YOUR WEEKLY NEWS UPDATE
- Sir David Attenborough, already knighted by the Queen in 1985, was awarded an even more prestigious award on Wednesday. During an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, the Prince of Wales awarded Sir David the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George. The award was made in recognition of Sir David’s contributions to TV, broadcasting and conservation, especially his recent environmental documentaries and climate change activism.
- For the first time, scientists discovered microplastics in freshly fallen Antarctic snow. Scientists from New Zealand’s University of Canterbury took samples from 19 different locations in Antarctica and found microplastic fragments in each of them. Plastic does not biodegrade but erodes to ever-smaller pieces until they are smaller than a grain of a rice. Fragments may even be microscopic. Scientists found 13 types of plastic, with polyethylene terephthalate (PET), used mostly in soft-drink bottles and clothing, being the most common.
- In a first for South-East Asia, a region known for strict drug laws, the government of Thailand has removed marijuana from its list of banned narcotics. While recreational use remains illegal, Thais are now allowed to grow it at home to sell. Supporters claim the change effectively legalises marijuana. The government hopes that the development of a local cannabis trade will enhance agriculture and tourism.
- The European Union, EU, has tentatively agreed that all new portable electronics must use a USB Type-C charger by autumn 2024. The UK government said that it is not currently considering a similar arrangement, although, in accordance with post-Brexit regulations, the new policy would extend to Northern Ireland. According to critics of a common charging cable, innovation will be reduced, but the EU believes that consumers will benefit.
- According to belief, the king of the Mankon people in north-western Cameroon never dies. The fon, or fo, as he is known to the Mankon, just disappears. So when the regional governor, Adolphe Lele, violated tradition and declared the death of the 97-year-old Fon Angwafor III late last month, he drew the ire of the Mankon. Fon Angwafor III, who ascended the throne in 1959, was the first king to receive a western education. He was also a polygamist, as are all Mankon monarchs, but the number of wives traditionally remains a secret.
- Children in foster care have disclosed being groomed and sexually assaulted in homes managed by Calcot Services for Children. Numerous employees supported the claims. According to BBC News, the firm made 36% profit last year, twice as much as other, similar providers, who are themselves accused of making excessive profits by a watchdog. Children were also found to have been groomed for sex, offered alcohol, and assaulted by staff. Claims of child-on-child sexual abuse and suicide attempts by children were not reported to Ofsted either.
NEWS BROUGHT TO YOU BY PAMELA MOORE
Date: 10/06/22
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