Category: 3. Business

PARIS – Snow, ice and high winds brought transport chaos to swathes of Europe for a third day on Jan 7, with hundreds of flights cancelled and passengers stranded.

Airports in Paris and Amsterdam were the worst affected, with the Dutch authorities saying more than 1,000 travellers had been forced to spend the night at Schiphol, one of Europe’s busiest hubs.

Six people have died in weather-related accidents

as the continent reels from the most bitter cold snap of the winter so far.

Five of those deaths were confirmed in France on Jan 6, while a woman died in Bosnia as heavy snow and rain sparked floods and power outages across the Balkans.

For those without homes and sleeping on the streets, the cold snap has come as a huge shock.

Mr Boubacar Camara, from Guinea, told AFP news agency he had “no choice but to keep on going”.

“You just have to stay strong, make sure you don’t die, you know,” said the 19-year-old, who is sleeping in a tent in the French capital.

“We can’t do anything about the cold – I’m not used to this at all.”

More than 100 flights were cancelled on Jan 7 at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport and 40 more at the French capital’s other main hub, Orly.

French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot told local media he was “hoping the situation returns to normal this afternoon”.

All public bus services in Paris and the surrounding suburbs were also suspended because of icy roads, with almost half of the country’s mainland on alert for heavy snow and black ice.

Schiphol Airport said more than 700 flights had been cancelled so far and warned that the number was likely to increase.

Belgium’s biggest hub, Brussels Airport, also confirmed 40 flight cancellations on Jan 7.

Britain saw temperatures plunging, with hundreds of schools shutting their doors for a third day in Scotland, where the authorities warned some rural communities could be “cut off” by snow.

The Eurostar rail service connecting London with continental European cities was also disrupted again on Jan 7, with passengers facing cancellations and delays.

Nordic countries were also facing snow-related chaos, with officials in eastern Sweden warning that power cuts were “likely” because of heavy snowfall.

Trams were suspended in the western city of Gothenburg, and the authorities in the wider region warned people not to drive and stay at home if possible.

In Denmark, the authorities in the far-north region of North Jutland warned people to brace themselves for heavy snow but said the situation was under control.

“For now, calm prevails in North Jutland, but we are taking the weather forecast very seriously,” the police wrote in a statement.

“We also urge citizens to prepare and keep safety advice in mind, especially if they have to travel in difficult traffic conditions.” AFP

EuropeExtreme weatherTransportationDisruption

Homes England has appointed John Reid as Executive Director for Technical Capacity and Coordination, a pivotal role within the agency’s new operating model.  

This follows the recent announcement of five executive regional directors to the new model, which will take effect in April 2026 and is designed to best respond to the needs of local communities. 

John will lead a nationally managed technical capacity and coordination hub, which will provide specialist expertise that can be deployed flexibly throughout the development process, helping to boost delivery across the five regions of England set out in the agency’s new operating model. 

John is a senior property and regeneration leader with extensive experience of delivering complex, high-value programmes and housing initiatives at scale across the public and private sectors.  He joins the Agency from Herts Living, where he is Managing Director. Prior to this he was Director of the Estate Development Programme at The Grosvenor Estate. 

His appointment is the latest progress milestone for the agency as it mobilises its new strategic plan and moves to its new regionally-focused operating model.  

It follows publication of the Strategic Plan 2025-30 alongside an Investment Roadmap, preceding an Investment Prospectus in early 2026, and the appointment of five executive regional directors who will strengthen collaboration with mayors, local leaders and partners. 

Regional teams will work hand-in-hand with national programmes and the hub to make it easier for partners to engage and deliver homes and places communities need. 

John said:

I’m delighted to be joining Homes England’s Executive Team at such an exciting moment for the organisation. I look forward to bringing my public–private sector and major programme experience to help shape the new operating model and to drive the partnerships and places that communities across the country want and deserve.

Amy Rees CB, Chief Executive of Homes England, said:  

I am excited to welcome John to our team as we embark on what will be a sea-change year for the agency, building on the successes of recent years as we actively reshape how we work to meet the evolving priorities of people and communities across the country. 

Together with local leaders, partners and communities, our colleagues are focused on mobilising our new regional operating model to best effect, alongside major national programmes including the National Housing Bank (NHB), National Housing Delivery Fund (NHDF) and Social and Affordable Housing Programme. This focus is driven by a shared dedication and passion to help ensure everyone can live in a thriving place that they are proud to call home.

ENDS 

Notes to editors  

• Homes England is the government’s housing and regeneration agency, and we’re here to drive the creation of more affordable, quality homes and thriving places so that everyone has a place to live and grow.  We make this happen by working in partnership with thousands of organisations of all sizes, using our powers, expertise, land, capital and influence to bring investment to communities and get more quality homes built.  View our explainer animation 

• John Reid is a senior property and regeneration leader with extensive experience of delivering complex, high-value programmes and housing initiatives at scale across the public and private sectors. He joins the Agency from Herts Living, a local authority company driving residential development through self-delivery and joint venture work, where he is Managing Director. 

• Previously he has held senior leadership positions at a number of organisations during his career, including at The Grosvenor Estate, where he was Director of the Estate Development Programme. Prior to his role at Herts Living he was Development Director of Meridian Water Regeneration and Head of Capital Delivery at the London Borough of Croydon. 

• John is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building and a Trustee of North London Hospice. He is former Chair of the British Property Federation Construction Committee and founding board member of the Housing Development Network. 

• Read about the new executive regional directors 

• Read the Strategic Plan 2025 – 2035 

• Learn more about the Agency’s Strategic Place Partnerships (SPPs) 

• For media enquiries please contact: media@homesengland.gov.uk  or 0207 874 826

Fórsa warns driver testers at risk as Road Safety Authority fails to provide insurance verification system

Fórsa trade union members working as driver testers in the Road Safety Authority (RSA) have voted in favour of taking industrial action, with 95% voting in favour with a turnout of 83%.

The issue concerns the employer’s failure to ensure that driver testers are fully and unconditionally covered by the State Claims Agency while carrying out their duties.

In addition, the insurance verification system leaves driver testers at risk when carrying out their work. At present there is no way to verify whether vehicles presented for driving tests are fully insured, and therefore driver testers are may not be fully indemnified.

The union said the absence of a proper insurance verification system, combined with inadequate indemnity protections, has left staff exposed and under pressure to proceed with tests in circumstances that would be unacceptable in any other area of public service.

Engagement at the WRC will take place on Tuesday 20th January, following a joint referral made by the parties in December.

Fórsa official Ruairí Creaney said: “The ballot result demonstrates that members want this issue resolved once and for all. We will raise their concerns at the WRC later this month and from there we will determine the next steps.”

He continued: “What’s for certain is that the current situation cannot continue. Driver testers cannot be expected to get into vehicles to do their jobs when they have no clarity on whether the vehicle is uninsured. We need a straightforward guarantee of indemnity for driver testers, and a proper insurance verification system. Access to the National Insurance Database can be addressed by the Minister for Transport and we’re calling on him to look at this issue urgently.”

Philip Lambert, Fórsa branch chairperson and a driver tester in Dún Laoghaire, added: “Workers should be protected at work, not put in harm’s way. It’s simply unacceptable that we would be expected to ‘prove negligence’ in the event of an accident at work in order to be protected. Everyone deserves to be able to do their job with safety and confidence.”

A memo issued by RSA management to driver testers in December confirmed that staff are not automatically covered by the State Claims Agency if they conduct a test in a vehicle that is not properly insured. Instead, the memo stated that a driver tester would only be covered “in circumstances where he/she could prove negligence on the part of the RSA”, which driver testers regard as a serious and ongoing risk. Fórsa has said management has acknowledged the legitimacy of driver tester concerns but has yet to act.

• EBRD extends a €20 million equivalent local-currency loan to OTP Leasing
• Additional US support provided to businesses investing in new technologies
• EU-funded technical assistance to eligible sub-borrowers

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is extending a local currency senior loan of up to €20 million to Ukraine’s OTP Leasing to support businesses affected by Russia’s invasion of the country.

The financing will help to strengthen the competitiveness, resilience and inclusiveness of Ukrainian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by expanding access to leasing products at a time of tight liquidity and heightened economic uncertainty.

Fifty per cent of the EBRD’s loan proceeds will be provided to MSMEs for long-term investments in European Union (EU)-compliant and green technologies.

The loan will enable OTP Leasing to meet strong local demand for leasing services, allowing MSMEs to acquire vehicles, equipment and machinery without large upfront capital outlays at a time when liquidity remains constrained due to war-related disruptions.

On completion of their investment projects, eligible sub-borrowers will also receive technical assistance funded by the European Union (EU) and investment incentives funded by the United States of America under the EU4Business initiative.

Greater incentives will be provided to support war-affected and vulnerable groups, including MSMEs that have suffered asset loss or destruction, businesses reintegrating war veterans, internally displaced persons and returnees, persons with disabilities, as well as MSMEs relocated from or operating in war-affected regions. Women-led and youth-led enterprises will also benefit.

The loan will be supported by an interest-rate subsidy of up to 10 per cent from the United States through the EBRD SME Special Fund.

OTP Leasing is an existing EBRD client and the leading leasing company in Ukraine, providing financial leases and fleet management services to corporate and MSME clients across the country. It is a fully owned subsidiary of OTP Bank, a leading regional financial group headquartered in Hungary.

Since Russia launched its full-scale war on Ukraine in 2022, the EBRD has deployed more than €9.1 billion in the country, including €3.3 billion through its partner financial institutions.

Subway’s all-new Protein Pockets and Sub of the Day are packed with quality protein, hand-chopped veggies and bold sauces – each for less than $5

MIAMI, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Subway is kicking off the new year with fresh ways to save and fuel your day with big flavor, quality ingredients, and unbeatable value. Starting Jan. 8, sink into Subway’s all-new Protein Pockets, packed with more than 20g of protein, fresh veggies and fan-favorite sauces for just $3.99*. Hungry for more? Subway also unveiled a new six-inch Sub of the Day lineup for $4.99**. Whether you are trying to save, hit your protein goals or simply eat better in the new year, Subway is making it easier than ever – any time of day.

Introducing Protein Pockets: The Ultimate Grab-and-Go Solution
Protein Pockets feature a soft tortilla with a toasty wheat flavor that perfectly complements a curated selection of protein, hand-chopped vegetables and fan-favorite sauces. Each Protein Pocket piles on more than 20g of protein, making it a smart choice for protein-conscious guests and flavor seekers alike.

Protein Pockets debut with a lineup of four delicious options:

• Baja Chicken: Grilled chicken, Monterey cheddar, smoky Baja Chipotle, lettuce, Roma tomatoes and jalapeños.
• Peppercorn Ranch Chicken: Grilled chicken, Monterey cheddar, zesty Peppercorn Ranch, lettuce, Roma tomatoes and pickles.
• Italian Trio: Black Forest ham, aged pepperoni, Genoa salami, Monterey cheddar, lettuce, Roma tomatoes and mayo.
• Turkey & Ham: Oven-roasted turkey, Black Forest ham, Monterey cheddar, lettuce, Roma tomatoes and mayo.

“Getting more protein in their diet is important to so many people. But all too often that protein is expensive or fried. With Subway’s new Protein Pockets, they can get over 20 grams of protein for $3.99* without sacrificing taste.” said Dave Skena, Chief Marketing Officer, North America. “And with our new Sub of the Day lineup, our featured 6” subs are only $4.99**. In 2026, folks can eat freshly made, delicious food at a great value every time they come to Subway.” 

Sub of the Day: A Daily Deal on Subway Classics
Alongside Protein Pockets, Subway is upgrading its value menu with the all-new Sub of the Day. Guests can enjoy a different six-inch sub every day of the week for just $4.99**, or make it a meal with a drink, chips or cookies for $2 more. From Meatball Monday to Spicy Italian Sunday, start a new ritual with fresh flavor and everyday value, all week long.

The rotating lineup includes:

• Meatball Monday: Meatball Marinara
• Tuna Tuesday: Classic Tuna
• Sweet Onion Wednesday: Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki®
• Turkey Thursday: Oven-Roasted Turkey
• Forest Ham Friday: Black Forest Ham
• BMT Saturday: Italian B.M.T.®
• Spicy Italian Sunday: Spicy Italian

Value Built In: Sub Club Loyalty Rewards
Subway’s new Sub Club loyalty program launched in December and has already been a win for guests and franchisees alike. With Sub Club, every fourth footlong is free*** – delivering daily value, convenience and a seamless digital experience that keeps millions of guests coming back.

To learn more about Protein Pockets, Sub of the Day or join Sub Club to start earning rewards today, visit the Subway app or Subway.com.

*At participating U.S. restaurants. Prices higher in AK & HI. Check your app for pricing and participating stores. Add-ons addt’l. Addt’l fees apply on delivery orders. Plus tax. Cannot combine with other offers. Limited time.

**At participating U.S. restaurants. Prices higher in AK & HI. Check your app for pricing and participating stores. Meal includes a 6″ Sub of the Day, chips or 2 regular cookies, and a 20oz fountain drink. Add-ons and bottled beverages addt’l. Fountain drinks not available on delivery orders. Addt’l fees apply on delivery orders. Plus tax. 1 per order. Cannot combine with other offers. Limited time.

***Must be a Sub Club Member to qualify for this offer. Free Footlong will appear in account within 24 hours of qualifying purchase. Add-ons additional. Limitations apply. All fees apply on Subway® delivery orders. Sub Club available at participating restaurants and not on third-party delivery, catering, or purchases of gift cards. See subway.com for more details about Sub Club.

About Subway^® Restaurants

As the global sandwich leader, Subway serves freshly made sandwiches at a great value to millions of guests around the world in nearly 37,000 restaurants every day. Subway restaurants are owned and operated by a network of thousands of dedicated Subway franchisees who are passionate about consistently delivering a high-quality, convenient guest experience and contributing positively to their local communities.

Subway® is a globally registered trademark of Subway IP LLC or one of its affiliates. © 2026 Subway.

SOURCE Subway Restaurants

Islamabad [Pakistan], January 7 (ANI): Pakistan’s telecom industry has cautioned the government against fast-tracking the launch of next-generation mobile networks without addressing fundamental affordability issues, warning that an ill-timed 5G rollout could consume limited foreign exchange and divert crucial investment from improving basic connectivity.
The concerns were highlighted in a detailed letter sent by the Telecom Operators Association of Pakistan (TOA) to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom, as reported by Dawn.
According to Dawn, the TOA stated that Pakistan’s digital trajectory will not be shaped by how rapidly 5G technology is deployed but by whether ordinary users can afford compatible smartphones and find meaningful everyday value in staying connected.
The association noted, “Introducing technology alone does not uplift societies; it is the adoption and use of that technology that drives progress.”

TOA Chairman Amir Ibrahim, who authored the letter, criticised public discussions surrounding 5G for focusing almost entirely on global competitiveness and perceived technological prestige. Missing from the conversation, he said, is a basic but critical question: Who in Pakistan will actually be able to use 5G? According to industry figures, only around two per cent of mobile subscribers currently possess 5G-enabled devices.
The association pointed out that entry-level 5G smartphones begin at roughly PKR 90,000, while premium models such as iPhones can cost up to PKR 700,000, amounts well beyond the reach of most citizens in a low-income, prepaid-driven market. It added that 5G support requires more advanced modems and radio components, which increase manufacturing costs and further push devices out of mass-market affordability.
The TOA stated that the lack of accessible handset financing options further restricts adoption and urged the government to introduce consumer-friendly instalment schemes. Without such demand-side measures, policymakers risk building a sophisticated network that few people can actually use, as Dawn highlights.
The association cautioned that focusing narrowly on rollout deadlines and coverage obligations without tackling affordability barriers could result in an underutilised 5G infrastructure, much like Pakistan’s uneven 4G experience.
Even a decade after the first 4G auction, one in four users still lacks mobile broadband. The TOA stated that 5G could deepen Pakistan’s digital divide unless regulators reduce device taxes, enable financing mechanisms, and align policy with real consumer needs, as reported by Dawn. (ANI)

Amsterdam Schiphol airport, one of the largest in Europe, has announced at least 700 flight cancellations because of snow and wind, after days of weather-related travel disruptions.

More than 1,000 people spent the night at Schiphol, the airport said on Wednesday, adding that it had set up camp beds and offered breakfast to travellers forced to sleep there. The number of cancellations is expected to rise throughout the day.

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures have wreaked havoc across parts of Europe this week, with five people confirmed to have died on Tuesday in road collisions in France.

About 100 flights were cancelled at Paris’s Charles de Gaulle airport on Wednesday morning because of snowfall and fierce cold, and a further 40 were cancelled at the French capital’s Orly airport, the French transport minister said.

Public bus services in Paris and the surrounding suburbs were suspended due to icy roads, though most metro and suburban rail systems were working, transport officials said.

The Météo France weather service said 38 of the country’s 96 Metropolitan departments – the mainland and Corsica – were on alert for heavy snow and black ice, with 3cm to 7cm (about 1in to 3in) of snow already accumulated.

It said the cold snap was of “rare intensity for the season”. Authorities had already warned people in the Paris region to avoid unnecessary travel on Wednesday and work from home if possible.