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The UK's declining birthrate has been a growing concern in recent years, with long-term fiscal pressures expected to arise from supporting an ageing population. A new report by the Resolution Foundation thinktank, titled 'Bye Bye Baby', suggests that politicians should prioritize tackling housing affordability to encourage young people to have more children.The report highlights a significant shift in the proportion of women who are not yet mothers by age 30, rising from 48% for those born in the late 1980s to 58% for those born in the early 1990s. This trend is most pronounced among non-graduate women aged 25-29, with more than half (54%) having no children by 2023, up from one in three in 2011.The analysis attributes this shift to falling partnership rates and a major shift away from home ownership towards costly private renting and living with parents, making it harder for young people to start a family. The share of non-graduates in their late 20s in private rented accommodation has doubled to 33% in 2023-24, while home ownership has halved over the same period.The thinktank's research suggests that financial constraints play a significant role in young people's decisions to have children. Among 32-year-olds who are not yet parents, twice the proportion of those in the lowest quarter of earners said they intended to remain permanently childless, compared with those in the top quarter of earners.Politicians have proposed various policies to encourage young people to have children, including expanding free childcare and introducing married tax allowances. However, the Resolution Foundation's research suggests that focusing on housing struggles may be a more successful approach.“Deciding whether to have children is a deeply personal choice, but it’s clear that financial constraints are at play too,” said Charlie McCurdy, senior economist at the thinktank. “Policymakers should look to address the financial barriers that are hindering young people’s ability to start a family – such as increasing housing affordability and opportunities to get on the housing ladder – to make parenthood more achievable for those who want it.”

Cricket Australia released its 21‑man contract roster for the 2026‑27 season, rewarding most Ashes‑winning players but leaving out Sam Konstas and veteran all‑rounder Glenn Maxwell as the board prepares for an unusually dense calendar. Fast‑bowler Brendan Doggett, who debuted in the opening Ashes Test at Perth last November, secured his first national contract. Meanwhile, opener Jake Weatherald retained an upgraded deal despite a modest series average of 22.33 runs. Both Michael Neser and spinner Todd Murphy were again awarded full contracts, reflecting the board’s focus on depth ahead of a schedule that kicks off with a two‑match home Test series against Bangladesh in August. Following the Bangladesh series, Australia will embark on ODI tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, a home white‑ball series versus England, and a marathon stretch of 10 Test matches in 14 weeks. The latter includes contests against New Zealand, India and the historic 150th Anniversary Test at the MCG. Konstas, who burst onto the scene with a memorable 60‑run debut against India on Boxing Day 2024, failed to build on that promise, accumulating only 103 runs across nine further Test innings for an average of 16.30. The lack of consistency cost him a place on the new list. Despite the setback, selector chair George Bailey stressed that the 20‑year‑old’s journey is far from over. “He is highly talented and still on a development path,” Bailey said. “We saw encouraging signs toward the end of the season, with more consistent starts in the Sheffield Shield.” Bailey added that Konstas could feature in the upcoming Australia A tour to India, noting the board’s continued interest in his progress. Alongside Konstas and Maxwell, the contract cuts also affected Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson and Matt Short. Long‑time opener Usman Khawaja remains absent following his retirement. Weatherald’s contract renewal signals the selectors’ confidence in his potential to open the batting against Bangladesh, although Bailey cautioned that final selections will be made closer to each series, with extensive camp periods in Brisbane to fine‑tune the squad. Current contracted players: Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Brendan Doggett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa.

Eight former premature infants who were airlifted out of al‑Shifa Hospital in November 2023 have been brought back to Gaza, reuniting with their families in Rafah after a humanitarian mission lasting over two years.The children were part of a cohort of at least 25 babies born prematurely who were rescued as Israeli forces stormed the Gaza City medical complex. After receiving critical treatment abroad, the eight toddlers returned accompanied by three relatives and two medical staff, according to the Palestine Red Crescent Society.Hundreds of thousands gathered in Rafah for the emotional reunion. Since the war began in October 2023, the conflict has claimed more than 72,200 lives, including tens of thousands of women and children."Our feelings are indescribable. This is the most important moment in our lives," said Samer Lulu, father of Kinda Lulu, to Al Jazeera. He added that the joy is tempered by the harsh reality of an uncertain future for Gaza’s children.The International Rescue Committee (IRC) warned that the war is reshaping family structures, leaving a growing number of children without parental care. Ulrike Julia, the IRC’s Child Protection Coordinator, emphasized that community‑based care is essential but cannot survive without sustained external assistance.In 2023, the infants were first moved from al‑Shifa to southern Gaza and then evacuated to Egypt for life‑saving treatment. Inside Gaza’s hospitals, doctors faced severe shortages of antibiotics, IV solutions, and even food, supplies that were reportedly blocked by Israeli restrictions.Ola Hijji, mother of toddler Sulaiman Hijji, recalled being forced into a caesarean section at eight months pregnant and losing contact with her child after he was transferred to al‑Shifa’s neonatal intensive care unit. "It’s a beautiful feeling to be reunited," she said.Despite a declared ceasefire in October 2025, Israeli strikes continue near‑daily. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that recent attacks killed over 700 Palestinians and injured many more, including five casualties in a single day of airstrikes across Jabalia and Khan Younis.These reunions underscore the resilience of Gaza’s families while highlighting the urgent need for sustained humanitarian support and a durable path to peace.

UConn’s last‑second victory over Duke – a freshman buzzer‑beater by Braylon Mullins – will be replayed for years, but the post‑game scene stole the headlines. Coach Dan Hurley approached referee Roger Ayers and touched the official’s forehead while staring intently at him, an act some social‑media users labeled a “head‑butt.”Ayres later told ESPN the incident was “absolutely nothing,” and officials chose not to assess a technical foul that could have given Duke two free throws with 0.4 seconds left. Hurley later claimed he believed Ayers was trying to “chest‑bump me to celebrate.”This was not Hurley’s first brush with controversy. Earlier in March he was fined for “unsportsmanlike conduct” after confronting an official during a game against Marquette, and he has previously taunted opponents and warned Baylor players after a loss to Florida.While many fans describe Hurley as “passionate” or “fiery,” the episode raised a broader question: would a Black coach receive the same leniency? Tennessee State’s Black head coach Nolan Smith responded to a video of the incident on Instagram, joking, “I’ll never try this. I’ll be coaching in Pelican Bay,” and then noting that a Black coach would likely be labeled out of control or even handcuffed.The concern is not hypothetical. In 2025 Tuskegee coach Benjy Taylor was handcuffed by police while trying to calm a heated situation, an outcome many argue would have been unlikely for a white counterpart. Similarly, veteran white coach Rick Pitino survived a major scandal involving an assistant’s escort‑paying scheme and continues to coach at a high‑profile program, a trajectory that would be far less probable for a Black coach in the same circumstance.These examples illustrate what the author describes as a systemic double standard that extends beyond the basketball court, echoing broader societal patterns of white privilege. The piece juxtaposes the flawless public image demanded of Black leaders like Barack Obama with the comparatively permissive treatment of white figures such as Donald Trump, whose legal and personal controversies have not barred him from the highest office.By linking these disparate cases, the article argues that the rules governing behavior and accountability differ for Black individuals across American institutions, including college sports, and that this disparity continues to shape careers and public perception.

President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social account on Tuesday to lambaste several European governments for declining to support the United States’ military campaign against Iran. He told nations struggling with fuel shortages to “go get your own oil” by force, a statement that immediately pushed global oil markets higher. European leaders pushed back. France barred Israeli aircraft carrying weapons from traversing French airspace, while Italy reportedly denied a last‑minute request for U.S. bombers to land in Sicily. Spain’s defence minister announced that Madrid would no longer tolerate “lectures” from any foreign power after refusing U.S. use of its bases and airspace. The United Kingdom, despite allowing U.S. forces to operate from its bases, faced a public rebuke from Trump, who singled out the UK for its inability to secure jet fuel through the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth echoed the president’s hard‑line stance, suggesting that allied navies should be ready to intervene in the strategic waterway. Analysts warn that any attempt to seize the Strait of Hormuz by force would be highly risky and likely unrealistic. Nonetheless, the rhetoric has already contributed to a surge in fuel costs: U.S. gasoline prices have crossed the $4‑per‑gallon threshold for the first time in four years, and Brent crude slipped below $104 a barrel after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian hinted at a possible de‑escalation. The conflict, now in its fourth week, has claimed more than 3,000 lives and triggered a worldwide economic shock. Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin described the oil‑supply disruption as “probably the worst ever,” reflecting growing anxiety over inflation, stagnant growth, and a cost‑of‑living crisis that many nations are already grappling with. In a parallel diplomatic development, Pakistan and China unveiled a joint five‑part proposal aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, though it remains unclear how this aligns with recent U.S. diplomatic overtures through Islamabad. Meanwhile, the war’s regional dimensions have intensified. Israel announced plans to permanently occupy a swath of southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, a move that would cement its military presence well beyond the current confrontation with Hezbollah. Even the Vatican entered the fray. Pope Francis expressed hope that the fighting would cease by the upcoming Easter weekend, urging world leaders to find “ways to reduce the amount of violence.” His comments were widely interpreted as a subtle rebuke of the Trump administration’s aggressive posture. Overall, Trump’s incendiary remarks have highlighted a widening fissure between Washington and its traditional European partners, while the escalating oil price volatility underscores the broader economic ramifications of the Iran conflict.

The tragic case of Oliver Robinson, a 34-year-old who took his own life in November 2023, has sparked a campaign for stricter controls on private cannabis clinics in the UK. An inquest concluded that Robinson's prescription for medicinal cannabis, issued by Curaleaf Clinic, probably contributed to his death and acted as an obstacle to him receiving proper psychiatric and addiction care. Robinson had been struggling with depression and addiction, and had been treated at the Priory, a private mental health facility. He was initially prescribed medicinal cannabis in May 2022, which initially provided relief but ultimately worsened his condition. The coroner's report highlighted several failings in his care, including the use of an out-of-date GP summary care record and incomplete information in prescribing decisions. Alexander Robinson, Oliver's brother, is now advocating for tighter regulation of private cannabis clinics, including a ban on prescribing to patients with serious mental illness and greater oversight of the rapidly expanding industry. He believes that the current safeguards are not strong enough to protect vulnerable psychiatric patients. The UK government reported about 5,000 NHS prescriptions for licensed cannabis-based medicinal products in 2023, while freedom of information data showed that 659,293 unlicensed cannabis products were privately prescribed in 2024, more than double the number issued in 2023. Critics argue that there is limited evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment for depression and other common mental health conditions. Dr. Pavan Chahl, an expert psychiatrist, told Oliver's inquest that medicinal cannabis should not have been prescribed to someone with a history of severe psychiatric disorder, citing a lack of evidence for efficacy in depression and the risk of worsening symptoms. In response to the campaign, Curaleaf Clinic stated that it would engage constructively with any review or consultation aimed at strengthening patient safety across the sector.

Roger Casement's life was a complex web of contradictions. He was an imperial administrator who exposed imperial atrocities in the Belgian Congo and South Africa, a diplomat who worked tirelessly to bring attention to the plight of rubber workers. However, he also became a key figure in Ireland's fight for freedom, enlisting German help and rallying support in the US.TE Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, described Casement as a 'broken archangel'. This label captures the essence of a man who was both a hero and a flawed individual. Casement's life was marked by his struggle with his own identity, as a closeted gay man who left behind detailed records of his sexual adventures.The book 'A Rebel and a Traitor' by Rory Carroll masterfully situates Casement's story within the broader context of World War I. Carroll's deeply researched account reveals the intricate duel between Casement and his nemesis, Reginald 'Blinker' Hall, a naval captain who tracked Casement's attempts to enlist German support. This duel is set against the backdrop of the Easter Rising and the birth of the Irish state.Casement's attempt to lead Ireland to freedom ultimately ended in failure, but it helped create a mood of defiance that led to open war and the dream of an Irish state becoming a reality. Carroll's biography humanizes Casement, giving credit for his strengths while never hiding his flaws. The book is a fascinating account of a complex and improbable man who left an indelible mark on history.

The Japanese action-comedy film 'Ghost Killer' presents a unique blend of supernatural elements and high-octane action. Akari Takaishi stars as Fumika, a college student and part-time waitress who, after picking up a bullet casing, becomes connected to the ghost of Kudo, a recently murdered hired assassin.Kudo's ghost inhabits Fumika's body, allowing him to use her as a karate-chopping, gun-slinging martial arts vessel to right wrongs and avenge his own murder. This setup enables the film to deliver thrilling action sequences, showcasing fisticuffs and fancy fight choreography.Director Kensuke Sonomura, who previously worked on the successful 'Baby Assassins' franchise, brings his expertise in action direction to the film. Takaishi, who collaborated with Sonomura on 'Baby Assassins,' demonstrates her charisma and impressive range as Fumika, convincingly portraying both her vulnerability and deadly efficiency when possessed by Kudo.The film's script, written by Yugo Sakamoto, balances action with meaningful themes, including women's rights and the fight against male aggression. Notably, Fumika's character is presented in a practical and empowering way, often wearing tracksuit trousers, a puffer coat, and a knitted beanie, avoiding objectification.'Ghost Killer' is set to release on digital platforms from April 6, offering a fresh take on the action-comedy genre with its blend of supernatural intrigue and martial arts excitement.

Islamabad became the focal point of a new diplomatic track when the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt arrived this weekend, joining Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The quartet pledged to channel U.S. and Iranian confidence in Pakistan’s ability to host direct talks aimed at a comprehensive settlement. At the close of the meeting, Dar announced the creation of a Committee of Four—senior officials from each foreign ministry tasked with ironing out the procedural details of the peace process. The gathering marks the evolution of a broader Arab‑Islamic consultative effort that began in Riyadh on March 19 into a focused four‑nation push, with Pakistan positioned as the primary conduit between Washington and Tehran. In a candid interview with the Financial Times, U.S. President Donald Trump declared his “favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran,” hinting at a possible seizure of Kharg Island, which handles roughly 90 % of Iran’s crude exports. He reiterated an April 6 deadline for Tehran to accept a deal or face U.S. strikes on its energy infrastructure, yet on Air Force One he added, “I do see a deal in Iran, yeah. Could be soon,” describing the negotiations as “extremely well” progressing. Analysts stress that these mixed signals underscore the central tension confronting Pakistan’s initiative. While Islamabad and its partners are building a multilateral framework to curb escalation, Israeli strikes continue and the U.S. military presence in the region expands. Key diplomatic insights came from former Pakistani officials. Former information minister Mushahid Hussain Sayed highlighted the meeting as the first institutional Muslim‑world effort to open a dialogue pathway, noting that Pakistan and Turkey are among the most credible interlocutors—one a nuclear power, the other a NATO member. He cautioned, however, that the steps are “baby steps” in a war that is rapidly complicating. Former ambassador Masood Khan described the Committee of Four as a structured back‑channel enabling a “step‑by‑step, layered, and calibrated process.” He outlined four potential stages: trust‑building measures, cease‑fire negotiations, direct talks on the nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz, and finally reciprocal commitments. Khan warned that Iran’s demands for war reparations and sovereignty over the Strait could prove the toughest hurdles. High‑level outreach extended beyond the region. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a 90‑minute call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, while China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi pledged full backing for the initiative. A senior Pakistani diplomat confirmed Dar’s planned visit to China on March 31, underscoring the strategic weight of the Pakistan‑China relationship. On the economic front, Iran’s agreement to allow 20 Pakistani‑flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz represents the most immediate confidence‑building measure. The strait remains effectively closed to regular shipping, prompting the International Energy Agency to label the disruption as the “worst oil shock in history,” surpassing the crises of 1973 and 1979. Brent crude surged above $116 per barrel, up more than 50 % since the war began on February 28, while WTO Director‑General Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala warned of the “worst trade disruptions in the past 80 years.” Nevertheless, experts argue that the Strait should not become the centerpiece of any settlement. The long‑term resolution will likely involve all eight littoral states under UNCLOS and established legal precedents, with the immediate priority being a broader halt to hostilities. Military dynamics remain volatile. U.S. Central Command reported that an amphibious task force of roughly 3,500 Marines and sailors aboard the USS Tripoli arrived in the region, with an additional 2,200 Marines and 2,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division slated to deploy. Trump affirmed that military options are still on the table, and reports suggest the Pentagon is preparing for potential ground operations. Iran’s leadership remains skeptical. A spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the U.S. 15‑point plan—calling for a one‑month cease‑fire, handover of highly enriched uranium, a halt to enrichment, missile curbs, and an end to proxy support—as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive.” Tehran’s counter‑proposal, aired on Press TV, demands a halt to aggression, concrete guarantees against recurrence, reparations, and formal recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts such as Reza Khanzadeh of George Mason University argue that the burden of compromise falls on Washington, noting that Iran will not sacrifice regime survival. Meanwhile, former diplomat Masood Khan identified the most decisive confidence‑building measure as a U.S. commitment to halt Israeli attacks on Iran and Lebanon—a step he admits is “easier said than done.” In sum, Pakistan’s diplomatic corridor offers a glimmer of hope, but deep mistrust, divergent demands, and an accelerating military buildup render the path to a lasting settlement precarious.