Voter mood against Tories in UK, Priortise safety in hot weather conditions, and more, Gulf News Editors comment on July 21 trending news

UK CONSERVATIVES FACE RESTLESS VOTERS: By-elections in the UK have left the ruling Tories seeking comfort in their victory in Uxbridge, but the results indicate that the voter mood is turning against them. Pollsters warn of dramatic swings against Rishi Sunak's party in Selby and Somerton, showing potential trouble for the Conservatives in the upcoming general election. While they highlight the need to find the right campaign issues, the scale of the losses raises concerns, with tactical voting and low turnout in play. Sunak's allies hope for an economic recovery to rekindle support, but the challenge remains daunting as they face a restless electorate and mounting frustration with the Conservative government. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

PRIORITISE SAFETY: If you're driving a long distance, make sure you prioritise safety. Help secure your own well being as a motorist as well as that of other road users by adhering to certain rules. Drivers can significantly reduce the likelihood of unforeseen failures or malfunctions that could jeopardise safety, for example, by making sure you get sufficient rest before setting off on a journey, and by prioritising vehicle maintenance. The licence to drive given by authorities to able individuals bears a serious responsibility. This includes the knowledge of and adherence to basic safety rules, which is the responsibility of individual drivers. Following six important steps — adequate rest, proper maintenance, checks, visibility, tyres, taking a break when needed — these are tried-and-tested ways of keeping yourself and other road users safe. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

INDIA BANS EXPORT OF NON-BASMATI WHITE RICE: Amid concerns of a shortfall in production due to delayed monsoon rains damaging crops, India has taken immediate action to prohibit the export of non-basmati white rice, as stated in a government notice. India accounts for more than 40 per cent of world rice exports, which amounted to 55.4 million metric tonnes in 2022. India’s rice shipments reached a record 22.2 million tonnes in 2022, more than the combined shipments of the world’s next four biggest exporters of the grain - Thailand, Vietnam, Pakistan and the US. India exports rice to more than 140 countries. To boost the area of rice cultivation, India raised the price at which it would buy new-season common rice paddy from farmers by 7 per cent to Rs2,183 per 100 kg. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

LEONARDO DICAPRIO PUTS KERALA FISH ON THE GLOBAL MAP: Need proof that celebrities enjoy immense clout and sway? Leonardo DiCaprio has proved that celebrities who take up causes enjoy enormous might. Earlier this week, the Titanic star wrote about a discovery of a freshwater fish and how a Kerala native had stumbled upon in during his shower and stowed in a glass jar for researchers to scrutinise. Suddenly, the new ‘Pathala Eel Loach’ and the resident who showed his enterprising attitude towards marine life has become famous and is being lauded for his quick thinking. This is a classic example of actor using their fame for great good. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)