Author: Scott Dylan

The debate on reforms to workers’ rights in the UK intensifies between key political figures.Angela Rayner advocates for granting full employment rights after a brief probation period.Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds suggests a longer probation period of up to nine months.The business community expresses concerns that changes could affect hiring and economic growth.The outcome of this debate carries significant implications for the UK’s labour market.In the ongoing dialogue concerning the modification of workers’ rights in the United Kingdom, Angela Rayner and Jonathan Reynolds represent diverging positions. Rayner advocates for a system where full employment rights are granted after a brief probation…

Hovis expands AI use in bread production through a new deal with IntelliAM, enhancing operational efficiency.The contract will apply innovative AI solutions across major facilities in East London, Nottingham, and Glasgow.IntelliAM’s AI platform focuses on optimising industrial asset management and reducing costs.Over the next year, service and project orders are valued at over £100,000.IntelliAM recently raised £5m and completed a key acquisition, indicating robust growth.In a strategic move to enhance its manufacturing process, one of Britain’s leading bakers, Hovis, is set to incorporate advanced artificial intelligence technology. The company has partnered with Sheffield-based software firm IntelliAM AI to expand the…

Amid a rise in international visitors, London retailers are facing a £220 million loss due to the removal of tax-free shopping for tourists.The previous Conservative government’s policy change is leading to competitive disadvantages for UK retailers compared to their European counterparts.Retail and tourism sectors are urging the UK government to reintroduce tax-free shopping to stimulate economic growth.Despite a 3% increase in visitors, spending has decreased by 12% compared to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the policy’s impact.Reinstatement of tax-free shopping is seen as crucial for revitalising London’s position as a leading shopping destination.Amidst a rise in international visitor numbers, London retailers are…

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has emphasised the need for significant reform in the UK’s fiscal policies to stabilise public finances.The OECD proposes an overhaul of the current fiscal regime, suggesting the removal of stamp duty and adjustment of the pension triple lock.Key recommendations aim to address increasing debt and borrowing costs amidst escalating healthcare and pension expenses.The organisation warns that without intervention, debt could potentially rise to an alarming 270% of GDP over the next 50 years.The report calls for strategic public investment while suggesting increased revenues through tax system adjustments.The OECD, representing 38 advanced economies,…

Investors anticipate positive shifts in sales guidance from Next, a prominent high street retailer, as it prepares to release half-year results on Thursday.Next reports a 4.4% increase in full-price sales for the first half of the year.The retailer expects a 2.5% rise in full-price sales in the second half, maintaining its guidance.Next boosted its full-year profit forecast by £20m to £980m, following better than predicted first-half sales.Deutsche Bank suggests that Next may confidently upgrade its sales guidance for the forthcoming months.Investors are poised for Next’s half-year results announcement, optimistic about potential upgrades in sales guidance. Next, a leading figure on…

Marks & Spencer’s latest venture, ‘Dress The Nation’, aims to highlight untapped potential within the community.This talent-search series provides a platform for individuals without formal design training to shine.The retailer’s CEO, Stuart Machin, reflects on his own journey through the retail industry, emphasising the sector’s varied opportunities.M&S is currently navigating a significant transformation through strategic initiatives and investments.There is an optimistic outlook for the future, with a strong focus on both essential and fashion-forward categories.Marks & Spencer has unveiled a groundbreaking talent-search series in collaboration with ITV. The show, ‘Dress The Nation’, features ten contestants from diverse backgrounds competing for…

A solicitor has been fined for his participation in a controversial Iranian TV programme known for its antisemitic content.Mohammed Tasnime Akunjee, a consultant criminal defence solicitor, faced disciplinary action following his appearance on the Iranian state-owned channel, Press TV. During this broadcast, Mr Akunjee made assertions about the London-based law firm, Mishcon de Reya, which were deemed inaccurate. Specifically, he accused the firm of money laundering and of representing General Pinochet. However, these claims were found to be erroneous.The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) identified the tone of the programme, aired in September 2022, as objectively antisemitic, deploying well-known stereotypes. However,…

Accenture has launched a new scheme to address the UK’s AI skills gap, aiming to educate over a million individuals.The ‘Regenerative AI’ scheme offers free education and mentorship nationwide, focusing on youth and job seekers.Open University’s collaboration will provide practical AI skills for job applications.Significant numbers of UK adults lack essential digital skills, risking socio-economic opportunities.Demographic disparities exist in the tech workforce, with women and lower socioeconomic groups underrepresented.Accenture has introduced a forward-looking initiative to tackle the pressing issue of the AI skills gap in the UK. The consulting firm’s ‘Regenerative AI’ scheme is set to deliver comprehensive education and…

The Bar disciplinary tribunal is currently under intense scrutiny due to its secretive nature, particularly highlighted by two significant cases that challenge the usual practices of privacy within these hearings.In one high-profile case, Jo Sidhu KC, a former chair of the Criminal Bar Association, faces serious allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards at least four women, which he firmly denies. Initially seeking anonymity, his request for a private tribunal hearing has now been overshadowed as media involvement was thwarted by refusals for arguments against his anonymity to be heard.Concurrently, Dr Charlotte Proudman, a barrister known for her feminist advocacies, is embroiled…

Recent research has revealed that while a majority of homeowners express satisfaction with their conveyancers, significant concerns about the conveyancing process persist.A recent survey conducted by the HomeOwners Alliance highlights that 71% of homeowners are satisfied with their conveyancers, yet there is a clear deterioration in service levels over the past five years. Of those surveyed, 1,326 were homeowners, and their experiences suggest a demand for improvements in how conveyancing is handled.Notably, 74% of participants who purchased a home within the last five years indicated their willingness to use the same legal services again. However, 78% also acknowledged that enhancements…