slot machine demo NoneEngland has highest proportion of adults 'overqualified' for their jobs in the worldPHILADELPHIA (AP) — The mood in the Eagles' locker room was a bit more bleak than it should have been for a team riding a nine-game winning streak and celebrating a franchise rushing record. Former 1,000-yard receiver DeVonta Smith — who caught a touchdown pass and not much else — was exasperated at the offensive no-show. A.J. Brown, who holds a slew of team receiving records, had as much to offer in his sour postgame interview as he did on the field when he was held to four catches. This was the sullen attitude of a team still in the hunt for a top seed in the NFC? Here's the good news for the Philadelphia: Saquon Barkley rushed for 124 yards to break the Eagles season record , and Jalen Hurts threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score in Sunday's 22-16 win over the Carolina Panthers. Barkley's consistent brilliance aside, Hurts and the Eagles slogged through another rough offensive outing. “Everybody has a reason to want more,” Hurts said. The Eagles (11-2) maintained their position as the No. 2 team in the NFC, behind Detroit (12-1), after a mostly lethargic effort against the Panthers (3-10). Hurts’ passing numbers were a pedestrian 14 of 21 for 108 yards. Brown had four catches for 43 yards — and threw his helmet in anger after a three-and-out — and Smith had four catches for 37 yards. What do the Eagles need to improve on? “Passing,” Brown deadpanned. How tough was it for the receivers to find a rhythm? “Incredibly tough,” he said. Hurts didn't do enough to get Smith and Brown involved, one reason why the lowly Panthers stayed in striking distance until the final possession. He took four sacks. He held the ball too long as open receivers ran with their arms up trying to get their QB's attention. “I play my role in how we execute,” Hurts said. “But ultimately it's about what position we put ourselves in. It's not my choice.” That message will surely reverberate through coach Nick Sirianni and offensive coordinator Kellen Moore's offices this week. “I think that’s fair that the questions are about our pass game right now,” Sirianni said. The Eagles at least had Barkley to bail them out. Barkley added another milestone in his MVP push when he used a 9-yard run in the fourth quarter to surpass LeSean McCoy's Eagles record of 1,607 yards, set in 2013. Barkley now has 1,623 yards with four games left. “How cool is it that we have a team rushing record in Week 13?” Sirianni said. Hurts had flashes of form, like when he hit Grant Calcaterra with a 4-yard TD pass and Barkley ran in the 2-point conversion for a 22-16 lead early in the fourth. Bryce Young gamely moved the Panthers into Eagles territory on the final drive. He completed a 13-yard pass on fourth down that moved the ball to the 38, and a second-down pass to Xavier Legette gave the Eagles a brief scare when the receiver seemed to have the ball in the end zone. He didn't. Young eluded a pass rush on fourth down but his final attempt was incomplete. He finished 19 of 34 for 191 yards. Panthers coach Dave Canales said Legette “absolutely” had to make the catch. “That’s a big play we’re counting on. He’d be the first one to tell you he’s got to make that play,” Canales said. “Bryce steps up, makes a beautiful throw in the situation. We had the coverage we wanted, all that. Those are the plays that we’ve just got to find a way to make for us to get back on the winning column.” A 12 1/2-point underdog according to BetMGM Sportsbook, the Panthers played more like a team with playoff seeding at stake. Chuba Hubbard, who rushed for 92 yards and topped 1,000 on the season, made it 16-14 on a 1-yard run in the third quarter. Eddy Pineiro, who kicked a 38-yard field goal in the first quarter, missed the extra point. Eagles safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who was examined earlier for a concussion, changed the game late in the second quarter when he picked off Young’s deep pass at Philadelphia’s 41. Hurts scrambled 15 yards on the next drive and finished it with a 4-yard TD pass to Smith for a 14-10 lead. Gardner-Johnson’s pick bailed out an uneven effort by the Eagles. They failed to score on their opening drive for the 13th time this season, but the offensive bursts that usually follow never came. Hurts scored on tush push early in the second quarter, his 13th rushing score of the season, for a 7-3 lead. With nothing to lose, the Panthers went for it on fourth-and-3, and Young hit Tommy Tremble for a 3-yard TD and a 10-7 advantage. The Eagles did just enough. Their challenge now is getting the receivers' production up — and getting them happy — headed into the postseason. “Let the dissatisfaction fuel you for more,” Hurts said. “I think that’s always a fair place to be. And so we know there’s more out there for us, and we’re in pursuit of trying to find it.” Panthers kickoff and punt returner Raheem Blackshear suffered a chest injury. ... RB Jonathon Brooks left with a right knee injury — the same knee in which he tore the ACL last year with Texas. The Panthers had been very cautious bringing the second-round pick along. ... CB Jaycee Horn hurt his groin. Panthers: Host Dallas next Sunday. Eagles: Host cross-state rival Pittsburgh next Sunday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

Nissan CFO Stephen Ma to step down amid restructuring- Bloomberg NewsWith about 40 days until President-elect Donald Trump takes office, President Joe Biden is expected to block a Japanese company’s acquisition of U.S. Steel. On Tuesday, Bloomberg reported that Biden plans to block the $1.4 billion sale. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States panel must refer its decision to Biden by Dec. 22 or 23, according to Bloomberg. If CFIUS finds national security risks with the deal, members could either negotiate mitigation terms between the two parties or recommend the president block the deal, Sarah Bauerle Danzman, an associate professor of international studies at Indiana University-Bloomington, told the Post-Tribune. Biden had shared in March that he opposed the sale, and Trump had vowed during his campaign that he would block the deal. “U.S. Steel has been an iconic American steel company for more than a century, and it is vital for it to remain an American steel company that is domestically owned and operated,” Biden said in a March statement. In December 2023, it was announced that Nippon Steel would acquire the American company, according to U.S. Steel’s website. If the deal passed, Nippon Steel plans to invest about $300 million into the local Gary Works facility, which would’ve been invested into the blast furnace. Gary Mayor Eddie Melton in a Dec. 3 statement said that he supports the deal because Nippon has committed to modernizing U.S. Steel’s plants, relining the blast furnaces and deploying modern technology. Nippon also planned to maintain current union employment levels and honor the bargaining agreement with United Steelworkers. “The CEO of U.S. Steel has stated publicly that there will be plant closures should this deal fail,” Melton said. “This will clearly hurt communities like Gary, who hosts the most productive plant in the U.S. portfolio.” Melton and Takahiro Mori, vice chairman of Nippon Steel, on Thursday are set to host a news conference at Gary City Hall, according to a Tuesday news release. In a Dec. 3 statement, a U.S. Steel spokesman said the deal provides the brightest future for the American steel company. The spokesman didn’t address whether they believed Biden would approve the deal before Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration. Nippon Steel planned to preserve U.S. Steel as an American company and keep it headquartered in Pennsylvania, the statement said. The Japanese company planned to invest nearly $3 billion into its union-represented facilities. U.S. Steel employs about 4,500 steelworkers at both Gary Works and its Midwest plant in Portage. “The transaction should be approved on its merits,” U.S. Steel’s statement said. “The benefits are overwhelmingly clear. Our communities, customers, investors and employees strongly support this transaction, and we will continue to advocate for them and adherence to the rule of law.” mwilkins@chicagotribune.com

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As Maryland lawmakers approach the 2025 General Assembly session, the they’ll need to address — a significant hole that all but guarantees another debate in Annapolis over whether they should make deep budget cuts or raise taxes. With President-elect Donald Trump planning to launch the , which aims to make sweeping government spending cuts, do you think a similar effort is needed in Maryland?

Mary Magdalene may have been identified among the 300 tangled figures depicted in Michelangelo’s celebrated Sistine Chapel masterpiece after a centuries-long hunt. Sara Penco, an Italian art restorer, said her research suggested that a blonde woman in The Last Judgment artwork, who is depicted kissing a wooden cross held by a figure said to be Jesus Christ, was the famous female disciple. “I am firmly convinced that this is Mary Magdalene ... the intimacy with the cross, the yellow dress and the blonde hair but also the whole context in which Michelangelo places this figure to underscore her importance,” Penco told a media conference in Rome on December 10. Art experts have long tried to identify the wide-eyed woman who appears in the far right-hand corner of the fresco on the wall behind the Vatican chapel’s altar. However, Penco, who specialises in Renaissance and baroque art, said her research should finally put an end to the mystery. She said: “The fresco was screaming that something was missing. Michelangelo was an expert painter, he was very cultured, he was someone who knew the dynamics of the church very well, he knew the gospels, and he could not have forgotten her.” Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican in Rome. Credit: Eric Nathan / Alamy Stock Photo Mary Magdalene, according to the gospel, was one of Christ’s loyal disciples who accompanied him as he spread his message. Once portrayed as a repentant prostitute, she is now widely regarded as a saint by Catholic and other Christian faiths. Penco, who consulted various studies by scholars and theologians before conducting her own research, said the gospel often describes Mary Magdalene at the moment of Christ’s redemption, and she was fundamental in how salvation could be achieved. She said: “The cross-bearer is looking in the direction of Mary Magdalene, it is as if he is estranged from the composition looking towards the woman peacefully holding the wood and the cross.” Her findings will be published this week in the 240-page book Mary Magdalene in Michelangelo’s Judgement. Professor Yvonne Dohna Schlobitten, from the Gregorian University Department of History and Cultural Heritage in Rome, has endorsed the claim. She wrote in the book’s forward: “With great intuition, Sara Penco has discovered something that defines the being of art. “We can clearly see how iconography and theology are linked in Penco’s reasoning to form a vision: the woman kissing the cross has an important role, even if she appears hidden on the edges of the image.” The Last Judgment, which took Michelangelo Buonarroti four years to complete, attracts more than 5 million visitors to the Sistine Chapel every year. Painted between 1537 and 1541, it depicts the Second Coming of Christ and the Apocalypse and shows human souls and angels, many of them naked, either ascending to heaven or descending into hell. Last month, new research claimed Michelangelo may have depicted a woman suffering from breast cancer in his fresco of a biblical flood on the chapel’s ceiling. Telegraph, London Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on what’s making headlines around the world. Sign up for the weekly What in the World newsletter here .AP News Summary at 5:50 p.m. EST

Sir Keir Starmer said he would be looking towards a “better, brighter future for every person” in a Christmas message following a turbulent year for the UK. The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” To our military and veterans, the whole nation thanks you for the sacrifices you make to keep us safe. My government will serve you as you have served your country. I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”Matthew Brodacki Tackles the Quantum Revolution in Cybersecurity in Exclusive Online Blog 12-10-2024 10:58 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Erase Technologies, LLC Image: https://www.getnews.info/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1733851837.jpeg Matthew Brodacki, Fairfield County, Connecticut, USA Renowned cybersecurity expert Matthew Brodacki explores the transformative impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity in a compelling new blog, "Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity: Preparing for the Next Technological Revolution." As a seasoned leader in digital forensics and cybercrime investigations, Brodacki brings a wealth of insight into how organizations, governments, and individuals can prepare for the unprecedented challenges and opportunities posed by quantum computing. Quantum computing, hailed as a technological breakthrough, has the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from healthcare to logistics. However, as Brodacki explains, it also threatens to upend current cybersecurity protocols. "The moment quantum computers reach a certain level of maturity, the cybersecurity landscape as we know it will change forever," he warns. With the ability to solve complex mathematical problems in mere moments, quantum computers could render today's encryption methods obsolete, leaving sensitive data vulnerable to exploitation. In the blog, Brodacki emphasizes the importance of proactive measures, including the development and adoption of quantum-resistant encryption algorithms. "Preparation requires more than just technological innovation-it demands a shift in mindset," he writes. Organizations must assess their vulnerabilities, explore quantum-safe technologies, and collaborate across sectors to stay ahead of emerging threats. Brodacki also underscores the critical role of public-private partnerships in funding research and setting standards for quantum security. "This isn't a problem any one entity can solve alone," he notes, advocating for a unified approach that includes international cooperation and ethical considerations. He points out that while quantum computing offers tools for defense, it could also be weaponized, heightening the urgency for regulation and transparency. Drawing from his extensive career as Captain of the Regional Technical Investigations Unit in Southwestern Connecticut, Brodacki shares his commitment to continuous learning as a cornerstone of cybersecurity. "Staying ahead of the quantum curve requires vigilance, adaptability, and collaboration," he states, encouraging professionals and policymakers alike to embrace innovation while safeguarding ethical standards. Matthew Brodacki's blog serves as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for navigating the complexities of quantum computing in cybersecurity. His insights highlight the importance of acting now to ensure this powerful technology is harnessed responsibly for the benefit of all. About Matthew Brodacki: Matthew Brodacki is a cybersecurity leader and law enforcement professional based in Fairfield County, Connecticut. As Captain of the Regional Technical Investigations Unit (TIU), he oversees over 500 cyber cases annually, leveraging his expertise in digital forensics and cybercrime prevention. Brodacki holds dual master's degrees in Public Administration and Digital Forensics and collaborates with federal agencies to address emerging threats. He is also an advocate for legislative advancements and community initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to both technological innovation and public service. To read the full blog, click here [ https://medium.com/@matthewbrodacki ]. Media Contact Contact Person: Matthew Brodacki Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=matthew-brodacki-tackles-the-quantum-revolution-in-cybersecurity-in-exclusive-online-blog ] City: Fairfield County State: Connecticut Country: United States Website: https://www.matthewbrodackiconnecticut.com/ This release was published on openPR.None

WITH Christmas just 16 days away, most of us are on the hunt for the perfect festive outfit. Not only for the big day itself but also for all the nights out and parties we have planned over the next two weeks. And what better way to feel festive than with the perfect Christmas jumper? They've become a staple in our wardrobes at this time of year, and luckily Primark's latest collection has us covered. The bargain retail giant caused a frenzy among shoppers after showing off its cosy new collection on social media. And many have been left saying they "love" the "adorable" designs that it has to offer. It includes a brilliant red and pink jumper that has Santa riding a scooter whilst carrying a Christmas tree on the front of it that costs just £12. Primark bosses have described it as being "made from a softly knitted material that aims to keep you feeling warm and cosy". They added: "A cute pom-pom motif and sequin embellishments also adorn this Christmas jumper for a particularly playful look." Another popular jumper in the range is the £12 Snowflake Knit Jumper which is a gorgeous light blue colour. Most read in Fabulous It is decorated with candy canes, gingerbread figures and gift-wrapped presents which are arranged in the shape of a tree. And bosses said it pairs perfectly with jeans and ankle boots "for a cosy, cute look that’s perfect for Yuletide gatherings." For those looking to dress up this winter, the £14 Christmas Fair Isle Cardigan is the "perfect piece". The "cute, festive and cosy, this knitted cardie" has a design that is rendered in a classic cream colourway whilst having festive motifs in shades of green and red. Or for anyone looking for something classic to go with a little black skirt, there's the £14 Festive Sequin Jumper. Primark bosses say: "The black jumper boasts a sequined design on the chest, which showcases two clinking glasses alongside holly and star motifs, plus the punny slogan ‘Fizz-tive Fun’. "If that weren’t already fabulous enough, this playful crew neck pullover also features ribbed trims with metallic detailing for extra sparkle!" But the standout of the collection is the bright pink jumper that has a pair of candy cans tied together in a gorgeous bow printed on the back. The retail giant excitedly shared snaps showcasing the new collections with followers on Instagram. Staff captioned the post: "Sleigh the season with a statement jumper". JUST how does Primark do it? Continue delivering on-trend items at such incredible prices? According to bosses, it's down to four points. They "sell a lot of items" - Thanks to that, they are able to make savings by buying in bulk for their 191 UK stores They "do very little advertising" While their clothes offer the "latest trends", they "don’t use expensive hangers, tags or labels". And lastly, they try to be "as efficient as possible when transporting products from factories to stores". This includes things like asking "suppliers to pack our t-shirts so they are ready to go straight on shelf". For more information about how Primark keeps their costs so low, and are able to deliver such amazing bargains, visit the Primark website. And shoppers have flocked to the comments to praise the new range. One person said: "Love these!" Another added: "Omg I want the pink Xmas jumper, it’s adorable". Someone else wrote: "Wow!" READ MORE SUN STORIES And a fourth posted: "Too cute". While a fifth chimed in: "Great things".When fire threatened a California university, the school says it knew what to do

Coote was sacked earlier this month after the emergence of a video in which he made derogatory remarks about Liverpool and their former manager Jurgen Klopp. Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) said that a thorough investigation had concluded he was “in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable”. “Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare,” PGMOL’s statement on December 9 added. Coote had the right to appeal against the decision but PA understands the Nottinghamshire referee has decided not to. The video which triggered PGMOL’s investigation into Coote’s conduct first came to public attention on November 11. In it, Coote is asked for his views on a Liverpool match where he has just been fourth official, and describes them as “s***”. He then describes Klopp as a “c***”, and, asked why he felt that way, Coote says the German had “a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown” and had accused him of lying. “I have got no interest in speaking to someone who’s f****** arrogant, so I do my best not to speak to him,” Coote said. Later in the video, Coote again refers to Klopp, this time as a “German c***”. The Football Association opened its own investigation into that video, understood to be centred on that last comment and whether Coote’s reference to Klopp’s nationality constituted an aggravated breach of its misconduct rules. The investigation by PGMOL which led to Coote’s contract being terminated is also understood to have looked at another video which appeared to show Coote snorting a white powder, purportedly during Euro 2024 where he was one of the assistant VARs for the tournament. European football’s governing body UEFA also appointed an ethics investigator to look into the matter.

Stock market today: Wall Street slips to a rare back-to-back loss

Resources sector worries about hung parliament mining tax while PM labels it ‘fiction’

Thames Water says it will run out of cash in March as it scrambles to avoid a taxpayer bailout By JESSICA CLARK Updated: 17:03 EST, 10 December 2024 e-mail 1 View comments Thames Water has revealed it only has enough cash to survive until March. Britain’s biggest water supplier is scrambling to avoid a taxpayer bailout amid mounting losses and debts. The group is gearing up for a crunch week in its desperate bid to secure a £3billion rescue package from its creditors. And regulator Ofwat will also rule next week on whether the debt-laden firm can hike customer bills by 59 per cent over the next five years. Boss Chris Weston yesterday said Ofwat’s decision, due to be published on Thursday next week, was ‘fundamental’ to the struggling firm’s future as it seeks a new owner. He dismissed calls for an immediate break-up of the company, saying he was confident that Thames Water would receive a £3billion loan from its creditors. Deep water: Thames water is gearing up for a crunch week in its desperate bid to secure a £3bn rescue package from its creditors The loan – agreed by more than three quarters of its top-ranking creditors – is subject to its first court hearing on Tuesday next week, with a second date scheduled for January. Not all lenders have agreed to the rescue package, with some junior creditors refusing to back the plan. Without the funding, which will be paid in instalments, Thames Water only has enough money to survive until March. That has reignited concerns that the supplier may need to be rescued by the Government in a process known as a special administration. The loan, which will charge an interest rate of 9.75 per cent – far above market rates – would allow the company to continue operating until May 2026, by which time it expects to have completed its search for a new owner. RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next Trump unleashes animal spirits to turbocharge US: But UK... Pound surges to highest level against the euro for more than... Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account Weston said he was ‘very comfortable’ with the level of interest shown by potential equity bidders. A £5billion proposal put forward by Covalis and French utility group Suez would see the embattled utility broken up, with the rump listed on London’s stock market. It could see the company hive off entire regions such as the Thames Valley. Meanwhile, a separate bid from Castle Water, a firm co-owned by Conservative party treasurer Graham Edwards, would pump around £4billion into Thames Water in return for a majority stake, with a plan for a listing within three years. Other potential bidders for the debt-laden utility business include Hong Kong-based firm CK Infrastructure Holdings, which owns Northumbrian Water. The chief executive declined to say if the company had received any additional offers. ‘They are credible parties and we will continue to work with them,’ Weston said. But Sharon Graham, general secretary of union Unite, said ‘corporate vultures’ are ‘looking to asset strip’. Final offers will be submitted in January after Ofwat’s ruling on bill increases. If Thames Water disagrees with Ofwat’s findings, it has two months to launch an appeal with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The watchdog would then have between six and 12 months to issue a decision. Net debt hit £15.8billion during the six months to the end of September, up from £14.7billion a year earlier, according to Thames Water’s latest accounts. The company recorded a £189.7million loss, compared to a profit of £172.3million in 2023. Thames Water blamed the swing into the red on £426.7million of one-off ‘exceptional items’, including around £51million handed over to advisors as it sought to secure an emergency funding package. Weston, who joined the company in January, said: ‘In the last six months we’ve made solid progress on the transformation and turnaround of Thames Water. ‘We’ve reached key milestones in establishing a more stable financial platform, agreeing a liquidity extension transaction proposal and progressing our equity raise process. ‘The next critical step is receiving an investable final determination, which is fundamental to our future.’ DIY INVESTING PLATFORMS AJ Bell AJ Bell Easy investing and ready-made portfolios Learn More Learn More Hargreaves Lansdown Hargreaves Lansdown Free fund dealing and investment ideas Learn More Learn More interactive investor interactive investor Flat-fee investing from £4.99 per month Learn More Learn More Saxo Saxo Get £200 back in trading fees Learn More Learn More Trading 212 Trading 212 Free dealing and no account fee Learn More Learn More Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. These deals are chosen by our editorial team, as we think they are worth highlighting. This does not affect our editorial independence. Compare the best investing account for you Share or comment on this article: Thames Water says it will run out of cash in March as it scrambles to avoid a taxpayer bailout e-mail Add comment Some links in this article may be affiliate links. If you click on them we may earn a small commission. That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence. More top storiesNone

Sir Keir Starmer said he would be looking towards a “better, brighter future for every person” in a Christmas message following a turbulent year for the UK. The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” To our military and veterans, the whole nation thanks you for the sacrifices you make to keep us safe. My government will serve you as you have served your country. I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. pic.twitter.com/LphMZog6np — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 22, 2024 The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”PM looks to ‘brighter future’ at Christmas and ‘wishes for peace in Middle East’LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Voters dejected by the presidential election results need to find a way to give back and remain involved, Bill and Hillary Rodham Clinton said Saturday as they celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Clinton presidential library. The former president urged audience members in a packed theater to remain engaged and find ways to communicate with those they disagree with despite a divisive political time. The two spoke about a month after former President Donald Trump's win over Vice President Kamala Harris in the presidential election. “We’re just passing through, and we all need to just calm down and do something that builds people up instead of tears them down,” Bill Clinton said. Hillary Clinton, the former secretary of state who was defeated by Trump in the 2016 election, said she understands the next couple of years are going to be challenging for voters who don't agree with the decisions being made. "In addition to staying involved and staying aware, it’s important to find something that makes you feel good about the day because if you’re in a constant state of agitation about our political situation, it is really going to shorten your life," she said. The Clintons spoke during a panel discussion with journalist Laura Ling, who the former president helped free in 2009 when she was detained in North Korea with another journalist. The event was held as part of a weekend of activities marking the 20th anniversary of the Clinton Presidential Library's opening in Little Rock. The library is preparing to undergo an update of its exhibits and an expansion that will include Hillary Clinton's personal archives. Hillary Clinton said part of the goal is to modernize the facility and expand it to make it a more open, inviting place for people for convene and make connections. When asked about advice he would give for people disappointed by the election results, Bill Clinton said people need to continue working toward bringing people together and improving others' lives. “If that's the way you keep score, then you ought to be trying to run up the score,” he said. “Not lamenting the fact that somebody else is winning a different game because they keep score a different way." “And in addition, figure out what we can do to win again,” Hillary Clinton added, eliciting cheers. The program featured a panel discussion with cast members of the hit NBC show “The West Wing” and former Clinton White House staffers. The weekend amounted to a reunion of former Clinton White House staffers, supporters and close friends, including former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe and adviser James Carville. McAuliffe said he and Carville ate Friday at Doe's Eat Place, a downtown restaurant that was popular with Clinton aides and reporters during Clinton's 1992 White House run. He said he viewed the library and its planned expansion as important for the future. “This is not only about the past, but it's more importantly about the future," McAuliffe said. “We just went through a very tough election, and people are all saying we've got to get back to the Clinton model.”