Doubling down on ‘Make in the UAE’, US Congress averts default crisis, and Mid-day break to soon come into effect in the UAE, Gulf News Editors comment on the top stories on June 2

DOUBLING DOWN ON ‘MAKE IN THE UAE’: The UAE’s call for industrial-scale investments – in heavy, medium, light industries – is hitting the right scale in commitments received, proposals being put up. With the target being the widespread use of the ‘Make in the UAE’ stamp across products coming out of those factories. Post-Covid has reshaped the logistics and supply chain sectors, and industrial activity too will benefit from the ‘near-shoring’ theme that economics everywhere are offering. The UAE is wining more commitments, both from existing heavy-hitters as well new entrants. Would this activity also lead to electric vehicle production plants in the UAE? Attempts are already there. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

MID-DAY BREAK: In the UAE, the mandatory mid-day break will begin on June 15, 2023 and run through September 15, 2023. According to a statement from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE), it is prohibited to work outside or in the sun from 12:30 to 3 pm. This is in accordance with Ministerial Resolution No. (44) of 2022 on Occupational Health and Safety and Labour Accommodations. Midday breaks are observed annually. This rule is to be adhered to as it helps create a work environment that safeguards employees against occupational dangers and reduces the risk of illnesses or injuries related to the workplace. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

CONGRESS AVERTS DEFAULT CRISIS: US Congress has avoided a historic default by approving debt-limit suspension. The Senate voted 63-36 in favor after the House of Representatives' approval. Debt ceiling suspension lasts until January 1, 2025 and the legislation saves $1.5tn over a decade, per Congressional Budget Office. In the end, Kevin McCarthy was able to convince Biden and hesitant Democrats to negotiate with a bill that raises the debt limit and includes conservative priorities. McCarthy retains his party support despite some opposition and Biden can walk away from this with another feather in his cap. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

RED BALL CRICKET SET TO ENTHRAL PURISTS: After months of whiteball cricket, rather the Twenty20 form of franchise cricket, the purists are eager to watch the traditional form of the game, where the Ashes is set to throw up some mouth-watering clashes. England are warming up for the Ashes by playing one Test and three One Day Internationals against minnows Ireland. Though it may not be the best preparations for a clash against arch-rivals Australia, nevertheless the hosts will have the chance get back into the groove as some of them are coming back from injuries after sitting out during the Indian Premier League, prominent among them being captain Ben Stokes. They could now come out all guns blazing when they face Australia in the first Ashes Test. So get ready to see five, six or seven men surrounding the bat while the bowler tests the batters. Game on. (By AKS SATISH Sports Editor)

AL PACINO’S IMPENDING FATHERHOOD CONTINUES TO STOKE controversy: Many found it mildly entertaining and incredulous that the 83-year-old Hollywood icon Al Pacino was due to become a dad again. But the paternity saga is showing no signs of settling down. News has now emerged that the ‘Godfather’ star demanded a DNA test from his 29-year-old girlfriend Noor Alfallah to determine if he was the father of that unborn child. Apparently the actor had concerns about his ability to father a child due to a reportedly undisclosed medical condition associated with infertility. His skepticism may be legitimate, but it is sad to see many trolling the ageing actor. His significant age difference with Alfallah was always a fodder for gossip, but this new twist makes them more vulnerable. But instead of making ridiculing his medical condition, why don’t we appreciate that celebrities aren’t shirking from talking about their medical challenges. Let’s normalise public figures opening up about their medical conditions. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)