Christmas mulled wine recipe

Apple's App Store is being investigated by the UK competition watchdog over concerns about possible unfair practices that could ultimately mean consumers are paying higher prices. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said its probe into the iPhone and iPad maker was partly prompted by complaints from app developers. Apple's terms mean that developers can only distribute their apps on its devices via the App Store and some of them are required to use Apple Pay to charge for add-ons or upgrades. Each time a consumer buys an app or makes one of these in-app purchases, Apple charges a commission of up to 30%. Several developers reported that the company's terms and conditions were unfair and could break competition law, the CMA said. Advertisement The watchdog's chief executive Andrea Coscelli said: "Millions of us use apps every day to check the weather, play a game or order a takeaway. "So, complaints that Apple is using its market … [Read more...] about Apple’s App Store investigated by UK competition watchdog

The Scotch whisky industry has welcomed a deal between the UK and US governments that has seen damaging tariffs, imposed by the Trump administration in 2019, suspended for four months. The 25% tariff fell under a range of European products targeted as part of a historical row over government subsidies given to European aerospace firm Airbus and to US plane-maker Boeing. Just last month, the Scotch whisky sector said the penalty applied to single malt, in a dispute not of its making, had accounted for more than £500m of export losses . The suspension of the US tariffs, which also cover some other UK-made products including cheese, allows time for a permanent agreement to be reached following the UK's unilateral decision at the end of the Brexit transition period to lift retaliatory tariffs imposed by the EU on some US goods. A joint statement said: "The United Kingdom and the United States are undertaking a four-month tariff suspension to ease the burden on … [Read more...] about Scotch whisky industry toasts Biden as US suspends trade tariffs

MISSION Impossible’s all about pulling off the unfeasible – but shooting the film during a pandemic is a challenge too far for leading man Tom Cruise and his team. He flew the cast and crew to the Middle East for the latest run of scenes, but has been forced to end filming of the seventh instalment of the franchise after people refused to work any longer. Production staff demanded they were allowed to head back to the UK this weekend before hotel quarantine rules come into effect on Monday. Studio bosses have now had to charter a private jet to bring them home because they were up in arms about not being able to return to their families. A movie insider said: “The whole production has hit yet another issue and there have been revolts among the cast and crew. “For quite a few of them, the prospect of having to quarantine in a hotel back in the UK is a step too far and they’ve demanded to be flown home before the rules change. The studio has had to fund a jet back and the … [Read more...] about Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible filming scrapped as crew fly home from the Middle East

LOVE Island have cancelled tonight's show following the tragic death of former host Caroline Flack. The 40-year-old star was today found dead in her flat after taking her own life . It has now been confirmed that ITV2's scheduled episode of Unseen Bits, which was due to air at 9pm this evening, has been pulled from viewing. ITV also paid tribute to Caroline in a heartfelt statement, which read: "Everybody at Love Island and ITV is shocked and saddened by this desperately sad news. "Caroline was a much loved member of the Love Island team and our sincere thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends." The popular star's devastated family announced the sad news of Caroline’s death earlier this evening, saying in a statement: "We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February. "We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time." Caroline became the face of Love Island in June 2015, with the … [Read more...] about Love Island cancels tonight’s show following the death of ex host Caroline Flack

HOLIDAY parks are popular with families wanting an easy holiday, but aren't as tacky as people may think. Many are now offering girly weekend breaks, which include pamper treatments and goodies. UK holiday park owner and operator Bridge Leisure has launched four themed holiday packages specifically designed for people not have been to a UK holiday park before. One package, called the "Recharge Break" is aimed at couples and groups who need some rest and relaxation. Part of the trip includes two bottles of wine, as well as a pamper hamper which includes face masks, foot masks, and eye masks. Dog-lovers also have catered holidays - the "Houndtastic Holidays" deal which lets pups stay for half the price. The lucky animals also get dog treats, toys and "Pupsecco" included. Each stay includes a local guide themed for guests, such as pubs and spas or local dog walks. Other packages include the "Great Outdoors" - with complimentary packed lunches - and "Treat your … [Read more...] about Holiday parks but not as you know them! New girly pamper weekends and off peak toddler breaks from £15pp