Gatwick second runway plan approved by transport secretary

**Gatwick Second Runway Plan Approved by Transport Secretary**

*By Katy Austin, Transport Correspondent and Jamie Whitehead, BBC News*

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has approved plans for a second runway at London Gatwick Airport, marking a significant step as the government seeks new opportunities for economic growth.

The £2.2 billion privately-financed project essentially involves moving the current Northern Runway 12 metres to bring it into regular use, alongside other developments including terminal expansions. The airport says the plans will create jobs and boost the local economy.

Gatwick currently handles around 280,000 flights annually. The new plan would increase this number to approximately 389,000 flights by the late 2030s. A government source described the plan as a “no-brainer for growth,” adding that it is possible planes could be utilising a new full runway at Gatwick before the next general election.

Located in West Sussex, London Gatwick is currently Europe’s busiest single-runway airport, serving over 40 million passengers a year. The approved plans would add 40,000 more flights before the second runway opens, rising to 70,000 additional flights—nearly 190 per day—once the runway is fully operational. This expansion could see passenger numbers rise to as many as 80 million.

Currently, the Northern Runway is used only for taxiing or as a backup. The new second runway will primarily serve short-haul flights, while freeing up capacity on the main runway for more long-haul services.

The decision to approve the expansion was anticipated in February, when the transport secretary expressed that she was “minded to grant consent” for the Northern Runway planning application. Planning inspectors had raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposals on the surrounding area, including traffic congestion and noise pollution.

In response, in April Gatwick Airport agreed to implement stricter noise controls, an enhanced insulation scheme for nearby residents, and a target of having 54% of air passengers use public transport before the Northern Runway opens. To achieve this, the airport acknowledged that third parties, including the Department for Transport, would need to support the delivery of necessary infrastructure improvements—such as reinstating the full Gatwick Express rail service.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gatwick Express offered four non-stop trains per hour between the airport and London Victoria. This was reduced to two trains per hour in 2022.

To address road congestion concerns, Gatwick Airport has also proposed a cap on cars on the road if the 54% public transport target is not met prior to the runway’s first use. If neither the target nor the road traffic limit can be achieved, the runway plans would be delayed until £350 million in road improvements are completed. The airport stated this would ensure additional traffic flows can be accommodated without causing congestion.

A government source said, “This government has taken unprecedented steps to get this done, navigating a needlessly complex planning system, which our reforms will simplify in future.” They added, “Any airport expansion must be delivered in line with our legally binding climate change commitments and meet strict environmental requirements.”

However, there is strong opposition to the expansion, particularly from climate campaigners. Following the approval announcement, new Green Party leader Zack Polanski called it a “disaster for the climate crisis.”

In February, Greenpeace UK policy director Douglas Parr argued the extension would not drive economic growth. “The only thing it’s set to boost is air pollution, noise, and climate emissions,” he said.

Alex Chapman, senior economist at the left-leaning think tank New Economics Foundation, also contended the expansion would not create new jobs but rather shift them from other parts of the country. “People are already perfectly able to catch cheap flights on holiday or travel for business,” he added.

Unite the Union general secretary Sharon Graham voiced support for Gatwick having a second runway but cautioned it must come with “guarantees of well-paid, unionised jobs and proper facilities for workers.”

*This article will be updated as further developments occur.*
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9v7rz24z23o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

Department of War Puts the Pentagon Press on Notice: ‘Follow the Rules or Go Home’

**Pentagon Implements New Restrictions on Press Access and Reporting**

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced new restrictions Friday on how members of the press may operate inside the Pentagon, significantly tightening rules for access and reporting. The measures require all journalists to work through established public affairs channels, display press credentials at all times, and accept that possession of unauthorized information may result in the loss of press credentials.

The policy, laid out in a memo released Friday, follows restrictions introduced earlier this year. In May, Hegseth directed the Pentagon to impose tighter controls on press activity after a series of leaks he said endangered military operations.

The new regulations cover not only classified national security information, known as CNSI, but also controlled unclassified information, or CUI. This category includes a wide range of materials. For example, planning documents for the Army’s 250th anniversary parade in June—such as how many tanks would participate in the event viewed by President Donald Trump—were initially labeled as CUI. Under the new rules, information designated as CUI is also barred from public release.

Reporters accustomed to broad access within the Pentagon will also see limits on where they can move. In past years, credentialed journalists were permitted to walk throughout most of the building, outside of secured areas. Now, according to Pentagon officials, escorts will be required for reporters seeking access to restricted sections.

“Up until now, the press could wander all around the Pentagon with no oversight,” spokesman Sean Parnell said in May when earlier restrictions were announced. “Even outside of sensitive/classified areas. So moving forward, they’ll need an escort to access those areas. They still have access to the entire defense press office, the press secretary & my office, as well as much of the rest of the building. These are pragmatic changes to protect operational security & ultimately brings the Pentagon in line with other government buildings.”

Hegseth explained the reasoning behind the new requirements, stating, “The press does not run the Pentagon—the people do. The press is no longer allowed to roam the halls of a secure facility. Wear a badge and follow the rules or go home.”

Media outlets have raised concerns about the implications of the changes. The Washington Post described the requirement as a demand that journalists pledge not to obtain unauthorized material. NPR reported that Hegseth was requiring a new pledge for Pentagon reporters, and Politico noted that access would be limited unless journalists agreed not to publish certain information.

Pentagon officials, however, emphasized that the restrictions are focused on activities inside the building. Reporters remain free to publish information obtained through other means, but under the new policy, access to the Pentagon itself will require adherence to the rules.

The restrictions will also make it more difficult for informal exchanges to take place inside the building. Reporters will no longer be able to freely walk hallways, encounter staff, or overhear conversations. These conditions, combined with visible badge requirements and designated press areas, are expected to limit unsanctioned contact between reporters and Pentagon personnel.

Hegseth has emphasized operational security as the driving factor behind the measures. With leaks continuing to pose challenges for the Department of Defense, officials said the new rules are intended to bring the Pentagon in line with other secure federal facilities where press activity is tightly controlled.

The implementation of these restrictions marks a shift in the longstanding relationship between the Pentagon and the defense press corps, where open access has historically been viewed as part of routine coverage of the U.S. military. Now, with the new rules in effect, Pentagon reporters face tighter oversight and potential penalties for violations.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/department-of-war-puts-the-pentagon-press-on-notice-follow-the-rules-or-go-home/

FIVB Men’s World: Italy sweeps its way to quarterfinal round

MANILA, Philippines — Alessandro Michieletto and Yuri Romano powered defending champion Italy’s sweep of Argentina, 25-23, 25-20, 25-22, to advance to the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship quarterfinals on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Michieletto delivered a game-high 15 points, contributing 12 kills and three blocks. Meanwhile, Romano finished with 14 points, including nine kills, playing a crucial role in securing the victory for Italy.
https://sports.inquirer.net/641083/fivb-mens-world-italy-sweeps-its-way-to-quarterfinal-round

Using longer words can make apologies seem more sincere: Study

**Using Longer Words Can Enhance the Perceived Sincerity of Apologies: Study**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 06:47 PM*

A recent study has revealed that employing longer, more complex words in apologies can enhance the perceived sincerity of the expression of remorse. This research underscores the significance of perceived effort in communication, suggesting that even a subtle increase in lexical complexity can influence how genuine an apology appears. The findings indicate that individuals tend to value the additional effort demonstrated in crafting an apology, which fosters a stronger sense of authenticity and understanding.

**The Psychological Challenges of Apologizing**

Why is it often so difficult to apologize? Dr. Tara Quinn-Cirillo, a psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, explains that the difficulty arises because apologizing necessitates acknowledging one’s vulnerability. Despite recognizing that one’s actions or words may have been wrong, publicly admitting fault remains a challenge for many. This reluctance is rooted in evolutionary and historical factors, where vulnerability was often perceived as a threat to personal safety, prompting individuals to develop psychological defenses against such exposures.

**The Problem of Insincere Apologies**

Insincere apologies continue to be a prevalent concern. Dr. Quinn-Cirillo cautions against superficial expressions of regret that serve merely as a means to escape accountability without genuine behavioral change. She references former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s repeated apologies concerning his conduct during the COVID-19 lockdowns as a pertinent example. Notably, Johnson later described these apologies in his memoir as “pathetic” and a “mistake,” highlighting the performative nature of some public apologies.

**Misinterpretation of Apologies**

It is vital to recognize that uttering the word “sorry” does not inherently indicate true remorse. The study draws attention to cases where apologies are misunderstood or misrepresented. For instance, Harvey Weinstein’s apology amid sexual assault allegations, wherein he expressed regret for his past behavior, contrasted sharply with his subsequent legal actions aimed at suing over what he deemed “false and defamatory statements.” This example illustrates the complexity surrounding the interpretation of apologies and underscores the need for skepticism when evaluating them solely based on verbal expressions.

In conclusion, the research suggests that increasing linguistic complexity modestly within apologies can enhance their perceived sincerity. However, the authenticity of an apology ultimately depends on the intention behind it and the willingness to embrace vulnerability and effect meaningful change.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/study-reveals-the-science-behind-convincing-apology/story

Women practising garba abducted by armed group in MP`s Mandsaur; 7 held

At around 9:30 pm on Saturday, several unidentified men and women entered Bhavsar Dharamshala within Kotwali police station limits, brandishing illegal weapons and forcibly abducted a woman by dragging her into a four-wheeler, an official confirmed.

Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar Meena stated that the abduction was carried out by the woman’s relatives, according to reports from IANS. Kotwali station in-charge Pushpendra Singh Rathore identified the arrested individuals as Ramchandra; Manisha, also known as Bunty; Kamlesh, also known as Ghota; Fakirachand; Shambhulal; Shyamabai—all residents of Chachawada Sathiya under Garoth Police Station—and Dinesh from Bhunki Hatunia.

A case has been registered under charges relating to kidnapping, the Arms Act, and other relevant sections. Officials have confirmed that further investigation is ongoing.

The woman was participating in a Navratri celebration alongside other women and young girls when four men and two women suddenly arrived at the venue. Without warning, they grabbed her and began forcibly dragging her away. A young woman who tried to intervene was pushed aside. One of the accused brandished a pistol-like object, causing panic among attendees.

Video footage captured the chaos, showing people fleeing in fear as the woman was taken away, said Kotwali police station in-charge Pushpendra Singh Rathore, according to the IANS report.

Upon receiving the alert, police quickly responded and imposed a district-wide blockade. Within two hours, Kotwali police traced and apprehended all seven accused and safely recovered the abducted woman. The vehicle involved in the abduction and the pistol—which was later confirmed to be a toy—were also seized, police added.

According to the woman’s statement, she had previously been married but left her husband due to repeated physical abuse and had filed for divorce. For the past four months, she had been living with a young man named Yash in Khanpura. Her family and in-laws, reportedly angered by this relationship, orchestrated the abduction to bring her back home.

Local residents have expressed outrage over the incident, especially given its timing during a significant cultural celebration. The event has reignited discussions on personal freedom, family pressure, and the urgent need for stronger protections for women in both private and public spaces.

(With inputs from PTI and IANS)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/navratri-2025-women-practising-garba-abducted-by-armed-group-in-mps-mandsaur-7-held-23595111

Osaka High Court Upholds Don Juan of Kishu’s Will

Nozaki, who made his fortune in lending and liquor wholesale, was a prominent figure in Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture. He was known for often keeping large amounts of cash and precious metals at his home. In a past interview, he stated, “This watch cost 4.5 million yen. I usually keep around 700 million yen at home.”

After his sudden death from acute stimulant poisoning in 2018, a handwritten will written in red ink was discovered. The will stated, “I bequeath all my personal assets to Tanabe City. Kosuke Nozaki.”

In 2020, Nozaki’s relatives filed a lawsuit contesting the validity of this document. They argued that the handwriting appeared unnatural and that there was no rational motive for Nozaki to donate his entire estate to the city.

However, the Wakayama District Court ruled in June of last year that the handwriting exhibited characteristics unique to Nozaki and judged the will to be valid.

Dissatisfied with the decision, the relatives appealed the ruling, claiming that the signature could have been traced from another document and forged.

On September 19th, the Osaka High Court dismissed the appeal. The court stated that although the signature resembled one on another document, this alone did not provide sufficient grounds to presume forgery. Consequently, the court upheld the lower court’s finding that the will was valid.

The case is further complicated by the circumstances surrounding Nozaki’s death. His then 29-year-old wife was indicted for murder and other charges. However, in December of last year, the Wakayama District Court acquitted her. Prosecutors have since appealed the acquittal, and the legal proceedings continue.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146957.php

Apple’s next MacBook Pro may feature these 5 upgrades

**Apple’s Next MacBook Pro May Feature These 5 Major Upgrades**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025*

Apple is reportedly working on a major redesign of its MacBook Pro, marking the first significant update since 2021. The revamped model is expected to launch sometime in 2026, bringing a range of exciting new features and improvements.

**1. OLED Display for Enhanced Visuals**

One of the standout changes in the new MacBook Pro will likely be the introduction of an OLED display. This upgrade promises better brightness and more accurate color reproduction, enhancing the overall viewing experience for users. Additionally, Apple may remove the controversial notch and replace it with a smaller camera hole cutout, offering a cleaner and more modern look.

**2. Thinner Design**

The 2026 MacBook Pro is expected to sport a thinner chassis, making the laptop more sleek and portable. While specific details about the exact dimensions are still scarce, this design evolution aligns with Apple’s trend of making their devices progressively lighter and more compact.

**3. Touchscreen Integration**

Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that Apple might introduce touchscreen capabilities to its Mac lineup as early as 2026. This would mark a significant shift for Macs, which have traditionally relied on keyboard and trackpad input. Evidence suggests Apple is actively exploring touchscreen technology for future devices, hinting at enhanced interactivity and versatility for users.

**4. Cellular Connectivity**

Another groundbreaking feature rumored for the new MacBook Pro is built-in cellular connectivity. Apple is said to be developing its own in-house modem for Macs, which could enable constant internet access without the need for Wi-Fi. This would make the MacBook Pro a true on-the-go device, perfect for professionals who require seamless connectivity everywhere.

**5. Next-Generation M6 Chip**

Powering the 2026 MacBook Pro will be Apple’s next-generation M6 chip family, reportedly manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology. This advancement is expected to deliver significant improvements in both performance and energy efficiency compared to previous models, ensuring faster processing speeds and longer battery life.

With these anticipated upgrades, the 2026 MacBook Pro could redefine what users expect from a professional laptop. From an OLED display and touchscreen support to cellular connectivity and the powerful M6 chip, Apple seems poised to bring a fresh wave of innovation to its Mac lineup. Fans and professionals alike should keep an eye out for official announcements in the coming months.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/oled-to-cellular-connectivity-macbook-pro-may-feature-these-upgrades/story

Brazil joins South Africa’s genocide case at ICJ against Israel

**Brazil Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case at ICJ Against Israel**

Brazil has officially joined South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This move is largely symbolic, signifying that whatever construction emerges from the court’s eventual judgment will be equally binding upon Brazil.

Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva recently engaged in discussions that underscore the country’s growing involvement in international legal matters. During a meeting with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia on March 6, 2024, President Lula emphasized Brazil’s commitment to upholding international justice.

*Photo credit: REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino/File Photo*

By SARAH BEN-NUN
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868287

Osaka High Court Upholds Don Juan of Kishu’s Will

Nozaki, who made his fortune in lending and liquor wholesale, was a prominent figure in Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture. He was known for often keeping large amounts of cash and precious metals at his home. In a past interview, he remarked, “This watch cost 4.5 million yen. I usually keep around 700 million yen at home.”

After his sudden death from acute stimulant poisoning in 2018, a handwritten will in red ink was discovered. The will stated, “I bequeath all my personal assets to Tanabe City. Kosuke Nozaki.”

In 2020, his relatives filed a lawsuit contesting the validity of the document. They argued that the handwriting was unnatural and claimed there was no rational motive for Nozaki to donate his estate to the city.

However, the Wakayama District Court ruled in June of last year that the handwriting exhibited characteristics unique to Nozaki and judged the will to be valid.

Dissatisfied with this ruling, the relatives appealed the decision, asserting that the signature could have been traced from another document and forged.

In its ruling on September 19th, the Osaka High Court dismissed the appeal. The court stated that although the signature resembled one on another document, this alone was not sufficient grounds to presume forgery. The court upheld the lower court’s finding that the will was valid.

The case is further complicated by the circumstances surrounding Nozaki’s death. His then 29-year-old wife was indicted on charges of murder and other offenses but was acquitted by the Wakayama District Court in December last year. Prosecutors have since appealed the acquittal, prolonging the legal proceedings.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146957.php

Apple’s next MacBook Pro may feature these 5 upgrades

**Apple’s Next MacBook Pro May Feature These 5 Major Upgrades**

Apple is reportedly working on a significant redesign of its MacBook Pro, marking the first major update since 2021. According to rumors, the revamped MacBook Pro is expected to launch sometime in 2026, bringing several exciting new features and improvements.

**1. OLED Display**

One of the most anticipated upgrades is the introduction of an OLED display for the first time in a MacBook Pro. This change promises improved brightness and better color accuracy, enhancing the overall visual experience for users. Additionally, the new model could eliminate the notch, opting instead for a smaller camera hole cutout for a cleaner look.

**2. Thinner Design**

The 2026 MacBook Pro is expected to boast a thinner design, contributing to a more sleek and portable device. While specific details on the slimmer profile remain scarce, this evolution aligns with Apple’s ongoing commitment to refining the form factor of its devices.

**3. Touchscreen Integration**

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that Apple may introduce touchscreen capabilities to its Mac lineup as early as 2026. This speculation is supported by increasing evidence of Apple’s interest in incorporating touchscreen technology into future Macs, potentially transforming user interaction.

**4. Cellular Connectivity**

In a notable advancement, the upcoming MacBook Pro could become Apple’s first cellular-enabled Mac. Reports suggest that an in-house modem is in development, which would allow the device to offer cellular connectivity, providing users with internet access on the go without relying on Wi-Fi networks.

**5. Next-Generation M6 Chip**

Powering the new MacBook Pro will be the next-generation M6 chip family, expected to be Apple’s first to utilize TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology. This chip upgrade is set to deliver significant improvements in both performance and energy efficiency compared to previous models.

With these anticipated upgrades, Apple’s 2026 MacBook Pro aims to redefine professional laptop performance and user experience. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the official launch.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/oled-to-cellular-connectivity-macbook-pro-may-feature-these-upgrades/story

Exit mobile version