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In recent years, the Post Office scandal has become one of the most notorious.

In recent years, the Post Office scandal has become one of the most notorious cases of injustice in the U.K. Sub-postmasters were wrongly accused of financial misconduct due to flaws in the Post Office’s Horizon IT system. Many people were convicted of crimes they did not commit, while others suffered serious financial losses. To remedy these wrongs, the U.K. government has implemented a number of compensation schemes. Here is a clear description of how these schemes work and who is eligible for them.

The four main compensation schemes
The compensation process is not straightforward and involves a number of schemes, each targeting different groups affected by the scandal. The main schemes are:

Group prosecution order (GLO) scheme

Reversed conviction scheme

Horizon conviction redress scheme

Horizon reduction scheme

Group prosecution order (GLO) scheme

This scheme is specifically for people who are involved in a historic group prosecution order. In 2019, Alan Bates and a group of 555 sub-postmasters received a £42.5 million settlement following a long battle in the High Court against the Post Office. The settlement was intended to compensate them for their losses and the impact of the scandal.

For people who were convicted due to the faulty Horizon system and had their convictions overturned, the Overturned Convictions Scheme provides financial redress. The scheme applies to individuals whose convictions were quashed by the court. As of August 31, 2024, 111 people’s convictions have been overturned, and £56 million has been paid to 57 of these claimants.

Claimants can either accept an instant payment of £600,000 or negotiate for a higher amount. Interim payments are also provided while their final settlement is being processed.

Horizon Conviction Redress Scheme

This scheme is specifically for people whose convictions have been overturned under the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Act 2024, which was enacted in May. Those who qualify for the scheme receive an initial interim payment of £200,000. They then have the option of either accepting the full settlement of £600,000 or having their case reviewed for a potentially higher amount.

Horizon Shortfall Scheme

The Horizon Shortfall Scheme is designed for sub-postmasters who were not convicted but had to make up a financial shortfall caused by Horizon IT systems. The scheme is managed by the Post Office, but an independent appeals process overseen by the Department for Business handles disputes. As of the end of August 2024, over £144 million has been paid out through the scheme, benefiting over 2,000 claimants.

Resolving new claims and delayed compensation
The total number of eligible claimants across all schemes is over 4,000, and new potential victims are constantly coming forward. However, navigating these schemes can be complex and time-consuming, often taking several years to resolve.

Families of individuals who die before receiving compensation can apply for payments on their behalf. This measure ensures that those affected by the scam, even posthumously, can still receive financial redress.

Compensation impact
As of August 30, 2024, almost £289 million has been paid to more than 2,800 claimants. This figure includes payments received from all four schemes and includes compensation amounts ranging from £10,000 to £1 million, depending on the individual circumstances of each case.

The Government has not yet provided an overall estimate of the total compensation required, but it is clear that the final figure will likely be substantial.

Conclusion
The Post Office scam has left a trail of financial and emotional distress for many sub-postmasters. While the various compensation schemes are important steps towards correcting these wrongs, the process remains complex and often slow. Government efforts to improve the situation continue, with new schemes and adjustments being made to better serve those affected.

In the 1980s, beneath the Nevada desert, the US conducted secret.

In the 1980s, beneath the Nevada desert, the US conducted secret experiments into nuclear fusion, the process that powers the sun. These experiments, aimed at achieving controlled nuclear fusion on Earth, were classified but produced promising results. This sparked the interest of two young researchers, Connor Galloway and Alexander Valleys, who later started a company focused on harnessing fusion power.

Fusion breakthrough
Nuclear fusion, the process of releasing vast amounts of energy by combining hydrogen nuclei, has long been seen as the key to a future of unlimited, clean energy. Unlike nuclear fission, which powers current nuclear reactors and generates long-lived radioactive waste, fusion produces helium and minimal radioactive byproducts. If successfully harnessed, it could provide abundant energy without any CO2 emissions.

In 2022, scientists at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) in California achieved a significant milestone. They succeeded in producing more energy from the fusion reaction than was used by the lasers that initiated it. This breakthrough was the result of more than a decade of effort and was a major step in the pursuit of practical fusion energy.

The Arrival of Xcimer
Inspired by NIF’s achievements, Conor Galloway and Alexander Vallis founded a company called Xcimer, based in Denver, with the goal of further advancing fusion technology. Their focus is on using more powerful lasers to ignite fusion reactions. While NIF’s lasers produced two megajoules of energy, Xcimer’s goal is to develop lasers that can deliver up to 20 megajoules of energy.

Galloway and Vallis believe that lasers delivering 10 to 12 megajoules of energy would be optimal for a commercial fusion power plant. Their approach involves directing energy equivalent to that of a 40-ton truck traveling at 60 miles per hour onto a small fuel capsule. This powerful burst of energy will ignite the fusion reaction, producing a considerable amount of heat.

Challenges and innovations
Fusion research faces many challenges, both technical and engineering-related. One major hurdle is how to efficiently extract the heat produced by the fusion reaction to create electricity. While Xcimer plans to use a “waterfall” of molten salt to absorb and transfer the heat, this solution is still in development.

Another issue is managing the high-energy particles produced by fusion, which can degrade reactor materials. Xcimer’s solution involves designing a system that maintains a constant flow of molten salt to prevent damage to the reactor while allowing for frequent replacement of fuel capsules.

Despite these obstacles, Galloway and Valles are optimistic. They plan to test their laser system for two years before building a target chamber for precise experiments. Their goal is to build a working fusion reactor connected to the power grid by the mid-2030s.

Funding and future prospects
Xcimer has already raised $100 million for its initial research and facility construction. However, the project’s future success will require hundreds of millions more. According to Galloway and Vallies, the potential for cheap, carbon-free electricity makes the investment worthwhile.

For them, the promise of fusion power represents a transformational opportunity for humanity. If successful, their work could revolutionise energy production and significantly reduce global CO2 emissions.

Skepticism and realism
Despite the excitement around fusion research, some experts are skeptical about its near-term viability. Professor Ian Lowe of Griffith University, who has worked extensively in energy research, believes even the most optimistic estimates suggest commercial fusion reactors may not be available until 2050 or later. They argue that urgent action is needed to address climate change, and that waiting for fusion power could delay efforts needed to decarbonise the energy supply.

Conclusion
As researchers like Galloway and Vallis continue to push the boundaries of fusion technology, the prospect of a clean, virtually unlimited energy source is becoming more tangible. While there are significant technical and engineering challenges ahead, the progress made so far and the innovative approaches being explored offer hope for a future powered by fusion. If successful, fusion could not only provide a solution to the world’s energy needs, but also play a key role in tackling climate change.

As the US moves towards Election Day on November 5, 2024,

As the US moves towards Election Day on November 5, 2024, the presidential race is heating up. Essentially similar to the 2020 election, the race took a crucial turn in July when President Joe Biden withdrew from the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. This development has led to speculation: will Donald Trump secure a second term or will Kamala Harris make history by becoming the first female US president?

National Polling Overview
In the months before Biden withdrew, polls consistently showed him trailing Donald Trump. Kamala Harris, now the Democratic nominee, faced similar challenges, with early polls indicating she might not perform much better. However, the dynamics of the race changed as Harris ramped up her campaign efforts.

Recent national polls show Harris has a slight lead over Trump. So far, Harris is averaging 47% in national polls, while Trump is around 44%. These numbers have been relatively stable, indicating a tight race. Harris’ campaign gained momentum during her party’s convention in Chicago, where she gave a rousing speech promising a “new way forward” for America.

Despite this lead, it’s important to note that national elections are just one part of the equation. The US electoral system relies on the Electoral College, not just the popular vote. This means that winning in key battleground states can be more important than gaining a nationwide lead.

Battleground states
The real contest will be in the battleground states, where the election is often decided. These states are highly competitive and can go either way, making them crucial for both candidates. Current polls show tight races in several key battleground states, including Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

In Pennsylvania, which has a large number of electoral votes, polls indicate Harris and Trump are neck and neck. This is important because winning Pennsylvania could provide a significant lead toward the 270 electoral votes needed to secure the presidency. There are reports of similar close contests in Michigan and Wisconsin, where recent elections have seen a shift in party dominance.

Polling in these states may be less reliable due to fewer surveys and higher margins of error. However, the close numbers suggest that both campaigns are focusing heavily on these crucial areas.

How the surveys are calculated
The statistics presented are averages compiled by polling analysis websites like 538. These sites collect data from a variety of surveys conducted across the country and in battleground states. They employ rigorous quality control measures, including ensuring transparency about the number of respondents, timing, and methodology of the surveys (e.g., telephone, online).

538’s methodology aims to create a balanced and accurate picture of the election landscape by filtering out unreliable surveys and incorporating data from multiple sources.

Trust in surveys
The accuracy of polls is often a topic of debate. Past elections have shown that surveys can sometimes underestimate support for candidates, as seen by Trump’s surprise victories in 2016 and 2020. Pollsters are constantly working to improve their methods and address past shortcomings, such as accurately reflecting the composition of the voting population.

Despite these efforts, predicting voter turnout and other variables remains challenging. As election day approaches, the race remains unpredictable, and the final outcome will depend on voter turnout and the effectiveness of each candidate’s campaign strategies.

Conclusion
As the election draws closer, the contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump remains exceptionally close. National polls show Harris with a slight lead, but the real battle will take place in states where the race is very close. The Electoral College system makes these state-by-state results crucial to determining the next president.

With less than two months until the election, both candidates are ramping up their campaigns, focusing on swing states, and addressing key voter concerns. As always, the final outcome will depend on a number of factors, including voter turnout and last-minute developments.

In a recent devastating development, at least 40 people have been reported.

In a recent devastating development, at least 40 people have been reported dead following Israeli airstrikes on southern Gaza. The attacks targeted a designated humanitarian zone in the al-Mawasi area near Khan Younis, with dozens injured, many of whom are still trapped under the rubble.

Incident
According to the Hamas-run Civil Defense Authority, the Israeli strikes targeted a humanitarian zone where displaced people were taking refuge. The zone, which was set up to provide relief to those affected by the ongoing conflict, was hit by multiple explosions, creating deep craters and causing extensive damage.

Local witnesses reported that the attacks resulted in large explosions and fires, with flames seen rising into the night sky. Khaled Mahmoud, a volunteer for a local charity, described the scene as horrific, with three deep craters formed and more than 20 tents buried. The scale of the destruction has left many in shock, while rescue efforts are ongoing.

Israeli military’s view
The Israeli military has defended the strikes, saying that their aircraft targeted the operations center of Hamas fighters in Khan Younis. The IDF spokesperson claimed that the strikes were carried out by targeting key militants operating from a command and control compound, which was reportedly hidden within the humanitarian zone. He emphasized that precision weapons were used and that efforts were made to minimize civilian casualties.

The IDF’s stance is that Hamas is using civilian areas, including humanitarian zones, for military purposes. They argue that the strikes were necessary to address security threats and disrupt Hamas’ operational capabilities.

Hamas’ response
Hamas has strongly rejected the Israeli military’s claims, labeling them false and accusing Israel of a blatant disregard for civilian lives. They insist that their members were not present in the targeted area and deny using humanitarian locations for military operations. This ongoing dispute highlights the challenges in verifying claims and the complexities of the conflict.

Context and impact
This latest violence is part of a wider conflict that has caused significant casualties on both sides. Since the start of Israel’s military operation in response to a massive attack by Hamas on southern Israel on 7 October, which resulted in nearly 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages, the situation in Gaza has deteriorated even further. According to Gaza’s Hamas-run Ministry of Health, more than 40,900 people have been killed in the territory since the conflict escalated.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with hundreds of thousands of displaced people seeking refuge in various areas, including Khan Younis. The escalation of violence and the high number of casualties underscore the urgent need for a resolution of the conflict and greater efforts to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.

Conclusion
The recent airstrikes on Gaza’s humanitarian sector represent a tragic and complex episode in an already tense and volatile conflict. With significant loss of life and ongoing disputes over the nature of the attacks, the situation remains volatile and extremely worrying. As rescue operations continue and investigations progress, the international community is closely watching the situation and hoping for an end to the violence and a path to peace.

In response to the tragic knife attack in Solingen,

In response to the tragic knife attack in Solingen, Germany is set to step up its border controls from September 16. The attack left three people dead, following which the German government has taken a tougher stance on immigration and security.

The suspect in the knife attack in Solingen, a Syrian national who had previously failed in an attempt to get asylum and was facing deportation, has been linked to the Islamic State group, further fuelling the debate over immigration policies. The attack has also intensified the government’s plan to expand border checks, a move initially set to last for six months.

FILE – A German federal police officer stops cars and trucks at a border crossing point between Germany and Czech Republic in Furth am Wald, Germany, Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, File)

New border controls announced
German Interior Minister Nancy Fieser announced the new border measures, stressing that the government is committed to addressing irregular migration and enhancing national security. “We are doing everything in our power to protect our country’s people from these threats,” Fieser said. The expanded checks will be implemented at all major border points, including those to Poland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland and Austria. Currently, Germany mainly carries out spot checks on roads and trains along its eastern and southern borders.

These new measures come at a time when political tensions have risen. The right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has made significant gains in recent local elections, topping a poll for the first time since the Nazi era. This political shift has put pressure on the ruling coalition to take a tougher stance on immigration.

Political pressure and responses
The increased border checks are seen by some as a direct response to the growing influence of the AfD. The ruling coalition, led by the Social Democratic Party (SPD), and other mainstream parties have been grappling with how to address the rise of the AfD. In the wake of the election results, there has been a notable shift in policy proposals, with some parties advocating stricter immigration measures.

The AfD’s success in regional elections, particularly in eastern Germany, has sparked debate about Germany’s approach to asylum and border management. The party’s rise has fueled calls for more restrictive policies, including a proposal by the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) to turn away asylum seekers at the border, even if they are eligible for protection based on having passed through other safe EU countries.

Germany’s migration policy context

Germany has historically been a major destination for refugees, particularly during the 2015-2016 migrant crisis when more than one million people, many of them fleeing the conflict in Syria, sought asylum in the country. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has also led to the arrival of 1.2 million Ukrainians since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

The Solingen attack has prompted the German government to review and adjust its migration policies. Measures announced include tightening rules for refugees facing deportation, which would end benefits, and resuming the deportation of convicted Afghan criminals. These changes mark a significant shift in Germany’s approach to migration and border security.

International reactions and impact
Neighbouring country Austria has also voiced its opinion on the issue. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said Austria would not accept migrants rejected by Germany, highlighting the growing pressure on European migration policies.

The focus on immigration and border controls has sparked a wider debate about security and integration in Germany. Critics argue that the new measures may be more about addressing political pressures than effectively enhancing security. They suggest that focusing solely on immigration policies may not fully address the underlying issues of radicalisation and violence.

Looking ahead
As Germany implements these new border controls, the impact on both national security and public opinion will be closely monitored. The government’s approach to dealing with the aftermath of the Solingen attack and its response to growing political pressures will shape the future of Germany’s immigration policies and its political landscape.

In conclusion, the strengthening of border controls reflects a broader trend of intensified scrutiny on immigration and security issues in Germany. The response to the Solingen attack underscores the complex interrelationship between security concerns, political pressures, and public sentiment, and highlights the challenges policymakers face in addressing these multifaceted issues.

surfaced against the late French priest and renowned humanitarian.

New and disturbing allegations have surfaced against the late French priest and renowned humanitarian Abbé Pierre, long known for his work with the poor and homeless. Once a symbol of selflessness and charity, Abbé Pierre is now facing serious allegations of sexual abuse, leading to significant changes at the organizations he founded. In July, the Emmaus charity, founded by Abbé Pierre in 1949, revealed that seven women had come forward with allegations of sexual harassment and assault. Following these revelations, the charity has taken the drastic step of removing Abbé Pierre’s name from its various entities. The decision came after an independent consultancy, Agae, released a report detailing even more serious allegations made by 17 additional women. Born in 1912 as Henri Gruyès, Abbé Pierre was known for his tireless efforts to aid the homeless and poor. His work with Emmaus, which now operates in more than 40 countries, earned him a respected place in French society. Despite his death in 2007 at the age of 94, his legacy as a champion of the needy remains strong – until now.

The allegations against Abbé Pierre paint a disturbing picture of a man whose public image as a saint stands in stark contrast to the private behavior described by his accusers. The most recent allegations include instances of forced sexual activity and inappropriate behavior with women and even children. One woman, known only as “J” in the report, claimed she was forced to perform sexual acts with Abbé Pierre, while others described unwanted physical contact and harassment.

These new revelations have caused a deep crisis within the Emmaus movement. The Abbé Pierre Foundation is set to be renamed, and the board of Emmaus France is considering removing Abbé Pierre’s name from its logo. Additionally, the Abbé Pierre Center in Estville, Normandy – where he lived and was buried – will close permanently. The charity is also grappling with the fate of several of its founder’s sculptures and paintings, with discussions ongoing over how to handle these items.

Christophe Robert, head of the Abbé Pierre Foundation, expressed shock and outrage at the allegations. “We are deeply saddened and angry,” he said. “We offer our full support to all the victims who have had the courage to come forward.” The organization’s response highlights the gravity of the situation and its commitment to addressing abuse.

The first set of allegations surfaced in July when seven women accused Abbé Pierre of various forms of sexual abuse, including inappropriate touching and kissing. More recent accounts have revealed even more disturbing behavior. One woman reported being subjected to sexual acts and unwanted physical contact over a period of meetings, while another alleged abuse beginning in childhood.

The growing list of allegations has also prompted widespread scrutiny of how Abbé Pierre’s behavior was handled by those around him. It appears that awareness of his abuse may have extended beyond his immediate circle, with suggestions that both the Catholic Church and the Emmaus Movement may have been involved in covering up his actions.

According to reports, complaints about Abbé Pierre’s behaviour were known as early as the 1950s, but appropriate action was not taken due to the need to protect his position and the charity’s reputation. This pattern of denial and cover-up reflects a disturbing trend seen in other high-profile abuse cases within institutions.

Born in Lyon, Abbé Pierre was ordained in 1938 and received widespread recognition for his work with the homeless in 1954. Despite his public persona as a humble and devoted servant of the poor, evidence now suggests that serious violations of his vows of chastity occurred in his private life. Historical accounts suggest that Abbé Pierre’s relationships and behaviour were known to some within the Church, but there may have been a reluctance to address these issues openly due to his status as a respected figure.

The revelation of these allegations against Abbé Pierre, once celebrated as a modern-day saint, highlights the broader issue of how institutions handle allegations of abuse by prominent figures. The Emmaus Movement’s response, which includes renaming its institutions and removing Abbé Pierre’s image, demonstrates a commitment to confronting abuse and seeking justice for victims.

This case is a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability within organisations, particularly those trusted with important social and charitable responsibilities. As the Emmaus Movement and the wider community grapple with these revelations, the focus is on supporting victims and ensuring that such abuses are not repeated in the future.

Harvey Weinstein, the former film mogul whose career was overshadowed.

Harvey Weinstein, the former film mogul whose career was overshadowed by criminal convictions and health issues, is currently in the hospital in New York for emergency heart surgery. The 72-year-old was moved from Rikers Island jail to Bellevue Hospital late on Sunday, as confirmed by his legal team.

Weinstein’s lawyers have indicated that the producer has been dealing with various health problems, including experiencing chest pains. Although specific details about his condition were not disclosed, the emergency surgery highlights the ongoing challenges he faces with his health.

Weinstein’s legal troubles began with his 2020 conviction for rape and sexual assault in New York. He was sentenced to 23 years in prison for these crimes. However, earlier this year, his convictions were overturned by an appellate court, which found that Weinstein did not receive a fair trial. The court’s ruling was based on the argument that prosecutors had introduced witnesses whose testimonies were not directly related to the charges against him. Weinstein now faces the possibility of a retrial later this year.

In addition to the New York case, Weinstein was also sentenced to 16 years in prison in a separate trial in California for rape. He is currently appealing this sentence as well.

Weinstein’s health has been a significant concern in recent years. He has been hospitalized multiple times, including for Covid-19 and double pneumonia in July. In 2020, he was admitted to the hospital for chest pains and to address a blocked artery. His medical history also includes diabetes and high blood pressure, conditions that have further complicated his health.

The allegations against Weinstein have had a profound impact, with more than 100 individuals coming forward with claims of rape and misconduct stretching back to the late 1970s. These accusations played a crucial role in the rise of the #MeToo movement, which has sought to hold powerful figures accountable for sexual abuse and misconduct.

Despite his legal convictions, Weinstein has consistently maintained his innocence. He has claimed that he is a victim of a “set-up” orchestrated by those seeking to bring him down. His story is also marked by his significant achievements in the film industry. Weinstein co-founded Miramax, a studio that produced acclaimed films like Shakespeare in Love and Pulp Fiction. His work earned over 300 Oscar nominations and 81 awards, underscoring his influential role in Hollywood.

The ongoing legal and health issues surrounding Weinstein reflect the broader complexities of his case and its impact on both the entertainment industry and the broader public discourse on sexual misconduct.

In a significant legal action, US prosecutors have charged.

In a significant legal action, US prosecutors have charged two men with leading a white supremacist group on the messaging app Telegram, alleging they waged a campaign to incite violence across the country. The allegations, detailed in a recently released indictment, underscore the grave threat posed by extremist groups operating in the digital age.

Dallas Erin Humber, 34, and Matthew Robert Ellison, 37, are at the center of the case. They are accused of running the “Terrorgram” network, a group that used Telegram to promote violent acts and propagate extremist ideologies. The indictment, which spans 37 pages, details how Humber and Ellison allegedly tried to incite a race war by encouraging members to commit terrorist acts.

The indictment reveals that Terrorgram was not just a platform for spreading hateful rhetoric, but also a hub for planning violence in the real world. Prosecutors allege that the group distributed bomb-making materials, compiled lists of potential assassination targets and encouraged its members to commit violent acts. The group’s content included videos and posts with titles such as “The Hard Reset”, “White Terror” and “The List”. The list reportedly included the names of individuals including a US senator, a federal judge and various state and local officials. According to the indictment, Humber and Ellison took over leadership of Terrorgram in 2022 after the arrest of a previous leader on terrorism charges. They allegedly used their new position to further radicalize their followers and coordinate violent actions. One of the key elements of their strategy was to exhort its members to “act now” and “do your part”, a directive they are accused of using to promote violent acts. Matt Olson, the head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, emphasized the seriousness of the charges. “These are not just words,” Olson said. “The evidence suggests that the defendants were not only inspiring individuals but also actively worked to incite actual attacks.” The indictment also links Terrorgram to a number of violent incidents, including an October 2022 shooting at an LGBTQ bar in Slovakia that resulted in two deaths, and a stabbing attack in Turkey. These links underscore the potential real-world consequences of the group’s online activities. Both Humber and Ellison face 15 federal charges, including conspiracy to murder a federal officer, hate crime conspiracy, and conspiracy to provide material support for terrorism. Their arrests took place last Friday, but it is not yet clear whether they have legal representation. The case highlights growing concerns about the role of digital platforms in facilitating extremist activities. Telegram, the app used by Humber and Ellison, has faced scrutiny for its handling of such content. Last month, Telegram chief executive Pavel Durov was arrested under a warrant related to his app. The investigation into Durov reportedly focuses on allegations that Telegram failed to adequately moderate its platform and address criminal activity such as drug trafficking, child sexual exploitation, and fraud. Telegram has previously denied claims of inadequate controls.

The charges against Humber and Ellison are part of a broader effort by law enforcement to combat the rise of online extremism and its real-world impacts. By targeting leaders of extremist groups that use digital platforms to incite violence, authorities aim to disrupt and dismantle networks that pose a significant threat to public safety.

This case is a reminder of the challenges technology companies face in moderating content and preventing their platforms from being used for harmful purposes. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the responsibility of tech companies to address and prevent extremist activity remains a critical issue.

In conclusion, the indictment against Dallas Erin Humber and Matthew Robert Ellison represents an important step in addressing the threats posed by online extremist groups. Their alleged activities and their connection to real-world violence underscore the urgent need for continued vigilance and action to combat terrorism and hate-motivated violence in the digital age.

Emily Maitlis, the journalist behind one of the most talked-about interviews.

Emily Maitlis, the journalist behind one of the most talked-about interviews in recent years, has spoken candidly about the impact of her 2019 Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew. Her thoughts reveal not only the significant damage done to the Duke of York’s reputation, but also the ongoing, unresolved issues surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s victims.

The interview, which took place in late 2019, has been described as a “car crash” and remains a vivid example of high-stakes journalism. In it, Prince Andrew addressed his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell. The fallout was immediate and intense: Prince Andrew faced a storm of criticism and public backlash, which ultimately led to him stepping back from his royal duties and losing many of his royal privileges.

In a recent conversation, Maitlis expressed her thoughts on the lasting effects of that interview, in which she suggested that while Prince Andrew’s standing within the royal family was severely damaged, victims of Epstein’s abuse were left with unresolved issues. “I think there’s unfinished business,” Maitlis said.

“It’s not a nice, neat ending.” The 2019 interview was a turning point for Prince Andrew. He attempted to defend himself against allegations of sexual misconduct, including Virginia Giuffre’s claim that he had sex with her when she was just 17 years old. Andrew’s defense centered on his excuse that he was at Pizza Express in Woking on the day of the alleged incident. Despite his denials, the interview caused significant damage to his public image, influencing his decision to step back from public life. Since the interview, Andrew has settled a civil case brought against him in the U.S. by Giuffre. However, he has always denied any wrongdoing, and the agreement did not include an admission of guilt. The fallout from the agreement and the interview has raised questions about whether Epstein’s victims have truly received the justice or resolution they need.

Maitlis acknowledges this gap. “There has been no trial,” she explains. “There has been an agreement… but we haven’t got any sense of resolution there.” Her comments highlight the complexity of the situation, where the public spectacle of the interview is in stark contrast to the ongoing struggles of Epstein’s survivors.

The new three-part drama, A Very Royal Scandal, starring Maitlis as Ruth Wilson and Michael Sheen as Prince Andrew, delves deeply into the interview and its aftermath. Maitlis said the drama brings a new perspective to the story, but it also emphasises the unresolved nature of the issues at hand. “It’s about a reckoning,” Maitlis says of the series. “It’s about repercussions. But it’s not a nice, neat ending with a comedy villain or some kind of brilliant hero.”

The show charts the significant changes that have taken place since the interview. Prince Andrew’s loss of royal duties and dignity, and wider changes within the royal family, are central themes. Maitlis reflects on this transformation, noting that the monarchy appears to be undergoing a significant shift, becoming more streamlined and less publicly confrontational. “I think about those words I heard in December 2019 and wonder if that was the beginning of a reset,” she muses.

Interestingly, Maitlis shared a personal anecdote about the period following the interview. A month after the broadcast, she was contacted by someone close to King Charles, who reportedly told her that the then-Prince of Wales was not unhappy with the interview. This mysterious message has left Maitlis pondering its true meaning. She speculates that this could mean Charles did not blame her for the interview or that it could be seen as part of a wider strategy to reset the relationship between the royal family and the public.

In the new series, Wilson’s portrayal of Maitlis required significant preparation. Wilson, who wore a wig and blue contact lenses to resemble Maitlis, worked with a voice coach and a movement coach to capture the essence of Maitlis. She also immersed herself in Maitlis’s professional world to bring authenticity to her role. Maitlis, for her part, praised Wilson’s efforts, noting that the actress managed to capture her “impatience” and even the little quirks of her personality, such as hastily eating a sandwich.

The drama comes shortly after another portrayal of the 2019 interview, Netflix’s Scoop, which focused on producer Sam McAllister’s role in securing the interview. Maitlis acknowledges the differences between the two dramas, stressing that each offers a different perspective. She also addresses some of the creative liberties taken in A Very Royal Scandal, including scenes that differed from her actual experiences.

There is ongoing debate as to whether dramatisation of such events is necessary when real footage is readily available.

In the global sports arena, India’s journey through the Paralympics.

In the global sports arena, India’s journey through the Paralympics has been nothing short of extraordinary. What began as a silver medal at the 2012 London Paralympics has turned into a remarkable parade of achievements, culminating in an impressive haul of 29 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. This leap from just one medal at London to a strong presence on the global stage marks a significant shift in India’s approach to para sports.

Turning Point: 2012 and beyond

India’s only medal at the 2012 Paralympics came through Girisha Hosanagara Nagarajegowda, who won a silver in the men’s high jump. The moment was not only a personal triumph for Nagarajegowda but also a ray of hope for the country, highlighting the potential within Indian para athletes. However, it also raised questions about India’s commitment to supporting athletes with disabilities and its overall approach to para sports.

The Indian sporting landscape underwent a significant shift after London 2012. The 2016 Rio Paralympics saw India’s medal tally rise to four, which was a promising start. But at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, India achieved a major breakthrough by winning 20 medals. The momentum continued in Paris as well, where the country put up its best-ever performance with 29 medals.

Success Factors
Several factors have contributed to this meteoric rise in performance.

Government support and schemes: Government initiatives such as the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) have played a key role in nurturing and supporting para athletes. These programmes focus on identifying and promoting young talent, providing them with the necessary resources to excel on the international stage.

Corporate sponsorship and investments: Corporate entities and private entities such as Olympic Gold Quest have come forward to support para athletes. These partnerships have helped provide financial support, world-class equipment, and professional coaching, leading to a significant increase in the training and performance of athletes.

Increased awareness and participation: There has been a significant increase in the number of participants in para sports. Gaurav Khanna, chief coach of the Indian para badminton team, informed that the number of athletes at the national camp has grown from 50 in 2015 to 1,000 today. This growth is attributed to a change in public perception and the increased visibility of para sports.

Key achievements at Paris 2024
The Paris 2024 Paralympics was a showcase of India’s growing strength in para sports. Some of the notable moments were as follows:

Sheetal Devi: Competing without hands, Devi won the bronze medal in mixed compound archery along with her partner Rakesh Kumar. Their story of overcoming adversity has inspired many and highlighted the potential of athletes with disabilities.

Navdeep Singh: Singh created history with a record throw of 47.32m in javelin throw, winning the gold medal in the F41 category for short-statured athletes.

Yogesh Kathuniya: Kathuniya won a silver medal in men’s discus throw, further strengthening India’s prowess in field events.

Harvinder Singh: Singh achieved a historic feat by winning India’s first gold medal in para archery, showing the country’s growing potential in this discipline.

Role of technology and infrastructure
Technological advancements have significantly impacted the performance of para athletes. Access to high-quality equipment tailored to specific disabilities has transformed training and competition. Khanna emphasises that the availability of such specialised equipment has revolutionised the sector, allowing athletes to compete at their best.

Challenges remain, however. Despite the progress, India still faces significant barriers in terms of infrastructure and facilities for para athletes. Many public places lack basic accessibility facilities, and grassroots facilities for para sports are underdeveloped. Coaches and activists are demanding improvements in training infrastructure and better access to resources, especially in remote areas.

Changing attitudes and future prospects

India’s rise in Paralympic success has been accompanied by a change in societal attitudes towards disability. Disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra said families are increasingly supportive of children with disabilities participating in sports, which has an impact on a positive attitude towards disability in society.

Social media has played a key role in connecting para athletes with the public, giving them a chance to share their stories and gain recognition. Athletes like Sheetal Devi have become household names and their success has encouraged many to view para sports as a legitimate and respected field.

The way forward

While India’s achievements at the Paralympics are commendable, there is still work to be done. The country must continue to invest in para sports infrastructure, train more specialist coaches and improve access for people with disabilities. Success of Indian para athletes