miles east of Stranraer, not only wrote the music and...A couple who write songs about books will turn a new page when their latest work is screened...A couple who write songs about books will turn a new page when their latest work is screened...
Read the full storyAbusive addicts can undo ban on work with children
Drink and drug users who have abused children could work with young people within five years if they can show their behaviour was linked to addiction, a government official has said. Adults who have inappropriate sexual...Drink and drug users who have abused children could work with young people within five years if they can show their behaviour was linked to addiction, a government official has said. Adults who have inappropriate sexual...Drink and drug users who have abused children could work with young people within five years if they can show their...
Read the full storybusiness
Simec Atlantis Energy sells hydro power arm for £3m
A renewable energy specialist has sold its hydro power arm for £3 million. Simec Atlantis Energy said the disposal of Green Highland Renewables (GHR) would simplify its structure and allow it to concentrate on other projects.A renewable energy specialist has sold its hydro power arm for £3 million. Simec Atlantis Energy said the disposal of Green Highland Renewables (GHR) would simplify its structure and allow it to concentrate on other projects.A renewable energy specialist has sold its hydro power arm for £3 million. Simec Atlantis Energy said the disposal of...
Read the full storyLeading article
Balancing Act
Comment | Thunderer
The Covid care crisis inquiry has to be transparent
Cricket
Scottish cricket racism review to begin next month after Haq claims
The review of racism in Scottish cricket will begin next month and be led by Plan4Sport, the “industry experts” who have supported hundreds of sports organisations, governing bodies, and public and private sector bodies in the areas of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), governance and education and training. Plan4Sport has been instructed by sportscotland, the...The review of racism in Scottish cricket will begin next month and be led by Plan4Sport, the...The review of racism in Scottish cricket will begin next month and be led by Plan4Sport, the...
Read the full storyFootball
Glimt are like us — dangerous, warns Starfelt
Carl Starfelt, the Celtic defender, has warned that nothing can be taken for granted against Bodo/Glimt, who stand...Carl Starfelt, the Celtic defender, has warned that nothing can be taken for granted against Bodo/Glimt, who stand between them and the Europa Conference League round of 16. The outcome of yesterday’s draw in Nyon was a play-off with the overachieving Norwegian side, whose tiny stadium and artificial pitch lie just...Carl Starfelt, the Celtic defender, has warned that nothing can be taken for granted against Bodo/Glimt, who stand between them...
Read the full storyrugby union
Unflappable Thompson might just be perfect ten for Glasgow’s attack
Somebody once said that the best fly halves make rugby look easy. They look comfortable, unflustered, even in the midst of mayhem. By those measures, Ross Thompson is right up there now. To watch him at work in La Rochelle’s Stade Marcel-Deflandre...Somebody once said that the best fly halves make rugby look easy. They look comfortable...Somebody once said that the best fly halves make rugby look easy. They look comfortable...
Read the full storyChina considers Galway inhaled Covid-19 vaccine
An Irish company that makes medical devices has confirmed its delivery technology for an inhaled Covid-19 vaccine is currently under review for emergency use in China and could be rolled out in several countries as early as next year. Aerogen, which is based in Galway, has developed the...An Irish company that makes medical devices has confirmed its delivery technology for an inhaled Covid-19 vaccine is currently under review for emergency use in China and could be rolled out in several countries as early as next year. Aerogen, which is based in Galway, has developed the...An Irish company that makes medical devices has confirmed its delivery technology for an inhaled Covid-19 vaccine is currently...
Read the full storyFianna Fail youth president under pressure after nine groups call for him to go
The president of Fianna Fail’s youth wing is to face a vote on his leadership after nine local groups called for him to be removed from his role. It comes as the executive of the organisation voted to impeach Bryan Mallon, the Ogra Fianna Fail president. Multiple sources confirmed to The Times that two members of the central officer board...The president of Fianna Fail’s youth wing is to face a vote on his leadership after nine local groups called for him to be removed from his role. It comes as the executive of the organisation voted to impeach Bryan Mallon, the Ogra Fianna Fail president. Multiple sources confirmed to The Times that two members of the central officer board...The president of Fianna Fail’s youth wing is to face a vote on his leadership after nine local groups called for him to be...
Read the full storyBriton who ran over boxer with jeep is convicted of murder
A UK man who used his jeep to repeatedly run over the Irish boxer Kevin Sheehy has been found guilty of his murder. The central criminal court trial was told that the five-time Irish boxing champion fought to get up off the ground after he was first hit but the Mitsubishi Shogun jeep ran him over twice again at speed.A UK man who used his jeep to repeatedly run over the Irish boxer Kevin Sheehy has been found...A UK man who used his jeep to repeatedly run over the Irish boxer Kevin Sheehy has been found...
Read the full storySHANE HEGARTY
Mobile phone contracts can feel generational in length
I am finally out of my mobile phone contract. This might not be the most exciting way to start a column, but treat that line as both a mundane statement and a declaration of freedom. If it helps punch things up a bit, picture me as the escaped...I am finally out of my mobile phone contract. This might not be the most exciting way to start a...I am finally out of my mobile phone contract. This might not be the most exciting way to start a...
Read the full storyMOVE
Stairway to heaven
When they first viewed their now very bright and contemporary detached dormer bungalow in Blackrock, Co Dublin, four years ago, the architect Paul Sheeran’s clients Neil and Jen had to focus on the potential rather than the reality of the 1960s...When they first viewed their now very bright and contemporary detached dormer bungalow in...When they first viewed their now very bright and contemporary detached dormer bungalow in...
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Comment
Voting against plan B is a vote of no confidence
Daniel Finkelstein
Tory rebels should recognise the fact that by rejecting new coronavirus curbs they are declaring Boris Johnson incapable
Melanie Phillips
Do-gooders made San Francisco a disaster area
Hugo Rifkind
No 10 party inquiry needs help? I’m up for it
Giles Coren | Notebook
Motherhood can’t get in the way of my haircut
Damian Collins
Big tech must help make the internet safer — or else
WILLIAM HAGUE
The unvaccinated are putting us all at risk
letters to the editor
Public confidence in the prime minister
CLARE FOGES
Tories can’t let Johnson brazen this one out
What next in the government’s Advent calendar of dishonesty and hypocrisy? Behind door one there was the cheese and...What next in the government’s Advent calendar of dishonesty and hypocrisy? Behind door one there...What next in the government’s Advent calendar of dishonesty and hypocrisy? Behind door one there...
Read the full storySARA TOR
Liz Truss has a funny idea of Britishness
In a speech at Chatham House, Liz Truss – our foreign secretary for those, like me, who can no longer keep up with...In a speech at Chatham House, Liz Truss – our foreign secretary for those, like me, who can no...In a speech at Chatham House, Liz Truss – our foreign secretary for those, like me, who can no...
Read the full storyLeading Articles
Hospital Pass
While essential, the acceleration of booster jabs risks exacerbating NHS backlogs. Meaningful reform is needed to address shortcomings exposed by the pandemic
Rights and Wrongs
Dominic Raab’s proposed new British bill of rights may not be all that it seems
True Champion
Lewis Hamilton exemplifies the ethos of sport at its finest
Daily Universal Register
Briefing
UK: The defence select committee publishes a report examining what role the navy should expect to play in the next 20 years and whether naval procurement and support plans are delivering the capabilities required; Vicky Ford, the minister for Africa, gives a speech to the Chatham House think tank on the UK’s priorities for engagement with Africa in 2022.
Indonesia: The US secretary of state Antony Blinken delivers a speech in Jakarta on the US’s approach to the Indo-Pacific region.
On this day
In 1542 Mary Stuart, at six days old, became queen of Scotland upon the death of James V, her father. In 1559 she also became queen of France until 1560 when her husband, Francis II, died aged 16; in 1900 Professor Max Planck “gave birth” to quantum theory when he presented physical experiments to the German Physical Society. He was awarded the Nobel prize in physics (1918); in 1918 Countess Constance Markievicz became the first woman elected to the House of Commons. She won a Dublin constituency, but as a member of Sinn Fein did not take her seat in the Westminster parliament; in 1950 the UN refugee agency UNHCR was created with a three-year mandate to address the post-Second World War refugee situation in Europe; in 1972 Eugene Cernan, the Apollo 17 commander, became the last person to leave footprints on the moon’s surface. Since the first landing in 1969, 12 astronauts have walked on the moon.
Nature notes
In a dull December landscape a dogwood hedge flames out like a bright fuse. When cut back hard in spring its straight new stems, once used to make arrows and skewers, shoot up bright red, orange or yellow; when the shrub’s leaves fall in autumn these are revealed. Although there are many garden cultivars, Cornus sanguinea is a native species often found growing wild in hedgerows and along wood margins, especially on damp soils. Its clusters of small white flowers do not have the nicest smell but are followed by small black berries that are loved by birds, while the leaves are the food plant of several moths and butterflies.
Melissa Harrison
Birthdays today
Matthew Ball, ballet dancer, Royal Ballet principal dancer, 28; Sir Antony Beevor, historian and author, Arnhem: The Battle for the Bridges, 1944 (2018), 75; Koos Bekker, chairman of technology group Naspers and owner of the Newt hotel in Somerset, 69; Jane Birkin, actress, Death on the Nile (1978), and singer, 75; Nigel Chapman, chairman, Nacro social justice charity, director, BBC World Service (2004-09), 66; Hartwig Fischer, director of the British Museum, 59; Sir Charlie Griffith, cricketer, West Indies (1960-69), 83; Miranda Hart, comedian and actress, Miranda (2009-15), 49; Stephen Hester, chairman, easyJet, chief executive, RSA Insurance Group (2014-May 2021), 61; Lord (Graham) Kirkham, founder, DFS Furniture, 77; Barbara Leigh-Hunt, actress, Billy Elliot (2000), 86; Lord (Thomas) McAvoy, Labour MP (1987-2010), deputy speaker (Lords) (2018-Jun 2021), 78; Natascha McElhone, actress, Ronin (1998), 52; Julian Metcalfe, founder, itsu, and co-founder, Pret a Manger, 62; Beth Orton, singer-songwriter, She Cries Your Name (1993), 51; Yotam Ottolenghi, food writer and restaurateur, 53; Michael Ovitz, film executive, co-founder, Creative Artists Agency, president, the Walt Disney Company (1995-97), 75; Michael Owen, footballer, Liverpool (1996-2004), England (1998-2008), 42; Judith Palmer, director, Poetry Society, 56; Jamie Peacock, rugby league player, captained England and Great Britain, 44; Ebrahim Raisi, president of Iran, 61; Mike Scott, musician, the Waterboys, The Whole of the Moon (1985), 63; Stan Smith, tennis player, Wimbledon men’s singles winner (1972), 75; Spider Stacy, musician, The Pogues, Fairytale of New York (1987), 63; Lord (Roger) Swinfen, founder, Swinfen Charitable Trust, 83; Giles Terera, actor, Hamilton (Olivier best actor award, 2018), 45; Chris Waddle, footballer, England (1985-91), and commentator, 61.