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In the News
Berlin massacre suspect was watched for months
Police missed vital clues at scene of attack
A Tunisian migrant who had been on a terrorist watchlist and was facing deportation from Germany became Europe’s most wanted man last night. Berlin police admitted that red tape had allowed Anis Amri to stay in the country before he allegedly killed 12 people and injured 48 at a Christmas market in Berlin. He had been under surveillance for months. Amri, 24, was named...A Tunisian migrant who had been on a terrorist watchlist and was facing deportation from Germany...A Tunisian migrant who had been on a terrorist watchlist and was facing deportation from Germany...
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Queen delays Sandringham visit because of heavy cold
The Queen has postponed her plans to travel to Sandringham for Christmas after she and the Duke of Edinburgh came...The Queen has postponed her plans to travel to Sandringham for Christmas after she and the Duke of Edinburgh came down with heavy colds. She had been due to catch the 10.44 train from King’s Cross to King’s Lynn yesterday morning. Minutes before her expected arrival, however, the security team at the station was...The Queen has postponed her plans to travel to Sandringham for Christmas after she and the Duke of Edinburgh came down with...
Read the full storyPatients suffer in GP funding lottery
Patients wait longer to see a doctor in many areas because some surgeries get a few pence for each registered patient while others receive thousands of pounds. An “unjust” postcode lottery in funding for GP practices is forcing...Patients wait longer to see a doctor in many areas because some surgeries get a few pence for each registered patient while others receive thousands of pounds. An “unjust” postcode lottery in funding for GP practices is forcing...Patients wait longer to see a doctor in many areas because some surgeries get a few pence for each registered patient...
Read the full storyDyslexia hinders more than just reading
The learning difficulties that come with dyslexia may extend far beyond reading and writing. Although it is estimated that one in ten Britons is dyslexic — and one in 25 severely so — the condition is still poorly understood...The learning difficulties that come with dyslexia may extend far beyond reading and writing. Although it is estimated that one in ten Britons is dyslexic — and one in 25 severely so — the condition is still poorly understood...The learning difficulties that come with dyslexia may extend far beyond reading and writing. Although it is estimated...
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Soap opera praised for realistic portrayal of dementia
A pioneering drama filmed from the perspective of a dementia sufferer has been hailed as the most accurate television...A pioneering drama filmed from the perspective of a dementia sufferer has been hailed as the most...A pioneering drama filmed from the perspective of a dementia sufferer has been hailed as the most...
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The Times Diary
The Empire strikes back
Jacob Rees-Mogg, my favourite double-breasted MP, must not be expecting ministerial office any time soon. The Tory...Jacob Rees-Mogg, my favourite double-breasted MP, must not be expecting ministerial office any...Jacob Rees-Mogg, my favourite double-breasted MP, must not be expecting ministerial office any...
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Christmas carnage
Berlin suspect met extremists as he moved around Germany
Christmas carnage
Vital time lost from police blunders
Christmas carnage
‘My son Anis drank and stole but he was radicalised in Europe’
Christmas carnage
Panic on plane as man speaks Arabic
First patients to get bionic eyes on NHS
Patients will have bionic eyes implanted on the NHS for the first time in a pilot scheme that could lead to the...Patients will have bionic eyes implanted on the NHS for the first time in a pilot scheme that...Patients will have bionic eyes implanted on the NHS for the first time in a pilot scheme that...
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Artificial nose can sniff out diseases
Hippocrates, the Ancient Greek thinker often regarded as the father of medicine, used to teach students to sniff...Hippocrates, the Ancient Greek thinker often regarded as the father of medicine, used to teach...Hippocrates, the Ancient Greek thinker often regarded as the father of medicine, used to teach...
Read the full storyChristmas science experiments
Brussels sprouts taste nicer at Christmas
The potatoes are roasted in the finest goose fat. The turkey lived a full and happy life, and you have used only the most ethically sourced stuffing. And then you decide your festive masterpiece should be enjoyed with sprouts. At last, The Times...The potatoes are roasted in the finest goose fat. The turkey lived a full and happy life, and you...The potatoes are roasted in the finest goose fat. The turkey lived a full and happy life, and you...
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News in brief
Crumpets exceed salt targets
Pints and pies draw in the new faithful
A pint of real ale, a mince pie and a smartphone are the latest tools in the Church of England’s battle to put bums on pews this Christmas. Over the three days leading up to the first Sunday in Advent (November 27), St Wulfram’s Church in Grantham...A pint of real ale, a mince pie and a smartphone are the latest tools in the Church of England’s...A pint of real ale, a mince pie and a smartphone are the latest tools in the Church of England’s...
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Red Box: analysis
Proof the Tories really aren’t planning a snap election
Christmas appeal
Children thrown together by war forget their differences
The sight of two teenage boys sitting together chatting about friends and football would, in most circumstances, barely be worth a mention (Lucy Bannerman writes). But this is 2016, the year in which more people fled war and persecution than at...The sight of two teenage boys sitting together chatting about friends and football would, in most...The sight of two teenage boys sitting together chatting about friends and football would, in most...
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Obama seeks to tie Trump’s hands with offshore drilling ban
President Obama has outlawed offshore oil and gas drilling across large areas of the Arctic and Atlantic in a last-ditch effort to thwart Donald Trump’s promises to exploit new fossil fuel sources. Conservative activists implored Mr Trump to make a symbolic move by rescinding the new drilling ban...President Obama has outlawed offshore oil and gas drilling across large areas of the Arctic and Atlantic in a last-ditch effort to thwart Donald Trump’s promises to exploit new fossil fuel sources. Conservative activists implored Mr Trump to make a symbolic move by rescinding the new drilling ban...President Obama has outlawed offshore oil and gas drilling across large areas of the Arctic and Atlantic in a last-ditch effort...
Read the full storySurge for France’s young pretender alarms Fillon camp
Emmanuel Macron, the young centrist contender for the French presidency, has begun to alarm mainstream candidates as supporters flock to his outsider campaign and a poll has anointed him the country’s most popular politician. François Fillon, 62, the conservative favourite for the spring elections, has turned his guns on Mr Macron as the...Emmanuel Macron, the young centrist contender for the French presidency, has begun to alarm mainstream candidates as supporters flock to his outsider campaign and a poll has anointed him the country’s most popular politician. François Fillon, 62, the conservative favourite for the spring elections, has turned his guns on Mr Macron as the...Emmanuel Macron, the young centrist contender for the French presidency, has begun to alarm mainstream candidates as supporters...
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Uber driverless cars taken off the streets of San Francisco
newUber has taken its trial fleet of driverless cars off the roads in San Francisco after regulators revoked the vehicle registrations in a row over permits. The company launched the pilot project – its second in the US – earlier this month when it gave customers the option of booking a self-driving car through the app.Uber has taken its trial fleet of driverless cars off the roads in San Francisco after regulators...Uber has taken its trial fleet of driverless cars off the roads in San Francisco after regulators...
Read the full storyFar right in Austria cosies up to Putin
Austria’s far right has signed an alliance with President Putin’s United Russia party and has offered to act as a go-between for Donald Trump and the Kremlin. Heinz-Christian Strache, the leader of Austria’s Freedom Party (FPO)...Austria’s far right has signed an alliance with President Putin’s United Russia party and has offered to act as a go-between for Donald Trump and the Kremlin. Heinz-Christian Strache, the leader of Austria’s Freedom Party (FPO)...Austria’s far right has signed an alliance with President Putin’s United Russia party and has offered to act as a...
Read the full storyDuterte must be investigated for murder, urges UN chief
President Duterte of the Philippines is a self-confessed murderer who should be criminally investigated for his boast that he personally killed suspected criminals, the United Nations’ human rights chief has said. Zeid Ra’ad Al...President Duterte of the Philippines is a self-confessed murderer who should be criminally investigated for his boast that he personally killed suspected criminals, the United Nations’ human rights chief has said. Zeid Ra’ad Al...President Duterte of the Philippines is a self-confessed murderer who should be criminally investigated for his boast...
Read the full storyAssad looks to rebuild treasures of Aleppo
World heritage experts have begun to examine satellite images of what remains of the Old City of Aleppo to determine whether any of the ancient mosques and souks can be saved after four years of bombardment. Unesco, the United Nations cultural...World heritage experts have begun to examine satellite images of what remains of the Old City of...World heritage experts have begun to examine satellite images of what remains of the Old City of...
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Car factories boom boosts the economy
British car production accelerated to its highest level in 17 years in November amid rising domestic and international demand. Almost 170,000 vehicles were manufactured last month, according to the latest figures. In the year to November 30, 1.61 million cars were produced in the UK, a 9.6 per cent increase on the 1.47 million made over the same period last year. The UK...British car production accelerated to its highest level in 17 years in November amid rising...British car production accelerated to its highest level in 17 years in November amid rising...
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Chinese splash out $120m on raincoat
The maker of luxury raincoats worn by royalty and stars of the silver screen and army officers’ trenchcoats in the...The maker of luxury raincoats worn by royalty and stars of the silver screen and army officers’ trenchcoats in the First World War is to change hands. Aquascutum, worn by the Queen Mother, Sophia Loren, Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant, is to be bought by two buyers for $120 million, according to YGM Trading, its Hong...The maker of luxury raincoats worn by royalty and stars of the silver screen and army officers’ trenchcoats in the First World...
Read the full storyMeggitt has pension as target after £57.5m deal
Meggitt has sold its weapons training target provider to QinetiQ for £57.5 million. The FTSE 250 British aerospace group said the sale was part of a move to “focus on businesses of scale in attractive markets”. Target Systems, the division in...Meggitt has sold its weapons training target provider to QinetiQ for £57.5 million. The FTSE 250...Meggitt has sold its weapons training target provider to QinetiQ for £57.5 million. The FTSE 250...
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Former BlackRock fund head is jailed over insider trading
A former senior City stock picker at the world’s largest asset manager has been jailed for 12 months after admitting that he used confidential information from his employer to make insider bets on the shares of energy companies...A former senior City stock picker at the world’s largest asset manager has been jailed for 12 months after admitting that he used confidential information from his employer to make insider bets on the shares of energy companies...A former senior City stock picker at the world’s largest asset manager has been jailed for 12 months after admitting...
Read the full storyMistry asks legal tribunal to oust board of Tata Sons
Cyrus Mistry, the ousted former chairman of Tata Sons, has launched a legal attempt to replace the company’s board in the latest twist to a bruising battle for control of India’s biggest company. Mr Mistry, removed as chairman...Cyrus Mistry, the ousted former chairman of Tata Sons, has launched a legal attempt to replace the company’s board in the latest twist to a bruising battle for control of India’s biggest company. Mr Mistry, removed as chairman...Cyrus Mistry, the ousted former chairman of Tata Sons, has launched a legal attempt to replace the company’s board in...
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business commentary
Fed plays Grinch for Trumpmas
How Trump and the EU could hurt world trade
Our latest podcast
Consumer confidence ‘calm before the storm’
Consumers have ended a tumultuous year in a robust mood with their confidence slightly up but economists said that 2017 may test their resolve. Shoppers remain relatively confident about their personal finances, according to GfK’s long-running...Consumers have ended a tumultuous year in a robust mood with their confidence slightly up but...Consumers have ended a tumultuous year in a robust mood with their confidence slightly up but...
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Comment
It is difficult to escape a sense of trouble ahead for the global economy
Back in the summer of 2008 Alistair Darling, chancellor of the exchequer, said that Britain’s economic conditions...Back in the summer of 2008 Alistair Darling, chancellor of the exchequer, said that Britain’s...Back in the summer of 2008 Alistair Darling, chancellor of the exchequer, said that Britain’s...
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tempus
John Laing Infrastructure is safe and reliable: what’s not to like?
Once upon a time there were three creatures called roscos, or rolling stock leasing companies, which under the...Once upon a time there were three creatures called roscos, or rolling stock leasing companies...Once upon a time there were three creatures called roscos, or rolling stock leasing companies...
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Market report
Security fears take their toll on Thomson owner
need to know
Your five-minute digest
Ding Dong merrily on the high seas
Dong Energy has sold a 50 per cent stake in a giant offshore wind farm in the North Sea to Macquarie of Australia in a deal valued at £1.6 billion. The Danish utility’s stake in the 573MW Race Bank wind park almost 17 miles off the coast of...Dong Energy has sold a 50 per cent stake in a giant offshore wind farm in the North Sea to...Dong Energy has sold a 50 per cent stake in a giant offshore wind farm in the North Sea to...
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RUGBY UNION
Northampton let off over North head injury
Rugby has taken a “massive step backwards” in its attitude to concussion awareness with the decision to let Northampton Saints escape punishment for their treatment of George North’s latest head injury, campaigners have said. After a two-week investigation, a Concussion Management Review Group (CMRG) concluded yesterday that North should not have been allowed to play on...Rugby has taken a “massive step backwards” in its attitude to concussion awareness with the...Rugby has taken a “massive step backwards” in its attitude to concussion awareness with the...
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Tennis
No drug tests at some top tennis events
exclusiveDrug testing is not taking place at some of tennis’s biggest tournaments. The Times has learnt that no anti-doping...Drug testing is not taking place at some of tennis’s biggest tournaments. The Times has learnt that no anti-doping tests were conducted at this year’s Shanghai Masters, one of the eight mandatory Masters 1000 events on the men’s ATP circuit. The tournament offered the highest pay cheque at any Masters tournament...Drug testing is not taking place at some of tennis’s biggest tournaments. The Times has learnt that no anti-doping tests were...
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Cricket
Back-up plan needed for the seamers
There is no shame in being spun out by Indian bowlers on their own pitches. South Africa capitulated last winter and...There is no shame in being spun out by Indian bowlers on their own pitches. South Africa...There is no shame in being spun out by Indian bowlers on their own pitches. South Africa...
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Ben Kay
Punishment would not make game safer
I understand all the hysteria that there has been against Northampton Saints since the incident, but if you look at...I understand all the hysteria that there has been against Northampton Saints since the incident...I understand all the hysteria that there has been against Northampton Saints since the incident...
Read the full storyTimes Sport investigates
How tennis is trying to prevent a repeat of the Sharapova affair
It was about this time last year that emails were dropping into Maria Sharapova’s inbox to tell her that meldonium, the drug that she had been taking for ten years to combat heart problems, was being added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (Wada)...It was about this time last year that emails were dropping into Maria Sharapova’s inbox to tell...It was about this time last year that emails were dropping into Maria Sharapova’s inbox to tell...
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football
Clubs who get trapped in a pattern of failure
“Same old Arsenal.” That was the familiar refrain after Sunday’s defeat away to Manchester City, in which Arsène Wenger’s side surrendered a 1-0 lead to lose meekly against one of their title rivals, dropping to fourth in the...“Same old Arsenal.” That was the familiar refrain after Sunday’s defeat away to Manchester City, in which Arsène Wenger’s side surrendered a 1-0 lead to lose meekly against one of their title rivals, dropping to fourth in the...“Same old Arsenal.” That was the familiar refrain after Sunday’s defeat away to Manchester City, in which Arsène...
Read the full storyFootball
Matip may face Fifa ban over refusal to play for Cameroon
Joël Matip, the Liverpool defender, and West Bromwich Albion’s Allan Nyom have been threatened with suspension from club football in the New Year after opting out of Cameroon’s plans for the Africa Cup of Nations. The Cameroon...Joël Matip, the Liverpool defender, and West Bromwich Albion’s Allan Nyom have been threatened with suspension from club football in the New Year after opting out of Cameroon’s plans for the Africa Cup of Nations. The Cameroon...Joël Matip, the Liverpool defender, and West Bromwich Albion’s Allan Nyom have been threatened with suspension from...
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Premier league
Klopp eyeing move for PSG target Draxler
McIlroy and the Lions are ready to roar in 2017
The only tangible common denominator among the five Sky Sports pundits who gathered to discuss their disciplines is passion. Unrelenting passion. There is not a jaundiced view between them — even though they are all capable of withering criticism.The only tangible common denominator among the five Sky Sports pundits who gathered to discuss...The only tangible common denominator among the five Sky Sports pundits who gathered to discuss...
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Championship fixtures
Results, scorers and upcoming games for the season
obituary
Lord Jenkin of Roding
Tory cabinet minister with a liberal bent who set up the sale of British Telecom but was ridiculed for an apparent want of political nous
When Patrick Jenkin was at Cambridge in the 1950s he encountered for the first time people who were not heterosexual and sought the counsel of his wise grandfather. “My dear boy, it is as foolish to condemn those who have homosexual proclivities as it is to condemn them for having red hair,” was the sage’s advice, words that Jenkin relayed to the Lords during a debate...When Patrick Jenkin was at Cambridge in the 1950s he encountered for the first time people who...When Patrick Jenkin was at Cambridge in the 1950s he encountered for the first time people who...
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obituary
Bernard Fox
When Bernard Fox was asked to play a womanising witchdoctor on an episode of the popular American sitcom Bewitched...When Bernard Fox was asked to play a womanising witchdoctor on an episode of the popular American sitcom Bewitched, he decided against the usual stereotypes — at least the usual stereotypes for witchdoctors, opting instead to base the character on his recollections of a rather eccentric officer he had met...When Bernard Fox was asked to play a womanising witchdoctor on an episode of the popular American sitcom Bewitched, he...
Read the full storyweather eye
Wild weather over the festive period
The weather is about to turn tempestuous. Storm Barbara will hit tomorrow, with fierce winds battering the northern half of the UK and heavy rains sweeping rapidly through much of the country. It could also be a wild Christmas Day, with widespread gales, winds gusting to more than 70mph in some northern areas and bands of rain. The only sign of a white Christmas is some...The weather is about to turn tempestuous. Storm Barbara will hit tomorrow, with fierce winds...The weather is about to turn tempestuous. Storm Barbara will hit tomorrow, with fierce winds...
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december 22, 1916
President Wilson and peace
President Wilson has sent to all the belligerent Powers a lengthy Note, which invites them to state their peace terms.President Wilson has sent to all the belligerent Powers a lengthy Note, which invites them to state their peace terms. We do not question the sincerity of his statement that the suggestion is made “in the most friendly spirit”, but we cannot escape some misgivings as to whether his aspiration that this spirit “may...President Wilson has sent to all the belligerent Powers a lengthy Note, which invites them to state their peace terms. We do...
Read the full storythe table
Christmas lunch cooked by the pros
Jamie Oliver’s roast goose slow-cooked with Christmas spices*
If you’ve never had roast goose before, it’s an absolute must. This method is reliable and will give you an experience you definitely won’t forget, whether it’s the first meal from it, or using up the lovely leftovers it gives you. Serves 8 Ingredients
1 large goose (4-5kg), halved lengthways by...Jamie Oliver’s roast goose slow-cooked with Christmas spices*
If you’ve never had roast goose...Jamie Oliver’s roast goose slow-cooked with Christmas spices*
If you’ve never had roast goose...
the table
The chefs’ festive tips
Mark Hix
Sometimes we forget about the simple pleasures — Christmas Day breakfast, for instance. A late, leisurely...Mark Hix
Sometimes we forget about the simple pleasures — Christmas Day breakfast, for instance. A late, leisurely one can set the tone for the celebratory day ahead. Scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, or a fried duck’s egg with wild mushrooms are both simple and sophisticated, with a little...Mark Hix
Sometimes we forget about the simple pleasures — Christmas Day breakfast, for instance. A late, leisurely one can...
TV REVIEW
Quarry; Inside Chernobyl’s Mega Tomb
VIEWING GUIDE
What’s on tonight and when
MindGames
The Times Daily Quiz
DINNER TONIGHT
Lindsey Bareham’s Black Forest tart
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
Theatre: Art, Old Vic, SE1
★★★★☆
This feels a little bit like the theatrical equivalent of a reunion tour, like the Rolling Stones doing the rounds one more time but with better lighting. It was almost exactly 20 years ago — October 16, 1996, to be precise — that this play...★★★★☆
This feels a little bit like the theatrical equivalent of a reunion tour, like the Rolling...★★★★☆
This feels a little bit like the theatrical equivalent of a reunion tour, like the Rolling...
first night review
Theatre: Kiki’s Delivery Service, Southwark Playhouse, SE1
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
Theatre: Hamlet at Trafalgar Studios, SW1
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
Theatre: Saint Joan, Donmar, WC2
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
Pop: James Taylor Quartet at Jazz Cafe, NW1
The Times Film Show
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Watch our critics discuss the big new releases. This week Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
See the Times+ website for details of our year-round offer of 2-for-1 Odeon cinema ticketsWatch our critics discuss the big new releases. This week Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
See the...Watch our critics discuss the big new releases. This week Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
See the...
LAW
The good, the bad and the bizarre of 2016
Ludicrous litigation, hopeless causes and hapless judges: David Pannick, QC, rounds up the strangest stories from the legal world
Roots of a three-year fight
A City lawyer and property conglomerate have been engaged in a vicious ongoing legal battle over a ruinous lime tree
EDWARD FENNELL'S LAW DIARY
Christmas past, Christmas present, Christmas yet to come
Gemma Lindfield
The presents that little girls around the world really need
After a seismic year, girls and women are more vulnerable than ever to gender-based violence
Lawyer of the week
Justine Compton
SCOTTISH LAWYER OF THE WEEK
Alan Diamond
books of the year
Papal plotting, pompous silks and police drama
law report
Liability for council tax under tenancies
Court of Appeal Published: December 22, 2016 Leeds City Council v Broadley Before Lord Justice McCombe, Lord Justice Underhill and Sir Stanley Burnton [2016] EWCA Civ 1213 Judgment: December 6, 2016 A tenant under a standard...Court of Appeal Published: December 22, 2016 Leeds City Council v Broadley Before Lord Justice McCombe, Lord Justice Underhill and Sir Stanley Burnton [2016] EWCA Civ 1213 Judgment: December 6, 2016 A tenant under a standard...Court of Appeal Published: December 22, 2016 Leeds City Council v Broadley Before Lord Justice McCombe, Lord Justice...
Read the full storyLaw report
Liquidators not liable for costs
Privy Council
Published: December 20, 2016
PricewaterhouseCoopers v Saad Investments Co Ltd (No 2)
Singularis Holdings Ltd v PricewaterhouseCoopers (No 2)
Before Lord Neuberger of Abbotsbury, Lord Mance, Lord...Privy Council
Published: December 20, 2016
PricewaterhouseCoopers v Saad Investments Co Ltd (No 2)
Singularis Holdings Ltd v PricewaterhouseCoopers (No 2)
Before Lord Neuberger of Abbotsbury, Lord Mance, Lord...Privy Council
Published: December 20, 2016
PricewaterhouseCoopers v Saad Investments Co Ltd (No 2)
Singularis...
Law report
Rules on immigration confusing
Thousands miss cancer screening after IT fault
Almost 200 women who missed out on breast cancer checks in Scotland have developed the disease, according to an investigation that criticises the management of the country’s screening programme. Due to a fault with an IT system, which appears to have been unaddressed for years, nearly 4,000 women...Almost 200 women who missed out on breast cancer checks in Scotland have developed the disease, according to an investigation that criticises the management of the country’s screening programme. Due to a fault with an IT system, which appears to have been unaddressed for years, nearly 4,000 women...Almost 200 women who missed out on breast cancer checks in Scotland have developed the disease, according to an investigation...
Read the full storySpain rejects proposals for separate Brexit deal
Nicola Sturgeon’s plans for a bespoke Scottish Brexit have suffered a setback after they were rejected by the Spanish government. The first minister published proposals earlier this week for Scotland to stay in the European single market after Brexit, even if the rest of the UK withdraws when it leaves the European Union. She said she hoped...Nicola Sturgeon’s plans for a bespoke Scottish Brexit have suffered a setback after they were rejected by the Spanish government. The first minister published proposals earlier this week for Scotland to stay in the European single market after Brexit, even if the rest of the UK withdraws when it leaves the European Union. She said she hoped...Nicola Sturgeon’s plans for a bespoke Scottish Brexit have suffered a setback after they were rejected by the Spanish government.
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Scotch whisky to appeal over minimum price ruling
Opponents of the Scottish government’s minimum pricing scheme for alcohol are to take their case to the Supreme Court in London. The Scotch Whisky Association is fighting the plans to introduce a floor price for all alcohol in Scotland. The drinks’ industry body failed to get the Court of Session to agree to halt...Opponents of the Scottish government’s minimum pricing scheme for alcohol are to take their case...Opponents of the Scottish government’s minimum pricing scheme for alcohol are to take their case...
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Leading article
Back to nature
Locals beat deadline to save Harry Potter forest
A spectacular ancient pine forest made famous by the Harry Potter films has been bought by a local community after a...A spectacular ancient pine forest made famous by the Harry Potter films has been bought by a...A spectacular ancient pine forest made famous by the Harry Potter films has been bought by a...
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Apology after child’s brain tumour was undiagnosed
Officials at a health board have been forced to apologise after a paediatrician failed to diagnose a five-year-old...Officials at a health board have been forced to apologise after a paediatrician failed to...Officials at a health board have been forced to apologise after a paediatrician failed to...
Read the full storyComment
We must not avert our eyes to horrors of war
85831 Private Eric Linklater, Black Watch, left Aberdeenshire for the front one hundred years ago this month. There is a picture of my father in his uniform, glengarry tilted to one side, kilt to the knees, absurdly long sporran, standing in the...85831 Private Eric Linklater, Black Watch, left Aberdeenshire for the front one hundred years ago...85831 Private Eric Linklater, Black Watch, left Aberdeenshire for the front one hundred years ago...
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PE teacher faces jail after admitting sex with pupil
A married school teacher’s career is in ruins after he admitted repeatedly having a sexual relationship with one of his pupils. George Fisher, a physical education teacher, groomed the girl at the school where he worked after...A married school teacher’s career is in ruins after he admitted repeatedly having a sexual relationship with one of his pupils. George Fisher, a physical education teacher, groomed the girl at the school where he worked after...A married school teacher’s career is in ruins after he admitted repeatedly having a sexual relationship with one of...
Read the full storyMSPs tackle illegal puppy trade
MSPs have united to back an end to the illegal puppy trade and are urging animal lovers considering buying a dog for Christmas to use a reputable seller. Emma Harper, an SNP MSP, led a debate at Hollyrood to highlight the...MSPs have united to back an end to the illegal puppy trade and are urging animal lovers considering buying a dog for Christmas to use a reputable seller. Emma Harper, an SNP MSP, led a debate at Hollyrood to highlight the...MSPs have united to back an end to the illegal puppy trade and are urging animal lovers considering buying a dog for...
Read the full story£1,300 ‘tech tog’ bag is not exactly a stocking filler
Dystopian science fiction, selfies and “tech togs” have inspired this Christmas’s must-have gifts, according to retailers. Harvey Nichols said handbags by the Italian brand Gianoi had been flying off the shelves at its Edinburgh branch, where they...Dystopian science fiction, selfies and “tech togs” have inspired this Christmas’s must-have gifts...Dystopian science fiction, selfies and “tech togs” have inspired this Christmas’s must-have gifts...
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Homeless given weeks to leave Apollo House
The activists who turned Apollo House into a homeless shelter have been given three weeks to vacate the building, the High Court has ruled. The office block, located on Tara Street and Townsend Street in Dublin, was taken over last week by the Home Sweet Home Coalition. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan granted an injunction to Tom O’Brien and Simon Coyle of Mazars, who were...The activists who turned Apollo House into a homeless shelter have been given three weeks to...The activists who turned Apollo House into a homeless shelter have been given three weeks to...
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May to hold Brexit summit with taoiseach
Theresa May will visit Dublin next month for a summit with the taoiseach to discuss the implications of Brexit. The...Theresa May will visit Dublin next month for a summit with the taoiseach to discuss the implications of Brexit. The government tried yesterday to play down the British prime minister’s suggestion that the future status of Irish residents in the UK could be altered once Britain formally leaves the EU. She appeared to...Theresa May will visit Dublin next month for a summit with the taoiseach to discuss the implications of Brexit. The government...
Read the full storyRay D’Arcy show’s abortion coverage ‘biased’
RTE will meet with the broadcasting watchdog in the New Year after The Ray D’Arcy Show on Radio 1 was found to have failed to be objective during a discussion about abortion for the third time in a year. The Broadcasting...RTE will meet with the broadcasting watchdog in the New Year after The Ray D’Arcy Show on Radio 1 was found to have failed to be objective during a discussion about abortion for the third time in a year. The Broadcasting...RTE will meet with the broadcasting watchdog in the New Year after The Ray D’Arcy Show on Radio 1 was found to have...
Read the full storyBacklash as pylon project gets green light
Campaigners opposed to a 140km cross-border electricity interconnector have suggested that they will mount a legal challenge after the project was approved by An Bord Pleanala yesterday. Farmers and community groups in the...Campaigners opposed to a 140km cross-border electricity interconnector have suggested that they will mount a legal challenge after the project was approved by An Bord Pleanala yesterday. Farmers and community groups in the...Campaigners opposed to a 140km cross-border electricity interconnector have suggested that they will mount a legal...
Read the full storyNo more anomalies over 20-week scans
Simon Harris has said that he is committed to making the 20-week anomaly scan available to all pregnant women in Ireland. The health minister said patients should have equal access to maternity services and that the issue...Simon Harris has said that he is committed to making the 20-week anomaly scan available to all pregnant women in Ireland. The health minister said patients should have equal access to maternity services and that the issue...Simon Harris has said that he is committed to making the 20-week anomaly scan available to all pregnant women in...
Read the full storyAccused councillor and father may be tagged
A former Sinn Fein councillor and his father who were accused of falsely imprisoning, assaulting and threatening to kill another man may be electronically tagged while they await trial. Jonathan Dowdall, 39, who was once a...A former Sinn Fein councillor and his father who were accused of falsely imprisoning, assaulting and threatening to kill another man may be electronically tagged while they await trial. Jonathan Dowdall, 39, who was once a...A former Sinn Fein councillor and his father who were accused of falsely imprisoning, assaulting and threatening to...
Read the full storyRugby union
Best year yet? Hard work and disappointment for Ireland captain
Rory Best believes the Irish game is in a much stronger shape compared to 12 months ago and has hit back at suggestions that the historic victory over New Zealand in Chicago was achieved against unfocused opponents. After undergoing a transitional...Rory Best believes the Irish game is in a much stronger shape compared to 12 months ago and has...Rory Best believes the Irish game is in a much stronger shape compared to 12 months ago and has...
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Comment
We must stand up to Putin’s gangster state
Edward Lucas
As Russia uses military force and dark arts with impunity, it’s time to hit the kleptocrats where it hurts: in their pockets
Tim Montgomerie
Religion still matters, whatever your beliefs
Iain Martin
Brexit is a success even before it’s happened
Janice Turner
The phone feature that turns spouse into stalker
John O'Connell
Whitehall needs to spend more wisely on consultants
Leading Articles
Keeping Watch
The EU’s top court has ruled that Britain’s surveillance regime is unlawful. But curbing the powers of the intelligence services can endanger the public
Out of Africa
Kenya must explain to the world why it has expelled our correspondent
Unfunny Money
Huge variations in funding levels for GP surgeries are unfair and unacceptable
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Turkey, Russia and a call for action on Syria
Sir, The Syrian regime remains determined to pursue a military solution regardless of the civilian bloodshed and devastation caused by its violent tactics. Faced with the world’s greatest humanitarian disaster, world leaders must address the...Sir, The Syrian regime remains determined to pursue a military solution regardless of the...Sir, The Syrian regime remains determined to pursue a military solution regardless of the...
Read the full storyThe Red Box quiz
Who said that? Can you match the quote to the personality?
Daily Universal Register
Briefing
UK: The Royal Mail recommended last posting date for Special Delivery before Christmas.
US: The Bureau of Economic Analysis publishes its final GDP data for the third quarter of 2016.
Spain: The world’s biggest lottery will be drawn in Spain, with a shared €2.3 billion (£1.93 billion) prize fund.
Russia: Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, holds his annual year-end news conference.
On this day
In 1882, Edward H Johnson, a colleague of Thomas Edison, created the first string of electric Christmas tree lights.
In 1808 Beethoven’s 5th and 6th Symphonies were premiered together in Vienna.
In 1849 the socialist activist Fyodor Dostoevsky received a last-minute reprieve from death by firing squad.
In 1895 the physicist Wilhelm Röntgen made the first radiograph (X-ray) of his wife’s hand.
In 1989 Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate re-opened.
In 1974 the home of Edward Heath, the prime minister, was bombed.
Nature notes
Greylag geese are now wintering on estuaries and marshes in south and east Scotland and northern England. They have come here from Iceland, mostly in family groups. Mixed with them are some of the relatively small number that regularly nest in Scotland, generally beside water, sometimes out in the heather. They are the geese from which most domestic geese are descended and are mighty birds, streaky dark brown and with an orange beak. They have to run a long way before they can take off, when they reveal large white patches on their wings. They feed mainly on grass, head always down, out in meadows and pastures. However, they can also be seen in many other parts of England, resting beside flooded gravel pits or flying over farms with loud honking calls. These are feral birds that have become more common of late. “Lag” is an old word for goose, so their name absurdly means “greygoose geese”.
Derwent May
Birthdays today
Ed Anderson, chairman, Airport Operators Association, Yorkshire Building Society (2007-15), 66; Dame Mary Archer, scientist, chairwoman, Science Museum Group, 72; James Burke, science historian, TV producer and the BBC’s main reporter on the 1969 Moon landings, 80; Sir Roger Carr, chairman, BAE Systems, and vice-chairman, BBC Trust, 70; Rt Rev Stephen Conway, bishop of Ely, 59; Noel Edmonds, TV presenter and former DJ, 68; Ralph Fiennes, actor, Schindler’s List (1993), 54; Professor Peter Green, classical scholar, translator and author, 92; Sir Gary Hickinbottom, lord justice of appeal (since Sept 2016), the second solicitor to be appointed to the Court of Appeal, 61; Simon Kirby, Conservative MP for Brighton Kemptown, economic secretary (HM Treasury), 52; Anthony Laithwaite, founder (1969) and chairman, Direct Wines, 71; Frances Lannon, historian and principal (2002-15) of Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, 71; Harriet Mathews, British ambassador to Somalia, 43; Mike Molloy, writer, editor, Daily Mirror (1975-85), 76; Chris Old, cricketer, England (1972-81), 68; Vanessa Paradis, actress, Café de Flore (2011), and singer, Joe le Taxi (1987), 44; Dick Parry, rock saxophonist, 74; Andrea Quinn, conductor and music director of the Royal Ballet (1998-2001), 52; John Ray, egyptologist, emeritus professor of egyptology, University of Cambridge, 71; Brett Rogers, director, the Photographers’ Gallery, 62; Sir Peregrine Worsthorne, editor, The Sunday Telegraph (1986-89), 93.