Other UK News In Brief

Flats Ablaze In Scotland

Four blocks of flats in Edinburgh were evacuated this morning as firefighters tackled a large blaze. The fire started in a top floor flat on Saughton Mains Park Road at about 6.45am. The building was still well alight by late morning. The fire has spread to another two flats and the road has been closed while 40 firefighters tackle the blaze.

Blow That!

A motorist who blew his nose while his car was stationary will fight a fine given to him by the police for blowing his nose while driving. Michael Mancini said he was sitting in stationary traffic in Ayr, with the handbrake on, when he used a tissue to clean his nose. A police officer issued Mr Mancini with a fixed penalty for not being in proper control of his car. He has refused to pay the £60 fine and the case may now proceed to court.

Students Flats In Focus

Densely occupied student accommodation close to universities is to be limited by the Government. Landlords wishing to rent out houses to three or more tenants, who are unrelated, will in future have to apply for planning permission. Councils will also be given new powers to license and regulate landlords in certain problem areas. The new powers, announced yesterday by John Healey, the Housing Minister, are designed to stop the spread of areas dominated by students.

Pill Squeeze On

The first morning after pill which can be taken up to five days after sex has been developed, raising concerns it could promote promiscuity and trigger a rise in sexually transmitted diseases. EllaOne can be taken up to 48 hours later than the current tables and is also potentially more effective, a new study shows, reducing the small risk of pregnancy in women who take the pills by around half, but it has triggered controversy amid fears that the extra safety net it provides could encourage women to be less diligent about using condoms.

Old Bailey Man Guilty

A man has been convicted at The Old Bailey of the attempted murder of a 44-year-old in Hackney and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. He is Desmond Meade, 25, of St. John's Estate, London. A second man, Russell James Stanley, 26, of Masterman Road E6 was acquitted of a charge of attempted murder. Investigating officer DS Chris Jones from Operation Trident North East Shootings Team said: "This crime would appear to have been motivated by an insignificant drugs debt of £150 owed to Meade by the victim. Meade, who was a well placed drug dealer in Hackney, demonstrated total disregard for the victim's life and safety of other members of the public, including children who were playing nearby." An investigation was launched after police were called at 10.45pm on Tuesday 4 August to the junction of Cropley Street and Napier Grove, N1 to reports of a man suffering from a gunshot wound.

(BMcC/GK)