Jessica Rawnsley

Global ocean surface temperatures reached a record July average of 20.96°C, surpassing the previous July record set in 2023. Developing El Niño conditions are contributing to unusually warm waters alongside ongoing human-caused global warming. Western Europe also experienced its hottest June–July period on record, with severe heat, drought, low river levels and major wildfires affecting France, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom. The warming oceans are driving sea-level rise, marine heatwaves, coral bleaching and pressure on fisheries, while adding heat and moisture to the atmosphere that can intensify tropical storms. UK authorities warn that continued drought could lead to additional official drought declarations, as once-extreme weather increasingly becomes the region’s new normal.

Massive Attack said they were surprised and disappointed after Singapore authorities detained and questioned members of the band following their display of a Palestinian flag and chants of “Free Palestine” at a 29 July concert. Singapore barred the group from returning and warned Robert Del Naja and Grant Marshall over laws restricting foreign flags and political expression at public events. The band defended the gesture as spontaneous solidarity with Palestinians, while Singaporean authorities said such restrictions protect racial and religious harmony. The incident has prompted debate over artistic freedom, political expression and artists’ responsibilities to obey local laws.

At least five women who accused former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed of abuse have received positive Home Office “conclusive grounds” decisions recognising them as victims of modern slavery. The cases include international and domestic trafficking, including alleged trafficking within Harrods. All four members of the survivor group No One Above reportedly received decisions after referrals by Unseen. The recognition may strengthen witnesses’ credibility in criminal proceedings as the Metropolitan Police expands Operation Cornpoppy to investigate human trafficking and possible enablers; 154 victims have reported allegations so far.

At least five women abused by former Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed have been formally recognised by the UK Home Office as victims of modern slavery through the National Referral Mechanism. The cases include international and domestic trafficking, including alleged exploitation within Harrods, and involve all four members of the survivor group No One Above. The decisions may strengthen the women’s credibility in potential criminal proceedings. Hundreds of women have accused Al Fayed and some have also accused his brother Salah, both of whom are dead. The Metropolitan Police’s Operation Cornpoppy is investigating whether others enabled the alleged crimes; 154 victims have reportedly come forward.

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off southern Mexico, prompting a temporary tsunami warning for Mexico and Guatemala but causing no major damage or fatalities. Authorities in Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador reported moderate shaking, evacuations and minor tsunami waves before warnings were lifted. Aftershocks followed the initial quake, and officials urged residents to stay cautious and follow guidance from emergency agencies.

Lord Blunkett calls for an ethical reset in police leadership following findings of low morale, weak leadership and cultural issues across forces in England and Wales. A forthcoming report co-authored with Lord Herbert for the College of Policing recommends modernising recruitment, development and oversight to restore public confidence. It highlights investigation into multiple senior officers, resource shortages and risk‑averse leadership. Blunkett rejects framing the issue through culture‑war narratives and stresses the need for politically neutral policing, amid wider debate over alleged two‑tier policing raised by Nigel Farage and dismissed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Readers share practical strategies for achieving 30 minutes of daily walking as the NHS prepares a new exercise‑reward scheme. Suggestions include breaking walks into shorter segments, walking instead of taking public transport, using commutes as exercise time, walking with companions or pets, incorporating walking into errands, and using indoor walking pads to overcome barriers like bad weather. Many contributors highlight mental and physical health benefits, as well as reduced loneliness and increased routine.

Readers share strategies for walking 30 minutes daily as the NHS prepares an incentive-based exercise scheme. Contributors describe making walking part of everyday routines, such as splitting time into shorter walks, getting off public transport early, walking with a companion, turning errands into exercise, commuting by foot and using indoor walking pads. Participants highlight benefits including improved physical and mental health, time for reflection and reduced loneliness.