Form Time News

Current BBC News stories to read and discuss with your tutor group.


Thursday
29th October 2026

Around the world

High-speed train crash kills at least 68 people in Spain

The crash, between a moving train and another that was stopped further up the track, was caused by an "inexplicable" error, the transport minister said.

Bloodied, dazed and angry - how passengers' rail journey turned to disaster in Spain

Survivors of the train crash in Spain have spoken of their shock, panic and anger at the accident in Toledo province on Wednesday.

In the UK

Healey unveils £100 for energy bills and bank tax in first Budget

The chancellor targets the cost of living amid global economic turmoil but opposition parties say he has not been bold enough.

I earn £30,000. I'm angry there was no fuel duty cut in the Budget

People on a range of incomes from £4,062 to £150,000 a year tell the BBC what they made of this year's Budget.

Politics

Healey unveils £100 for energy bills and bank tax in first Budget

The chancellor targets the cost of living amid global economic turmoil but opposition parties say he has not been bold enough.

Chris Mason: Budget felt cautious despite its range of small measures

The chancellor has had to grapple with a mix of public finances and household finances being a mess.

Education

Only one female scientist named in GCSEs, research finds

A new study finds Rosalind Franklin is the only woman named in Key Stage 4 science specifications.

Holocaust school lessons to be improved after 'shocking' antisemitism review

Education Secretary Lucy Powell has stressed the importance of reminding new generations of the horrors of the Holocaust.

Health

Consultant doctors in England to strike next month

Senior doctors to stage 48-hour walkout, beginning on 25 November, in dispute over pay and pensions.

Can you tell ferritin levels from your face?

Some creators are claiming they can spot "ferritin face". Doctors aren't so sure.

Business

I earn £30,000. I'm angry there was no fuel duty cut in the Budget

People on a range of incomes from £4,062 to £150,000 a year tell the BBC what they made of this year's Budget.

Healey unveils £100 for energy bills and bank tax in first Budget

The chancellor targets the cost of living amid global economic turmoil but opposition parties say he has not been bold enough.

Science

Building boom puts 300,000 people in the path of potential Himalayan disasters

The construction of tourism facilities, housing, and infrastructure has surged in parts of Nepal and India's Uttarakhand.

Weather warning lifted as third storm to hit Scotland eases off

Energy provider SSEN says 2,000 properties in the north of Scotland are still without power after days of high winds and heavy rain.

Technology

Details of thousands of US immigration agents leaked in major hack

A group called the Department of Peace released information on more than 41,000 DHS staff.

Microsoft profits soar days after announcing thousands of layoffs

The week, the Windows developer said it would offer buyouts to 60,000 workers as it looks to curb costs.

Entertainment

Family row over George Michael items up for auction - including Faith guitar

The brother of the singer's late personal assistant says she would not have wanted the items to be sold.

Russell Brand tells trial sexual consent is 'fundamental'

The entertainer gives evidence at his trial on charges including rape and assault, which he denies.