Latest News from Metro
Metro
26 minutes ago
- Politics
- Metro
UK's new £1,000,000,000 cyber command that aims to defeat Putin's hackers
Britain will flush more than £1 billion on artificial intelligence and a cyber team in response to major Russian attacks authorised by Vladimir Putin. From tech and logistics to airports and air traffic control, the UK has been in the firing line since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine and more than 90,000 hacks have been detected in the last two years. Attacks have been on the rise and so has their level of sophistication. This is why John Healey declared that the armed forces must be given the upper hand in the growing online battlefield. Speaking on Wednesday from MoD Corsham, the UK's military cyber HQ, the defence secretary confirmed that the Kremlin has 'stepped up' attacks. He said: 'Certainly the intensity of the cyber attacks that we're seeing from Russia stepped up, and cyber is now the leading edge, not just of defence, but of contests and tension between countries.' He said there is a 'level of cyber warfare that is continual and intensifying' that requires the UK to step up its capacity to defend against it. Healey announced that a new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command will lead this 'digital fightback'. It will also oversee the £1 billion investment in upgraded targeting systems known as 'kill web'. The government has remained tightlipped about it. What we know is that it will operate by using AI and new software. In a new era of threat we're investing in pioneering technology to combat daily cyber part of the Strategic Defence Review @JohnHealey_MP has launched a £1 billion Digital Targeting Web and CyberEM Command to coordinate the UK's defensive and offensive capabilities. — Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) May 29, 2025 It will connect military weapons systems across all three forces, enabling quicker decisions to be made on the battlefield. More Trending For example, it could identify a threat using a sensor on a ship or in space and then disable it using an F-35 aircraft, drone, or offensive cyber operation, the ministry of defence said. Healey added: 'Ways of warfare are rapidly changing, with the UK facing daily cyber-attacks on this new frontline. 'The hard-fought lessons from Putin's illegal war in Ukraine leave us under no illusions that future conflicts will be won through forces that are better connected, better equipped and innovating faster than their adversaries. 'We will give our armed forces the ability to act at speeds never seen before – connecting ships, aircraft, tanks and operators so they can share vital information instantly and strike further and faster.' Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@ For more stories like this, check our news page. MORE: Leader who killed 6,000,000 of his own honoured in new statue MORE: The bizarre reason Russia wants to ban Shrek and other beloved animations MORE: Putin threats to 'throttle' US firms like Microsoft and Zoom in words war with Trump
Metro
an hour ago
- Health
- Metro
Teachers lock the loos and only let us go once a day — even on our periods
'At my school, you're only allowed one toilet break a day, and during lesson time most of the toilets are locked and guarded by senior staff,' says Milly, 16, when asked about being on her period at school. The teen, from Glasgow, adds that her teachers have never stepped in to challenge or educate boys in her class who make unhelpful comments about periods. New research by Plan International UK has revealed that period stigma is rife UK's schools. Perhaps most shockingly, their findings show that 9% of girls and young women have been bullied or teased by a teacher about their period, while 28% had been bullied about it by their peers More than half of the 1,000 girls who took part (56%) in the study admitted they felt 'embarrassed' or 'ashamed' when talking about periods with teachers, while 41% say they've never spoken openly to a boy or man about menstruation in their life. A lack of education is contributing to the problem, with one in four girls sharing that they have spent less than an hour learning about periods throughout their total time at school. More worryingly, 20% of girls say they've been told in school that extreme period pain is normal. Several mothers have told Metro that their teenage daughters have been barred from going to the toilet during lessons when on their period. One mum from South Manchester, who wanted to remain anonymous, said: 'My 14-year-old daughter's geography teacher wouldn't let her go to the toilet even though she was having a heavy period. 'She said: 'If I can't go to the toilet neither can you!' My daughter doesn't want me to say anything [to the school], as she doesn't want to make a fuss.' Serena, 18, from Buckinghamshire, is one of the girls who doesn't feel she has been given a 'proper' education about periods. 'All we were told about was the biological definition and information that didn't show that everyone's periods are different. No one mentioned options like period pants, which would have made such a difference to me as an autistic person who has sensory issues,' she said. 'I've missed school days because of how painful my periods have been, and even then, teachers didn't always see it as a valid reason. I was told, 'everyone has periods, what's so special about yours?'.' She adds: 'We should be learning not just about biology, but about how to manage periods, what's normal for your body, how to support others, and how periods affect mental health. 'I've seen boys act like periods are 'gross' or something to be ashamed of, which spreads stigma further.' Even teachers admit more needs to be done. Hannah, 33, has been a high-school teacher for over 10 years. She told Metro that while she's never witnessed teachers bullying girls on their periods, staff and students need to be better informed. 'At one school I worked at, there was no period education whatsoever, and we were constantly sending girls home to change as they kept leaking through their clothes,' she says. 'These girls were missing hours and hours of education a month because they were ill-prepared, but when I brought up my concerns, I was told that this is something that just happens and we should let them go home to shower and change. I was so shocked at the relaxed 'send them home' attitude. 'Thankfully, lots of the kids lived in walking distance of the school, but I couldn't help feeling that they needed to be better prepared for life – they're not going to be able to keep going home to change when they have a job.' It got to the point where Hannah, a drama teacher, took matters into her own hands. 'I had to pull all of the girls into the sports hall to discuss periods,' she said. 'I told them where they could get free sanitary towels, how often they should be changing them, and about period tracking apps they could use, so they'd at least have an idea of when their period might be coming.' And when it comes to letting girls go to the loo during class, Hannah claims it can be a bit of a 'minefield' for teachers to navigate, striking the right balance between being supportive, and knowing when someone is using periods as an excuse to get out of lessons. 'Male staff tend to be quite uncomfortable about it, so if a girl says she's on her period they will nearly always let them go to the toilet as they don't want an argument about it,' she explains. 'There have been some girls who constantly claim they are on their period to get out of class, I had to tell them they couldn't just shout period at a male member of staff to get out of lessons.' Hannah adds that education needs to come from home too. More Trending 'I've known children whose parents refused to talk about periods, or made them seem like an unclean thing, so they were really embarrassed about it. 'There were a few students who would refuse to go to lessons as they were worried they would leak if they sat down, so they wanted to keep walking around. They thought their parents would be ashamed of them if they leaked, so there's parental stigma to deal with as well.' Plan International UK is launching a new initiative in partnership with the Nurofen See My Pain campaign, known as The Period Peers Programme. They will be supporting organisations, schools, youth groups, colleges and universities to become 'Period Proud Environments'. View More » Lizzy Brothers, Period Peers Programme Coordinator, encourages parents to speak directly to their child's school. She tells us: 'We encourage parents to ask their child's school what they're doing to create a supportive, shame-free environment – like ensuring free period products are available, having a dedicated staff contact, and taking a clear stance against period shaming.' Dr Jan Toledano, a woman's hormonal health specialist and the founder of the London Hormone Clinic, was frustrated to see the results of this new research. She told Metro: 'Women have been having periods since the dawn of time and yet, they are still feared, ridiculed, reviled and misunderstood. This must change, and it starts by educating women, and men too – telling them that periods are normal, they are messy, and just a part of life. 'It's frustrating that there's still such stigma attached to what is a normal bodily function, especially when you see the consequences like I do. At London Hormone Clinic, we treat many women with PCOS, endometriosis, and infertility who, through lack of understanding, didn't get help for these conditions as early as they could have. Early detection prevents years of pain and protects fertility.' Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: People aren't ready to let robots and AI decide on euthanasia, study finds MORE: A stranger questioned my gender – but I'm a biological woman MORE: Thousands of men are spitting on women runners — it's happened to me
Metro
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Emmerdale confirms how Robert is out of prison in early ITVX streaming release
The following article contains spoilers from an episode of Emmerdale that hasn't aired on ITV1 yet, but can be viewed on ITVX. The fallout of Robert Sugden's (Ryan Hawley) surprise return began in tonight's episode of Emmerdale. The beloved character arrived back in the Dales yesterday, to try and stop Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) from marrying John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth). Because the episode ended just as Robert returned, it meant the aftermath played out as the latest instalment of the ITV soap began. After being punched by Aaron and told by everyone at the wedding to leave, Robert grabbed a bottle of booze and headed to a bridge on the outskirts of the village. Overwhelmed as a result of seeing his old partner after so long, Aaron was not able to complete his vows at the ceremony. Instead, he ran off and left John, going in search of answers from his ex. On the bridge, Robert confirmed that he's out of prison after appealing. A few years ago, Robert learnt that Luke (Max Parker) attacked Lee (Kris Mochrie) before his death, and was allowed out on probation due to the fact Luke's showdown with his brother potentially started the bleed on his brain. This revelation was confirmed in 2021, but Robert didn't do anything about it until just recently. It was very clear that Robert's feelings for Aaron hadn't changed, which left the Dingle in a difficult position. He gave into the charm and lust of Robert and kissed him at one point, which was spotted by Chas (Lucy Pargeter). Chas gently tried to remind Aaron that he's come a long way since Robert was sentenced, but the character was so consumed with emotion, he struggled to know what to do next. As he tried to get his head straight, John had found his distant brother in the graveyard. He confronted Robert and the two Sugdens pushed each other's buttons, with Robert still adamant that Aaron belongs with him, not his 'replacement'. Tonight's episode ended with Aaron at a crossroads. With John in the village hall waiting, he had to pick between him or Robert. More Trending So, who will he choose? Who will Aaron choose? John Sugden – a man who has shown Aaron that he can love someone other than Robert, but someone who is also hiding many dark secrets about himself. Or he could choose Robert – a man who changed Aaron's life forever, but someone who has been in prison for years and has no doubt changed a great deal. View More » He'll have to decide, but which path will Aaron take? MORE: Emmerdale star Ryan Hawley confirms if Robert Sugden is back for good MORE: Emmerdale's Danny Miller 'really misses' his dad amid dementia battle MORE: Emmerdale issues statement as major ITVX episode is pulled
Metro
an hour ago
- Lifestyle
- Metro
Boots launches three new beauty boxes with savings up to 74% on big names
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Summer is just around the corner, and whether you're already packing for a holiday or just looking to refresh your regular routine, Boots has just dropped brilliant deals on brand new beauty boxes that you won't want to miss. When it comes to beauty boxes, Boots knows what it's doing. The high street shop has built a bit of a cult following for its curated edits that are packed with best-selling products (most of which are full sized) at a big discount. This week, the retailer has dropped not one, but three new beauty boxes and they're packed with premium products at a great price you can't find elsewhere. From top-rated skincare brands like Liz Earle to luxurious pamper treats from Shiseido, these boxes are perfect if you're looking to stock up or try something new. Plus, with savings of up to 74%, you're getting big-brand names for a fraction of their usual cost. All three boxes are available exclusively online at and they're available while stocks last so act fast as once they're gone, they're gone. Here's what you need to know about each one… Worth over £156 and available for just £40, this luxe 10-piece edit gives you a spa-like experience at home. Inside, you'll find a mix of full-size skincare and body care treats from brands like First Aid Beauty, Byoma, Sundae, and Shiseido. Buy NOW FOR £40 (WORTH £156.34) – SAVE 74% Whether you know the brands and love the products already or just want some me-time to test out a few newbies, the Boots Beauty Pamper Box gives you an excuse to slow down and indulge. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads (28 pads) – full size Sundae Orange Crush Whipped Shower Foam 265ml – full size Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Express Eye Mask Byoma Body Smoothing Body Serum 200ml – full size Laura Mercier Soufflé Hand Cream 50ml – full size Bloom & Blossom Mission Moisture 200ml – full size No7 Instant Results Nourishing Hydration Mask 100ml – full size Boots Wavy Jaw Clip – full size Liz Earle Skin Repair™ Light Cream 50ml – full size Lancaster Sun Perfect Sun Illuminating Cream SPF50 3ml If your skin's looking a little dull or in need of a reset, shop the Fresh Faced Favourites Skincare Edit. Worth over £112 but yours for just £29.99, this nine-piece set is packed with skincare heroes. Buy NOW FOR £29.99 (WORTH £112.99) – SAVE 73% Great skin takes consistency and the right products and the new Boots Fresh Faced Favourites Skincare Edit will get you started. Pixi Vitamin-C Serum 30ml – full size The Inkey List™ Mini Oat Cleansing Balm 50ml Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 29ml Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion 29ml Lumene Nordic-C Valo Glow Boost Essence 30ml – full size Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick: Mugwort + Camellia 18g – full size Boots Skin Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets 50pk – full size e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm 56.6g – full size Byoma Brightening Serum 30ml – full size The Boots Get Holiday Ready Mini's Bag is a suitcase essential. Worth over £124 and available for just £32, this handy kit is great if you're heading off on a summer break. Inside the Get Holiday Ready Mini's Bag you'll find a selection of seven travel-sized favourites from big-name brands like Laneige, MAC, Sol de Janeiro, and Bobbi Brown, all perfect for popping into your hand luggage or beach bag. Buy NOW FOR £32 (WORTH £124.50) – SAVE 74% Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 62 Perfume Mist 30ml Floral Street Sunflower Pop Eau de Parfum 10ml Mini MACstack Mascara 8ml Milk Makeup Multi-Use Lip + Cheek Cream Stick in 'Werk' 6g – full size Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base 15ml Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturiser 20ml Rituals The Ritual of Karma Shimmering Body Oil 30ml All three of Boots' new beauty boxes are only available online at but there's limited stock and they won't be around for long, so grab them (and save) while you still can! Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: Boots launches Premium Hair Edit Beauty Box – and it'll save you over £150 MORE: Score over £220 of beauty best-sellers for just £49 with this Boots beauty box MORE: From Antler to Smythson, Fenty Beauty to Dune – these are the top picks from our shopping expert this week
Metro
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Harry Potter fans annoyed about casting detail no one's got right in 25 years
Following the announcement of who will be playing Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger in HBO's upcoming reboot of the popular book series, fans are still unhappy about one forgotten detail. Earlier this week, Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout were revealed as the three children who will be portraying the golden trio in a TV adaptation of JK Rowling's books. The youngsters are joining the likes of John Lithgow, Paapa Essiedu and Nick Frost, who have already been cast to play Albus Dumbledore, Severus Snape and Hagrid, respectively. Following the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in 1997, countless spin-offs and royalties have made Rowling one of the richest authors in the world. But the franchise has not come without controversy, after Rowling's views on trans rights caused many to boycott the new HBO series. Yet, following the latest cast announcement, it appears there is now even more contention after fans slammed the show's makers for overlooking one character's eye colour. Taking to social media, a number of fans pointed out how one of Harry Potter's most mentioned physical traits in the book has been forgotten. Writing on X, @cozyY29 said: 'Dominic McLaughlin, who will play Harry Potter. This is perfect, just one thing. They eyes Harry is meant to have green eyes. But in this picture, it looks blue.' @YosefPiperno added: 'Black hair. Green eyes. How is this so hard?' @italkmusicfilm also questioned: 'Where's his green eyes? 😳' Our TV reporter Milo Pope shares his thoughts… Accuracy is everything when it comes to a TV series adapting a famous book series. Whenever you have a loyal fanbase involved, the attention to detail on the little things is what's so critical in keeping them on board for later reboots or new adaptations. Think The Last of Us Part II, countless fans of the original video game have crucified showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann for deviating from some character traits and plot points in the latest series. But, as Craig and Neil have explained, it all comes down to how faithful a new show or adaptation wants to be to the original material. If the new Harry Potter series wants to update certain elements from the books, Harry's eye colour certainly won't be a problem. But, if everything is created to be an exact replica, it's certainly understandable for die-hard Harry Potter fans to be frustrated by the little details not being included. With that being said, Dominic McLaughlin – along with Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout – looks pretty perfect for the role in my mind. I assume the search for the next Harry was hard enough for the producers who probably had to trawl through countless hours of audition footage to find the nearest match. After the credits roll for the first episode of this new reboot, I'm not sure anybody will be too focused on a character's eye colour. The heavy criticism stems from the fact that Harry's green eyes are a key link to his mother, Lily Potter. These sorts of details are especially important in scenes when Snape admits he is hard on Harry because his eyes remind the professor of his former love. @JohnXADX added on X: 'Far from being precious about the books, one thing I hope is that Harry gets his green eyes back.' The same issue occurred when Daniel Radcliffe, who had blue eyes, played Harry in the original films. According to a producer, Harry tried wearing green contact lenses when the first film was being shot, but had an allergic reaction to them and had to stop. Despite the controversy, Rowling wrote on X after the news of the castings broke: 'All three are wonderful. I couldn't be happier.' More Trending Discussing the new cast, executive producers Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod said of the casting: 'After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione, and Ron. 'The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen. 'We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It's been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.' View More » The Harry Potter TV show will stream exclusively on Max in 2026. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Here's why fans think Arabella Stanton as new Hermione is 'perfect casting' MORE: The truth behind claim Harry Potter TV show will cost hefty £75,000,000 MORE: The new Harry Potter child stars have confirmed my worst fears
