UK house prices rise in February as chancellor avoids ‘negative speculation’
Rachel Reeves’ upcoming spring forecast has not led to slowdown, as property tax rumours did in NovemberBusiness live – latest updatesUK politics live – latest updatesHouse prices in the UK increased in February as Rachel Reeves avoided a repeat of the pre-budget “negative speculation” that depressed the market, as she prepares to present the spring forecast on Tuesday.The average price of a home rose to £273,176 last month, up by 0.3% from the month before, Nationwide said. It matched January’s monthly increase, and was above analysts’ forecasts of a 0.2% gain. The annual growth rate remained steady at 1%, the... [Continue Reading]
Most senior council officers in England say building work hit by delays
Funding uncertainty is main concern, despite Labour’s pledge to revitalise construction, survey showsAlmost two-thirds of senior council officers have said they are seeing construction projects delayed, despite the key role of local authorities in creating the wave of new housing and infrastructure promised by Labour.Before Rachel Reeves’s spring forecast on Tuesday, a survey of senior council officers showed that 40% do not think the local authority they work for is well placed to follow through on its construction plans. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Angus Taylor snaps at journalist as Liberals ramp up rhetoric against Australian children in Syrian camp
Opposition leader suggests 23 children and 11 women attempting to leave al-Roj are ‘Isis sympathisers’Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAngus Taylor has suggested the Australian children remaining in a Syrian detention camp are “ISIS sympathisers” as the Liberal party ramps up its rhetoric against the families of dead or jailed Islamic State fighters.The opposition leader also chided a member of the press for attempting to force his response on why the group of 23 children and 11 women should be another country’s responsibility. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Desperate first home buyers are fuelling price ‘up-crash’ at lower end of market, experts say
Biggest house price increases in February come in smaller capital cities as buyers undeterred by interest rate hikesFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastHot competition for cheaper Australian homes has powered a relentless “up-crash” in prices despite rising interest rates, economists warn.Desperate first home buyers have bid up the price of affordable properties as they face off against investors, who have borrowed big despite government warnings they could lose tax discounts and deductions. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Concerns for ‘declining’ fur seal spotted at Cooks River in inner Sydney
Long-nosed fur seal seen on banks of waterway in city’s inner west similar to those occasionally found outside Sydney Opera HouseFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastA seal has been spotted in an inner western Sydney river, prompting a response from wildlife rescue teams who worry it may be in poor health.However the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) said there were no obvious health concerns, and they were keeping track of the animal’s movements. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Pauline Hanson expected to face censure motion in Senate over ‘inflammatory’ comments about Australian Muslims
It is Hanson’s second censure within four months, this time over comments questioning whether there were ‘good’ MuslimsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastPauline Hanson has been censured again by the federal Senate, with two Liberal senators crossing the floor to support a motion calling out the One Nation leader’s “inflammatory and divisive” recent comments about Australian Muslims.Hanson dismissed the motion – her second censure within four months, after her stunt of wearing a hijab in the parliament last year – as a “joke”, theatrically slapping herself on... [Continue Reading]
Fines, penalties and forfeitures pump HK$2.1 billion into government coffers
Fines worth HK$2.1 billion (US$268.39 million) flowed into Hong Kong’s coffers in 2025‑26, nearly 26 per cent more than initially forecast, following an increase in cigarette penalties and a surge in forfeitures. According to budget estimates analysed by the South China Morning Post, the HK$2.1 billion income amounted to 0.3 per cent of the government’s total revenue. The funds were primarily from court fines and forfeiture orders, statute penalties, forfeitures from breaches of contracts and... [Continue Reading]
Rare ‘blood moon’ total lunar eclipse to loom over North America, Australia and New Zealand
Eclipse will feature a deep, coppery-red full moon on 3 March, with scientists predicting the best times to see itFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastNorth America, Australia and New Zealand will be treated to a rare total lunar eclipse on Tuesday known as a “blood moon”.As the full moon dips into the planet’s shadow it will change colour to a “deep and coppery red”, says astrophysicist Dr Rebecca Allen of Swinburne University.Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Hobart – starts 10.04pm, ends 11.02pmBrisbane – starts 9.04pm, ends 10.02pmAdelaide – starts... [Continue Reading]
Possums, asbestos and pigeons: snap review into NSW hospitals highlights serious maintenance issues
Health minister pledges to work quickly to improve hygiene after mould outbreak in Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred hospital left two patients dead Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe New South Wales government has announced a snap review of serious hospital maintenance issues after a mould outbreak in a transplant ward at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred hospital left two patients dead in late 2025.The health minister, Ryan Park, on Monday pledged that the health system will work “as quickly as possible” to rectify issues which span possums to... [Continue Reading]
Iran conflict to cause ‘serious’ travel disruptions as 115,000 Australians remain in region amid cancelled flights
Government has not yet committed to repatriation flights as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways cancel flightsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe Australian government says travellers should be prepared for “serious” disruptions in coming days amid the turmoil in the Middle East, saying there are limits to what the government can do to help those stranded in the region.The foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, said many Australians would be affected as countries shuttered their airspace amid the US and Israel’s attacks on Iran. Three major airports that connect... [Continue Reading]
OBR a backseat driver with out-of-date maps, thinktanks tell Rachel Reeves
Chancellor urged to reform Office for Budget Responsibility to open way to more public investmentRachel Reeves must reform the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to open the way to more public investment, an alliance of thinktanks has argued ahead of the chancellor’s spring forecast on Tuesday.With Keir Starmer’s government under intense pressure after Labour’s defeat by the Greens in Thursday’s Gorton and Denton byelection, the thinktanks called on Reeves to review the watchdog’s remit. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Politics live: Penny Wong warns Australians of ‘serious travel disruptions’ due to Iran conflict; NSW to review hospital maintenance after outbreaks of mould and bird lice
This blog is now closedPauline Hanson censured over Muslim comments but only two Coalition senators back motionGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastJoyce says petrol prices will increase due to conflictSpeaking with Tanya Plibersek on a Sunrise panel this morning, One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce says Australia should focus on building up fuel supplies under risk due to conflict in the Middle EastIt’s a shame in a crisis like this that we’ve got ourselves down to two oil refineries, so that if there’s a crisis in the production of fuel, we’re in a bad spot.We’ve got... [Continue Reading]
Almost 5 per cent of Tasmania's health budget spent on locum nurses
State government spending on locum nurses continues to rapidly rise, despite repeated calls to build a more permanent workforce. [Continue Reading]
The Democrat who schools Republicans – ‘I would say do more of that’
Isaiah Martin’s videos have gone viral – he thinks his party should follow his lead and stand up to Republican excessDynamism, courage, and wit are words that few are likely to associate with the mainstream Democratic party, particularly after its capitulation to Republicans’ budget demands last year.Polls show that majorities of Democratic voters think their party is weak and ineffective. Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate leader, is even more unpopular than Donald Trump. People are crying out for a bold voice, someone to take the fight to an increasingly authoritarian Republican party. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong government announces HK$30 billion funding for Northern Metropolis urban development projects in New Territories
Hong Kong's government announced significant plans for urban development as it seeks to secure HK$30 billion (approximately US$3.8 billion) for the initial phase of the Northern Metropolis project. This budget allocation is aimed at supporting the establishment of three key developments: the Hetao Hong Kong Park, San Tin Technopole, and Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park, which together are expected to cover an expansive area of 30,000 hectares in the New Territories. The announcement was made by Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, the Secretary for Development, who outlined the proposed legal framework for these projects at a recent press briefing. The official stated... [Continue Reading]
Legal framework for Northern Metropolis to be tabled at Legco in late March
A “relatively flexible” legal framework for Hong Kong’s Northern Metropolis will be introduced to the Legislative Council in late March to fast-track the megaproject’s development, a minister has said. Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho shared the update on the planned framework on Sunday, days after the city’s latest budget sought to allocate HK$30 billion (US$3.8 billion) for the megaproject set to span 30,000 hectares (74,130 acres) in the New Territories. Authorities will seek... [Continue Reading]
Robots, jets and yachts: Hong Kong eyes new fairs to woo big spenders
Hong Kong aims to host fairs on robotics, yachts and small jets – events never before held in the city – to cement its status as an international exhibition hub and attract big spenders, the commerce minister has said. Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah on Sunday said the push was in response to the HK$100 million (US$12.78 million) budgeted to “attract large international exhibitions with new elements to Hong Kong”. Yau said the government was brainstorming... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong universities back AI-themed study tours to woo non-local students
At least five Hong Kong universities have backed the government’s proposal to launch study tours aimed at attracting non-local secondary students to pursue higher education in the city, with programmes featuring topics such as AI. The University of Hong Kong (HKU), the city’s oldest tertiary institution, said it would offer up to 35 programmes this summer, giving outstanding non-local students a chance to earn full scholarships. In this year’s government budget, education authorities said they... [Continue Reading]
Are new Hong Kong subdivided flat standards triggering a wave of evictions?
Hongkonger Chan Sai-chiu considers the 60 sq ft subdivided flat he rents to be home, going out of his way to make the cramped space in Sham Shui Po’s ageing Yee Wa Building more liveable by repainting the walls and setting up his own kitchen. The 72-year-old considers the flat’s HK$3,000 (US$383) rent to be a perfect fit for his tight budget, as he lives off about HK$5,000 from social security payments and receives a rental subsidy of HK$2,500. The building also suits the retiree, who is... [Continue Reading]
Taiwan is buying expensive US weapons systems, but are they the right ones?
Taiwan’s procurement of three US arms packages has come under renewed scrutiny, with military experts now questioning their effectiveness in deterring Beijing. The debate has sharpened after opposition parties repeatedly blocked a proposed NT$1.25 trillion (US$40 billion) special defence budget in the legislature’s procedure committee last month. At the centre of the latest criticism are three US-approved systems for Taiwan: the Patriot PAC-3 missile defence system and its upgrades, the National... [Continue Reading]
Disability rights activists in Dublin call for €400 monthly emergency payment amid financial concerns from Budget 2026
Disability rights activists rallied in Dublin, demanding urgent action from the government to introduce a monthly emergency disability payment of €400. This protest, held this afternoon, is a response to perceived inequities created by recent government decisions surrounding support for individuals with disabilities. The organisers of the protest believe that the Budget 2026 presented by the government has caused drastic financial strife for people with disabilities, leaving them up to €1,400 poorer annually. This reduction follows the withdrawal of essential support payments, exacerbating hardships faced by the disabled community. Many of the protestors are affiliated with the Irish Wheelchair Association... [Continue Reading]
No Exchange Fund transfers planned in next 5 years, Hong Kong’s Paul Chan says
Hong Kong does not plan to get another transfer from its Exchange Fund in the next five years, the finance chief has said, citing a new medium-range forecast explaining why the rare move will not be repeated. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po elaborated on his fiscal plan on Saturday, after his budget announcement to withdraw HK$150 billion (US$19.2 billion) from the government’s main investment arm and de facto sovereign wealth fund sparked concerns about the city’s financial stability. “In... [Continue Reading]
Concerns Grow Over Launceston Public-Private Hospital Project Amid State Government Conditions
Concerns are mounting about the future of a significant healthcare project in Tasmania, as recent conditions imposed by the state government could halt plans for a new public-private hospital in Launceston. The Liberals had pledged a $35 million investment for a 50 percent ownership stake during the ongoing election campaign, but the Launceston Health Hub, intended to partner in the initiative, now claims it is unable to secure necessary financing due to these unexpected requirements. Dr Jerome Muir Wilson, a prominent local healthcare professional, voiced his alarm over the conditions, which he believes may jeopardize the overall project. He pointed... [Continue Reading]
Tasmania's net debt projected to reach $146 billion, raising concerns over financial stability and economic challenges
Tasmania's financial stability is increasingly under threat, according to a recent report from the state's Department of Treasury and Finance. The grim forecast indicates that net debt could escalate to approximately $146 billion, posing significant challenges for the state's economy in the coming years. The alarming trends highlighted in the report urge immediate and substantial policy changes to address the deteriorating financial situation. The report emphasizes that Tasmania lacks the fiscal capacity to merely grow its way out of the mounting debt problem. Acknowledging the urgent need for reform, the Treasury suggests that the government must pursue strategies beyond implementing... [Continue Reading]
Deliveroo to cease operations in Singapore due to market challenges and competition from rivals
In a significant development in the food delivery sector, Deliveroo announced its decision to wind up operations in Singapore. The UK-founded food delivery platform's announcement comes after a comprehensive review of the local market conditions, underscoring the challenges of profitability in a highly competitive environment. Analysts noted that the increasing pressure from rival platforms, such as Grab and Foodpanda, significantly influenced this strategic decision. The closure of Deliveroo's services was officially announced on Wednesday, following an evaluation of country-specific conditions and a determination to focus resources on markets where sustainable growth could be more readily achieved. The firm stated that... [Continue Reading]
Tasmanian public sector workers resume strikes over unmet pay deal commitments by state government
Public sector workers in Tasmania have resumed industrial action in response to claims that the state government has not upheld its commitments regarding a pay deal. The Health and Community Services Union (HACSU), representing workers in the sector, expressed that the current situation leaves them without alternatives except to strike. The action signifies growing discontent among public workers who seek to hold the government accountable for earlier negotiations. The unions allege that the Tasmanian government reneged on a previously agreed-upon pay proposal, prompting the industrial action. This represents a significant escalation in tensions between the government and public sector unions,... [Continue Reading]
Ukraine Regains 40 Square Miles of Territory in Zaporizhzhia Amid Ongoing Conflict with Russia
Recently, Ukraine has achieved minor but significant territorial gains in its ongoing conflict with Russia. As Russia’s military operations appear increasingly stalled, Ukrainian forces have succeeded in reclaiming positions and reinforcing their strategic resilience. A notable counteroffensive north of Huliaipole in Zaporizhzhia province saw Ukrainian troops regain approximately 40 square miles of territory, marking another step in Ukraine's efforts to push back against Russian advances. The current military dynamics reflect a stark contrast between the two nations' operational capacities. Reports indicate that Ukrainian counteroffensive actions have been facilitated by the blocking of Russian military communications via SpaceX’s Starlink satellite service.... [Continue Reading]
Northeastern US blizzard prompts state of emergency declarations in seven states, with snowfalls exceeding 90 centimetres
A powerful blizzard has wreaked havoc across several states in the northeastern United States, prompting declarations of states of emergency in at least seven states, including New York and Pennsylvania. Meteorologists are calling this storm the strongest seen in a decade, with parts of the region experiencing snowfalls exceeding 90 centimetres. With public transport shut down and schools closed, the scale of the disruption is significant and affecting millions. As reported, the blizzard has already resulted in record-breaking snowfall totals across the region. In some areas, such as parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, snowfall has reached nearly 37 inches... [Continue Reading]
There Is Good in Every Bad
Power, Greed, Oil, and the Theater of Modern Geopolitics The Business Model of Power Donald Trump does not govern like a traditional politician. He governs like a negotiator who believes every geopolitical crisis is leverage, every war threat is a bargaining chip, and every market panic is an opportunity. When markets tremble, someone profits. The question is, who? Global markets react instantly to political tension. Gold rises when conflict looms. Oil spikes when instability threatens production. Stock markets collapse on fear, then rebound on reassurance. Volatility is not chaos, it is opportunity. Historically, gold has surged during major geopolitical crises,... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 18 Feb 2026 17:11
