Bbc news 2
Here are the top stories from BBC News:
Breaking News
- UK economy shrinks by 0.1% in January: The UK's economy contracted by 0.1% in January, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This is the first decline since July 2020.
- Russia-Ukraine conflict: US imposes new sanctions: The US has imposed new sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. The sanctions target Russian banks, energy companies, and individuals.
- COVID-19: WHO warns of new variant: The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a new COVID-19 variant that has been detected in several countries. The variant, known as BA.2, is a sub-variant of the Omicron strain.
World News
- India's COVID-19 cases surge: India has reported a surge in COVID-19 cases, with over 200,000 new cases in the past 24 hours. The country is facing a severe shortage of oxygen and hospital beds.
- Myanmar's military junta executes four democracy activists: Myanmar's military junta has executed four democracy activists, including a former lawmaker and a prominent activist. The executions have been widely condemned by the international community.
- North Korea conducts missile test: North Korea has conducted a missile test, according to South Korean officials. The test is believed to have been a ballistic missile.
UK News
- UK weather: Storms bring flooding and disruption: Storms have brought flooding and disruption to parts of the UK, with several areas experiencing heavy rain and strong winds.
- NHS staff shortages: Hospitals warn of 'unsustainable' situation: NHS hospitals are warning of an "unsustainable" situation due to staff shortages, with many hospitals struggling to cope with the demand for care.
- UK inflation rate rises to 7.8%: The UK's inflation rate has risen to 7.8%, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This is the highest rate since March 1992.
Business News
- FTSE 100 falls as markets react to economic data: The FTSE 100 index has fallen by over 1% as markets react to economic data from the UK and the US.
- Oil prices rise as demand increases: Oil prices have risen by over 2% as demand increases and supplies remain tight.
- Amazon to create 1,000 new jobs in the UK: Amazon has announced plans to create 1,000 new jobs in the UK, as part of its expansion plans in the country.