Financial Times — “UK warns China over ‘covert’ parliamentary recruitment drive”
The UK government has issued a stark warning to Beijing after MI5 alerted MPs that Chinese intelligence services are actively trying to recruit parliamentary staff. Security Minister Dan Jarvis described the campaign as a “covert and calculated” effort using front companies and platforms like LinkedIn to cultivate insiders. The alert follows the collapse of a high-profile espionage case and adds pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is navigating strained relations with China amidst calls from the opposition to cancel diplomatic trips and tighten foreign influence laws.
Source: Financial Times
Chicago Tribune — “Detainee count plummets at Broadview ICE center after judge’s order”
The number of detainees held at the Broadview ICE processing center has dropped to just four individuals following a federal judge’s order mandating immediate improvements to living conditions. The ruling stems from a class-action lawsuit that described the facility as a “black box” where detainees faced severe overcrowding and lack of food during the recent “Operation Midway Blitz.” While government attorneys argue the restrictions hamper enforcement due to the Illinois TRUST Act, the judge noted the sharp decline in the facility’s population is undeniable.
Source: Chicago Tribune
South China Morning Post — “Hong Kong leader predicts ‘solid growth’ after robust Q3”
Chief Executive John Lee expressed strong optimism for Hong Kong’s economic future, citing a “robust” 3.8% growth in the third quarter driven by rising exports and domestic demand. Speaking at a high-level forum, Lee stated that US interest rate cuts and a recovery in tourism would further support the city’s role as a global “superconnector.” Nobel laureates and business leaders at the event echoed this sentiment, urging the government to deepen integration with the Greater Bay Area and actively support the tech sector to maintain competitiveness against global rivals.
Source: South China Morning Post
Arab News — “Saudi Arabia to boost US investment to $1 trillion”
In a historic White House meeting, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman promised President Donald Trump that the Kingdom would increase its investment commitment in the US economy to $1 trillion. The visit, marked by a lavish welcome and a gala attended by Cristiano Ronaldo, signaled a deepening alliance with major deals on the table, including the sale of F-35 stealth fighters and a civilian nuclear framework. On regional politics, the Crown Prince confirmed a desire to join the Abraham Accords, but stated that a “clear path” to a Palestinian state must be secured first.
Source: Arab News
BusinessDay — “Local airfares jump over 100% amid aircraft shortage”
Domestic airfares in Nigeria have skyrocketed by more than 100% ahead of the Christmas season, with tickets to key destinations like Enugu and Owerri now selling for between N350,000 and N600,000. The surge is driven by a “collision” of high seasonal demand and a critical shortage of operational aircraft, as foreign exchange scarcity keeps many planes grounded for maintenance. BusinessDay reports that flights to popular eastern routes are already fully booked for late December, raising fears that travelers, particularly those from the diaspora, will be left stranded.
Source: BusinessDay
