Today's briefing

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July 21, 2023

Warmer weather is expected in the second week of August in the UK, despite some interruptions from low-pressure systems. Tory Minister Johnny Mercer mocks Labour's newest MP for lack of experience. Senior doctors in the NHS stage their first strike in a decade over a pay dispute. Just Stop Oil activists are confronted by counter-protesters. Labour fails to win Boris Johnson's former seat due to a revolt against the ultra-low emissions scheme.

Warmer Weather Expected in Second Week of August

Weather forecasters predict that Britons can look forward to warmer weather in the second week of August, following a rainy start to the month. While some interruptions from low-pressure systems may bring wetter conditions, there is a possibility of more settled weather by the middle of the month. Overall, next month is expected to be unsettled.

Tory Minister Mocks Labour's Newest MP for Lack of Experience

Tory Minister Johnny Mercer mocks Labour's newest MP, Keith Mather, comparing him to the TV show The Inbetweeners. Mercer criticizes Mather's education at Oxford University and lack of work experience. Mather, however, aims to be a representative for the power of young people to make a difference. Labour leader Keir Starmer congratulates Mather and highlights the demand for change. Mather's first priority is setting up financial support centers in his constituency.

Senior Doctors Stage First Strike in a Decade Over Pay Dispute

Senior doctors in the UK National Health Service (NHS) stage their first strike in a decade, resulting in potential losses of billions of pounds. The strikes, in response to a pay dispute, are causing delays in patient care and efforts to reduce waiting lists. The NHS Confederation urges ministers to resolve the issue and get the NHS moving again.

Just Stop Oil Activists Confronted by Counter-Protesters

Environmental activists from Just Stop Oil are confronted by counter-protesters in London. The counter-protesters question the activists' tactics and demand an end to new oil and gas. After a 30-minute debate, both sides find some common ground. This incident adds to ongoing disruptions and tensions caused by Just Stop Oil protests in London.

Labour Fails to Win Boris Johnson's Former Seat Amid Ulez Revolt

Labour fails to win the by-election in Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Boris Johnson's former seat, due to a revolt against Sadiq Khan's ultra-low emissions scheme (Ulez). The Conservatives hold the constituency by 495 votes, focusing on the costs of Ulez. Labour's defeat puts pressure on the party to reconsider its support for the policy. However, Labour does win a by-election in Selby and Ainsty, overturning its biggest ever majority, while the Liberal Democrats win in Somerton and Frome.