China Taxes Condoms Amid Declining Birth Rate
China will impose a 13% VAT on condoms and contraceptive drugs from January 1, ending a 30-year exemption. Experts warn of risks to public health as social media users ridicule the move.
China will impose a 13% VAT on condoms and contraceptive drugs from January 1, ending a 30-year exemption. Experts warn of risks to public health as social media users ridicule the move.
China ends a 30-year tax exemption on contraceptives, imposing a 13% VAT from 1 January. This 'carrot-and-stick' approach aims to boost the birth rate, but experts doubt its effectiveness. Explore the policy shift and public reaction.
We tested a whirlwind day trip to Finnish Lapland with Canterbury Travel. Was the 4am alarm and Arctic cold worth the magic? Read our honest family review and see the costs for 2026.
Japan alleges Chinese warships directed fire-control radar at its fighter jets near disputed islands, escalating tensions. Read the full details of the confrontation.
Data reveals Worcester as the UK's most overlooked city. Discover its stunning cathedral, £250K houses, riverside walks, and rich history just two hours from the capital.
Escape the crowds and discover the authentic beauty of the Italian Riviera. Our guide reveals the perfect out-of-season road trip through Liguria, from Cinque Terre to Portofino.
Discover Winchester Cathedral's magical Christmas market, named among Europe's best. With 100 Alpine chalets, it's open until Dec 22 and just an hour by train from London.
The UK government has postponed its ruling on China's controversial 'super-embassy' near Tower Bridge to 20 January, aligning with Keir Starmer's planned trip to Beijing. Read the latest on the diplomatic and security implications.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer warns China presents 'real national security threats' and criticises using Brexit as a foreign policy template. Read his full Guildhall speech analysis.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warns China poses real security threats but urges a 'sober realist' policy. He also defends his foreign approach as a post-Brexit shift. Read the latest.
Join Sandi Toksvig on her delightful Channel 4 rail adventure along the French Riviera, exploring literary history and stunning coastal scenery. Don't miss this bibliophile's dream journey!
Join Sandi Toksvig on her delightful four-part railway journey along the French Riviera, exploring art, history and culture. Don't miss this charming travelogue on Channel 4.
Pope Leo receives unexpected Thanksgiving pie gift during his inaugural US visit as Catholic leader. Watch the heartwarming moment that captured global attention.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping told Donald Trump that Taiwan's return remains vital to China's interests during their recent phone discussion. Read the full analysis.
Chris Hemsworth embarks on an emotional road trip with father Craig battling Alzheimer's. A moving documentary exploring memory, family bonds and dementia's impact. Watch on Disney+.
A thrifty dad proves winter sun is affordable by flying his daughter to Lanzarote for beach shopping. Their extreme day trip cost under £100 - less than London!
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to approve plans for a new Chinese embassy in London, despite security concerns and parliamentary opposition. Read the full story.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is preparing for a potentially contentious visit to China in January 2025, Sky News understands. The trip comes amid heightened tensions over spying allegations.
Sky News understands PM Sir Keir Starmer is preparing for a controversial China visit in January 2025, despite recent parliamentary spying allegations. Learn about the diplomatic implications.
Discover Beverley's Festival of Christmas, the UK's largest one-day festive market. With 120+ stalls, family entertainment, and a stunning tree trail, it's the perfect festive day out from London on December 14, 2025.
Discover Lymington, the charming coastal town with the UK's loveliest high street. Explore independent shops, a picturesque harbour, and the New Forest. Plan your perfect day trip from London today!
Beijing deploys coast guard and drones near Japanese territory following PM Takaichi's warning about potential military response to Taiwan conflict. Read the latest developments.
Discover Hayling Island, a stunning escape less than two hours from London. Explore miles of award-winning beaches, rich history, and world-class water sports for the perfect day trip or weekend.
Time Out crowns the Kent & East Sussex steam railway as the top day trip from London for winter 2025/26. Discover this magical journey through the countryside.
Portishead's Geoff Barrow reveals his horror at fans using the band's music as a romantic soundtrack. The 90s music legend explains why he finds it 'vomit-inducing'.
Security expert Mark Wheatley warns the proposed Chinese 'super embassy' near the Tower of London poses a major risk to UK national security and vital financial data lines. The government must take a bold stand.
A bitter briefing war erupts at the top of the Labour Party, exposing tensions between Keir Starmer, his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, and Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
Keir Starmer expresses 'sincere regret' after approving Labour donor David Kogan for football regulator role. Read the full details and political fallout.
Keir Starmer faces growing calls to dismiss Morgan McSweeney after orchestrated briefings against Wes Streeting backfire, weakening the PM's position.
Keir Starmer confronts internal party rebellion as Downing Street briefings spark leadership speculation. Can the PM survive the budget test? Analysis inside.