Software error scuppers space rocket’s search for Earth-like planet December 17, 2019 An IT glitch has scuppered the launch of a space rocket designed to study exoplanets after the craft’s automated take-off sequence was interrupted. The Characterising Exoplanet Satellite (Cheops) is a European Space Agency mission dedicated to studying nearby exoplanets, those outside the solar system, in search of a new Earth. It was the first mission [...]
Persimmon slammed for poor culture after customer complaints December 17, 2019 An independent review into Persimmon’s culture and building practices has criticised the UK’s largest housebuilder over issues such as “excessive” renumeration and the lack of a group build policy. The report, which was led by Stephanie Barwise QC of law firm Atkin Chambers, concluded: Read more: Persimmon blames sales drop on customer satisfaction drive “Persimmon’s [...]
US leaders tussle as vote for impeachment draws near December 17, 2019 The stage is set for a historic vote on Capital Hill tomorrow, where US politicians will decide whether to impeach Donald Trump after months of intense debate. The House of Representatives is expected to approve articles of impeachment against the President, paving the way for a trial in the Republican-controlled Senate on whether Trump should [...]
Bank of England governor vacancy gets 650 applications on Linkedin December 17, 2019 The role of the governor of the Bank of England has piqued the interest of Linkedin users as one of the most viewed jobs in 2019. Current incumbent Mark Carney is leaving the role on 31 January, with big names like Financial Conduct Authority boss Andrew Bailey and City grandee Helena Morrissey in the running [...]
Samsung chairman jailed over union-busting activities December 17, 2019 The board chairman of Samsung Electronics has been jailed for 18 months after sabotaging union activities. Lee Sang-hoon was sentenced by a South Korean court today after violating the country’s labour law alongside 25 other defendants. Samsung executives had used tactics such as closing sub-contracted firms with active unions, prosecutors said. Read more: Watchdog steps [...]
Sotheby’s wine business toasts record-breaking year December 17, 2019 Sotheby’s Wine toasted sales of more than $100m (£75.9m) for the second consecutive year in 2019, following a string of record-breaking auctions, as wealthy investors seek alternative asset classes. The auctioneer reported total auction sales of $118m in 2019, an increase of 20 per cent, in a year that saw Sotheby’s in London record its [...]
Department store chain Beales hoists for sale sign December 17, 2019 Department store chain Beales has put itself up for sale in a bid to secure a sustainable future for the company in a challenging retail environment. The Bournemouth-based company has appointed KPMG to conduct a strategic review of the firm, including assessing a potential sale. Read more: Debenhams strengthens board as department store implements rescue [...]
In a spin: Whirlpool recalls 500,000 washing machines over fire danger December 17, 2019 Half a million Whirlpool washing machines must be recalled from British homes over a fire risk, the company admitted today. A door locking system fault with Whirlpool’s Hotpoint and Indesit branded machines creates a fire risk as a result of overheating, the firm said. Read more: MPs blast Whirlpool over its safety attitude The affected [...]
Dame Vera Lynn wins trademark battle with gin brand December 17, 2019 Dame Vera Lynn has won a trademark battle over the use of her name by an artisanal gin brand. Halewood International applied to trade mark the Second World War singer’s name in June this year, but the 102-year-old entertainer opposed the attempt on the basis that it could appear that she was endorsing the product. [...]
CBI welcomes Prime Minister’s Brexit trade deal deadline December 17, 2019 The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has thrown its support behind Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s plans to leave the EU with or without a Brexit trade deal come December 2020. Often vocal in its opposition to the government’s stance on a no-deal Brexit, the CBI today welcomed Johnson’s decision to block any further Brexit delay, [...]