Singer Bonnie Tyler in induced coma following emergency surgery
Today’s briefing covers the health of singer Bonnie Tyler, upcoming local elections in Makerfield, and a warning from the Unison union about rising workplace abuse.
Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler is currently in an induced coma in Portugal after undergoing emergency intestinal surgery. Her representatives stated that she remains "very unwell" and expressed regret for the disruption to her summer tour dates. Tyler is widely known for her 1983 hit song "Total Eclipse of the Heart."
In political news, voters in the Makerfield constituency will head to the polls this Thursday for a by-election. A total of 14 candidates are competing to become the area's next Member of Parliament (MP).
The public service union Unison has issued a warning that abuse and assaults are becoming an "accepted part of the job" for many employees. Delegates at a union conference highlighted that workers in schools and the early years sector are facing increasing levels of violence and verbal mistreatment while at work.
In legal developments, 31-year-old Charlie Jeans has pleaded guilty to the murder of Samantha Murphy in Southsea. Murphy, a 32-year-old mother of three, was described by her family as a devoted mother who brought light to her siblings. Meanwhile, a trial in Southampton is examining the death of 25-year-old Tia Langdon, who died after falling from a balcony. The court is hearing evidence regarding whether Langdon felt frightened or trapped before the incident.
Internal debates are also surfacing within the Labour Party. Reports indicate tension over a potential plan by MP Lauren Edwards to reintroduce a bill regarding assisted suicide. There are also reports of internal briefings regarding potential future cabinet roles, including the position of Chancellor. Separately, campaigners and some MPs are calling on the government to withdraw the ban on the group Palestine Action following a Court of Appeal decision to uphold the current restrictions.
To learn more about these stories and others, please visit the News section of the app. Other reports include a look at the mixed evidence regarding social media's impact on teenage mental health and a homecoming performance by musician Myles Smith in Luton.