A Foreign Affairs Committee investigation found it it was ‘difficult to understand’ how the disgraced peer was handed the plum Washington role, citing concerns about national security
The Peter Mandelson appointment as US ambassador was an “unmitigated disaster” that damaged Britain in the “eyes of the world ”, a damning report has found.
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A Foreign Affairs Committee investigation found it was “difficult to understand” how the disgraced peer was handed the plum Washington role, citing concerns about national security.
The influential Westminster committee found the process was not followed, and are now calling for no public appointments to be announced or made without the appropriate security clearance first being granted.
They argue when a Prime Minister wishes to make a specific appointment, they should always consult the Head of Diplomatic Service and the Foreign Secretary. The report also called for a new process of appointments, and for the diligence report to always be shared with the hiring department.
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Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Dame Emily Thornberry MP, said: “Despite my Committee’s extensive scrutiny and evidence gathering, and the thousands of pages published via the Humble Address, there are still unanswered questions as to how someone so clearly unfit was appointed British Ambassador to the United States.
“Mandelson’s appointment was an unmitigated disaster for the country. It should never have been allowed to happen, and it cannot ever be repeated. To prevent anything similar from happening again, no public appointments should be made without security vetting having already taken place.
“With the appointment announced, Mandelson on the payroll, and constant pressure from No. 10, it is no wonder that some civil servants in the Foreign Office felt the appointment was a forgone conclusion. But when our nation’s security is at stake, there can be no exceptions made, regardless of the individual’s public profile or sense of pressure.
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“Peter Mandelson’s appointment has been highly damaging for the Government, painful and offensive to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein and it has diminished our country in the eyes of the world.”
Sir Olly Robbins, who was sacked by the PM, previously claimed the Government was ‘dismissive’ of vetting Lord Mandelson – and claimed he was ordered to find a job for a key Starmer aide.
Earlier this year a vast trove of private WhatsApps and emails revealed Mr Mandelson’s influence across Government, where he offered advice to ministers and lobbied for his own interests while savaging Mr Starmer behind his back.
The cases follow investigations by the Police Ombudsman’s Office
A police officer has been convicted of careless driving following an investigation by the Police Ombudsman’s Office.
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The investigation was prompted by a public complaint alleging that the officer had, while on duty, driven through a zebra crossing, narrowly missing a child on a scooter.
The incident happened at Carlisle Circus in north Belfast on 2 April 2025.
The officer pleaded not guilty but was convicted following a contest at Belfast’s Laganside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and received a fine of £250 and five penalty points.
In a separate case at Dungannon Magistrates’ Court last Friday, July 3, another police officer was acquitted of charges of using a mobile phone while driving, and driving while not in proper control of a vehicle.
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The case was investigated by the Police Ombudsman’s Office after receiving a referral from the Public Prosecution Service based on video evidence submitted by police in relation to an alleged speeding offence by a member of the public.
The Police Ombudsman will now consider potential misconduct issues arising from both cases before submitting reports for consideration by the PSNI ’s Professional Standards Department.
Donald Trump said the ceasefire with Iran ‘is over’ and launched new bombing raids on Wednesday night after calling the country’s leaders ‘cuckoo’ and ‘scum’.
At the Nato summit in Turkey, the US President said the truce was finished and threatened to target Iran’s bridges, electricity grid and water-cleansing plants.
Later, addressing the second night of attacks, Mr Trump wrote on social media: ‘This is in retribution for Wednesday’s bombing of ships by Iran. If it happens again, it will get much worse!’
He also posted videos and photos of the raids, with images of smoke billowing into the sky after an apparent bombing.
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The US had renewed its onslaught on Iran on Tuesday night as ‘punishment’ after tankers came under fire in the Strait of Hormuz.
More than 80 US air strikes targeted military facilities, including craft used to harass tankers in the strait and air defence systems. Iranian state media said eight people died in the attacks.
US Central Command said they were launched to ‘impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway’.
The US also revoked a licence for Iran to sell oil on global markets as part of the Memorandum of Understanding between the countries agreed last month.
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At the Nato summit in Turkey, the US President said the truce was finished and threatened to target Iran’s bridges, electricity grid and water-cleansing plants. He is pictured here at the event with Keir Starmer
Emmanuel Macron is seen going for a morning jog in Ankara, Turkiye, where he arrived for the summit
In response, Iran targeted US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait and declared the agreement ‘dead’. It claimed to have shot down a US MQ9 drone and to have damaged 85 US facilities. Earlier, Mr Trump told the summit: ‘These are evil, sick people – they’re cancer. And you’ve got to cut out cancer early.’
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After the President’s threats, Tehran vowed to turn the Middle East into ‘a sea of fire’ and close the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials also threatened to ‘rain missiles’ on Israel and claimed Iran’s regional proxies, such as Yemeni-based Houthi rebels, had their ‘fingers on the triggers’. The speaker of Iran’s parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said: ‘We don’t fold.’
After hostilities resumed crude oil prices rose by 5 per cent, while Gulf states such as Qatar condemned Iran’s ‘explicit violation’ of international law.
The US action was backed by Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte, who confirmed the alliance’s position that Iran should never acquire a nuclear weapon.
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Away from the serious talks, French president Emmanuel Macron was spotted out for a morning jog in shorts and shades.
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Trump dubs Iran’s leaders cuckoo… then declares ceasefire over and launches fresh attacks
The degree of Honorary Doctorate of Sport was presented during the university’s summer graduation ceremonies in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the city, both on and off the pitch.
Mr O’Nien said: “I don’t think I can find the words to express what it means.
“I came here to play football and get the club back to the Premier League, and every time people thank me, I’m like – no, thank YOU.
“You guys took me on and gave me the opportunity.
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“You gave me time and space to learn and grow as a player and as a dad.
“You guys have given me the life that I’ve always wanted, on and off the pitch.
“I’ve turned up and given my everything but without the community here, I wouldn’t have this opportunity.
“I am unbelievably grateful and I will make sure that I will do my best to keep contributing to the Sunderland community the best I can.”
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Luke O’Nien with Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland (right) and Pro-Chancellor Jeff Brown (Image: University Of Sunderland)
Mr O’Nien joined Sunderland in 2018 and has become a fan favourite, earning the nickname “Mr Sunderland” and surpassing 300 appearances for the club.
His influence extends beyond football, as he regularly speaks about leadership, positivity and mental resilience.
He said: “One of the most important things in life is human connection and hearing people’s stories of where they’ve come from and where they’re going.
“I think everybody is carrying something that nobody else can see.
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“We all have challenges, we all have setbacks and we all have moments when life feels heavy.
“Sometimes the best thing you can do is take the time to listen – not to judge, not to solve the problem, just to understand.
“When people feel seen, heard and supported, incredible things can happen.”
The university’s summer graduations are taking place throughout the week, running from Monday, July 6 to Friday, July 10.
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This is the first time they have been held during the summer at The Fire Station in the city centre.
The ceremonies celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 and are expected to provide a significant economic boost to hotels, bars, restaurants and hospitality venues across Sunderland.
The US has started “additional strikes” after Iran’s “recent unjustified aggression” on civilian crews in the Strait of Hormuz
Carrington Walker Live News Journalist and Antonio Scancariello
22:09, 08 Jul 2026
Donald Trump has directed the US military to launch fresh assaults on Iranian targets, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
The United States has commenced “additional strikes” in response to Iran’s “recent unjustified aggression” towards civilian crews, according to the Express.
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A statement from Central Command read: “At the direction of the Commander in Chief, U.S. Central Command forces have started conducting additional strikes against Iran to further degrade their ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
“The United States is holding Iran accountable for recent unjustified aggression against commercial shipping and civilian crews freely navigating a vital international waterway.”
On 7 July, the US Command confirmed that numerous targets had been struck following “a series of powerful strikes”, triggered by alleged Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The Command subsequently confirmed that “over 80 targets” had been hit.
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According to UN International Maritime Organisation figures, three civilian vessels were struck in the strait earlier on Tuesday. Iran, however, did not claim any of the attacks.
President Trump appeared to issue a stark ultimatum to Iran earlier this week, declaring “we’re either going to have a deal or we’re going to have a war”. Speaking at the NATO summit in Turkey yesterday and today (7 July and 8 July), the president stated: “If we make a deal with Iran, I’m not sure that will stick because I found them to be very dishonourable. We hit them very hard last night, very, very hard,” before adding that the US will “probably hit them hard again tonight”.
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His remarks regarding the precarious ceasefire triggered a further surge in oil prices. Brent crude climbed approximately 6.5% to $79 a barrel on Wednesday morning following Mr Trump’s declaration that the ceasefire had collapsed.
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Sitting alongside the alliance’s secretary general, Mark Rutte, Trump said he was “very upset” with NATO, threatening to cut off all trade with Spain in a row over defence spending. Since, the U.S. has fired strikes at more than 80 Iranian targets around the strait of Hormuz.
Here’s what the stars have in store for your day (Picture: Metro.co.uk)
Today, Venus moves into Virgo for four weeks, bringing a practical and organisational quality to the following days. Plan, plan and plan.
Pisces, Aquarius and Capricorn, you will gain clarity and boldness when it comes to relationships. Whether getting closer or stepping away, you’ll know what to do.
Being thoughtful will come naturally throughout the Venus-Virgo tie, and revelations are on the cards. Don’t hold back.
Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Thursday July 9, 2026.
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Aries
March 21 to April 20
Venus is not just about earthly sensuality. This planet helps us value ourselves and manage our finances. Today, she moves into the practical Virgo for a four-week stay. This is the sign of virtue, so a great chance to carefully marshal your resources or take pride in any personal hobbies that require concentration and precision. Thoughtful gestures will be appreciated.
As Venus, your ruler, sashays into the practical Virgo, a fellow Earth sign, the next four weeks can help you bring order to both your social and creative worlds. Small refinements may make a surprising difference. Whether it’s updating your look, pursuing a hobby, or reconnecting with people who appreciate your talents, attention to detail can prove rewarding.
An earthier dimension shapes up, with the Moon in Taurus and Venus, which influences taste and style, moving into gentle Virgo. Such has been the high-octane blend of recent days, particularly in your sign, with Mars and Uranus creating an electric buzz of excitement, you can appreciate the chance to chill out at home, decorate, or spend time in your outdoor space.
Remember that old saying, “It’s not what we say, but the way that we say it?” Well, that can really ring true in the next few weeks, when your ideas, messages, and the way you express them resonate with the people you encounter. Whilst many of us chat by text now, you can still find that people are more responsive to what you say. Mutual rapport can be boosted.
Your finances can take a turn for the better now, but the trick will be to use any good fortune carefully. That more flamboyant side of your nature could be tempted to splash out, but one sound way of avoiding a powerful case of buyer’s remorse is to ask yourself this question: “Will any item I buy have a practical benefit?” If the answer is no, don’t rush any purchases.
The weeks ahead can be the perfect time to give yourself a makeover. If you are a dedicated follower of fashion, you may feel you are already on trend, but a few more individual, tasteful touches can give you a lovely personal boost. A creative hobby that has been calling out to you could also come into play. Blending your eye for detail with flair, the perfect mix.
Cosmic messages for Cosmic messages for Virgo today
Libra
September 24 to October 23
Whether you’re involved or single, as your ruler, Venus, moves into the most reflective zone of your chart, it can give you plenty of cosmic food for thought around close involvements. You may find yourself nostalgic for someone from your past or deciding whether a current tie meets your expectations. After an incredibly busy time of late, you may also enjoy some “you time”.
As Venus glides into the practical Virgo, though not her most glamorous place, this gives you a chance to celebrate the things you have in common, rather than the things that make you different. Venus here can be very discriminating, so try not to be too precise in who or what would meet your ideal. Socially, a busier time is in store, especially around group activities.
With Uranus, the planet of rebellion, now in your sector of relationships, this can bring to the fore that more outspoken and feistier part of your nature. A counterpoint to this is the planet of relating, Venus, moving into the most visible part of your chart. In the weeks ahead, her diplomacy and steadiness can be great qualities, especially in work or worldly interactions.
Enjoy nature, walking, rambles, or visiting places of historical interest? The month ahead can be very enjoyable. If you prefer home-based activities, researching or watching natural history programs can be gratifying. However, if a relationship has been uncertain, you may become firmer in your need to know where you stand, as the truth must come out.
You have a reputation for cool detachment in all things romantic. Is that always the case, Aquarius? No, of course not, and the next few weeks can see things get altogether spicier – as long as you feel really comfortable with the person you’re with. In business, your ability to see value beyond what is obvious can also be amplified from now on, bringing rewards.
As Venus enters your opposite sign, relationships come sharply into focus. The coming weeks can reward cooperation, give-and-take, and showing affection through practical gestures. Sometimes love is best expressed not through grand declarations but through consistency, reliability, and genuine consideration. Your listening skills will be appreciated, too, now.
Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.
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The match between England and Mexico in the round of 16 has become the most-watched World Cup game not involving the U.S. broadcast in English in the country’s history, according to Fox.
The network said Wednesday an average of more than 21.7 million tuned in to watch England’s 3-2 victory in Mexico City on Sunday night. That tops the previous record of the final between Argentina and France in 2022, which was seen by 16.7 million.
Fox said the audience peaked at more than 25.7 million from 10:15-10:30 p.m. Eastern time. The U.S.-Belgium game the following night is the most-watched at 30 million.
The Crab and Lobster in Asenby, an award-winning restaurant with “five star” rooms in an 18th-century Georgian manor house, is up for sale.
Described as a “rare opportunity” by agent Savills, the “highly distinctive” site has become a sought-after leisure destination off the A168, close to the A1(M).
The property is home to 20 individually designed bedrooms each inspired by destinations across the globe from the Burj Al Arab in Dubai to the Shangri-La in Beijing and Bora Bora.
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There are also rooms set within the landscaped grounds, including thatched lodges, log cabins, garden rooms, and luxury suites.
Many rooms benefit from luxury features such as private hot tubs, saunas, roll-top baths and underfloor heating.
Meanwhile, the 2 AA Rosettes restaurant boasts 40 covers in its main space as well as a 42-cover conservatory, 60 external covers and private dining facilities for up to 16 guests with its own terrace.
Savills said: “Guests can enjoy the hotel’s extensive landscaped gardens, before dining at the award winning restaurant.
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“The property is known for offering a quirky, travel-inspired experience, making it ideal for special occasions.
“Its countryside location offers a tranquil backdrop, while still allowing guests to enjoy the culture, heritage, shopping, and dining through some of North Yorkshire’s most desirable towns.
“Blending convenience with scenic surroundings, the Crab and Lobster Hotel provides an ideal base for leisure breaks and celebrations – perfectly positioned for discovering everything that the region has to offer.”
The site also benefits from planning permission to demolish and replace the manor conservatory with a larger footprint, offering a separate wedding and event space.
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Savills has been instructed to sell the long leasehold interest of the site, meaning the buyer will have exclusive possession of the land for a fixed term but will not be the outright owner.
The property currently has a long leasehold for 250 years with effect from February 20, 2020, with a passing rent of £133,150 from March 2026.
The Echo has contacted the restaurant for comment.
The president made the comments Wednesday evening as he gaggled with reporters on Air Force One as he returned to the U.S. from Ankara, Turkey, where he attended the Nato summit this week.
Trump was asked by reporters if Platner should be made to withdraw from the race after a woman he previously dated came forward with her experience of Platner coming into her home uninvited and forcing himself upon her. Her account was corroborated by contemporary remarks to friends, as well as a therapist. Platner, in a video message, denied the woman’s claims, calling them “troubling and false.”
The president also said that Maine Democrats were facing a tough situation, but appeared to suggest that there was room for people to believe Platner’s denials over the woman’s account.
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“It’s really a question of whether or not you believe the woman,” Trump told reporters. “A lot of people say big falsehoods. It’s– he’s in a bind.”
Donald Trump departed Turkey on Wednesday after attending the Nato summit (Getty)
“Should they be able to [force him out]? Well, I guess he’s going to lose,” added the president. “It’s very interesting, when a Republican woman came out with the same charge, nobody believed her. When this woman came out, everybody believed her.”
Death in Paradise fans were quick to recognise Neville Parker’s sister Izzy in a BBC repeat of series 11
Olivia Wheeler Content Editor Screen Time
23:10, 08 Jul 2026
A Widow’s Bay star previously featured prominently in Death in Paradise.
Presently, the BBC is broadcasting repeat instalments of Death in Paradise, with Wednesday evening showing series 11, episode five. In the 2022 series, Ralf Little portrayed the lead character DI Neville Parker prior to his departure in 2024.
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The repeat instalment featured a young pop star discovered deceased at a rehabilitation facility, where it initially appeared to be a tragic accident. Nevertheless, Neville remained convinced that her death concealed more than first appeared…
In the instalment, viewers witnessed the appearance of Neville’s sister, Izzy. Yet, Neville wasn’t particularly delighted to encounter his sister, especially as she’d kept her visit a surprise and promptly began meddling in his affairs.
The role of Izzy is portrayed by actress Kate O’Flynn, who featured as the character across three instalments. Naturally, audiences will immediately recognise Kate, 40, for her memorable performance as Patricia Moyer in the recent popular series Widow’s Bay, reports the Mirror.
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Additional credits include Fiona Lewis in Everyone Else Burns, Princess Mary in My Lady Jane and Alice in Bridget Jones’s Baby – amongst numerous others.
When the instalment originally aired, audiences were swift to immediately identify Kate portraying Izzy. One viewer remarked: “I recognise Izzy from somewhere!”.
While another viewer posted: “Where have I seen Izzy before! ? @deathinparadise she looks very familiar #DeathInParadise!”
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However, it appears that Izzy’s return to Death in Paradise is unlikely, given the departure of her on-screen brother Neville. In 2024, Neville made the decision to leave Saint Marie permanently after four years, choosing instead to travel the world.
Don Gilet has since stepped into the lead role as DI Mervin Wilson. Reflecting on his arrival to the show in 2024, Don said: “Being offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.
“This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it. It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated.
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“Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer – whichever happens to be closer at the time!”.
Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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