A recent Gallup poll reveals a notable decline in overall life satisfaction among Americans, with only 47% expressing high fulfilment, marking a near-record low. This dip, observed for only the third time in two decades, is attributed to concerns over national affairs and economic challenges. However, certain groups demonstrate higher satisfaction levels, notably regular churchgoers. About 56% of Americans attending weekly religious services report high personal life satisfaction, compared to 41% of those who seldom or never attend. The findings indicate a persistent correlation between church attendance, faith engagement, and enhanced life satisfaction. For instance, 92% of weekly church attendees are satisfied with their lives, with 67% being very satisfied. Additionally, churchgoers report relatively stable 'excellent' mental health over recent years. These encouraging yet challenging results highlight the significant role of church involvement and Christian faith in fostering happiness and well-being.

In 2023, the UK officially entered a recession, as confirmed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The economy shrank by 0.3% in the last quarter of 2023, marking the second consecutive quarter of decline, a typical indicator of recession. However, there are positive signs, with a robust job market and wage growth surpassing inflation, suggesting a potential short duration for the downturn. The UK's GDP grew by a slight 0.1% compared to the previous year, indicating weak but present growth. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt remains optimistic, believing the economy is improving, despite current low growth rates. In contrast, Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves criticised Rishi Sunak, claiming his economic growth promises are failing. The global context shows similar trends, with the EU narrowly avoiding a recession and Japan entering one. The latest ONS update confirmed a marginal 0.1% GDP growth for the UK in 2023, the weakest since the 2009 financial crisis, excluding 2020's pandemic impact. The Government's focus is on reducing inflation and supporting economic recovery, amidst political criticism and global economic challenges.

Sir Keir Starmer has been urged to suspend any Labour member who was present at a meeting of activists where antisemitic comments were allegedly made. Mike Katz, the national chair of the Jewish Labour Movement (JLM), criticised those who were present at the meeting but failed to 'call out' comments about Israel. At the meeting, which is understood to have taken place in Hyndburn last year, Labour's original candidate for the Rochdale by-election claimed Israel deliberately allowed the Hamas atrocity of 7 October to take place in order to give it the 'green light' to invade Gaza. The Labour Party initially stood by Mr Ali, but later withdrew support for his candidacy after 'further comments' came to light. Another one of the party's election candidates, the former Labour MP Graham Jones, had also been present at the meeting, and made comments resulting in his suspension. Mr Katz said there was a real problem that nobody raised concerns. He said: 'Well, they're identifiable. They all ought to be suspended pending investigation’. A third Labour MP was spoken to about his attendance at the Hyndburn meeting. See

HMS Prince of Wales, Britain's largest warship, has embarked for Norway to spearhead a significant NATO exercise, the largest since the Cold War. The Portsmouth-based aircraft carrier, replacing HMS Queen Elizabeth due to a technical issue, was made ready in just a week, showcasing the Royal Navy's quick response capabilities and the strategic advantage of having two aircraft carriers. The carrier will lead a strike group of eight ships, including British, American, Spanish, and Danish vessels. The exercise will demonstrate NATO's unity and strength, involving over 20,000 UK personnel and focusing on defending Scandinavia and Northern Europe. The carrier, equipped with F-35B Lightning fighters and various helicopters, will first undergo a week's training in the North Sea. 600 vehicles are being shipped from the UK to Germany to join the exercise, which will Involve 90,000 NATO troops. See