Brand convicted of rape and sexual assault after 18-day trial
Get European news in your inbox daily
A short daily digest of the whole continent — or just the countries you care about.
Check your email. We've sent a confirmation link — click it to complete your subscription.
Comedian and actor Russell Brand has been found guilty of rape and sexual assault following an 18-day trial and now faces a significant prison term. He was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault involving four women, though acquitted of other charges, and was remanded in custody.
In political news, the government of Prime Minister Andy Burnham is confronting a potential major rebellion over two significant welfare reviews expected next week. The UK is also exploring Denmark's 'Fleksjobs' scheme as a model for benefits reform. Meanwhile, the British government is being sued for stripping nearly 1,500 EU citizens of their right to live in the UK and faces 'Windrush'-style accusations regarding the removal of Turkish nationals.
Other domestic developments include Labour Members of Parliament expressing regret over a ban on Palestine Action that has led to approximately 4,000 arrests, and stroke patients voicing anger over being denied life-saving treatment by a service operating only from Monday to Friday. The UK is also facing claims of climate hypocrisy at Cop31 concerning its North Sea gas policies, while female comedians are using WhatsApp to warn each other about alleged abusers in the television industry. Members of the Royal Family, including King Charles III and Prince William, the Prince of Wales, attended the Festival of Remembrance.