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In a sharp escalation of tensions between Brussels and Elon Musk, one of the European Union’s top officials, Věra Jourová, has branded the billionaire tech entrepreneur a “promoter of evil” over his handling of X, formerly known as Twitter.

Jourová, who oversees the EU’s efforts against online misinformation and hate speech, accused Musk of enabling the spread of harmful content, including antisemitism, on the social media platform.

Ms Jourová, who has served as the EU’s vice president for values and transparency, made her comments as she prepares to leave Brussels after a five-year term. Speaking to Politico, she stated, “We started to relativise evil, and he’s helping it proactively. He’s the promoter of evil.”

The EU official’s remarks come amid ongoing criticism of X for its content moderation policies since Musk took over the platform in 2022. Under Musk’s ownership, X has rolled back certain moderation rules, prompting the EU to accuse the company of violating social media regulations.

Ms Jourová specifically targeted X for becoming “the main hub for spreading antisemitism,” echoing concerns about the platform’s failure to curb hate speech. She has been a vocal critic of Musk’s policies, particularly the introduction of paid blue-tick verification, which the EU argues has enabled the spread of misinformation.

The European Commission has threatened to fine X for violating the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which regulates online platforms. Musk, however, claims that Brussels offered him a “secret deal” to avoid fines, a claim the EU denies.

This dispute is part of a broader clash between the EU and Musk’s platform. X has faced accusations of non-compliance with advertising transparency rules and allowing content that promotes Hamas, though no formal charges have been brought regarding this issue.

As X’s tensions with Brussels continue to grow, Musk is reportedly considering blocking access to X within the EU. This move would be a significant escalation in the dispute and could have major implications for how online platforms operate in Europe under the bloc’s strict regulations.

With more EU regulations on the horizon, the war of words between Musk and Brussels is unlikely to die down anytime soon.

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Elon Musk branded ‘promoter of evil’ by top EU official in clash over online moderation

Tesco and Shell have struck a deal to purchase the entire output from the Cleve Hill solar farm, the UK’s largest solar project, which was initially planned to power 100,000 homes.

The agreement sees 65% of the farm’s electricity going to Tesco’s supermarkets, while Shell will manage the remaining 35% for its growing network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The solar farm is expected to go online in early 2025.

The Cleve Hill project, situated on 860 acres of the Kent coast near Faversham, has been a source of controversy since its approval, with local opposition focused on its impact on the Graveney Marshes, a site renowned for its wildlife. Despite protests, the project was greenlit in 2020 by then energy secretary Alok Sharma. The farm, once pitched as a solution to power local homes, is now being used to meet the demands of corporate giants.

Vicky Ellis of CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England) Kent voiced frustration, stating: “This project was approved on the premise that it would power homes, not petrol stations and supermarkets. The irony of a major supermarket and an oil giant benefitting from a project labelled as a green energy initiative is not lost on us.”

The project, financed by US-based Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, will include 560,000 solar panels, generating 373 megawatts (MW) of power—equivalent to half the output of a small gas-fired power station. Some of the solar panels will be mounted on steel frames almost as tall as a double-decker bus due to flood risks in the area.

Tesco’s power purchase agreement with Cleve Hill will account for up to 10% of its UK electricity demand, helping the supermarket meet its sustainability targets. “Cleve Hill solar park, with its ability to generate up to 10% of our UK electricity demand, joins a number of other Power Purchase Agreements we’ve announced over the last five years,” said Tesco CEO Ken Murphy.

Meanwhile, Shell’s portion of the output will support its EV charging network across the UK. With a 10-year agreement in place, Shell’s involvement underlines its ambitions in the renewable energy market, despite ongoing criticism of its core oil business. Shell Energy Europe’s head of power trading, Rupen Tanna, emphasised that renewable energy deals like Cleve Hill are essential to achieving the UK’s net-zero targets.

The Cleve Hill solar farm is expected to be eclipsed by even larger projects approved by the UK government, including the 600MW Cottam solar farm in Lincolnshire. Solar Energy UK’s CEO Chris Hewett noted that the industry aims to triple solar capacity by 2030, stating, “We can expect to see more deals like these in the coming years, as the industry scales up to reach 50 gigawatts of generation capacity.”

Despite its environmental benefits, Cleve Hill continues to spark debate. Ms Ellis and other critics argue that the transformation of the marshlands into a commercial energy hub compromises its natural beauty and wildlife, undermining the original promise of green energy for local homes. As the UK races to expand renewable energy infrastructure, the tension between corporate interests, environmental sustainability, and local communities remains an ongoing issue.

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Tesco and Shell to power stores and EV stations with output from UK’s largest solar farm, originally meant for homes

HMRC has ramped up its enforcement of National Minimum Wage (NMW) compliance, resulting in £13.7 million in penalties levied against employers during the 2022/23 tax year.

This enforcement push follows the government’s increasing focus on NMW violations, supported by a doubling of HMRC’s enforcement budget to £27.8 million compared to 2015/16.

A recent report by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) highlights the impact of this enforcement, revealing that more than 108,000 workers were paid NMW arrears after investigations into non-compliance. HMRC closed nearly 3,200 cases, with 900 of them uncovering unpaid wages. The report underscores HMRC’s growing use of the Geographical Compliance Approach (GCA), a targeted three-tiered enforcement method designed to bring employers in specific regions into compliance with NMW regulations.

Under the GCA, employers are encouraged to address NMW arrears voluntarily, but if issues persist, HMRC can impose penalties of up to 200% of the arrears owed. During 2024, three more regions—Liverpool, East Midlands, and another to be announced—will be added to the GCA, following the addition of locations like Belfast, Cornwall, and Watford.

Kyle Newton, Head of National Minimum Wage at Azets, commented on the report: “The sheer scale of HMRC enforcement highlights how widespread NMW non-compliance is. Businesses must review their payroll records and ensure they are adhering to the rules before they face unexpected penalties and reputational damage.”

The government remains clear on its stance, with the DBT stating: “The enforcement of the minimum wage is essential, and we are committed to cracking down on employers who break the law across all sectors.”

The penalties and arrears identified by HMRC in the past year reflect the heightened awareness among workers about their rights, partly driven by campaigns like “Check Your Pay” and direct communication from HMRC to millions of workers.

Businesses across the UK are being urged to take proactive steps to ensure NMW compliance, particularly in light of expected increases to the minimum wage rate, which is predicted to exceed £12 per hour in April 2025. Employers who fail to address discrepancies in pay or working time practices could face further penalties, including public naming by HMRC.

As HMRC’s enforcement activity continues to grow, businesses should review their payroll controls and seek professional advice to mitigate financial and legal risks.

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HMRC imposes £13.7 million in penalties following National Minimum Wage enforcement action

Ryanair has issued a stark warning to the UK government, threatening to cut hundreds of flights if Chancellor Rachel Reeves raises air passenger duty (APD) in the upcoming Budget.

Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s CEO, said any increase in APD, particularly on domestic flights, would severely impact customer demand and make certain routes economically unfeasible.

O’Leary voiced his concerns, stating: “If they raise APD again on domestic flights then there will be a cut in capacity, no question. These routes are not particularly profitable, they barely break even.” The CEO’s comments come as the Chancellor considers tax hikes to address a £22 billion budget shortfall, with aviation taxes seen as a potential target for increased revenue.

Currently, APD on internal flights stands at £7, but any rise, according to O’Leary, would hit ordinary passengers hardest. He described APD as “a penal tax on the poor” and warned that any tax increases could deter tourists and undermine recent investment in regional UK airports, where Ryanair has expanded capacity, particularly in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Belfast.

O’Leary’s remarks follow a similar move by Ryanair in Germany, where the airline slashed 12% of its capacity due to higher taxes, demonstrating its readiness to shift aircraft across Europe when routes become less viable.

He emphasised that aviation could be a key driver for post-Brexit economic growth in the UK. “In a post-Brexit environment, the UK needs to stimulate inward tourism,” O’Leary said. He urged the government to focus on pro-growth policies, especially in the aviation and tourism sectors, which can deliver immediate economic benefits.

While the government has not yet confirmed its plans for APD in the upcoming Budget, O’Leary said he would reserve judgment until Reeves’ proposals are revealed. He noted that while there have been positive indications regarding airport expansion, the airline industry needs more than just rhetoric. “What’s wanted is a competent administration with some pro-growth policies and no more whining about how we don’t want any more air travel,” he added.

O’Leary also highlighted a shift in the green agenda across Europe, with some countries, such as Sweden and Ireland, moving to scrap aviation taxes in favour of stimulating economic growth. He suggested that the UK should follow suit to remain competitive.

Additionally, Ryanair faces operational challenges as the airline expects to fly 5 million fewer passengers than planned next year due to delayed aircraft deliveries from Boeing. Despite this setback, Ryanair still projects growth, expecting to fly 210 million passengers in 2025, though this is lower than its initial target of 215 million.

As the Chancellor prepares her Budget, the aviation industry, particularly low-cost carriers like Ryanair, will be watching closely to see how any tax changes might affect their operations and growth prospects in the UK.

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Ryanair warns of flight cuts in the UK if Rachel Reeves raises aviation taxes in upcoming budget

In today’s digital world, safeguarding infrastructures is more critical than ever. The quick progression of technology, particularly in cybersecurity, brings advantages and difficulties.

Cyber dangers are changing at a never-before-seen pace. Organizations must prioritize vulnerability management to protect their digital assets. New vulnerabilities are discovered daily, amplifying the need for robust security measures. This evolving threat landscape necessitates vigilant and dynamic approaches to safeguarding sensitive information.
Understanding the dynamics of digital vulnerabilities is essential for businesses and individuals alike. While technology offers numerous benefits, it also exposes systems to potential risks if not managed effectively. The landscape is becoming increasingly complex, with new challenges emerging regularly. Organizations may lower the risk of breaches and protect the integrity of their systems by implementing thorough management processes. This entails staying informed about the latest threats and continuously adapting security practices to meet them head-on.

Identifying Vulnerabilities in Systems

Recognizing vulnerabilities is the first step toward securing digital infrastructures. It involves meticulously examining systems to identify weak points that attackers could exploit. Regular assessments are crucial, as they help recognize current gaps and anticipate future threats. By taking a proactive stance, vulnerabilities are fixed before they cause serious problems. Furthermore, finding vulnerabilities is a continuous process that calls for constant observation and evaluation rather than a one-time occurrence.

Identifying vulnerabilities often includes automated tools that scan and analyze system configurations. These tools provide valuable insights, highlighting areas that require immediate attention. Moreover, human expertise is indispensable, as experts can interpret data to form effective security strategies. Organizations can develop comprehensive vulnerability management plans that mitigate risks by combining technological tools with expert analysis. A thorough understanding of the threat landscape helps make informed decisions that contribute to an organization’s security framework.

Importance of Response Strategies

A well-defined incident response strategy is paramount in minimizing the impact of vulnerabilities. Cyber incidents can happen unexpectedly, and having a plan in place ensures a swift and effective response. By preparing a plan of action, organizations can respond promptly to security incidents, reducing downtime and mitigating damage. An effective response plan outlines clear roles and responsibilities, ensuring streamlined communication across all levels of the organization. This cohesive approach enables teams to act quickly, potentially stopping threats before they can cause significant harm.

Additionally, regular drills and simulations help test the efficacy of response strategies. These exercises prepare teams for real-world scenarios, fostering a proactive culture of vigilance and readiness. Through these simulated exercises, organizations can identify potential weaknesses in their response plans and make necessary adjustments to improve their preparedness. This proactive stance makes organizations more resilient to unexpected incidents, enhancing their overall security posture.

Tools and Technologies for Protection

The management of vulnerabilities has changed dramatically with the introduction of cutting-edge technology. Modern tools for detecting and mitigating risks are crucial in fortifying digital defenses. These technologies offer robust solutions to shield critical assets from potential threats, from antivirus software to advanced monitoring systems. These tools are essential in quickly identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.

One promising trend is the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to cybersecurity. AI-powered systems may analyze large volumes of data, spotting patterns that point to criminal activities. Such solutions bring increased precision and speed to threat detection processes. According to recent reports, AI is set to become an integral component of cybersecurity frameworks, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. By automating routine tasks, AI allows security teams to focus on more strategic initiatives, further strengthening their defense mechanisms.

Best Practices for Managing Vulnerabilities

Ensure regular updates and patch management to close security gaps promptly.
Regularly evaluate vulnerabilities to keep ahead of possible attacks and comprehend changing dangers.
Invest in comprehensive employee training to foster a security-aware company culture where everyone plays a part in safeguarding digital assets.
Implement strong access controls to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive information and systems.

Industry Insights and Future Trends

As we look to the future, industry insights suggest a shift towards more sophisticated strategies for managing vulnerabilities. Continuous education and awareness campaigns are essential; the human element is still crucial to these initiatives. Furthermore, adopting AI technologies continues to revolutionize the field, bringing unprecedented accuracy and speed to threat detection processes. The continuous evolution and implementation of advanced technologies pave the way for more secure digital environments.

A recent report highlights the growing trust in AI solutions among cybersecurity professionals. This trend is expected to gain momentum, with AI technology playing a more substantial role in preemptive measures and response scenarios. Organizations’ overall security resilience will likely increase as they adopt these technology improvements and become more adept at managing vulnerabilities.

Closing Thoughts

As the digital world evolves, vulnerability management remains critical to safeguarding infrastructures. By employing comprehensive strategies and leveraging modern technologies, businesses can protect their assets and ensure resilience against ever-emerging cyber threats. Sustaining a solid security architecture that can endure future difficulties requires constant learning and modification. By prioritizing vulnerability management, organizations may traverse the intricacies of the digital ecosystem and guarantee a stable and secure environment.

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The Art of Safeguarding Digital Infrastructures

Dr. Robert MacArthur, MD, is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon with over two decades of expertise, specializing in complex joint replacements, spinal surgeries, and sports injuries.

He earned his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons and holds a double major in Biochemistry and Physiology from UC Berkeley, which provides a robust scientific foundation for his practice. Dr. MacArthur is known for incorporating advanced technologies like augmented reality in his surgical techniques. A dedicated single father, he’s also an avid marathon runner, having completed over 30 races.

What sparked your interest in orthopedic surgery?

My interest was actually sparked by witnessing a close friend’s recovery from a severe sports injury. Observing how orthopedic surgery restored their mobility made me realize the incredible impact this field could have on someone’s life. This inspired me to combine my background in biochemistry and physiology with the desire to help others regain their independence, ultimately leading me to pursue orthopedics.

How has your experience in marathon running shaped your approach to surgery?

Running marathons has taught me patience, endurance, and the importance of preparation. These qualities are directly transferable to surgery, where maintaining focus over long periods is crucial. Just like training for a race, performing surgery requires mental and physical stamina, and I’ve found that running helps me build the discipline needed to stay sharp during intricate procedures.

Can you share a memorable moment from your career that had a significant impact on you?

One moment that stands out was treating a young athlete who had a severe knee injury. The odds of him returning to his sport were slim, but through dedication, advanced surgical techniques, and a tailored rehabilitation program, he made a full recovery. Witnessing his return to the field was incredibly rewarding and reaffirmed why I chose this profession.

How do you stay current with advancements in orthopedic surgery?

I’m committed to lifelong learning. I frequently attend medical conferences, participate in training programs, and subscribe to leading medical journals. Networking with other specialists and exchanging insights is another way I stay updated. It’s essential to keep evolving with the field, especially as technology like augmented reality continues to reshape how we approach surgeries.

What role does technology play in your practice?

Technology has become an integral part of my practice, especially augmented reality. It enhances my ability to visualize complex structures in real-time, making surgeries more precise and efficient. I’ve also embraced 3D printing, which helps create custom models for planning complex surgeries. These tools have significantly improved outcomes and reduced recovery times for my patients.

How do you maintain work-life balance, especially as a single parent?

It’s definitely a challenge, but I’ve learned to prioritize my time. I set boundaries to ensure I’m present when I’m with my children, and I’ve built a strong support system to help manage responsibilities. Balancing surgery with family life requires discipline, but my kids are my biggest motivators and remind me of why I strive to excel in my career.

How do you approach patient care, especially with those facing complex surgeries?

I believe in a compassionate and transparent approach. I take the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, answer questions, and ensure my patients feel supported throughout their journey. This helps build trust and alleviates their anxiety, allowing them to make informed decisions about their treatment.

What’s the most significant lesson you’ve learned in your medical career?

One of the most important lessons is that every patient’s journey is unique. It’s essential to tailor treatment plans to meet individual needs rather than relying solely on textbook approaches. This perspective has allowed me to deliver more personalized and effective care, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in orthopedic surgery?

Orthopedic surgery is demanding, but it’s incredibly fulfilling. My advice would be to stay curious, seek mentorship, and embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Developing strong communication skills is equally important because connecting with patients is just as crucial as mastering surgical techniques.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing orthopedic surgery in the future?

One of the biggest challenges will be ensuring that technological advancements are accessible to all patients, regardless of their background or financial situation. As the field continues to evolve with innovations like AR and AI, it’s important to bridge the gap and make these advancements available to improve care for everyone.

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Dr. Robert MacArthur MD Offers a Look Into The Life of a Surgeon

Hollywood director Alex Proyas, known for his work on the 2004 sci-fi film I, Robot, has accused Elon Musk of copying design elements from the movie for Tesla’s latest products.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Proyas shared side-by-side images of his film’s robots and futuristic vehicles next to Musk’s Tesla Optimus robot and the newly revealed Cybercab.

Proyas captioned the post, “Hey Elon, can I have my designs back please?” referencing Tesla’s recently announced $30,000 two-seater Cybercab, which features butterfly-wing doors and lacks a steering wheel—bearing a striking resemblance to the self-driving cars in I, Robot, which was based on Isaac Asimov’s 1950 book of the same name.

Musk also showcased an updated version of Tesla’s Optimus robot, a bipedal humanoid robot, which Proyas suggested mirrors the “NS-5” robots in his film that eventually turn against their human creators. Tesla’s Cybercab is expected to enter mass production by 2026, and the Optimus robot remains under development as part of the company’s growing focus on AI and robotics.

However, some fans of the film were quick to point out that the car driven by Will Smith’s character in I, Robot was based on an Audi concept car included in the film as part of a product placement deal, making the accusation of imitation less straightforward.

Set in 2035, I, Robot follows Smith’s character, a detective wary of robots created to serve humanity, as he uncovers an AI-driven conspiracy to control mankind. The film’s themes of technology, AI, and potential human subjugation resonate with Musk’s own warnings about the risks posed by unchecked artificial intelligence.

Musk, a known admirer of Asimov’s work, titled Tesla’s unveiling event “We, Robot,” in homage to the author. Musk has previously credited Asimov’s writings with inspiring the creation of SpaceX, his space exploration company, and described the books as “really great.”

While Proyas’ comments were made in a light-hearted tone, the similarities between Tesla’s new products and the futuristic designs in I, Robot have sparked online debate. Whether these resemblances are intentional or coincidental, they highlight the ongoing influence of science fiction on real-world technological innovation.

Proyas, who also directed the cult hit The Crow, is no stranger to sci-fi storytelling, but the question remains: are Tesla’s designs a nod to his film, or is it simply a case of life imitating art?

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Hollywood director accuses Elon Musk of copying designs for Tesla Robots and Cybercab

Billionaire retail mogul Mohsin Issa, former CEO and co-owner of Asda, has made his first major investment since stepping down from the supermarket giant, putting £10 million into Liverpool-based sports supplements company, Applied Nutrition. The company is preparing to go public on the London Stock Exchange.

Issa’s investment in Applied Nutrition comes through his investment vehicle, Boulder Investco Limited, and marks his initial foray into new ventures following his departure from Asda’s leadership in September. His exit followed a dip in sales that was publicly criticised by Asda’s chairman, Lord Rose. Despite stepping down as CEO, Issa remains a co-owner of Asda with a 22.5% stake and holds a seat on the board.

This investment also signals a shift in Mohsin Issa’s business trajectory as he and his brother, Zuber Issa, untangle their joint business interests. The brothers, who are worth an estimated £5 billion, have built a vast empire, including petrol station operator Euro Garages, which became a launchpad for their £6.8 billion takeover of Asda in 2021 alongside private equity firm TDR Capital.

In recent months, the Issa brothers have divided their interests, with Zuber selling his 22.5% stake in Asda to TDR Capital in June. Zuber also stepped down as co-CEO of their forecourt business, EG Group, after acquiring the UK operations for £228 million, which he now runs independently. Despite the split, Mohsin has downplayed any rumours of a rift, maintaining that the brothers “get on exceptionally well.”

Applied Nutrition, which produces protein supplements and other sports nutrition products, is chaired by Andy Bell, founder of investment platform AJ Bell. The company has set the price range for its initial public offering (IPO) at between 136p and 160p per share, giving it an estimated valuation of between £340 million and £400 million.

Mohsin Issa joins a group of four prominent North West entrepreneurs backing the IPO, including Home Bargains founder Tom Morris and Liverpool property developer George Downing. Together, the investors are expected to hold up to 7% of the company following the IPO.

Applied Nutrition’s growth and upcoming stock market listing are further bolstered by a significant 32% stake from JD Sports, the Bury-based retail giant. Existing shareholders plan to sell approximately 137 million shares, valued at between £186 million and £220 million.

This investment marks another step in Issa’s post-Asda ventures, as he continues to focus on backing successful entrepreneurs and UK businesses. In a joint statement with his brother, Mohsin Issa said: “Our passion is backing great entrepreneurs and helping them to build strong UK businesses that drive growth and create jobs.”

Applied Nutrition did not comment directly on Issa’s involvement but is expected to benefit from his significant retail and entrepreneurial experience as it moves closer to its public listing.

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Former Asda boss Mohsin Issa invests £10m in sports supplement firm ahead of London IPO

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to introduce tax increases and tighten government spending in the upcoming budget, warning that delaying such measures could exacerbate the UK’s public finance problems.

In a pre-released section of its *Fiscal Monitor* report, the Washington-based organisation highlighted the UK and the United States as countries where borrowing rates have surged beyond pre-pandemic levels, raising concerns about the sustainability of their national debts.

“With debt risks elevated in most countries and debt growing at a faster pace than in the pre-pandemic years in large countries (United Kingdom, United States), postponing adjustments would only make the required correction larger,” the IMF warned.

Reeves is expected to announce a series of tax hikes during her first budget on 30 October, with potential changes such as subjecting employers’ pension contributions to national insurance and raising capital gains tax rates. Both she and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer have emphasised the need for “tough decisions” to bring the public finances under control, although they have also committed to increasing public sector investment to drive economic growth.

Labour claims to have inherited a £22 billion shortfall in public finances from the previous Conservative administration, a figure compounded by existing fiscal plans set by former chancellor Jeremy Hunt. These plans include £20 billion in real-terms budget cuts for unprotected government departments.

According to estimates from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), taxes need to rise by £25 billion annually to avoid a return to austerity, which Labour has pledged to prevent.

The IMF estimates that global debt is set to exceed $100 trillion (93% of global GDP) this year, criticising governments for failing to take control of their public finances. It highlighted that fiscal policies have increasingly leaned towards higher government spending, contributing to greater fiscal policy uncertainty and more entrenched political resistance to tax increases.

Labour, in its election manifesto, ruled out raising key revenue-generating taxes like income tax, national insurance, and VAT, which together account for 75% of public income. However, the IMF pointed to rising spending pressures from the green transition, an ageing population, and security needs as growing challenges for governments worldwide.

This call from the IMF comes as developed nations, including the US and France, grapple with ballooning deficits. The US is projected to run a $1.8 trillion deficit this year, partly due to subsidies from the Inflation Reduction Act. France, which faces a deficit of around 6% of GDP, recently introduced a budget featuring £60 billion in tax hikes and spending cuts to tackle its debt.

The IMF stressed that there is a strong case for fiscal policies to focus on debt sustainability and rebuilding fiscal buffers “now rather than later.”

In response to the IMF’s warning, a Treasury spokesperson said: “The government has been honest about the scale of the challenge we have inherited from the previous administration, including a £22 billion black hole in the public finances. The budget will be built on the rock of economic stability, including robust fiscal rules that were set out in the manifesto. This includes moving the current budget into balance, so that day-to-day costs are met by revenues, and debt falling as a share of the economy by the fifth year.”

With Reeves’ budget looming, it is clear that the balancing act between addressing the fiscal challenges and stimulating growth will shape the direction of the UK’s economic policy in the months and years ahead.

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IMF urges Rachel Reeves to raise taxes and rein in spending to stabilise UK public finances

CMR Surgical, a Cambridge-based medtech company, has achieved a major breakthrough after receiving marketing authorisation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its portable Versius Surgical System.

This marks a significant step into the world’s largest healthcare market, enabling CMR to prepare for sales of the Versius system in the US, initially for gallbladder removal surgeries in adult patients aged 22 and above.

The Versius system, designed to replicate the movements of the human arm and enhance surgeon precision, is already the second-most widely used robotic surgical system globally, with more than 26,000 surgeries completed, including in the UK. This approval comes nearly a decade after CMR Surgical was founded in 2014.

CMR Surgical’s headquarters and manufacturing site remain in Cambridge, with backing from international investors, including the Japanese tech giant SoftBank and China’s Tencent. The company, which has raised approximately $1 billion since its inception, employs over 500 staff, 400 of whom are based in the UK. The company’s $600 million funding round in 2021, led by SoftBank, marked the largest-ever private investment in the global medtech sector.

Mark Slack, CMR’s chief medical officer and co-founder, highlighted the importance of the approval: “Securing FDA marketing authorisation for Versius is a significant milestone for CMR and, most importantly, for hospitals and patients who will now have greater access to robotic-assisted surgery.”

Beyond the US, CMR Surgical is also seeking regulatory approval in other major healthcare markets, including Japan and China.

Although the company had previously considered an initial public offering (IPO), no formal plans have been announced. An IPO remains an option for the future as CMR continues its expansion into key international markets.

Founded in 2014, CMR Surgical has grown rapidly, advancing the accessibility and efficiency of robotic-assisted surgery globally. Its Versius system now stands as a key competitor in the burgeoning market for medical robotics, with the latest FDA approval set to enhance its presence on the global stage.

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Cambridge-based CMR Surgical secures FDA approval for revolutionary portable surgical robot