Afternoon briefing Friday 13th September

The UK is facing a significant increase in cyber threats, causing concerns for businesses of all sizes. Hackers are becoming more innovative and are targeting valuable data through connected devices. In a shifting political landscape, the Foreign Office denies spying accusations from Russia amid escalating tensions. The Prime Minister will discuss these matters with President Biden. Additionally, the number of prisoners in England and Wales has dropped by 2,000 due to a government release scheme aimed at addressing prison overcrowding. Finally, the UK courts have blocked plans for a new coal mine, impacting future mining operations.

Recent legal actions highlight ongoing environmental concerns, as a judge ruled that a Cumbria mine project was flawed. Additionally, the UK government plans to ban junk food ads from social media and television to protect children's health. Furthermore, new laws will classify sharing intimate images without consent as a serious offense, with severe penalties for platforms failing to act. On another front, a proposed merger between Vodafone and Three raises worries about potential higher costs and reduced service for mobile customers. All these measures emphasize the government's focus on health, safety, and consumer protection, showing a commitment to addressing pressing social issues.