Axel Piper

A new report has raised alarm over a significant skills shortage in Scotland’s engineering sector, with industry leaders warning that the country risks missing out on a potential economic “industrial revolution-sized opportunity” unless immediate action is taken. Deep Concerns Over Apprenticeship Funding Scottish Engineering, a key industry body, has highlighted severe concerns about cuts to apprenticeship and work-based learning funding. The organisation argues that these reductions, coupled with the ongoing repercussions of Brexit, have left Scotland vulnerable to a skills crisis that threatens to hinder the growth and development of critical industries. The report, a skills gap survey commissioned by…

The Thistle in Glasgow is set to become a groundbreaking facility as the UK's first-ever legal drug consumption room opens its doors. After years of debate and legal challenges, the center is now ready to welcome its first clients, providing a safe space for drug use under medical supervision. A Major Milestone in Drug Policy For nearly a decade, the idea of creating a legally sanctioned space for people to use illicit drugs under supervision has been a contentious issue in the UK. But now, the Thistle has finally been approved and is ready to operate, marking a significant shift…

Karti Chidambaram, son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, faces yet another corruption case. This time, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case against him for allegedly providing relief to Diageo Scotland, an alcoholic beverage company. Allegations of Corruption: A New Case Unfolds This latest case is the fourth in a series of corruption allegations against Karti Chidambaram. The other three cases involve significant controversies such as the Aircel-Maxis deal, the visa facilitation for Chinese employees, and the INX Media case. The CBI's recent First Information Report (FIR) points to suspicious payments made to Advantage Strategic Consulting…

Unseasonably mild winter weather has pushed bumblebees to begin building nests earlier than expected, a shift linked to climate change, say conservationists. Active worker bumblebees were spotted in Aberdeen during the Christmas break, raising concerns about the survival of their nests. Conservation group Buglife reported that several bumblebees and honeybees were found between Christmas and New Year across the UK, from Jersey to the Highlands. This unusual activity comes as a result of the warmer-than-usual weather, which allowed some bumblebees to start nest-building when they would typically be hibernating. The Risk of Winter Nest-Building Bumblebees are vital pollinators, yet they…

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom, Scotland, and Guernsey, from January 7 to 11, 2025. His trip includes a series of important meetings with key political leaders, as well as engagements aimed at strengthening India’s diplomatic and parliamentary relations with these countries. The visit comes at a pivotal moment as Birla takes on various roles within the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, setting the stage for future collaborations and events. Meetings with UK Political Leaders During his stay in the UK, which runs from January 7 to 9, Birla is scheduled to meet…

The use of Hikvision security cameras across Scotland's public CCTV networks and various facilities has sparked considerable debate. With more than 20 local councils relying on the technology, questions have emerged about the security and ethical implications of its widespread deployment. Hikvision’s Presence in Scottish Surveillance Hikvision, a Chinese tech company, is a major supplier of surveillance cameras to various public institutions and businesses in Scotland. According to reports from The Times, at least 22 of Scotland's 32 councils have integrated Hikvision cameras into their public CCTV systems. These cameras help monitor public spaces and other facilities, serving millions of…

Shillong, often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” for its cool climate and lush greenery, is facing an environmental crisis that could alter its future forever. The charming city, known for its scenic beauty, is experiencing a growing threat from urbanization—the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. A recent study has raised alarms about the impact of unchecked development on the city's climate and livability. From Green to Gray: The Changing Landscape of Shillong Over the past three decades, Shillong’s landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation. In 1993, the city’s settlement areas made up only 6.4% of its total…

Scotland, a land of towering mountains, dramatic history, and a rich cultural heritage, has long captured the hearts of those who visit or are enchanted by its legendary portrayal in films and TV series. From the rugged highlands seen in Braveheart and Outlaw King, to the magical landscapes of Brave, Scotland has an allure that seems to call out to those with a sense of adventure and romance. Many dream of being part of this timeless land, and one way to feel closer to it is through a unique and somewhat controversial opportunity: becoming a Lord of Glencoe. The Allure…

As 2024 draws to a close, Scotland is bracing for a dramatic shift in weather, with strong winds, heavy rain, and snow forecast to take over the country. The Met Office has issued numerous weather warnings, including severe flood alerts and amber warnings for snow and rain, signaling turbulent conditions for the final days of the year. Stormy Start to the Week December 30: Heavy Rain and Snow The weather took a stormy turn on December 30, with heavy rain sweeping across Scotland, particularly in the Highlands. Snow is expected to accumulate in higher areas, with up to 20cm of…

Scotland has faced significant disruption as heavy rain and strong winds brought widespread flooding, power outages, and travel chaos. Weather warnings remain in effect, with authorities urging caution and preparedness. Rail Services Halted Across Highlands Train services across Scotland have been severely impacted, with flooding and landslips blocking multiple routes: Inverness to Perth Line: Closed entirely, halting train operations. Brora: A landslip has fully obstructed the rail line. Highland Main Line: Extreme rainfall caused closures near Kingussie. Wick/Thurso Line: Closed due to flooding, with replacement buses unavailable due to hazardous road conditions. ScotRail reported 15 flood-related incidents on the Far…