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Wednesday, Jan 21, 2026

BT Recycles Copper to Fund Ambitious £15 Billion Full-Fibre Rollout Amid Political and International Challenges

BT recycles copper cables in £105 million deal to support £15 billion full-fibre rollout to 25 million UK homes by 2026.
BT has taken a significant step forward in its ambitious £15 billion full-fibre broadband rollout by securing a £105 million deal to recycle old copper cables from its outdated network. This move, led by CEO Allison Kirkby and Openreach chief Clive Selley, aims to fund the extension to 25 million UK homes by 2026 and possibly 30 million by 2030.

Meanwhile, in the realm of political debate, Tory leadership contender Kemi Badenoch has sparked discussions by calling maternity pay "excessive" and advocating for fewer regulations on businesses. Her remarks were met with opposition from fellow candidates who argued for strong support systems for parents, especially given that the UK's current maternity pay is among the lowest in the OECD.

In international relations, Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election has left the UK evaluating strategic responses to his "America First" policies. As the government assesses potential shifts in defense, trade, and climate policies, there's a keen eye on how Brexit opportunities might bolster these adjustments.

On a somber note, three people have been charged in connection with the accidental death of One Direction star Liam Payne, who tragically fell from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. The charges relate to drug offenses and negligence, as toxicology reports revealed substances in Payne's system at the time of the incident.

In a distressing revelation, an independent review has uncovered decades of abuse by British barrister John Smyth QC, who targeted boys and young men, often with connections to the Church of England. The report highlighted the church's cover-up of Smyth's actions, which continued despite numerous warnings, spanning both the UK and Zimbabwe.

Returning to international politics, David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, has shifted his tone on Donald Trump, advocating for UK-US collaboration despite past criticisms. Lammy emphasizes finding "common ground" as a priority, acknowledging the UK's special relationship with the United States and the need for effective partnerships amid trade concerns.
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