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HMRC Extends Support as Self-Assessment Deadline Looms; Other News Includes Starmer's China Trip, Asda's Challenges, Australian Politics, and Fugitive Search
The UK's tax authority, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), extended phone line and webchat services to assist individuals filing their self-assessment tax returns ahead of the January deadline. Millions of self-employed individuals and those with multiple income sources were required to file their 2024-25 tax returns online by the end of January, according to the BBC. HMRC scaled up support on the final day, anticipating that many would leave filing to the last minute. Last year, 1.1 million people missed the deadline.
Meanwhile, in other news, Keir Starmer, leader of the UK's Labour Party, embarked on a trip to China, hoping to "begin the thaw after [a] recent ice age" in relations, according to The Guardian. The last British Prime Minister to visit China was Theresa May in 2018.
Domestically, Asda is facing challenges in regaining its market position. According to the BBC, the supermarket chain "has lost its mojo and has a big fight to get it back." Emma Simpson, a BBC business correspondent, observed shoppers at an Asda in Crawley, noting the steady stream of customers. Carol Stimpson, a local resident, described the Asda as "my corner shop," while Joanne Dench cited the store's variety and international food selection as reasons for shopping there.
In Australia, former Nationals leader Michael McCormack commented on One Nation's polling surge, attributing it to "clickbait publicity," according to The Guardian. McCormack expressed doubt that the polling numbers would translate into actual votes. He also voiced support for David Littleproud, who was facing a leadership spill.
Separately, Victoria police launched a new five-day search for fugitive Dezi Freeman, based on intelligence derived from a "gunshot," The Guardian reported. The search involves more than 100 police and volunteers, along with a police cadaver dog, in Mount Buffalo National Park. This marks a renewed effort to locate Freeman, or his remains, almost two months after the previous search was suspended.
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