UK

UK court opens patent path for neural-network inventions

The UK Supreme Court ruled that an artificial neural network can qualify for patent protection when it is implemented using physical hardware, overturning the UK Intellectual Property Office’s 2022 refusal in the Emotional Perception AI case and sending the application back for reconsideration.

Xeinadin expands its Southend accountancy practice

Xeinadin acquired TBL Accountants, adding TBL’s client base and capabilities into its Southend office.

UK expands its Arctic military footprint via Norway

The UK committed to doubling the number of British troops in Norway from about 1,000 to 2,000 over the next three years.

LHV Bank cleared to offer consumer credit in the UK

The UK Prudential Regulation Authority granted LHV Bank consumer credit authorisation after completing a six-month review.

Starmer’s office hit by fallout from Mandelson envoy appointment

Keir Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned on February 8, 2026, saying he took full responsibility for advising the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s envoy to Washington.

UK PM’s top aide quits over Mandelson’s links to Epstein

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned on Sunday, saying the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States was wrong.

Starmer’s office hit by resignation over US ambassador appointment

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, resigned on Sunday and said he was responsible for recommending Peter Mandelson for the UK ambassador to the United States role.

U.K. sanctions Sudan conflict commanders

The U.K. government sanctioned six senior figures linked to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces and Sudanese Armed Forces for alleged atrocities and for supporting the war through mercenaries and military equipment supply.

BP plans up to $5bn writedown as it pivots away from green energy and back to fossil fuels

BP said it expects to write down up to $5bn from its green energy transition businesses as it refocuses on oil and gas while facing weaker oil trading and lower oil prices.

UK raises inheritance tax threshold for farms from £1m to £2.5m after protests

UK raises farmland inheritance tax threshold to £2.5m after protests to protect family farms.

Search is on for the German hairy snail in London

Citizen scientists and conchologists are searching for the endangered German hairy snail along the River Thames. This effort aims to protect the species and its habitat.

Young country diary: Finding fly agaric was like a fairytale

A young girl finds fly agaric mushrooms in Dalby Forest, a moment that felt magical. This discovery highlights the beauty of nature and the joy of exploration.

Be prepared — without the noise

Calm, decision-grade intelligence that flags material changes before they become social knowledge—so you can update assumptions, not chase headlines.

DECISION-GRADE INTELLIGENCE

Get decision-grade intelligence in your inbox

A high-signal brief covering what changed — and what matters — delivered by email.

A handful of briefs — before your coffee gets cold.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. We don’t sell your email.