Update following incidents that happened in Edinburgh on Friday 19 June:
We recognise the concerns felt within all communities, including those who experienced and witnessed these horrific attacks, and we understand concerns may be heightened at this time. Policing and communities experience the direct impact and live time reactions to international conflicts, UK incidents and online commentary.
It is important that all communities across Scotland feel supported, protected and able to go about their daily lives without fear of hatred or intimidation.
Community cohesion is a partnership effort. Since Friday, we have engaged with over 90 multi-faith organisations and community leaders in Edinburgh and across Scotland. Local policing officers have visited businesses affected by the incident and will continue to do so. We are carrying out a community impact assessment and will closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities, and we are prepared to respond promptly to any emerging issues.
We have also been in touch with the police officers who bravely carried out the arrest on Friday, as well as speaking to other officers to offer any support they need.
A 36-year-old man was arrested and charged, and is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court today. While there is no wider threat, it continues to be a live ongoing investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland, supported by local policing officers in Edinburgh and other specialist national capabilities in Scotland.
The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.
We would appeal to anyone with information that could assist to upload it using the online form, including those with doorbell or dashcam footage
Anyone impacted by the incident can access free, confidential, emotional and practical support from Victim Support Scotland https://orlo.uk/x0Grk
We would urge everyone to continue to work together and ensure no person or group in Scotland feels marginalised or isolated. We are a police service for every community.
Our message is clear – there is no place for violence, hatred, or intimidation in our communities.
Workplace expert Acas has offered some recommendations to help employers manage workplace challenges due to hot weather.
Acas Chief Executive Niall Mackenzie said: “The Met Office has issued a weather warning for extreme heat, which will mean an uncomfortable week for many people.
“Some workers with certain health conditions or disabilities may be adversely affected by the heat. The hotter weather can also impact public transport, which can disrupt people’s journeys to and from work.
“Acas has some top tips for employers to help ensure their businesses remain productive during the heatwave while keeping staff happy, too.”
By law, employers have a ‘duty of care’ to make sure working temperatures are reasonable for their staff. This includes at the workplace and working from home.
Acas’s recommendations for hot weather working include:
Workplace temperatures should be reasonable
There is no legal maximum working temperature. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) advice is that the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings must be reasonable.
The HSE offers advice on how to carry out a thermal comfort risk assessment if staff are unhappy with the temperature:
Switch on any fans or air conditioners to keep workplaces comfortable and use blinds or curtains to block out sunlight. Staff working outside should wear appropriate clothes and use sunscreen to protect from sunburn.
Stay hydrated
Employers must provide staff with suitable drinking water in the workplace. Workers should drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and not wait until they are thirsty. Employers could allow extra breaks for staff to get cold drinks.
Dress code
Employers are not under any obligation to relax their uniform or dress code requirements during hot weather but where possible it may be advisable to for employers to relax the rules for wearing ties or suits.
Getting into work
If public transport gets adversely affected by the hot weather, this could affect staff attendance and their ability to get into work on time. Staff should check timetables in advance, and employers should be flexible.
Workers with health conditions or disabilities may be affected more by hot weather. Employers should assess for any risks and discuss what they need to reduce or remove that risk. This might include providing fans, portable air-cooling units or more frequent or longer breaks. Employers must make reasonable adjustments for workers with disabilities.
Families and film fans in Edinburgh will be able to enjoy a trip to the cinema for less this summer as ODEON at Fort Kinnaird introduces new lower ticket prices.
Adult and child tickets are now priced at £7.99, meaning cinema-goers could save up to 38% compared with previous prices, with Saver Monday tickets also reduced to £6.00, down from £7.50.
The new prices arrive just in time for the school holidays with a strong line up of blockbusters due this summer, including Toy Story 5, Supergirl and Minions & Monsters, as well as Spider‑Man: Brand New Day for older film fans.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said:“It’s great to see ODEON introducing lower ticket prices.
“Whether you’re taking the kids to the latest family blockbuster or heading to the big screen with friends, there’s a brilliant line-up to look forward to and even more reason to make a day of it at the centre, alongside shopping or grabbing a bite to eat.”
Demi Rodriguez, Marketing Coordinator at ODEON, said: “With so much for film fans to enjoy this summer, we’re excited to welcome even more guests for less at ODEON Fort Kinnaird.”
For more information and to plan a visit to Fort Kinnaird, go to:
The Scottish Government has committed £214,000 to fund anti-racism education in schools for 2026/27.
The investment will allow Education Scotland to continue both the Building Racial Literacy Programme (BRL) and Anti-Racist Mentors Project. These initiatives teach educators how to address everyday racism.
The Building Racial Literacy Programme (BRL) promotes anti-racism as a professional skill and teaches how to identify and implement anti-racist behaviours in everyday work. It is available for education workers at all levels of work.
The Anti-Racist Mentors Project supports up to 30 BRL graduates to act as local and regional mentors to conduct anti-racist professional learning. Project participants will also contribute to developing anti-racist training within local authorities.
Education Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “I am delighted to announce continued funding for these two projects which provide essential perspectives to help directly address race inequalities in a professional setting.
“Alongside this, feedback on the courses delivered through these initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting their real impact in supporting educators and fostering inclusive learning environments.
“The work these projects do is more important than ever following recent high-profile examples of racist behaviour in society. This investment in both the BRL programme and anti-racist mentors addresses this and will help deliver systemic, sustainable change – improving community cohesion as a result.
“The Scottish Government is consistently clear in our message that there is no place for racism in society. By supporting initiatives such as this in Scotland’s schools we can help ensure teachers are properly equipped to deliver vital anti-racist messaging to our children and young people.”
This latest tranche of funding is a continuation of the Anti-Racism in Education Programme. The programme identifies measures to address race inequality and suggests changes that promote racial literacy among pupils and staff.
To date more than 900 educators have completed the BRL programme.
New survey finds that when Brits need help, they rank small charities as their most trusted source of support, second only to friends and family
Over 200 charities have been selected to take part in this year’s Small Charity Week match funding campaign, up from 189 in 2025
More than £1.2 million in match funding has been pledged by funders and philanthropists, allowing public donations to participating charities to be doubled during Small Charity Week (22–29 June)
Small charities have been named Britain’s second most trusted support system, according to new research (Global’s Work.Shop.Play April 2026) released today as the Small Charity Week match funding campaign launches across the UK.
Four in five (80%) people agree that small charities are vital to society and make a real difference in their communities, while nearly half have seen the impact of a small charity in their local area.
The high level of public trust reflects the essential role small charities play in their local communities, where growing demand for their services is placing increasing pressure on organisations already facing rising costs and challenges securing donations and grant funding.
The results come as hundreds of grassroots charities prepare to take part in the Small Charity Week match funding campaign, delivered by Big Give, Global’s Make Some Noise and NCVO.
Running from 22 to 29 June, the campaign will double public donations to over 200 small charities, helping local organisations raise vital unrestricted funding to continue supporting people and communities. More than £1.2 million in match funding has been raised with support from generous funders, including players of the Postcode Lottery.
Demand to take part in the campaign has risen significantly. A total of 1,108 charities applied this year, rising by a third compared to 2025, highlighting the growing pressure facing small charities as demand for support rises and resources become increasingly stretched.
The campaign builds on the success of its inaugural year in 2025, which supported 189 charities and raised £1.8 million in just seven days.
Small charities continue to face significant challenges. Research from Small Charity Week 2025 found that only 3% of small charities described their financial position as long-term secure, while nearly half (49%) said they were at risk of closure within a year. Almost three-quarters (73%) reported increased demand for services, while 63% cited reduced grant funding as a key challenge.
James Reed CBE, Chair of the Trustees of Big Give, said:“Every day, small charities help people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, often with limited resources and little recognition.
“Through the Small Charity Week match funding campaign, we hope to help hundreds of grassroots organisations raise vital funds, strengthen their resilience and continue making a difference where it matters most.”
Lorraine Kelly, Big Give Ambassador, said:“Small charities do extraordinary work every day, often supporting people when they have nowhere else to turn. The findings of this poll reflect just how important these organisations are to communities.
“Unfortunately, many small charities are being squeezed more than ever before by cuts in grants, falling donations thanks to the cost of living crisis and increased demands for their services.
“Small Charity Week is a brilliant opportunity to celebrate and support what they do. Any money you can give will be doubled by Big Give – making your generosity go even further.”
Suzanne Ryder Richardson, Director of Global Goodness at Global’s Make Some Noise, added:“Small charities are at the heart of communities across the UK, providing vital support to people when they need it most.
“Through this campaign, we’re shining a spotlight on the organisations making a life-changing difference every day, often with limited resources and funding. We’re so proud to support and champion their work.”
Kate Lee OBE, Chief Executive of NCVO, said:“Trusted, local and often shaped by people with lived experience, small charities have a deep understanding of the challenges people face and are relied upon every day to provide vital support.
“Without them, thousands of people would be left struggling alone and the results of this survey reflect that. Charities are essential and they remain trusted at a time when confidence elsewhere declines. That’s why they need our support, like this match funding programme, to continue delivering vital services.”
The Small Charity Week match funding campaign is part of Small Charity Week, the national campaign celebrating the essential role of small charities and community organisations.
10 years on from the Brexit vote and thirteen months after its first report into the UK’s “EU reset”, the Business and Trade Committee finds that the initial stakeholder welcome for the Reset’s ambition has been hit by concerns about delivery
Of the most substantive agreements the UK has reached with the EU to date, on steel, fisheries and energy: the fisheries agreement was not universally welcomed and positive progress on steel tariffs risks being undermined without an agreement in talks ongoing since November last year.
The UK’s association to the Erasmus+ student exchange programme cost £570 million for the 2027/2028 academic year but the jury is out on its impact.
None of the three wider UK ambitions in the Common Understanding – help for touring artists, improved business mobility and an agreement on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications – have materially advanced.
It is unclear what the Security and Defence Partnership has delivered beyond political signalling.
The Committee has heard five key concerns about the Government’s current approach:
The ‘rhetoric-reality gap’: Government ministers have not pulled their punches about the negative economic impact of Brexit, but delivery of the current Reset is expected to add just 0.5% to the UK’s GDP by 2040, even in an optimistic scenario.
Limited progress in the critical area of defence and defence industrial policy, despite war raging on the European continent and the clear change of US approach to NATO.
Late negotiations for a deal on electricity trading even as the UK battles the highest electricity prices in the G7.
European partners still in the dark about the UK’s end goals with no clear strategy beyond the 2026 summit, and no clear strategic case for the Reset.
Continued disagreement on “dynamic alignment” with EU regulations.
The Committee concludes it is “unlikely” that the Government’s approach in the current round of negotiations will address these concerns and sets out the basic models for deepening ties – alongside the trade-offs entailed.
Rt Hon Liam Byrne MP, Chair of the Committee, said: “Ministers have been frank about the economic damage Brexit has caused, but there is now a yawning gap between their rhetoric and the reality of what the Reset is actually delivering.
“Business cannot invest on political signalling alone. It needs clear rules, a clear destination and a credible vision. Ministers must now get off the fence, set out where they want Britain’s relationship with Europe to be by the end of this Parliament, and provide the roadmap to restore confidence, strengthen our security and deliver the growth the country needs.
“Crucially, we need to understand that ten years after the Brexit referendum, Europe is changing fast. Russia’s war against Ukraine continues, hybrid attacks are escalating across everywhere and the United States has made clear that European NATO allies must do more to provide for their own security. Yet our inquiry found limited progress on UK-EU defence cooperation.
“At a moment when Europe should be strengthening its industrial and security partnerships, it is especially disappointing that the UK has yet to secure participation in the EU’s SAFE defence procurement programme, never mind set out an ambitious strategy for defence and economic security alliance.”
The Scottish Government says Scotland’s future lies in the European Union.
Holyrood belives re-joining the European Union would benefit Scotland by:
• strengthening our economy by reducing barriers for Scottish businesses
• providing Scottish people more opportunities to live, learn and work across Europe
• giving Scotland a stronger voice among our European neighbours
ELREC are working on a school volunteering scheme together with the City of Edinburgh to increase diversity in the Education workforce. Volunteers will join a placement school and will receive guidance and support from their mentor in order to get the most out of the experience.
So, if you want become a parent helper, see how schools work and build out your CV to apply for education jobs, apply for this opportunity here:
The big clear out is on Thursday. There are household items, some books, bedding and toys for FREE!
We also have some white, two pack, short sleeve shirts, regular and plus fit in age 9-10 and age 7-8 and a few packets of long sleeve in the same sizes.
PLEASE NOTE:
There is a 50p per packet charge for these shirts and first come, first served.
Thank you. Thank you. Walking up this street two years ago was the proudest moment of my life. A new Labour government. The first in 14 years. A page in our country’s history turned after years of disappointment and despair.
The chance to change the lives of millions of people for the better. That’s what I came into politics for. The journey to that point was not easy.
Six years ago, I inherited a Labour Party that was politically, financially and morally bankrupt. I was told, time and time again, that my party was finished.
That we were consigned to history, that a majority at the general election, let alone a landslide majority, was impossible. But we proved those people wrong because we changed our party.
Ripping out the poison of antisemitism, restoring trust on the economy, defence, and national security.
And becoming a party that, once again, stood proudly with, not against, our national flag. The hard work of change was with a singular purpose. Not power for power’s sake but to change Britain for the better.
To build a fairer country, with dignity and respect, where everyone is seen, everyone is valued. Wealth and opportunity for all, not just the privileged few. And look at what we’ve achieved in just two years.
An economy that is stronger, growing faster than our peers. Wages rising faster than inflation in every single month since we came to power. Investment secured, infrastructure being built. An end to austerity, with the fastest fall in NHS waiting lists for 17 years.
The biggest improvement in rights for workers and renters in a generation. The biggest uplift in defence spending since the Cold War. Small boat crossings falling, asylum hotels closing, protecting young people from social media, and half a million children being lifted out of poverty because of the choices that I made.
Our reputation in the world restored, with Britain once again standing up for decency, respect and the rule of law. Securing trade dues, standing with Ukraine, standing up for our values, and rebuilding our relationship with our allies in Europe.
Change promised by a Labour government. Change fought for by a Labour government, change delivered by a Labour government.
But I know the question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party, to take us into power, and to begin the vital work of improving lives for millions of people. Those questions have been answered.
The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election. I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question. And I accept that answer with good grace.
Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision.
I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on 9 July and completed by the summer recess. In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September.
I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete. And I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.
I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago, better prepared for the challenges ahead, and better able to ensure the Labour Party secures a second term in office.
I want to thank all of those friends and colleagues who have been at my side for these past six years or so for their incredible commitment, service and support.
I want to thank the brilliant No 10 staff and our country’s extraordinary civil service, who dedicate their lives to public service.
And when I leave, the biggest job in the country. I shall spend more time on the most important job. Being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife, Vic, who has been a rock by my side, through good times and bad. And being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and my joy.
“Keir Starmer led the Labour Party to a historic landslide victory in 2024, ending fourteen years of Conservative government.
“Since then, he has overseen a period of significant reform and renewal under the most difficult circumstances.
“He led the biggest improvement in workers’ and renters’ rights in a generation, alongside the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, which formed part of a wider programme to rebuild economic security and fairness.
“He has rebuilt our relationship with Europe and has proven to have been able to represent the UKs interests on the international stage.
“Most importantly, he lifted hundreds of thousands of people out of poverty through deliberate policy choices aimed at improving lives across the UK including the removal of the two-child benefit cap.
“I wish him and his family well for the future and thank him for his service to the country at a pivotal moment in its history.”
Brian Leishman MP:
“A change of Prime Minister must mean a change in direction.
“This Labour government still has time to transform the country and improve the lives of millions of people.
“It’s time for real Labour policies that will make people better off and our country a fairer place.”
Momentum:
Socialist Labour …
Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn:
‘Keir Starmer could have ended child poverty, homelessness and the grotesque levels of inequality in this country.
‘Instead, he abandoned those in need, destroyed our civil liberties and facilitated genocide in Gaza.
‘That is how this Prime Minister will be remembered – and that is the legacy of moral and political bankruptcy he leaves behind.
‘The crises in our society are not going away. Neither are we – and we will keep fighting for a more equal, peaceful and dignified society for all.’
STUC:
FBU general secretary, Steve Wright said: “Whoever replaces Keir Starmer needs to be clear that the status quo has to change.
“The reason we find ourselves with yet another PM standing down is that, like May, Johnson, Truss and Sunak before him, Starmer failed to break with the perceived wisdom of attacking public services, failing to tackle wealth inequality, whilst letting privatised public utilities rip off the people of this country.
“A new Labour leader needs to learn that lesson and learn it fast.
“For FBU members, this means stepping in to end the threat of fire station closures that puts our members and the public’s lives at risk.
“There needs to be investment in the fire and rescue service alongside other public services, and as an affiliated trade union, we will be putting that position before any candidate in a leadership election.
“We cannot have more of the same. If we do, then whoever is elected will inevitably have failed in their role and will be out of office at the earliest opportunity.
“The chance to break with the narrative of the past is now, learn the lessons that previous Prime Ministers failed to do and deliver a better future for our members and the people of this country.”
A sell-out Saturday, a dedicated family day today and selfies with Saturday night TV star, Sheli McCoy, made for a spectacular and successful Royal Highland Show as the very best in farming and rural life gathered at Scotland’s largest outdoor event venue, Royal Highland Centre, across the last four days.
Over 210,000 people came together to enjoy everything the Show had to offer this year, with agriculture at its heart.
From champion livestock and competitive equine classes to the latest in agri machinery, equipment and technology, the Show once again brought together the people, businesses and innovation driving Scotland’s rural economy.
Visitors were able to see first-hand the skill, standards and expertise across the sector, from the show rings and judging lines to machinery displays, practical demonstrations and conversations around the future of farming.
Alongside the traditional displays, families and visitors enjoyed a packed programme of activity including sheepdog trials, mountain bike displays, hobby horsing, fly fishing demonstrations, wood carving, and choreographed stunt displays from Outlander-inspired rival clans.
Food provenance also took centre stage in Scotland’s Larder, where exhibitors showcased local produce alongside cooking demonstrations exploring everything from the superpower of seaweed and ingredients from the north east, to big-flavour cheeses and food science.
Scottish BAFTA winner Sheli McCoy met with excited fans as she gathered outside Ingliston House beside the giant ‘RHS’ letters to capture selfies on Sunday.
The Show came to a sensational conclusion with a stunning display by the Lonach Highlanders and Lonach Pipe Band as they participated in a parade of the Show’s Main Ring and President’s Salute as part of the event’s Presidential Initiative’s Aberdeenshire showcase.
Children 15 and under were able to attend the Show for free and over 23,000 children attended over the four days.
The Saturday evening of the Show saw the Royal Highland Show present The Reeling, bringing some of Scotland’s biggest contemporary folk acts together, including Skipinnish, Breabach, Elephant Sessions, Kinnaris Quintet, Dlù and Dougie MacLean.
Other well-known visitors to this year’s Show included First Minister, John Swinney who, whilst on-site, sampled haggis as the US legalised Scotland’s National Dish. TV presenter, Michael Portillo, was also at the event filming for his Great British Railway Journeys series.
The Royal Highland Show is the biggest fundraising event for organisers, RHASS, (the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland) with the week of the Show seeing the event site become the sixth-largest population centre in Scotland, bigger than Paisley and Dunfermline.
With 197 hectares of entertainment (the equivalent of 180 football pitches!) there was something for everyone to enjoy.
David Tennant, Head of Show for RHASSsaid: “After a rainy start, the sun shone over the final two days, helping to quite literally shine a light on the very best of Scottish agriculture and the hard work, dedication and resilience of our farming community.
“As well as celebrating those across the sector, we were delighted to welcome more young people than last year to the Show as part of our dedicated Family Day on Sunday. Activities such as live milking and shearing demonstrations and hobby horsing gave children and families the opportunity to enjoy hands-on agricultural experiences that they may not otherwise have encountered.
“While the Show remains renowned for its rich heritage, livestock competitions and iconic parades, it has evolved into so much more. Each year, we build on previous successes, introducing new attractions, showcasing innovation and creating fresh opportunities for people to connect with agriculture.
“I would like to thank everyone who played a part in making the 2026 Royal Highland Show such a memorable occasion, from our members, exhibitors and competitors to our staff, volunteers and visitors. Your support, enthusiasm and commitment have helped make this year’s Show truly unforgettable.”
The 2026 Royal Highland Show – facts and numbers:
– This year marks 45 years of The Royal Bank of Scotland supporting the Show, with the bank reaffirming its commitment to its longest-standing corporate partnership last year for an additional three years.
– 327 prestigious trophies and a prize fund of £195,000 were competed for and awarded at this year’s Show
– Queen’s Cup winner 2026 is Irish Draught Light horse, Corkeeran Willow, by William Moran.
– The Royal Bank of Scotland Trophy rotates to a different section each year. 2026 was presented to sheep and was won by W Ramsay & Sons for Milnmark.
– The John Miller Perpetual Challenge Trophy, awarded in rotation to the best stocksperson was this year presented to beef. Moralee Hereford won the trophy.
– The Sanderson Trophy was won by Paul and Matthew Bedford with Roughlands Graceful Lady. The trophy is a major mark of excellence in Scotland’s equine community.
– Inter-breed sheep champion was the Blackface winner from the Ramsay family, Milnmark. The family have also won the breed championship ten times in total.
– Over 6,000 livestock were welcomed, including 700 cattle, 2000 sheep, 400 heavy horses, 1,680 light horse entries, from 2,500 competitors
– Texel, Beltex and Blackface sheep classes among the largest sections. Newer breeds such as Dutch Spotted sheep have also continued to grow in popularity.
– Dairy had cattle had the highest number of entries in over 10 years
– Highlands remain the leading cattle breed entered (100), alongside strong numbers of Beef Shorthorn (93) and Aberdeen Angus (77)
– 1,680 light horse entries
– Over 700 exhibitors, stretching across food, drink, clothing, artisanal crafts and agri-trade were in attendance.
– The Sir William Young Award, which recognises exceptional contributions to the world of livestock breeding and celebrates the enduring legacy of the late Sir William Young, was presented to Hugh Ramsay MBE.
– Over 200 volunteer stewards were involved in the RHS, as well as over 150 judges from all across the UK from Thurso to Devon
– A record 7,000 school pupils from 250 school groups came along for free through RHET (Royal Highland Education Trust), trying their hand at milking Mabel the (fiberglass) cow, planting peas, learning about peat and tasting and exploring seafood in the RHET Discovery Centre.
– Over 60,000 pints were poured over the four days, and over 10,000 glasses of Pimms were drunk.
– The classic burger was the most popular dish served up across the four-day event with 16,326 burgers flipped, and visitors kept energised with over 23,600 cups of coffee poured.
Super early-bird tickets for the 2027 Show are now on-sale.
