Sunak to strip GPs of right to sign people off sick
PM to tackle ‘culture’ around mental health benefit claims
Rishi Sunak is vowing to end Britain’s “sick-note culture” and says that over-medicalising common anxieties is driving a rise in the number of people off work with mental health problems. GPs face being stripped of the right to issue sick notes, as the prime minister says doctors are too readily...Rishi Sunak is vowing to end Britain’s “sick-note culture” and says that over-medicalising common anxieties is driving a rise in the number of people off work with mental health problems. GPs face being stripped of the right to issue sick notes, as the prime minister says doctors are too readily...Rishi Sunak is vowing to end Britain’s “sick-note culture” and says that over-medicalising common anxieties is driving a rise...
politics
Rayner’s eldest child listed on ‘other’ home’s electoral roll
Angela Rayner is facing fresh questions after her eldest child was listed on the electoral roll at the home where she has insisted she did not live. Public documents, seen by The Times, show Rayner’s son, then in his late teens, living in Stockport with his stepfather rather than with the Labour deputy leader. At the time, in 2014, Rayner...Angela Rayner is facing fresh questions after her eldest child was listed on the electoral roll at the home where she has insisted she did not live. Public documents, seen by The Times, show Rayner’s son, then in his late teens, living in Stockport with his stepfather rather than with the Labour deputy leader. At the time, in 2014, Rayner...Angela Rayner is facing fresh questions after her eldest child was listed on the electoral roll at the home where she has...
political sketch
If you think Truss’s book is deluded, the TV interviews are worse
No scientific instrument has yet been invented with which to calibrate the precise low point of Liz Truss’s still ongoing promotional book tour, but the standout candidate, at this point, must surely be the moment she accused a supermarket lettuce of being “part of what I call the London elite”. It has already been...No scientific instrument has yet been invented with which to calibrate the precise low point of...No scientific instrument has yet been invented with which to calibrate the precise low point of...
Editor's picks
market watch
How to sell your house in a cut-throat spring market
Property owners trying to sell a home worth more than £1.5 million this spring may be inclined to agree with TS Eliot...Property owners trying to sell a home worth more than £1.5 million this spring may be inclined to...Property owners trying to sell a home worth more than £1.5 million this spring may be inclined to...
europa league
Klopp finds fighting finish but Liverpool crash out of Europe
Jürgen Klopp sat on his stool like an exhausted boxer and did not move. It was the closing moments of his last game...Jürgen Klopp sat on his stool like an exhausted boxer and did not move. It was the closing...Jürgen Klopp sat on his stool like an exhausted boxer and did not move. It was the closing...
UK NEWS
Water firms painted as the bad guy, Southern Water director complains
Campaigners have criticised a senior Southern Water executive after he complained that water companies are unfairly being painted with a “bad guy narrative”. George Eykyn, the company’s new corporate affairs director, said the negative portrayal...Campaigners have criticised a senior Southern Water executive after he complained that water...Campaigners have criticised a senior Southern Water executive after he complained that water...
POST OFFICE INQUIRY
Post Office response to IT bugs could seem like cover-up, chief admits
PHOTOGRAPHY
The world’s best pictures: from the American wilderness to Maya beekeepers
The Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition 2024 runs from April 19 to May 6 at Somerset House, London, WC2R 1LA
The Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition 2024 runs from April 19 to May 6 at Somerset House...The Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition 2024 runs from April 19 to May 6 at Somerset House...
MEDIA
BBC faces sex bias claim from presenter off air for a year
The BBC News presenter Martine Croxall is taking the broadcaster to a tribunal amid age and sex discrimination claims...The BBC News presenter Martine Croxall is taking the broadcaster to a tribunal amid age and sex...The BBC News presenter Martine Croxall is taking the broadcaster to a tribunal amid age and sex...
THE TIMES DIARY
London Marathon’s MPs have eyes on the finish line
British politicians stand for their legislature, Americans run. Except on Sunday when a record 18 MPs, 14 of them...British politicians stand for their legislature, Americans run. Except on Sunday when a record 18...British politicians stand for their legislature, Americans run. Except on Sunday when a record 18...
video
royal family
William: I promise I’ll look after Kate
The Prince of Wales promised a well-wisher that he would “take care” of his wife as he undertook his first public engagement since the princess announced her cancer diagnosis. Prince William, 41, helped to deliver groceries and prepare meals at...The Prince of Wales promised a well-wisher that he would “take care” of his wife as he undertook...The Prince of Wales promised a well-wisher that he would “take care” of his wife as he undertook...
Poland arrests suspect in ‘plot to assassinate Zelensky’
A plot to assassinate President Zelensky in Poland has been foiled by the arrest of a spy for Russian military intelligence, the authorities in Warsaw have said. The man, a Polish citizen identified only as Pawel K, had contacted Russia’s intelligence agency, the GRU, and offered to help them...A plot to assassinate President Zelensky in Poland has been foiled by the arrest of a spy for Russian military intelligence, the authorities in Warsaw have said. The man, a Polish citizen identified only as Pawel K, had contacted Russia’s intelligence agency, the GRU, and offered to help them...A plot to assassinate President Zelensky in Poland has been foiled by the arrest of a spy for Russian military intelligence...
‘Russian spies’ accused of plot to bomb military bases in Germany
Two men with German-Russian nationality have been arrested in Bavaria on suspicion of spying for Moscow and plotting acts of sabotage to undermine Berlin’s military support for Ukraine. The German federal prosecutor’s office identified the men only as Dieter S and Alexander J. They were held in the city of Bayreuth on Wednesday, accused of...Two men with German-Russian nationality have been arrested in Bavaria on suspicion of spying for Moscow and plotting acts of sabotage to undermine Berlin’s military support for Ukraine. The German federal prosecutor’s office identified the men only as Dieter S and Alexander J. They were held in the city of Bayreuth on Wednesday, accused of...Two men with German-Russian nationality have been arrested in Bavaria on suspicion of spying for Moscow and plotting acts of...
film
Leonardo DiCaprio is tipped to play Frank Sinatra. Can he sing?
Martin Scorsese is working on a new Frank Sinatra biopic with Leonardo DiCaprio set to play Ol’ Blue Eyes, it has been reported. The 81-year-old director, whose parents — like Sinatra’s — were first-generation Sicilian Americans, has made no secret of his decades-long wish to tell Sinatra’s story. Scorsese is now...Martin Scorsese is working on a new Frank Sinatra biopic with Leonardo DiCaprio set to play Ol’...Martin Scorsese is working on a new Frank Sinatra biopic with Leonardo DiCaprio set to play Ol’...
Can Russia and China cool the Middle East crisis?
As foreign ministers from the world’s leading democracies gather on the Italian island of Capri for a long-scheduled G7 meeting, they face a knotty challenge to their position in the world order. Who among them has influence or leverage over...As foreign ministers from the world’s leading democracies gather on the Italian island of Capri...As foreign ministers from the world’s leading democracies gather on the Italian island of Capri...
US ELECTION
Trump’s jury selected after one member is dismissed for ‘lying’
The 12 members of the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York have been seated, after an earlier setback...The 12 members of the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York have been seated, after...The 12 members of the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York have been seated, after...
Venice is crumbling from the bottom up, warns St Mark’s architect
Venice’s ancient palazzos are in danger of collapsing thanks to rising damp and the rusting of iron rods buried in...Venice’s ancient palazzos are in danger of collapsing thanks to rising damp and the rusting of...Venice’s ancient palazzos are in danger of collapsing thanks to rising damp and the rusting of...
Joe Biden’s tale of war pilot uncle and the cannibals in dispute
newPresident Biden’s claim that his uncle’s body was not recovered during the Second World War because of the risk of cannibals is disputed by the agency responsible for registering those missing in action. During two speeches in Pennsylvania this...President Biden’s claim that his uncle’s body was not recovered during the Second World War...President Biden’s claim that his uncle’s body was not recovered during the Second World War...
video
Indonesian volcano erupts forcing thousands to evacuate
Thousands of people are being evacuated, flights have been cancelled and the authorities have warned of potential tsunamis as an island volcano in eastern Indonesia continues to erupt, sending out fiery lava and clouds of ash miles into the air.Thousands of people are being evacuated, flights have been cancelled and the authorities have...Thousands of people are being evacuated, flights have been cancelled and the authorities have...
US election
gerard baker
In truth, this is the week that parody died
In case you missed it, parody died this week. It had been ailing for some time, steadily enfeebled by the growing...In case you missed it, parody died this week. It had been ailing for some time, steadily...In case you missed it, parody died this week. It had been ailing for some time, steadily...
US ELECTION
Trump’s jury selected after one member is dismissed for ‘lying’
The 12 members of the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York have been seated, after an earlier setback...The 12 members of the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York have been seated, after...The 12 members of the jury for Donald Trump’s criminal trial in New York have been seated, after...
Electric car sales stall in Germany
Take-up falls by 29 per cent
Sales of electric cars have fallen sharply in Germany as concerns mount across the Continent about the take-up of zero-emission vehicles. According to the latest data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, the trade body, sales of electric cars in Germany, Europe’s largest...Sales of electric cars have fallen sharply in Germany as concerns mount across the Continent about the take-up of zero-emission vehicles. According to the latest data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, the trade body, sales of electric cars in Germany, Europe’s largest...Sales of electric cars have fallen sharply in Germany as concerns mount across the Continent about the take-up of zero-emission...
Bernard Arnault adds two more of his children to board at LVMH
Bernard Arnault has tightened his family’s grip on the LVMH luxury goods empire after its shareholders voted to appoint two more of the French billionaire’s five children to the board. Alexandre Arnault, 31, and his younger brother Frédéric, 29, have joined their older siblings Delphine, 49, and Antoine, 46, on the 15-strong board of...Bernard Arnault has tightened his family’s grip on the LVMH luxury goods empire after its shareholders voted to appoint two more of the French billionaire’s five children to the board. Alexandre Arnault, 31, and his younger brother Frédéric, 29, have joined their older siblings Delphine, 49, and Antoine, 46, on the 15-strong board of...Bernard Arnault has tightened his family’s grip on the LVMH luxury goods empire after its shareholders voted to appoint two...
Netflix beats subscriber forecasts by adding 9.3 m new customers
Netflix comfortably beat Wall Street expectations for the second straight quarter on Thursday night as advertising-supported streaming plans helped to bring in 9.3 million new customers, nearly double the number forecast by analysts. The streaming service, which said that 269.9 million households in 190 countries...Netflix comfortably beat Wall Street expectations for the second straight quarter on Thursday...Netflix comfortably beat Wall Street expectations for the second straight quarter on Thursday...
BUSINESS COMMENTARY
Investors should buckle up, flights could get bumpy
Airline stocks including those of IAG and easyJet have failed to regain altitude since they were battered by the...Airline stocks including those of IAG and easyJet have failed to regain altitude since they were...Airline stocks including those of IAG and easyJet have failed to regain altitude since they were...
MARKET REPORT
American dream is proving elusive for Rentokil
For a business whose role in life is to calm nerves and remove nasty pests and irritants, Rentokil wasn’t exactly...For a business whose role in life is to calm nerves and remove nasty pests and irritants...For a business whose role in life is to calm nerves and remove nasty pests and irritants...
After the bid for Hipgnosis, the mike is passed to Merck Mercuriadis
After months of noisy, bitter dispute between Hipgnosis Songs Fund and the company’s investment adviser led by Merck Mercuriadis, the music executive and Hipgnosis founder, it seems finally that there is some harmony in the air. The £1.1 billion...After months of noisy, bitter dispute between Hipgnosis Songs Fund and the company’s investment...After months of noisy, bitter dispute between Hipgnosis Songs Fund and the company’s investment...
Deliveroo reports growing appetite overseas
An increasing appetite for takeaways throughout its international markets drove up Deliveroo’s order numbers in the first quarter. The food delivery group returned to order growth in the three months between January and March...An increasing appetite for takeaways throughout its international markets drove up Deliveroo’s order numbers in the first quarter. The food delivery group returned to order growth in the three months between January and March...An increasing appetite for takeaways throughout its international markets drove up Deliveroo’s order numbers in the...
Home Reit shareholders sue scandal-hit ‘landlord for homeless’
Shareholders in Home Reit are suing the scandal-hit “landlord for the homeless”, which in turn is planning to take its former investment adviser to court. The company has confirmed that it has received a pre-action letter of...Shareholders in Home Reit are suing the scandal-hit “landlord for the homeless”, which in turn is planning to take its former investment adviser to court. The company has confirmed that it has received a pre-action letter of...Shareholders in Home Reit are suing the scandal-hit “landlord for the homeless”, which in turn is planning to take...
need to know
Your three-minute digest
recruitment
Student scholarships give an extra lift on to the career ladder
Gaining a degree is a key marker of success and social mobility, yet the cost of living crisis means that access to university is far from universal. According to statistics from the Student Loans Company, the number of students dropping out of their courses is at the highest level since its figures were first recorded. A record 41,914 undergraduate students quit in the...Gaining a degree is a key marker of success and social mobility, yet the cost of living crisis...Gaining a degree is a key marker of success and social mobility, yet the cost of living crisis...
recruitment: SIX FROM THE BEST
Here are the keys to opening up a world of possibilities
As Diageo’s chief marketing officer, Cristina Diezhandino oversees marketing for some of the world’s best-known...As Diageo’s chief marketing officer, Cristina Diezhandino oversees marketing for some of the world’s best-known brands, including Guinness, Johnnie Walker and Smirnoff. An 18-year veteran of the global drinks business and recently named Inspirational Marketing Leader of the Year, here are her tips for leading with a...As Diageo’s chief marketing officer, Cristina Diezhandino oversees marketing for some of the world’s best-known brands...
football | martin samuel
Cup final should be sacred – but FA too weak to resist Premier League
Why? Well, the cynical will presume they know why, and may well be right. To the rest of us, however, the decision to no longer close the domestic season with the FA Cup final is just the latest in a series of wantonly destructive moves. It tramples on traditions, and our memories of sun-baked...Why? Well, the cynical will presume they know why, and may well be right. To the rest of us, however, the decision to no longer close the domestic season with the FA Cup final is just the latest in a series of wantonly destructive moves. It tramples on traditions, and our memories of sun-baked...Why? Well, the cynical will presume they know why, and may well be right. To the rest of us, however, the decision to no longer...
football
United look at Real and Barcelona projects as blueprints for Old Trafford
Manchester United are conducting detailed analysis of the stadium projects at Real Madrid and Barcelona, knowing that redeveloping the existing Old Trafford site could be as much as £1 billion cheaper than building a new ground. With few if any options to relocate during the building of a new ground — Tottenham Hotspur, for instance, spent...Manchester United are conducting detailed analysis of the stadium projects at Real Madrid and Barcelona, knowing that redeveloping the existing Old Trafford site could be as much as £1 billion cheaper than building a new ground. With few if any options to relocate during the building of a new ground — Tottenham Hotspur, for instance, spent...Manchester United are conducting detailed analysis of the stadium projects at Real Madrid and Barcelona, knowing that...
olympics
How red wine fuelled 1924 Olympic marathon runners
Isotonic drinks and glucose gels will be the usual mid-race fare for marathon competitors at the Paris Olympics this summer, but the standard refreshment for runners at the Games 100 years ago was somewhat different — large glasses of red wine. The film of the 1924 Olympics in the French capital — the Games that was...Isotonic drinks and glucose gels will be the usual mid-race fare for marathon competitors at the...Isotonic drinks and glucose gels will be the usual mid-race fare for marathon competitors at the...
Europa Conference League
Two yellows, two penalty saves: Martínez is controversial shoot-out hero
mike atherton | brian lara interview
‘I couldn’t sleep before breaking record – so I played nine holes at 5am’
fA Cup
‘I’m smiling as I head it’ – Houchen relives iconic FA Cup goal
Coventry City are back at Wembley in the FA Cup 37 years after winning one of the competition’s most memorable finals. Coached by joint-managers John Sillett and George Curtis, Coventry pulled off a remarkable 3-2 victory after extra time to...Coventry City are back at Wembley in the FA Cup 37 years after winning one of the competition’s...Coventry City are back at Wembley in the FA Cup 37 years after winning one of the competition’s...
rugby union | stuart barnes
Why Bristol are more likely to win the Premiership than Leicester
Northampton Saints will qualify for the Gallagher Premiership play-offs. Gloucester and Newcastle Falcons will not.Northampton Saints will qualify for the Gallagher Premiership play-offs. Gloucester and Newcastle...Northampton Saints will qualify for the Gallagher Premiership play-offs. Gloucester and Newcastle...
Champions League | Paul Hirst
Real copy Arsenal playbook to give Guardiola new problem to solve
The most deified members of Real Madrid’s history tend to be their flair players, the ones whose artistry in and...The most deified members of Real Madrid’s history tend to be their flair players, the ones whose...The most deified members of Real Madrid’s history tend to be their flair players, the ones whose...
olympics
Sleek, modern and no ‘hoo haas’ – shame about Daley’s trunks
We’ve seen much kit controversy this year already — yes, I’m referring to the recent unveiling of that terrible mauve Euros away shirt. And as heads turn towards what athletes will wear at this summer’s Olympic Games, so far colour has been the least of everyone’s — well, Team USA’s — problems. In Paris last week, the unveiling of a high-legged, near crotchless leotard...We’ve seen much kit controversy this year already — yes, I’m referring to the recent unveiling of...We’ve seen much kit controversy this year already — yes, I’m referring to the recent unveiling of...
olympics
UK Sport to cut 25% of its staff amid financial pressure
exclusiveUK Sport, the government agency that provides funding for the British Olympic and Paralympic programme, will have to...UK Sport, the government agency that provides funding for the British Olympic and Paralympic programme, will have to cut 25 per cent of staff jobs and 50 per cent of its directors by July. In a statement to National Governing Bodies on Wednesday afternoon, the chief executive Sally Munday cited “unprecedented...UK Sport, the government agency that provides funding for the British Olympic and Paralympic programme, will have to cut 25 per...
champions league | owen slot
Chokers Arsenal have an end-of-season virus? It’s not that simple
In a game of small margins Arsenal are left staring back at those inches that they gave away in the 63rd minute. Why...In a game of small margins Arsenal are left staring back at those inches that they gave away in...In a game of small margins Arsenal are left staring back at those inches that they gave away in...
formula 1
‘They want to spice things up’ – why Verstappen is unhappy at China sprint
For the other nine Formula 1 teams there is a recurring question going into every race: how can Max Verstappen be...For the other nine Formula 1 teams there is a recurring question going into every race: how can...For the other nine Formula 1 teams there is a recurring question going into every race: how can...
Gallagher Premiership | Matt Cotton
Bath in a panic, Saracens eye redemption – and can Falcons end 526-day rut?
Saracens v Gloucester
3pm
After a two-week European holiday, the Gallagher Premiership is back and it means business. Only five points separate third from eighth with four rounds left to play, but eight must go into four as far as the play-offs are concerned. We start at the home of the champions. Saracens will be happy to get back to the StoneX Stadium off the back...Saracens v Gloucester
3pm
After a two-week European holiday, the Gallagher Premiership is back...Saracens v Gloucester
3pm
After a two-week European holiday, the Gallagher Premiership is back...
Women’s six nations | the ruck podcast
Youngs helps coach England women – but ‘not as PR stunt’
Ben Youngs followed Jamie George’s example and volunteered his time to help England’s women this week, with the head...Ben Youngs followed Jamie George’s example and volunteered his time to help England’s women this week, with the head coach John Mitchell ridiculing suggestions these are PR stunts. Youngs took time out of his preparations for Leicester Tigers’ vital East Midlands derby with Northampton Saints on Saturday to help...Ben Youngs followed Jamie George’s example and volunteered his time to help England’s women this week, with the head coach John...
rugby union | alex lowe
Former England lock and lineout ‘nerd’ Parling joins Australia as coach
Bill edgar’s premier league quiz
Who are the only team to beat Pep before semi-finals in FA Cup?
MUSIC
Taylor Swift has a new album? Good for her, but I won’t be listening
There are reporters dedicated to the the singer’s beat and she has been compared to Keats — her music still isn’t for me
Caitlin Moran’s celebrity watch
Call the Celebrity UN! Sharon Osbourne has declared war on Amanda Holden
The phrase ‘handbags at dawn’ is sexist and demeaning — unless we’re talking two wealthy dames going hammer-and-tongs in defence of Simon Cowell’s honour
video
tv review
The Apprentice final — was this Lord Sugar’s worst ever joke?
Alan Sugar was like a stern headmaster who has let his hair down, delivering a proper stinker
the arts column
Seven UK sites want Unesco world heritage status — which deserve it?
From an Iron Age settlement in Shetland to a bird migratory route, these cultural treasures are invaluable
VISUAL ART
Barmy, bizarre, beautiful — eight things I learnt at the Venice Biennale
What did our chief critic Laura Freeman make of her first time at the art world’s great biennial beano?
Film reviews
video
film review
Johnny Depp is terrifying, but Maïwenn is the star in Jeanne du Barry
The French director’s story about Louis XV and his mistress Jeanne Bécu is a powerful blast of autofiction
video
FILM REVIEW
Sean Penn dazzles in Black Flies, but there is too much going on
Despite the director Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire throwing everything at the screen, the star is frequently sublime in a brutal and unrelenting film
classic film of the week
The Fortune (1975) — Stockard Channing outshines Jack Nicholson
Nicholson never speaks about this screwball comedy, but the Grease star is on great form
First night reviews
FIRST NIGHT | visual art
‘One painting is worth the flight alone’ — Willem de Kooning in Venice
“Look at that!” Willem de Kooning used to say, walking round the streets of Rome. His friend the Italian artist Afro would laugh and say back: “You look at that!” De Kooning came, he looked, he conquered. This spare, elegant...“Look at that!” Willem de Kooning used to say, walking round the streets of Rome. His friend the...“Look at that!” Willem de Kooning used to say, walking round the streets of Rome. His friend the...
first night | theatre
The leads of The Ballad of Hattie and James save this confusing show
FIRST NIGHT | THEATRE
Muriel Spark’s The Girls of Slender Means gets a handsome, haunting adaptation
FIRST NIGHT | COMEDY
Tommy Tiernan — veering from vulgar to dreamlike
What to watch: your TV and streaming guide
Viewing GUide
What’s on TV and radio tonight
Television
5 of the best … rock music documentaries
MINDGAMES
Word Watch
MindGames
The Times Daily Quiz
The big question
Should there be a tax on meat?
MUSIC REVIEWS
The best new music to listen to this week
In case you missed it
FIRST PERSON
Why I decided to stop smacking my children
Doctors called on the government this week to make it illegal for parents to smack their children. It is banned in...Doctors called on the government this week to make it illegal for parents to smack their children.Doctors called on the government this week to make it illegal for parents to smack their children.
Deborah Ross
Come on, smoking was fun, remember? I do — I started aged 12
Cigarettes, I have decided to talk to you directly today, and be open about the relationship we had for many years...Cigarettes, I have decided to talk to you directly today, and be open about the relationship we...Cigarettes, I have decided to talk to you directly today, and be open about the relationship we...
motoring
The SUV that comes with its own scatter cushions
With the Burford, Range Rover has created a car worthy of the most glamorous village in England
fashion
A first look at the glamorous new Dolce & Gabbana exhibition in Milan
From corsets and crystal-encrusted silk coats, Peter Howarth is given the grand tour
Beauty
Spring’s most seductive new scents
It’s not just about florals this season. The latest fragrances are sexy too
video
drinks
How to make the perfect martini, according to the Connaught
How can something so simple give so much pleasure? The martini is, on paper, one of the most straightforward drinks in the world: a combination of two (sometimes three) liquids mixed with ice and served with the minimum of garnishes. Yet such is...How can something so simple give so much pleasure? The martini is, on paper, one of the most...How can something so simple give so much pleasure? The martini is, on paper, one of the most...
germany
The romantic German region with a hidden art history
A new exhibition at London’s Tate Modern celebrates the work of avant-garde artists — here’s where to see their art at home in Munich and rural Bavaria
UK
The perfect weekend: a new National Trust cottage and an underrated county
A converted stables next to a medieval manor in rural Herefordshire delivers lamb-spotting walks, historic visits and cider tastings — and some unexpected pedestrians
australia
My eye-opening stay at South Australia’s coolest island hideaway
A tiny wilderness cabin on Kangaroo Island kicks off our writer’s tour of the region’s nature, empty beaches and a deeper understanding of Aboriginal history and culture
video
UK
My exhilarating trip on the world’s fastest zip line — in north Wales
Our writer discovers why this corner near Conwy is fast becoming a centre for adrenaline-seekers of all ages
uk
Seven of the UK’s best secret beaches
These under-the-radar spots in Cornwall, Anglesey, the Highlands and more are big on head space and low on tourists
thailand
Thailand’s incredible nature reserve — where a trip costs just £7
Outside my tent it’s like Jurassic Park. The thundering footsteps of what must be some primordial giant make...Outside my tent it’s like Jurassic Park. The thundering footsteps of what must be some...Outside my tent it’s like Jurassic Park. The thundering footsteps of what must be some...
Comment
Overtourism in the Canaries is our fault — we have no imagination
I was 36 years old when I went to Tenerife for the first time. I’d spent three decades avoiding it, having gobbled up...I was 36 years old when I went to Tenerife for the first time. I’d spent three decades avoiding...I was 36 years old when I went to Tenerife for the first time. I’d spent three decades avoiding...
TRAVEL ADVICE
Is it safe to travel to the Middle East right now?
video
UK
The secret to finding affordable hotels in London
If you want to find a budget beautiful hotel in London for under £200, then look beyond zone one. Travel writer Emma Cooke takes us to three of her favourites — find the full list here. Sign up for our Times Travel newsletter and follow us...If you want to find a budget beautiful hotel in London for under £200, then look beyond zone one.If you want to find a budget beautiful hotel in London for under £200, then look beyond zone one.
Weather Eye
The downpour that did for Byron
Announcements
Births, marriages and deaths
From the archive
Raging against the blight of feminist teachers
Court Circular
April 18, 2024
Printable Puzzles
MindGames and Brain Boost puzzles to print and solve at your leisure
market watch
How to sell your house in a cut-throat spring market
Plus, check how easy it is to sell in your postcode with our tracker
improve
‘Our decor was inspired by the Hammersmith & City Line’
Leisure centres, hospital floors and even the Tube all influenced the refresh of a Tottenham home
home of the week
An avant-garde 1930s home with an avocado bath is on sale for £2.2m
Described as ‘fort-like’, this six-bedroom house is an example of the International Modern architectural style
INTERIORS
David Lynch, rude rugs and wearable storage: welcome to Milan Design Week
Fun and opulence were everywhere this year, from Ikea’s range for first-time buyers to ultra-luxe wallpaper
RENTAL market
Beware the lettings fee trap
Long-term contracts with management agencies can land both landlords and tenants with big bills if their circumstances change
OVERSEAS
Where to buy property in Nice
For those after a year-round pied-à-terre, with more sun than Paris or Bordeaux, Nice is hard to beat. After buying an apartment there during the pandemic, Clare Williams Fannin and her husband Stephen have enjoyed their first Nice Carnival, the...For those after a year-round pied-à-terre, with more sun than Paris or Bordeaux, Nice is hard to...For those after a year-round pied-à-terre, with more sun than Paris or Bordeaux, Nice is hard to...
Sturgeon’s husband charged with embezzlement
Nicola Sturgeon’s husband has been charged with embezzlement following a nine-hour interview by detectives investigating SNP finances. Peter Murrell, the party’s former chief executive, was rearrested and questioned at Falkirk police station by detectives as part of the Operation Branchform...Nicola Sturgeon’s husband has been charged with embezzlement following a nine-hour interview by detectives investigating SNP finances. Peter Murrell, the party’s former chief executive, was rearrested and questioned at Falkirk police station by detectives as part of the Operation Branchform...Nicola Sturgeon’s husband has been charged with embezzlement following a nine-hour interview by detectives investigating SNP...
GPs warn over cuts to NHS care as fees to run surgeries soar
Patient services will be cut as bills for running GP surgeries rise by as much as 600 per cent, family doctors have warned. Some clinicians in NHS Lothian have said they may give up their practices because charges imposed by the health board could plunge them into the red. Thousands of appointment slots would have to be cut to cover the...Patient services will be cut as bills for running GP surgeries rise by as much as 600 per cent, family doctors have warned. Some clinicians in NHS Lothian have said they may give up their practices because charges imposed by the health board could plunge them into the red. Thousands of appointment slots would have to be cut to cover the...Patient services will be cut as bills for running GP surgeries rise by as much as 600 per cent, family doctors have warned.
uk news
Puberty blockers halted for children in Scotland after Cass review
SNP ministers have been accused of “political face-saving” after their decision to pause puberty blockers for children in Scotland was not made public for a month. The prescribing of hormone-suppressing or gender-affirming treatment for under-18s at Scotland’s only gender identity clinic for children, the Sandyford...SNP ministers have been accused of “political face-saving” after their decision to pause puberty...SNP ministers have been accused of “political face-saving” after their decision to pause puberty...
FOOTBALL
Dundee fined £186k following five postponements in six months
Dundee have been hammered with a £186,000 punishment from the SPFL after their inadequate Dens Park pitch caused five...Dundee have been hammered with a £186,000 punishment from the SPFL after their inadequate Dens...Dundee have been hammered with a £186,000 punishment from the SPFL after their inadequate Dens...
Suspended Labour candidate investigated by trade union employer
A Labour candidate who was suspended over “racist” online posts is now being investigated by her trade union employer...A Labour candidate who was suspended over “racist” online posts is now being investigated by her...A Labour candidate who was suspended over “racist” online posts is now being investigated by her...
alex massie | holyrood sketch
Don’t worry about scrapping of climate target. It was merely a ‘stretch goal’
travel
They’re treehouses all right, but not like any I used to build
The badger moon hung low in the sky as we pulled away from Glasgow and pointed our wheels east. Its orange glow would guide us through the first snowfall of the season, and towards a woodland hideout that somehow managed to be both within easy...The badger moon hung low in the sky as we pulled away from Glasgow and pointed our wheels east.The badger moon hung low in the sky as we pulled away from Glasgow and pointed our wheels east.
FERGUS EWING | COMMENT
It’s not green to axe our forestry industry
SCOTTISH BUSINESS DIGEST
Royal Bank of Scotland to close 1 in 5 branches: 5 need-to-know business stories
outside
Spot wildlife on this historic walk from Kelso to Roxburgh Castle
This walk follows the River Teviot, one of the main tributaries of the Tweed, to reach a magnificent disused 14-arch viaduct by the peaceful village of Roxburgh, passing the site of a once important Border stronghold on the way. From Kelso Abbey...This walk follows the River Teviot, one of the main tributaries of the Tweed, to reach a...This walk follows the River Teviot, one of the main tributaries of the Tweed, to reach a...
Comment
Can Labour turn tide on battered English coast?
Patrick Maguire
Seaside towns have long struggled for economic purpose but they are the missing link in Keir Starmer’s growth plan
gerard baker
In truth, this is the week that parody died
emma duncan
Birbalsingh is right – make schools secular
martin samuel | notebook
I love the Olympics but is it all Greek to Parisians?
peter wanless
A smartphone ban would let tech firms off the hook
Leading Articles
Bear Hug
Georgia, supposedly an aspiring member of the EU, is slipping towards authoritarian rule, and with it the possibility of reabsorption into Russia’s sphere of influence
Undue Influence
The growing reach of the Chinese government in UK universities must be resisted
Confected Outrage
Nestlé was right to oppose the demands of activists who scoff at unhealthy treats
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
U-turn over Russian athletes at Olympics
Sir, Matthew Syed has shone a brilliant light on the government’s decision to support the inclusion of Russian athletes at the Olympic Games, and I agree with every word of his piece (“Why silence over insulting U-turn?”, sport, Apr 18). We...Sir, Matthew Syed has shone a brilliant light on the government’s decision to support the...Sir, Matthew Syed has shone a brilliant light on the government’s decision to support the...
Daily Universal Register
Briefing
UK: The Sutton Trust, an education charity, publishes a survey showing a sharp increase in school leaders reporting spending cuts, with three quarters of primary school heads saying they have had to reduce the number of teaching assistants this year; the House of Commons public accounts committee releases its report on the government’s work to manage risk from extreme weather events.
US: The singer-songwriter Taylor Swift releases a new album, The Tortured Poets Department; the Nato-Ukraine Council to discuss Ukraine’s request for supplies of air defence systems and ammunition. President Zelensky and Nato defence ministers will attend.
On this day
In 1927 the actress Mae West was convicted of obscenity for writing (as Jane Mast), producing and directing the Broadway play Sex. She was released from her ten-day sentence early, “the first time I ever got anything for good behaviour”. Negative reviews (“crude and inept play”) did not deter 325,000 people from attending the show; in 1956 Prince Rainier III of Monaco married the actress Grace Kelly. The religious ceremony followed the required civil ceremony the previous day; in 1971 the Soviet Union launched Salyut I, the first space station; in 1994 Rodney King was awarded $3.8 million damages in a civil lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles. The 1992 acquittal of four police officers accused of violating his civil rights (captured on video beating him during an arrest in 1991) provoked race riots; in 2009 the British writer JG Ballard died aged 78. His novels included Crash, High Rise and Empire of the Sun.
Nature notes
When did it begin, this deep and bitter prejudice against dandelions? Some gardeners experience a wave of irritation when they see these little sun flowers daring to bloom on their perfect lawns. Toxic weed killers, constant mowing, fertilisers, specially designed grab tools and even mini flame throwers are used to prevent them from growing. Yet dandelions are strikingly beautiful, and bring life to countless pollinators, birds and mammals. Attitudes are slowly changing though. A decade ago, typing “dandelions” into a web browser would have brought pages listing endless ways to eradicate them; now the same search yields the Royal Horticultural Society advising us that welcoming these flowers into our gardens is a great way to boost local biodiversity. Jonathan Tulloch
Jonathan Tulloch
Birthdays today
Mukesh Ambani, chairman and managing director, Reliance Industries, 67; Dame Geraldine Andrews, lady justice of appeal, 65; Sue Barker, tennis player, broadcaster, A Question of Sport (1997-2021), 68; Dickie Bird, cricket umpire, 66 Tests (1973-96), 91; Baroness (Jane) Campbell of Surbiton, disability rights campaigner, commissioner, Equality and Human Rights Commission (2006-09), 65; Dame Julia Cleverdon, social justice campaigner, chairwoman, National Literacy Trust (2014-22), 74; Tim Curry, actor, The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975), 78; James Franco, actor, 127 Hours (2010), and director, 46; Sonia Friedman, theatre producer, producer of the year, Stage awards (2015-17, 2019), 59; Larry Gagosian, owner, Gagosian Gallery chain of art galleries, 79; Prof Dame Anne Glover, biologist, president, Royal Scottish Geographical Society, 68; Lady Pamela Hicks (née Mountbatten), bridesmaid and lady-in-waiting to Elizabeth II, 95; Dame Kelly Holmes, middle-distance athlete, double Olympic gold medallist (2004), 54; Kate Hudson, actress, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003), Bride Wars (2009), 45; Friedrich Joussen, chief executive, TUI Group (2013-22), 61; Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine’s minister of foreign affairs, 43; Gina Miller, entrepreneur who won a High Court case over the government’s handling of Brexit, 59; Prof Hugh Pennington, bacteriologist, chairman of inquiries into E. coli outbreaks in Scotland (1996) and south Wales (2005), 86; Paloma Picasso, fashion and jewellery designer, 75; Maria Sharapova, pictured, tennis player, five-time grand-slam singles champion, 37; Beth Shriever, BMX racer, Olympic gold medallist (2020) and world champion (2021, 2023), 25; Ruby Wax, actress and comedian, 71.