Exclusive: Campaign urges PM to show independence from US and push to rein in development of superintelligence

A recent survey highlights that most Americans prefer parental oversight rather than government regulation of social media use by children. Despite growing concerns over minors' exposure to online platforms, including risks associated with likes, shares, and social media validation, U.S. citizens remain wary of both tech companies and government intervention. European and Australian officials have proposed or implemented restrictions on social media access for minors, with mixed results due to evasion and legal challenges. In the U.S., Congress is considering the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), but experts argue it may face constitutional issues because it imposes content-based restrictions on legal speech. The survey by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) found that 79% of respondents distrust social media companies, while 73% distrust the federal government to oversee children's online activity. In contrast, 69% expressed trust in parents to manage their children's social media usage. The results reflect a broader public sentiment that decisions about online activity should be tailored to individual families rather than imposed by the state. Concerns about government overreach and potential mass surveillance further reinforce Americans' skepticism toward regulatory intervention in digital platforms.

After public comment and legal questions, the council adopted a resolution limiting placement and use of recording equipment within the council working area to prevent 'undue interference' while stating the public retains the right to record meetings from noninterfering locations.

The Trump administration has reportedly asked OpenAI to hold back its latest model, GPT-5.6, from a broad public launch. Instead, OpenAI plans to share the model with a limited group of select partners while it navigates the White House's safety concerns.

The Nova Scotia government has introduced new legislation aimed at reviewing the regulatory framework governing Nova Scotia Power, the provincial electricity utility. The proposed bill, tabled in the legislative assembly, seeks to assess the current regulatory system and determine whether it effectively balances public interest, affordability, and reliability of electricity services. The initiative follows growing concerns about rising energy costs and the need for modernized infrastructure to support renewable energy integration. Key stakeholders, including consumer advocacy groups and energy experts, have expressed interest in the reform process, which is expected to involve consultations with the public and industry players. The legislation will require a detailed analysis of existing regulations, potential gaps, and opportunities for improvement. If passed, the reforms could lead to changes in how electricity services are managed, potentially impacting pricing structures, service delivery, and environmental sustainability efforts. The government has emphasized the importance of ensuring that the regulatory framework remains adaptable to evolving energy demands and technological advancements. This move aligns with broader provincial goals to transition toward a more sustainable and resilient energy sector. Critics have called for transparency in the review process, while supporters highlight the necessity of updating outdated regulations to meet contemporary challenges. The bill's progress through the legislative process will be closely monitored, with potential implications for both consumers and energy providers in Nova Scotia.

The article examines the Trump administration's proposed nuclear energy policies, including the expansion of small modular reactors (SMRs) and the use of plutonium from dismantled warheads. It highlights concerns over public health risks, such as increased radiation exposure limits and the potential for radioactive contamination. The text criticizes the rollback of safety regulations, the dismissal of independent oversight boards, and the prioritization of corporate interests over environmental and community safety. Key issues include the long-term waste management challenges of SMRs, the reduction of radiation safety monitoring, and the potential for heightened security risks due to plutonium use. The piece contrasts Trump's approach with Biden's community-focused nuclear development plans, emphasizing the lack of local engagement and geological safeguards in the Trump strategy. Overall, the article underscores the ethical and environmental implications of the administration's nuclear energy agenda.

The Environment Agency (EA) has revealed that England's rivers, lakes, and coastal waters remain in a poor ecological state, with only around 15% of rivers and fewer than 7% of lakes classified as being in good condition. This assessment highlights the accumulation of legacy substances such as heavy metals and 'forever chemicals' like PFAS, which are challenging to mitigate due to their persistence in water systems. Despite a £22bn investment plan for water companies by 2030, progress has been minimal since 2019, with the government likely missing its 2027 target of restoring 77% of waters to good status. The EA acknowledges systemic failures in regulation and enforcement, while experts argue that current monitoring methods are inadequate. Pollution from agricultural runoff, particularly phosphate from sewage and farming, continues to degrade water quality, exacerbating issues during droughts. Campaigners stress the need for urgent action across both industrial and agricultural sectors to address these long-standing environmental challenges.

France's regulatory authority for licensed gambling and betting games has ordered internet service providers (ISPs) to block access to Polymarket, a decentralized prediction market platform. This move follows a previous geoblock implemented in November to restrict financial transactions from French residents on Polymarket. The regulation aims to curb unauthorized betting activities, with individuals advertising such sites facing fines of up to 100,000 euros ($114,000). The decision aligns with similar actions by Spain, which blocked Polymarket and Kalshi in May while investigating gambling licenses. The French government's intervention underscores growing regulatory scrutiny of decentralized financial platforms that operate outside traditional licensing frameworks. Critics argue that such measures could stifle innovation in the fintech sector, while proponents emphasize the need to protect consumers from unregulated gambling risks. The move also highlights the challenges governments face in regulating digital markets that transcend national borders. This development is part of a broader trend of increased oversight in the cryptocurrency and prediction market spaces, as regulators seek to balance innovation with consumer protection and legal compliance.

The Australian government is introducing stricter measures to combat modern slavery, requiring large companies with annual revenue over A$100 million to prevent exploitative practices. These reforms follow US threats of tariffs on countries failing to address forced labour, with potential fines and criminal charges for non-compliance. The new laws aim to strengthen the 2018 Modern Slavery Act, which has been criticized for lacking penalties. While the government claims these changes will align Australia with global efforts, experts argue the reforms need clearer guidelines on penalties and 'reasonable steps' to ensure effectiveness. The measures could impact international trade, potentially levelling the playing field with nations like the EU and Indonesia. This development highlights ongoing concerns about worker exploitation in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and supply chains, emphasizing the need for corporate accountability.

A survey commissioned by Super Consumers Australia has revealed that major pension funds, including AustralianSuper, are failing to meet basic customer service standards. Call centre data shows only one in ten members are connected to a representative within 15 minutes. This comes as advocacy groups push the Albanese government to implement mandatory service standards for the sector, a proposal first introduced by former finance minister Stephen Jones in January 2025 but yet to progress. The findings highlight ongoing concerns about accessibility and responsiveness in superannuation services, with critics arguing that consumers are being left without adequate support. Despite repeated calls for action, regulatory measures remain stalled, prompting renewed pressure on policymakers to address systemic issues in the industry. The report underscores a growing disconnect between service providers and members, raising questions about accountability and the need for stronger oversight mechanisms.

U.S. lawmakers are investigating the increasing adoption of Chinese AI models by American companies, citing concerns over censorship, security risks, and cost-effectiveness. The probe, led by the House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Select Committee on China, focuses on firms like Cursor and Airbnb, which reportedly use Chinese-developed models such as Kimi. State Department officials warn that these models may advance Beijing's narratives and pose cybersecurity threats. While some government departments have banned Chinese AI models, their use by private companies remains unregulated. Tech leaders argue that Chinese models offer cheaper alternatives, potentially undermining the U.S. AI economy. Experts suggest that China's strategy involves replicating American innovations and selling them at lower prices. The investigation highlights growing tensions between U.S. and Chinese tech strategies, with implications for global AI standards and security.

Legislation clarifies federal property use for historic preservation and space exploration in Florida.

Bill reduces funding for various economic development agencies and programs by $34.7 million

Senators voted in favor of additional funding for liquor division operational costs and enhancements.

Committee votes against bill, emphasizing need for industry-driven solutions and concerns over government expenses.

Wyoming mayor criticizes state spending on bills infringing women's rights amid ongoing legal complexities.

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - In a move that has intensified concerns over freedom of expression in Pakistan, authorities have sought to ban 27 YouTube channels, including those belonging to opposition party