Scotland’s Parliament has rejected proposals to legalise assisted suicide in a significant and closely watched vote, with MSPs voting 69 to 57 against the bill after extensive debate. The bill had sought to permit medically assisted death for certain patients, but concerns over safeguards, coercion, and risks to vulnerable people proved decisive. Many Christian leaders and organisations welcomed the outcome, giving thanks that the intrinsic value of every human life has been upheld. Medical bodies, disability advocates, and faith groups had raised serious objections, warning of unintended consequences seen in other nations where such laws have expanded over time. The debate was deeply personal, with many MSPs reflecting on experiences of illness and loss, yet ultimately choosing to prioritise protection, dignity, and care. Attention is now turning toward improving palliative care and support for those facing serious illness, ensuring compassionate alternatives that honour life until its natural end.
Around a thousand students gathered for a three-night, student-led tent revival at a university in Texas, continuing a long-standing tradition of campus spiritual renewal. Organised through months of prayerful planning by student leaders and the university’s Student Life team, the event created space for worship, preaching, and deeper engagement with God. The revival reflects a historic pattern at the university, recalling earlier outpourings such as a significant move of God in 1909 when many students responded to Christ. This year, about eighty students made decisions to follow Jesus, recommitted their lives, or sensed a call to ministry and missions. Guest speaker Shane Pruitt focused on the biblical image of the potter and clay, encouraging students to surrender to God’s shaping hand and walk in His purposes. As attendance grew each evening, with overflow crowds by the final night, many experienced repentance, freedom, and renewed passion for Christ.
Worship leader Brooke Ligertwood has shared a remarkable testimony of God’s faithfulness, describing a providential meeting with a Ukrainian woman whose prayers helped shape her journey. While visiting a theological campus in Texas to audit a doctoral course, Ligertwood encountered Ksusha, a Ukrainian theology student studying remotely while living amid the challenges of war. Years earlier, Ksusha had seen a video in which Ligertwood expressed a desire to study theology. Moved by this, she began praying earnestly for God to open that door. In a striking moment of divine orchestration, the two women met in person at the very class Ligertwood had been invited to attend. Ksusha shared how she had faithfully prayed, and together they witnessed the beginning of that prayer being answered. Ligertwood reflected on the experience with awe, recognising God’s personal care and timing.
Meningitis outbreak latest: more cases
19 Mar 2026
A meningitis outbreak in Kent is continuing to develop, with 27 confirmed and suspected cases to date. Health officials are warning that numbers may increase further. The outbreak, linked initially to a nightclub in Canterbury, has mainly affected university students. At least two deaths have been reported, while others remain in hospital. In response, authorities have significantly expanded vaccination efforts, offering MenB vaccines to thousands of students. Over 6,500 precautionary antibiotic doses have already been distributed. Health officials are investigating whether the outbreak’s unusual scale is due to environmental factors or a potentially more transmissible strain. While the situation has not yet been declared contained, the wider risk to the general public remains low. Students have responded positively to vaccination efforts, and health agencies continue to urge vigilance and rapid treatment.
UK gas prices have surged by around 25% following escalating conflict in the Middle East, raising fresh concerns over energy security and household costs. The spike came after Iranian missile strikes hit a major liquefied natural gas facility in Qatar, causing significant damage and disrupting production. With Britain heavily reliant on imported gas and Europe’s reserves already depleted after a cold winter, markets reacted sharply. Prices for natural gas and oil both rose rapidly, with experts warning this could lead to increased bills for UK households already affected by previous energy crises. Government leaders have described the situation as a pivotal moment, highlighting the risks of dependence on volatile global energy supplies. Calls are growing to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, which could provide greater stability and reduce exposure to international conflicts. Analysts suggest that reducing reliance on gas and expanding domestic renewable sources may offer a more secure and sustainable long-term solution. See
Two men have been charged under the UK’s National Security Act following an investigation into alleged espionage targeting London’s Jewish community. Nematollah Shahsavani, a dual British-Iranian national, and Alireza Farasati, an Iranian national, are accused of conducting reconnaissance of locations and individuals linked to the community on behalf of Iran’s intelligence services. The charges relate to activity in July and August 2025, with authorities describing the case as extremely serious. Counter-terrorist police have emphasised their commitment to protecting public safety, particularly for communities which may feel vulnerable or targeted. The Jewish community is being assured that decisive action is being taken and that any threats will be pursued relentlessly. Two other men arrested during the investigation were released without charge.
The Bank of England has held interest rates at 3.75% amid growing concerns that conflict in the Middle East will drive up inflation in the UK. The decision follows rising energy prices linked to disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global oil and gas supplies. Iranian attacks have significantly reduced shipping through the region, contributing to increased costs for fuel, utilities, and goods. The Bank warned that inflation could rise to around 3.5% in the coming months, reversing earlier expectations of a continued decline. While the rate hold was widely anticipated, it means borrowing costs for households remain high, with mortgage rates already increasing. Officials emphasised that resolving the crisis depends on restoring safe passage through key energy routes. The situation highlights the UK’s vulnerability to global shocks and the wider economic impact of international conflict; policymakers have to 'wait and see' as events continue to unfold.
London mayor Sadiq Khan has called for the UK to rejoin the EU, urging the Labour Party to make this a central pledge at the next general election. He argued that Brexit has caused significant economic, social, and cultural harm, particularly in London, and believes changing global circumstances justify revisiting the decision. Citing rising international instability and shifting political dynamics, Khan described rejoining the EU as 'inevitable' and proposed renewed membership of both the customs union and single market. However, the Government has firmly rejected this approach, maintaining that it will not return to the EU’s core structures or freedom of movement. Instead, leaders are pursuing closer cooperation through trade agreements and regulatory alignment in specific areas. The debate highlights ongoing divisions over the UK’s future relationship with Europe, with economic pressures and geopolitical uncertainty continuing to shape political discussion and long-term national strategy.