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The Impact of Brexit and Covid-19 on Babcock's Profits Babcock International, one of the UK's biggest defence contractors, has reported a 19% fall in underlying operating profits to £293.3m. The company's annual profits plunged due to a £140m charge on its contract to build five Type 31 frigates for the Royal Navy. Royal Navy Contract Losses The company cited Brexit and Covid-19 as factors contributing to the losses, stating that the contract had "limited protection from macroeconomic changes" related to these issues. Babcock also mentioned that raw material prices and UK labour shortages had significantly increased costs. Financial Impact 19% fall in underlying operating profits to £293.3m £140m charge on the Royal Navy contract 10% increase in estimated production hours would increase losses by £29m 6-month delay to production schedule would increase losses by £15m 10% increase in average labour rate would increase losses by £34m Future Outlook Despite the losses, Babcock's chief executive, David Lockwood, stated that the company had delivered "continued strategic and operational progress" and secured important contract wins. The company has £9.8bn in forward contracts and is well-positioned to benefit from long-term demand in defence and nuclear markets.

The Lead Alan Berliner has created a unique documentary tribute to filmmaker Benita Raphan, who took her own life in 2021. The film, titled 'Benita,' is a blend of Raphan's unfinished work and Berliner's own creative vision, offering an intimate portrait of a complex and creative woman. The Event Details Berliner, known for his documentaries like 'Intimate Stranger' and 'First Cousin Once Removed,' has crafted a film that not only completes Raphan's unfinished project but also creates something entirely new. The documentary features graphics, footage, and imagery made by Raphan herself, making it a distinctive collaboration posthumously. The Data Analysis No specific data or financial details are provided in the article. The Impact Analysis The film 'Benita' is a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and the impact one person can have on others through their work. It sheds light on Raphan's life, her struggles with depression and anxiety, and her passion for her projects, particularly her work on canine cognition that was influenced by the isolation of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Prediction The documentary 'Benita' is set to be screened at Bertha DocHouse in London from June 24, 2026. It is expected to resonate with audiences interested in experimental documentaries and the life and work of Benita Raphan, providing a thoughtful reflection on creativity, mental health, and the legacy of an underrecognized filmmaker.

The Return of Screwworm: A 60-Year Milestone The New World screwworm, a parasitic fly known for its flesh-eating larvae, has been detected in a calf in Texas, marking the first case in the United States in 60 years. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the finding on Wednesday, sparking concerns about the potential impact on the livestock industry and the economy. Understanding the Screwworm Threat Screwworm, scientifically known as Cochliomyia hominivorax, is a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including cattle and humans. The parasite was declared eradicated in the US in 1966 following a massive release of sterile flies. However, it has reappeared in several countries in Central and South America, including Mexico, where cases have been rising. Economic Impact and Livestock Industry Concerns The reintroduction of screwworm into the US could have significant economic implications, particularly for the livestock industry. An outbreak could lead to $1.8 billion in losses for the Texas economy, according to USDA predictions. The parasite could also cause increased beef prices due to shortages in cattle supply and diminished slaughter rates. Symptoms, Treatment, and Control Measures Screwworm infestations cause painful, progressive wounds with open, foul-smelling sores and visible maggots. Treatment involves manual removal of larvae, disinfection of wounds, and antibiotics to control secondary infections. Authorities have established a quarantine zone around the affected farm and are working to eliminate the larvae and prevent further spread. The Future Outlook: Challenges and Precautions The reappearance of screwworm in the US highlights the challenges in controlling and eradicating the parasite. Factors such as disruptions to sterile-fly programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, increased movement of livestock and people, and favorable weather conditions have contributed to its resurgence. The incident underscores the need for vigilance, cooperation between authorities, and effective control measures to prevent further spread and mitigate economic impacts.

The Start of the Comrades Marathon The Comrades marathon, one of the most iconic ultramarathons in the world, kicked off early in the morning with thousands of runners gathered at the starting line in Durban, South Africa. The event, which is the world's oldest and largest ultramarathon, has a rich history dating back to 1921. A Brief History of the Comrades Marathon The first Comrades marathon took place in 1921, with 34 runners, all white men, lining up for the race. The event was conceived by Vic Clapham, a World War I veteran, as a way to honor his fallen comrades. Over the years, the marathon has evolved to become one of the most popular and inclusive sporting events in South Africa. The Event Details The Comrades marathon is a 55-mile (88km) ultramarathon that takes runners from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, or vice versa, every year. The route distance has averaged just under 55 miles over its 99 iterations. The event has paused only twice, during World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Impact Analysis The Comrades marathon has become an integral part of South African life, bringing people together across different racial and socio-economic backgrounds. The event has evolved from an all-white, all-male test of physical endurance to a diverse and inclusive celebration of human endurance. The Prediction As the Comrades marathon continues to grow in popularity, it is likely to remain an iconic symbol of South African sporting culture. With over 20,000 runners participating, the event is expected to continue to attract athletes and spectators from around the world.

The Evolution of Italia Conti Stage School Italia Conti, a renowned stage school, has marked a significant milestone - its 115th anniversary. Founded in 1911 by English actor Italia Conti, the school has been a launching pad for many successful careers in the performing arts. The school's early days were marked by a focus on elocution, acting, singing, fencing, and dance. However, over the years, the school has undergone significant changes to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry. Adapting to Industry Changes The school has introduced new courses in commercial dance, aerial circus skills, and social media presence to prepare students for the modern entertainment industry. The financial strain of Covid-19 forced the closure of the junior school for ages 11-16 in 2021, but the school is exploring ways to revive it. The closure of other stage schools, such as Redroofs theatre school and Barbara Speake stage school, highlights the challenges faced by these institutions. The Impact of Changing Times The school's CEO, Hayley Newton-Jarvis, notes that the mental health of students is a significant concern, with increased anxiety and pressure to cope with part-time jobs and studies. The school has responded by introducing measures such as a food bank and a focus on building resilience in students. The manner of teaching has also changed, with a shift away from traditional methods that involved criticism and deconstruction. A New Era for Italia Conti Italia Conti has consolidated its previous three sites into one state-of-the-art building in Woking, featuring recording studios, a wellness suite, and a wardrobe department. The school now takes students from 16 for dance and musical theatre courses, and 18 for acting. Alumni, including Claire Sweeney, emphasize the importance of stage schools in providing a supportive environment for students to hone their skills and build a sustainable career in the performing arts. The Future of Performing Arts Education As the performing arts industry continues to evolve, Italia Conti's 115th anniversary marks a significant moment in its history. The school's commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and student well-being sets a new standard for performing arts education. With a focus on building resilience and providing students with the skills to succeed, Italia Conti is poised to continue nurturing the next generation of performers and entertainers.

The Performance Seated at a circular table covered in a mound of dried peat, writer and performer Luke Casserly might be presiding over an arcane ritual. When he holds a handful of peat in his hand and passes it to the small audience around the table, the initial air of solemnity dissolves into quizzical laughter. A Multisensory Experience A soundscape of birdsong and wind evokes the ancient landscape of bogs in the Irish midlands, where Casserly grew up. Part essay, part dialogue, this playful, participatory performance involves touch, sound, taste – and especially the smells of soil, moss and peat smoke, later presented as a perfume created by olfactory artist Joan Woods; a message in a bottle. The Artistic Collaboration A co-production between the Abbey theatre and Solas Nua in Washington DC, it has toured widely in the US and Canada since its first outing in 2023, reflecting a current artistic focus on Ireland’s 10,000-year-old bogs. The Cultural Significance Returning to live in County Longford during the Covid-19 pandemic, Casserly walked the bogs, seeing them in a new light, he tells us, as their traditional centrality to the community was about to change. No longer industrially harvested for turf and to fuel electric power stations, the Irish bogs are being restored as a protected, bio-diverse habitat capturing carbon from the atmosphere – and in some cases, being replaced by wind farms. The Emotional Impact In a re-imagined conversation with his father who was employed in peat harvesting, Casserly asks what is lost, culturally and emotionally, in this huge transition. Its immediate impact, he suggests, is a kind of grief. Throughout its 50-minute duration, this inventive, deceptively simple performance lightly holds a balance between an ecological meditation and an inquiry into cultural memory. The Tour Schedule Touring until 11 September. Cork Midsummer festival ends 21 June

The Shift in London's Air Quality Strategy Low emission zones have historically faced significant political and public resistance, often criticized for their economic impact. However, a new study conducted by researchers at Imperial College London offers compelling evidence that these environmental policies are delivering tangible health dividends. The research analyzed health records to determine if the introduction of the T-charge and the subsequent Ultra-Low Emission Zone (Ulez) in central London correlated with a reduction in hospital admissions. The Mechanics of the Policy Transition The study focused on the timeline of London's clean air initiatives. The T-charge, an additional congestion charge for older, polluting vehicles, was introduced in 2017. This was a precursor to the more comprehensive central London Ulez, which launched in 2019. Dr. Rosemary Chamberlain, the lead researcher, emphasized the importance of isolating the effect of these schemes from other variables. Quantifying the Health Impact The data reveals a distinct shift in hospital admission trends following the implementation of these zones. Before the schemes, emergency admissions in central London were increasing at a rate of 3% per year. Following the launch of the T-charge and Ulez, this trend reversed, with emergency admissions decreasing by 3% per year. Heart Conditions: An 8% reduction in emergency admissions for heart problems was observed. Respiratory Issues: A 6% reduction in emergency admissions for breathing problems was recorded. Redefining Urban Policy and Public Health The researchers controlled for other potential factors, such as changes in healthcare-seeking behavior and the broader impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, to ensure the findings were attributable specifically to the emission reduction initiatives. While respiratory outcomes showed a downward trend, it did not reach statistical significance in this specific adult-only analysis, though the researchers noted that children are more susceptible to these effects. A Blueprint for Future Cities The study provides a strong argument for the adoption of clean air zones globally. Dr. Daniela Fecht highlighted that while factors like increased cycling and reduced traffic noise may contribute, the primary driver of these health improvements is the reduction in air pollution. This research suggests that the economic and social costs of implementing low-emission zones are outweighed by the significant public health benefits, potentially setting a new standard for urban environmental policy.

The World Bank's Economic Warning The conflict in the Middle East is set to bring global economic growth to its slowest since the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Bank has warned. In its latest Global Economic Prospects report, published on Thursday, the Washington-based institution cut its global growth forecast for 2026 to 2.5 percent from the 2.9 percent it had predicted in January, citing surging energy prices, rising inflation and higher borrowing costs. Global Economic Impact The report highlights the significant economic costs of the conflict, which is at risk of flaring up again, as the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran is tested on both sides. The analysis warns that the outlook could decline further if supply disruptions worsen. Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz – a vital passageway for oil and gas transit – in response to the hostilities launched by the US and Israel has put huge stress upon global energy and other supply chains. Economic Forecasts The World Bank estimates that Brent crude prices — the international oil benchmark — will average $94 a barrel this year, 36 percent above last year’s average. Fertiliser prices are forecast to increase significantly this year, with knock-on effects for food prices. Overall, the closure of the strategic waterway will help to push global inflation to 4 percent this year, a substantial increase from last year’s rate of 3.3 percent. However, the World Bank cautions that global growth could plummet to as low as 1.3 percent this year, should energy supply disruptions worsen, with inflation pushing to 4.4 percent. Developing Countries' Impact The World Bank report also cautions that developing countries are on the front line of the potential impact. In its report, the institution has downgraded its growth forecasts for two-thirds of countries since January. Global growth is expected to improve to 2.8 percent in 2027, but will remain 0.4 percentage points below the average during the 2010s, during which the world economy was recovering from the global financial crisis. World Bank's Response “Developing countries have faced a series of challenges over the last decade,” said Ajay Banga, president of the World Bank Group. “The impact differs by country, but the basic test is the same: protect people and preserve stability today, without giving up on growth and jobs tomorrow.” The World Bank is pledging to assist any developing country experiencing the economic fallout of the Middle East conflict. The organisation says it has set aside up to $60bn to help. It added that if the conflict persists, it can increase its support to $100bn.

The Struggle to Find Employment Thomas, a 24-year-old from Warrington, is one of 82,000 16- to 24-year-olds in England who have been unemployed for over a year. Despite applying for around 2,000 jobs, he has had no luck. His daily routine consists of walking his dog and buying frozen meals at Iceland, a humiliating experience he says is a far cry from the life he once knew. The Impact of COVID-19 on Youth Employment Thomas's situation worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted his plans to attend university and led to the cancellation of his driving lessons. These setbacks have had long-lasting effects, making it even harder for him to secure employment. The Data: A Growing Crisis The UK is facing a growing crisis of young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET). According to a report by Alan Milburn, around 1 million 16- to 24-year-olds are NEET, a figure that could rise to 1.25 million by the early 2030s without urgent government action. The Human Cost of Unemployment The unemployment crisis is taking a significant toll on young people's mental health and social lives. Thomas, like many others, has had to compromise on his diet and social activities due to financial constraints. His frustration and despair are palpable as he struggles to find a way out of this vicious cycle. The Call for Change Experts and young people alike are calling for the government to take action to address this crisis. Howard Williamson, a professor of European youth policy, argues that the current system is unfair to young people, who are being asked to work hard to pay for pensions and other benefits. Thomas and others like him are urging the government to "look after its young for once" and provide more support for those struggling to find employment.